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 explains potential causes and solutions.

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

What Causes Lag in FFXIV During Retainer Interactions and Emoting?

Lag in FFXIV, particularly when interacting with retainers or NPCs, or using emotes, can stem from several factors:

• High Ping or Network Connectivity Problems: A weak or unstable internet connection directly impacts responsiveness.
• Server Overload or Congestion: High server traffic, often during major updates or expansions, can lead to noticeable lag. Emote lag can also be caused by server delays in syncing animations across players within the same instance.
• Insufficient System Resources: If your PC doesn't meet the game's minimum requirements, performance issues, including emote lag, are likely.

How to Troubleshoot Lag in FFXIV

Assuming your PC meets FFXIV's recommended specifications, try these troubleshooting steps:

1. Verify Network Stability: Ensure a stable and strong internet connection.
2. Check Server Proximity: Playing on a server geographically distant from your location can result in high ping and lag. Consider transferring to a closer server. While playable with high ping, it can occasionally cause lag spikes.
3. Account for Server Issues: Server overload can occur during major patches, expansions, or cyberattacks. In such cases, patience is key, as the problem usually resolves itself.

This concludes our guide to resolving lag in FFXIV during retainer interactions and emoting. For more FFXIV tips, including Dawntrail patch updates and our Echoes of Vana'diel Alliance Raid analysis, visit The Escapist.