Combat in FFXIV is based on a global cooldown (GCD) system. Most abilities share a 2.5-second GCD, while others (off-global cooldown or oGCD) can be used between GCD abilities. Understanding this rhythm is key to maximizing your damage or healing. Always try to keep your GCD rolling. Pay attention to enemy telegraphs (red areas on the ground) to avoid damage. Positioning is also crucial, especially for melee DPS who often have positional requirements for certain abilities.
Combat Fundamentals:
- Global Cooldown (GCD): Most abilities share a 2.5-second cooldown.
- Off-Global Cooldown (oGCD): Abilities that can be used between GCDs.
- Telegraphs: Red areas indicating incoming enemy attacks. Move out of them!
- Positional Attacks: Some melee abilities deal more damage when attacking from the flank or rear.
- Aggro (Enmity): Tanks generate enmity to keep enemies focused on them. DPS and healers must manage their enmity to avoid pulling aggro.