Acquiring Faux Leaves in FFXIV

Faux Leaves serve as a vital currency in Final Fantasy XIV, earned through the engaging Faux Hollows mini-game tied to Unreal Trials. Players use these leaves to acquire rare mounts, minions, and accessories from the Faux Commander in Idyllshire. This guide details the complete process from prerequisites to maximization strategies.

Prerequisites for Accessing Faux Hollows

Before diving into Faux Hollows, ensure your character meets specific requirements. You must reach at least level 80 with a Disciple of War or Magic job and complete the Main Scenario Quest for Shadowbringers. Next, unlock Khloe Aliapoh’s Wondrous Tails by finishing the quest “Keeping Up with the Aliapohs” in Idyllshire.

Once Wondrous Tails is active, travel to Idyllshire and locate the Painfully Ishgardian Man at coordinates (X:7.0, Y:5.9). Accept the level 80 quest “Fantastic Mr. Faux,” which leads you to the Faux Commander. Completing this quest grants permanent access to the Faux Hollows event.

Understanding Unreal Trials and Their Role

Unreal Trials are extreme-level encounters that rotate with major patches, serving as the gateway to Faux Hollows. The current trial, such as The Jade Stoa (Unreal) or others like Sukhuiomi’s Pain or Ultima’s Bane, must be cleared weekly to participate.

These trials are forgiving compared to standard Extreme content, making them accessible for players transitioning from normal raids. Success unlocks the Faux Hollows mini-game, where the real leaf farming begins. Note that trials change periodically, so check patch notes for updates.

Mastering the Faux Hollows Mini-Game Mechanics

Faux Hollows is a memory-matching game on a 6×6 grid of 36 tiles. You receive 11 flips per weekly playthrough to uncover hidden illustrations, each granting varying amounts of Faux Leaves based on rarity and size.

• Dual Blades (Large): Always present, yields 15 leaves plus a “Retelling.”
• Coffer or Gift (Medium): One of each always appears; Coffer gives 35 leaves, Gift 25.
• Faux Commander (Small): Rare, offers 100 leaves but not guaranteed.

The Retelling from Dual Blades is crucial—it allows a second playthrough after reclearing the Unreal Trial, effectively doubling your weekly earnings. Prioritize uncovering it early.

Optimal Strategies for Maximum Faux Leaves

To maximize leaves, adopt a systematic approach. Start by targeting edges and corners, as certain images like Dual Blades often cluster there. Track revealed tiles mentally or via screenshots for patterns across weeks.

Always secure the Retelling first for that extra run. Weekly resets occur on Tuesdays, so plan clears accordingly. High scorers report 200-300 leaves per double session with practice.

Use party finder for Unreal clears if soloing proves tough. Consistent participation yields enough leaves for top rewards within a few months.

Rewards Available via Faux Leaves Exchange

Visit the Faux Commander at (X:5.7, Y:6.1) in Idyllshire, select “Exchange Faux Leaves,” and browse categories like mounts, minions, and others. Standout items include mounts like the Dynamite Whistle (600 leaves) or Venturous Kamuy Flute (600 leaves).

• Mounts: Dynamite Mount (600), Venturous Kamuy Flute (600).
• Minions: Various at 150-400 leaves.
• Accessories: Necklaces and rings at 350 leaves each.
• Alternatives: Some mounts via Gold Certificates from Wondrous Tails with Khloe Aliapoh.

Over 25 items are available, with rarer ones demanding significant grinding. Prioritize mounts for prestige.

Weekly Routine and Long-Term Planning

Structure your week around Tuesdays: Clear the Unreal Trial, play Faux Hollows, grab Retelling, reclear for round two. This nets maximum leaves efficiently. Track progress via the Faux Commander’s menu.

For veterans, combine with Wondrous Tails for certificates as backups. New players should focus on MSQ completion first. Patches introduce new rewards, keeping the grind fresh.

Common Pitfalls and Troubleshooting

Avoid wasting flips on isolated tiles; focus on likely matches. Retellings don’t stack weekly—only one extra play per reset. If locked out, verify quest completion and level. Use the Duty Finder for trials and join communities for tips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often can I play Faux Hollows?

Twice weekly with Retelling, resetting Tuesdays.

What is the current Unreal Trial?

Rotates per patch; currently features like The Jade Stoa.

Can I buy Faux Leaves?

No, earned only via Faux Hollows. Some rewards via alternatives like certificates.

Where exactly is the Faux Commander?

Idyllshire (X:5.7, Y:6.1).

Is Faux Hollows worth the effort?

Yes, for exclusive cosmetics unavailable elsewhere.