FFXIV: How to Unlock the Pinky Mount
Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV) is beloved for its vast collection of unique mounts, each with its own charm and backstory. Among these, the Pinky Mount stands out as a whimsical, eye-catching addition that has captured the hearts of players worldwide. Resembling a giant pink elephant adorned with playful decorations, this mount is more than just a mode of transportation-it's a statement piece.
Unlocking the Pinky Mount isn't a straightforward task, as it requires a mix of effort, luck, and a bit of know-how. This mount was inspired by a lighthearted joke among the Loporrits: the tale of inebriated folk seeing visions of a delightful pink elephant. Determined to bring joy to players, the Loporrits turned this joke into a reality, creating a machine that embodies fun and whimsy. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, this guide will walk you through every step needed to add the Pinky Mount to your collection.
Prerequisites: What You Need Before You Start
Before embarking on your journey to unlock the Pinky Mount, there's one critical prerequisite you must meet: completing the main scenario quests (MSQ) of FFXIV's Endwalker expansion. This is non-negotiable, as the items and locations required to obtain the mount are only accessible to players who have finished Endwalker.
Additionally, you'll need to have unlocked your first mount-the Company Chocobo. While this isn't directly related to the Pinky Mount itself, it's a foundational requirement for riding any mount in FFXIV. To unlock the Company Chocobo, you'll need to reach Level 20, join a Grand Company, and complete the quest "My Little Chocobo" at your Grand Company's headquarters. Once these prerequisites are met, you're ready to begin your quest for the Pinky Mount.
The Key Item: Obtaining Exciting Tonics
To unlock the Pinky Mount, you'll need to acquire three "Exciting Tonics"-rare, tradable items that are the cornerstone of the unlock process. These tonics cannot be purchased from regular vendors; instead, they are obtained through treasure hunting, a popular activity in FFXIV that combines exploration and combat.
The primary way to get Exciting Tonics is by completing treasure map dungeons. Specifically, you'll need to use either Timeworn Kumbhiraskin Maps or Timeworn Ophiotauroskin Maps. Timeworn Kumbhiraskin Maps are found and dug up in Elpis, a zone in Endwalker, while Timeworn Ophiotauroskin Maps can be found in any other Endwalker zone.
Once you have a Timeworn Map, gather a party of eight players (either friends or via the Party Finder) and head to the map's location to dig up the treasure. If you're lucky, digging up the treasure will spawn a portal, transporting your party to a special dungeon: the Excitatron 6000 for Kumbhiraskin Maps or the Shifting Gymnasion Agonon for Ophiotauroskin Maps.
Inside these dungeons, your party will face a series of enemies. After defeating all the enemies, treasure chests will spawn, and there's a very rare chance that an Exciting Tonic will drop from one of these chests. This is where luck comes into play-some players may get an Exciting Tonic on their first run, while others may need to repeat the process dozens of times before getting their first one.
Another thing to note: if an Exciting Tonic does drop, it will be rolled on by all members of your party. This means you'll need to be lucky not only to get the drop but also to win the roll against your fellow players. Patience is key here-don't get discouraged if you don't get an Exciting Tonic right away.
Alternative: Buying Exciting Tonics (or the Mount) on the Market Board
If treasure hunting isn't your style, or if you're short on time and patience, there's an alternative way to get the Pinky Mount: using the Market Board. Both Exciting Tonics and the Pinky Mount itself are tradable, meaning other players can sell them for Gil-the in-game currency of FFXIV.
However, this alternative comes with a steep price tag. Depending on your data center and world, a single Exciting Tonic can cost millions of FF14 Gil, and since you need three of them, this can add up quickly. Alternatively, some players may sell the Pinky Mount directly on the Market Board, with prices ranging from 20 to 30 million Gil (or more, depending on demand).
While buying the mount or tonics is faster, it's important to consider whether it's worth the Gil. For many players, the satisfaction of earning the mount through treasure hunting is part of the fun. But if you're flush with Gil and want to skip the grind, the Market Board is a viable option.
Trading In: Getting the Pinky Identification Key
Once you have three Exciting Tonics, you're just one step away from unlocking the Pinky Mount. The next step is to trade these tonics for the "Pinky Identification Key"-the item that allows you to summon the mount.
To do this, head to the city of Radz-at-Han, a major hub in Endwalker. Once there, locate the NPC named Nesvaaz, who can be found at coordinates X:10.6, Y:10.0. Nesvaaz is a vendor who specializes in "out-of-this-world oddities," and he's the only NPC who will trade you the Pinky Identification Key.
Speak to Nesvaaz and select the option to browse his wares. Look for the Pinky Identification Key, which will cost you three Exciting Tonics. Once you make the trade, the key will be added to your inventory. Congratulations-you're now the proud owner of the Pinky Mount!
Summoning and Enjoying Your Pinky Mount
Now that you have the Pinky Identification Key, summoning the mount is easy. Open your inventory, find the key, and right-click it. This will add the Pinky Mount to your mount collection, where you can access it at any time.
To summon the mount, open your mount menu (default hotkey: "M"), find the Pinky Mount icon, and drag it to your action bar for quick access. When summoned, the Pinky Mount will play the song "Roads Less Traveled"-a cheerful tune that matches its whimsical design. It's a terrestrial mount that can also fly, making it a practical choice for exploring FFXIV's vast world.
One of the best things about the Pinky Mount is its unique appearance. With its bright pink color, beading, lights, and a giant headpiece reminiscent of the Excitatron 6000, it's sure to turn heads wherever you go. Whether you're flying over the skies of Elpis or walking through the streets of Radz-at-Han, the Pinky Mount is a fun and festive way to travel.
Tips and Tricks for Faster Success
Unlocking the Pinky Mount can be a grind, but there are a few tips and tricks that can help speed up the process. First, focus on gathering as many Timeworn Maps as possible. You can obtain these maps by gathering (mining or botany) in Endwalker zones, or by purchasing them from other players on the Market Board.
Second, join a treasure hunting party or form your own with friends. Having a consistent group of players can make the process more efficient, as you'll be able to complete more map runs in less time. Additionally, communicating with your party about rolling for Exciting Tonics can help ensure that everyone gets a fair chance.
Finally, be patient. Luck plays a big role in obtaining Exciting Tonics, so don't get discouraged if you don't see results right away. Keep running maps, stay persistent, and eventually, you'll have all three tonics you need to unlock the Pinky Mount.
Final Thoughts
The Pinky Mount is more than just a mode of transportation-it's a symbol of fun and whimsy in FFXIV. While unlocking it requires a mix of effort and luck, the reward is well worth it. Whether you're treasure hunting with friends or saving up Gil to buy it on the Market Board, the journey to obtaining the Pinky Mount is one that you'll remember.
Once you have it, you'll be able to fly through Eorzea in style, turning heads and spreading joy wherever you go. So grab your Timeworn Maps, gather your party, and get ready to unlock one of FFXIV's most beloved mounts. Happy hunting!
MMOexp Final Fantasy XIV Team