Classes
There are four base disciplines, each divided into several classes. Each class has its own weapon type, and as of the beta, changing classes is as simple as changing weapons; this is known as the Armory System. Classes can be changed at any time, except during a battle. The player can use most skills on any class after learning them, but skills are scaled with the current class level.
Players can use all skills learned by their current class, and set up other classes’ skills based on his or her current max level. The maximum number of cross class skills that can be used is capped at 10 for a level 50 character.
Jobs
FFXIVJobArtwork
Introduced in patch 1.21 of the original version, classic Final Fantasy jobs appear as types of specializations inside the armory system. Upon reaching a certain level in a class, players can do a quest unlocking the use of a job, obtaining a soul crystal, carved with the deeds of past warriors.
Setting a job on top of one’s class severely limits the use of cross class abilities (can only use half the usual number – max of 5 skills at level 50 – and only from specific classes) but allows the use of powerful job-specific abilities and equipment. The main advantage of using a job will be the possibility of specializing on a role (like tanking as a Paladin) for high level party play, while using the regular classes will be advantageous while playing solo or in smaller parties (where things like a Thaumaturge who can heal can prove useful). Jobs change the player’s base stats to help fulfill its intended role.
Paladin, requires Gladiator level 30 and Conjurer level 15. Can use Marauder and Conjurer abilities.
Dragoon, requires Lancer level 30 and Pugilist level 15. Can use Pugilist and Archer abilities.
Monk, requires Pugilist level 30 and Lancer level 15. Can use Lancer and Archer abilities.
Bard, requires Archer level 30 and Conjurer level 15. Can use Conjurer and Thaumaturge abilities.
Warrior, requires Marauder level 30 and Gladiator level 15. Can use Gladiator and Pugilist abilities.
White Mage, requires Conjurer level 30 and Gladiator level 15. Can use Gladiator and Pugilist abilities.
Black Mage, requires Thaumaturge level 30 and Pugilist level 15. Can use Pugilist and Archer abilities.
Summoner, an upcoming job of A Realm Reborn, will be available to Arcanists. It might require level 15 Thaumaturge.
Scholar, an upcoming job of A Realm Reborn, will be available to Arcanists. It might require level 15 Conjurer.