Final Fantasy XIV Players Mourn The Primals Bassist With In-Game Funerals and Gatherings

Final Fantasy XIV players are mourning the loss of bassist Eikichi Iwai with virtual funerals and gatherings across servers worldwide. Iwai was the bass guitarist for The Primals, a band formed specifically to create music for Square Enix's popular MMORPG. The band announced his sudden passing on November 11, 2026, stating that his performances were deeply impactful and that fans are struggling to come to terms with his loss.

In response to Iwai's death, players gathered within their respective servers to hold virtual funerals in the game's fantastical locales. On the European server Omega, players formed a circle around Limsa Lominsa's Aetheryte Plaza, lighting campfires in remembrance. In Sephirot, Materia DC server, players spent over seven hours calmly sitting in the field of flowers at Ultima Thule.

Fans, content creators, and other members of the gaming industry have shared their fond memories of Iwai and the impact his music had on their lives. Social media posts have been filled with heartfelt tributes, acknowledging the sudden shock and grief experienced by the FFXIV community. Eikichi Iwai was 57 years old at the time of his death.