TL;DR
- FFXIV’s hairstyle contest runs from July 29 to August 20, 2015, offering players creative input
- Participants need active accounts and must submit front/back designs via specified methods
- Winning designs become permanent game additions, enhancing character customization options
- Proper preparation includes understanding game lore and technical submission requirements
- Successful entries balance creativity with FFXIV’s aesthetic and practical implementation
As one of the most celebrated MMORPGs currently available, Final Fantasy XIV continues to captivate players following the successful Heavensward expansion launch. The introduction of compelling new content including the Au Ra race and specialized jobs like Astrologian, Dark Knight, and Machinist has received overwhelming positive feedback from the dedicated community. Building upon this momentum, Square Enix has unveiled an exciting creative opportunity: the Final Fantasy XIV Hairstyle Design Contest, inviting players to contribute directly to the game’s evolving customization options.
Character appearance customization represents a fundamental aspect of the FFXIV experience, with hairstyles serving as easily modifiable elements. Once you successfully complete the specific quest “Beauty is Only Scalp Deep” located within Mizzenmast Inn at coordinates X11, Y11, you gain access to the aesthetician services. This feature allows complete hairstyle transformations for a modest fee of 2000 FFXIV Gil, making personalization accessible to all adventurers. The Heavensward expansion already introduced several stylish new options, but the upcoming contest promises to significantly expand these possibilities based directly on community creativity.
For optimal contest preparation, ensure you’ve completed the prerequisite quest well before the submission deadline. Many participants overlook the importance of testing different hairstyles on their character models to understand what works within the game’s visual framework. Additionally, consider saving extra FFXIV Gil beyond the basic change cost, as you may want to experiment with various looks during the design process. The expansion’s new hairstyles provide excellent reference points for understanding the developers’ aesthetic preferences and technical limitations.
l Contest Entry Requirements
Eligibility for participation requires maintaining an active FFXIV subscription throughout the entire submission and judging period. Beyond account status, you must thoroughly review and formally accept all contest stipulations outlined in the official rules. Submission of any entry automatically constitutes your legal agreement to these terms and confirmation of your eligibility status according to the established criteria.
The competition window remains open from Wednesday, July 29, 2015 through Thursday, August 20, 2015, concluding precisely at 11:00 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time. Avoid last-minute submissions, as technical issues or server congestion near the deadline could jeopardize your entry. The specific theme focuses on innovative hairstyles players would appreciate seeing implemented within Final Fantasy XIV: Heavensward, emphasizing designs that complement the expansion’s overall aesthetic while maintaining practical functionality.
l Hairstyle Categories
l Designing Your Entry
Submission creation accommodates multiple artistic approaches, including traditional hand-drawn illustrations, digital painting software applications, or carefully composed photographic references. Regardless of your chosen medium, comprehensive designs must include clear representations from both frontal and rear perspectives to ensure proper three-dimensional implementation. Technical specifications recommend using high-resolution formats that clearly display texture, color variations, and styling details that would translate effectively into the game engine.
Common submission mistakes include neglecting the back view or creating designs incompatible with the game’s technical constraints. Successful participants often study existing FFXIV hairstyles to understand polygon limitations and animation requirements. Consider how your design would work during character movement and combat animations, not just in static poses.
l Contest Winner Selection
Judging criteria emphasize originality, aesthetic appeal, and practical implementation within the FFXIV universe. Winning designs typically balance creative innovation with consideration for the game’s established art direction and technical parameters. Selected hairstyles undergo professional adaptation by the development team before permanent integration into the game, becoming available to all players through future updates.
For maximum success potential, research Eorzea’s diverse cultures and racial characteristics to ensure your design feels authentically integrated. Many overlooked entries fail because they don’t consider how hairstyles complement specific armor sets or job aesthetics. The community impact extends beyond the winners, as all submissions provide valuable insight into player preferences that may influence future customization options.
Beyond this creative opportunity, understanding game mechanics holistically enhances your overall experience. Our Class Guide offers parallel strategic thinking for character development, while the Complete Guide provides comprehensive system knowledge. For those interested in progression systems, the Weapons Unlock guide demonstrates similar preparation principles.
Action Checklist
- Complete ‘Beauty is Only Scalp Deep’ quest at Mizzenmast Inn
- Secure 2000+ Gil for hairstyle changes and experimentation
- Study existing Heavensward hairstyles for technical reference
- Create front and back design views using preferred method
- Submit entry before August 20, 2015, 11:00 p.m. PDT
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