Responding to player feedback, Final Fantasy XIV Patch 7.16 will introduce a Clouddark Demimateria exchange system. This update, launching January 21st, 2025, addresses concerns regarding the acquisition of high-demand items from the Cloud of Darkness (Chaotic) Alliance Raid.

The core change allows players to exchange their surplus Clouddark Demimateria 1 for Clouddark Demimateria 2. While the exact exchange rate remains undisclosed, this alteration significantly impacts the accessibility of coveted rewards like the "A Half Times Two" hairstyle and the "Dais of Darkness" mount, both currently requiring substantial amounts of Clouddark Demimateria 2. These items are also marketable on the in-game market board, suggesting potential price fluctuations post-patch.

The initial implementation of the Cloud of Darkness (Chaotic) Alliance Raid in Patch 7.15, featuring mechanics reminiscent of the Shadowbringers' Eden raids, yielded a reward structure that proved unbalanced. The current system awards Clouddark Demimateria 1 and 2, with the latter's drop rate influenced by first-time raid completions. The upcoming exchange aims to rectify this imbalance.

Square Enix emphasizes that this adjustment is a direct response to player feedback and further refinements to the Demimateria system are possible based on ongoing community input. While Patch 7.16 primarily focuses on this exchange and the conclusion of the Dawntrail Role Quest series, significant job balance updates are anticipated in Patch 7.2. The impact of player feedback on future raid content remains to be seen.