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How to Fix FFXIV Lagging When Talking to Retainers or Using Emotes

Authore: JoshuaUpdate:Jan 04,2025

How to Fix FFXIV Lagging When Talking to Retainers or Using Emotes

Final Fantasy XIV generally runs smoothly, but occasional lag can occur, especially when interacting with retainers, NPCs, or using emotes. This guide offers solutions.

Table of Contents

What Causes Lag in FFXIV During Retainer Interactions or Emoting?How to Troubleshoot FFXIV Lag

What Causes Lag in FFXIV During Retainer Interactions or Emoting?

Lag in FFXIV, particularly during interactions with retainers or NPCs, or emote use, stems from several potential issues:

  • High ping or unstable internet connection
  • Overloaded or congested game servers
  • Emote synchronization delays: The game needs to synchronize emote animations for other players in your instance, which can cause lag if delays exist. Lag during emoting often points to overloaded servers or a PC that no longer meets the game's minimum requirements.

How to Troubleshoot FFXIV Lag

Assuming your PC meets FFXIV's recommended specifications, here's how to address lag:

  1. Verify Internet Stability: Ensure a stable internet connection. A fluctuating connection is a primary culprit.

  2. Server Proximity: Check if your server is geographically close to your location. High ping from playing on a distant server (e.g., a North American server while in Oceania) can cause lag spikes, though this isn't always problematic. Consider transferring to a more suitable server if necessary.

  3. Server Overload: Server overload, common after major patches or expansions, or during hacking incidents, can also cause lag. In such cases, patience is key; the issue usually resolves itself.

This concludes our guide to resolving lag in FFXIV during retainer interactions or emote use. For more FFXIV tips and information, including the Dawntrail patch release schedule and coverage of the Echoes of Vana'diel Alliance Raid, check out The Escapist.