FFXIV Summoner BiS: The Ultimate Guide to Gearing for Success

Introduction

In the realm of Final Fantasy XIV, the Summoner class stands as a potent force, wielding the power to summon primal deities to their aid. Equipping these arcanists with the best-in-slot (BiS) gear is crucial for maximizing their combat prowess and ensuring their success in both solo and group encounters. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of Summoner BiS, providing an in-depth analysis of the optimal gear choices and strategies for acquiring them.

Determining Your BiS

The path to BiS for Summoners involves a multifaceted approach that considers multiple factors, including character level, available content, and personal playstyle. Here are some key considerations:

Character Level

The level of your Summoner will dictate the highest level of gear that you can equip. As you progress through the game, new and more powerful gear options will become available.

Available Content

The endgame content available to you will also influence your BiS choices. Raids, trials, and dungeons offer unique and powerful gear that may not be obtainable elsewhere.

Playstyle

The way you play your Summoner will also impact your gear choices. For example, if you prefer to focus on pet damage, your BiS gear may differ from that of a Summoner who prioritizes their own spellcasting.

Optimal Gear Setup

The following table outlines the optimal gear setup for Summoners at level 90, based on the most recent patch:

Acquiring BiS Gear

Obtaining your BiS gear can be a time-consuming but rewarding endeavor. Here are some common methods:

Raiding

Raids are some of the most challenging content in Final Fantasy XIV, but they also offer some of the best rewards. By completing Savage raids, you can earn tokens that can be exchanged for BiS gear.

Trials

Trials are less challenging than raids, but they also offer valuable gear. By completing Extreme trials, you can earn weapons and other gear that rival BiS items in terms of stats.

Dungeons

Dungeons are a good way to acquire gear while leveling up. Running high-level dungeons can give you a good head start on your BiS setup.

Crafting

If you have the necessary crafting skills, you can craft some of your own BiS gear. However, this can be a very expensive and time-consuming process.

Market Board

The Market Board is a player-driven marketplace where you can buy and sell items. You can sometimes find BiS gear for sale on the Market Board, but be prepared to pay a premium.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When pursuing BiS gear for your Summoner, it is important to avoid some common mistakes:

• Upgrading Too Quickly: It is tempting to upgrade your gear as soon as you obtain a new piece. However, it is often more efficient to wait until you have a full set of BiS gear before upgrading any one piece.
• Neglecting Materia: Materia can significantly boost your stats and should be considered an essential part of your BiS setup. Be sure to meld Materia into all of your gear slots.
• Ignoring Your Playstyle: Your BIS choices should reflect your playstyle. If you prefer to focus on pet damage, for example, you should prioritize gear that boosts pet stats.

How BiS Matters

Equipping your Summoner with BiS gear provides numerous benefits:

• Increased Damage: BiS gear provides the highest possible stats for your class, which translates to increased damage output.
• Improved Survivability: BiS gear often includes defensive stats that can help you survive longer in combat.
• Enhanced Utility: Some BiS gear pieces provide unique abilities or effects that can enhance your gameplay.

Step-by-Step Approach

Follow these steps to acquire your BiS gear:

1. Determine your character level and available content. This will help you narrow down your options.
2. Identify your desired playstyle. This will influence your gear choices.
3. Research the available gear options. Use online resources and community forums to find out what the best gear is for your class.
4. Acquire the gear. This may involve raiding, running trials, crafting, or purchasing gear on the Market Board.
5. Meld materia. Once you have your gear, be sure to meld Materia into all of the available slots.
6. Fine-tune your gear setup. As you acquire new gear, make adjustments to your setup to optimize your stats and abilities.

Conclusion

Achieving BiS gear for your Summoner is a rewarding endeavor that can significantly enhance your combat prowess. By following the advice outlined in this guide, you can acquire the best possible gear for your class and unlock your full potential. Remember to consider your character level, available content, and playstyle when making your gear choices, and be sure to avoid common pitfalls. With the right gear and strategy, you can dominate the battlefield and become a force to be reckoned with as a Summoner.