Modding in Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV) isn't just a hobby, it's a significant part of what makes the game enjoyable and personalised for me and countless other players around the world. The vibrant modding community contributes to an enriched gaming experience, offering customisations that range from aesthetic modifications to useful quality-of-life enhancements.

In recent events a plugin named Mare Synchronos has had a legal notice from Square Enix requesting for the plugin to be taken down. Mare is a tool which allows players to see each other’s mods by pairing through a code. Mare is used for social, RP venues, GPosing (Group Posing) .etc.

Square Enix's stance against mods and third-party tools threatens this community. While the intent to maintain the freedom of expression, this crackdown risks removing the vibrancy and individuality that mods bring to FFXIV. Many players, including myself, feel that modding is an expression of creativity and freedom, allowing a more tailored and unique experience.

Customizations and quality of life (QOL) should not be viewed as detrimental but as enhancements that can coexist with the game's spirit. Instead of outright banning mods and plugins, I urge Square Enix to revise their third-party terms of service. This would involve setting clear guidelines for acceptable mods and engaging with the modding community to understand their needs and contributions.

By establishing a collaborative approach, Square Enix can ensure that the FFXIV environment remains dynamic and innovative while condemning cheats and morbid mods (Beast and NSFW Lalafel .etc). This balance can be achieved by carefully distinguishing between mods that harm gameplay and those that enhance it.

Encouraging dialogue between the developers and the community could lead to a win-win situation, where the game evolves through player input and creativity, fostering a more devoted and engaged community.

The freedom to customize and innovate offers unlimited potential for growth and enjoyment in FFXIV. Square Enix, please consider revising your terms to protect and nurture this essential aspect of the game, to preserve the joy and personal connection many of us find through modding.

Sign this petition to stand with me in asking Square Enix to revise the third-party terms of service, allowing for mods and third-party tools in Final Fantasy XIV Online.