In Final Fantasy XIV, a non-combat pet that follows a player character is often referred to as a minion. The characteristic of obedience implies that this creature reliably accompanies the player without deviating from its programmed behavior. For example, a wind-up toy minion will faithfully trail the player across the landscape, never straying from their side unless dismissed.
Having these loyal companions provides aesthetic value and a sense of personalization to the player’s experience. Collecting a wide variety of them can become a significant goal for some players, adding an element of accomplishment to their gameplay. They do not contribute to combat effectiveness, but their presence enriches the visual world and provides a constant, albeit passive, form of companionship.
