Post-Game Roadmap

Complete Normal Content: Before moving to post-game activities, finish all desired content on your first playthrough, including most Combat Simulator challenges and all Quests. Avoid the superboss, Brutal/Legendary Combat Simulator, and Hard Mode content for now.

Grind to Max Level: Reach the maximum party level of 70. While playing Hard Mode will eventually get you there, it's time-consuming. For the fastest method, consult the 'Best Ways to Farm Experience' guide.

Grind AP for Materia: Once at level 70, focus on leveling up your Materia. Ensure each character has essential Materia like Elemental (Fire, Ice, Lightning, Wind), combined elemental Materia, Healing Materia, and Revival Materia. Prayer and Chakra Materia are also recommended, though you won't need seven Chakra Materias. Other useful Materia include Swiftcast, Magnify, Elemental, MP Absorption, HP Absorption, Magic Focus, Warding, Steadfast Block (master three), Precision Defense (master three), seven HP Ups, some MP Ups, Strength Up, and Magic Up. Mastering Enemy Skill Materia is also beneficial. Refer to the 'Best Ways to Farm AP' guide for efficient grinding methods.

Superboss Silenced: Unlock the superboss by completing all Protorelic objectives across all regions. The superboss is located on an island in the northern sea. Be prepared for challenging fights leading up to it, as these are designed for level 70 characters.

Hard Mode Stuff: With grinding complete, focus on Hard Mode. Remember, items are unusable, and only Chocobo Stops restore MP. You can tackle side quests first, which reward Manuscripts for SP and Weapon Levels, unlocking more Folios and weapon buffs. Alternatively, challenge Classified Intel enemies on Hard Mode to obtain Manuscripts and enhanced item drops, allowing you to craft powerful Genji equipment like the Genji Gloves, which break the 9,999 damage limit. This preparation is crucial for a Hard Mode story playthrough. During Hard Mode story runs, prioritize skipping regular enemies if possible, especially if you need to conserve MP. Pay attention to boss mechanics, as they may enrage earlier. Solo bosses in later chapters can be particularly challenging; consult specific boss guides if needed.

Brutal/Legendary Combat Simulator: These challenging battles require defeating the superboss first. There are six Brutal Challenges and nine Legendary Bouts.