Wind shards in Final Fantasy 16 aren’t just glittering trinkets-they’re the key to crafting swift, cutting-edge gear and enhancing abilities tied to aerial power. Knowing what to forge from them can give your build an edge that turns every battle into a storm.
How to use the wind shard in Final Fantasy 16
After defeating Garuda in the “Wings of Change” quest, return to the Hideaway and approach Blackthorne at the forge. Select the crafting menu, where the Wind Shard enables forging of the Stormcry sword with 135 attack and 135 stagger power. Equip this early-game weapon on Clive for stronger combat performance across Valisthea.
After defeating Garuda, you’ll receive a wind shard. Return to Hideaway and head to Blackthorne, Hideaway’s resident blacksmith.
How to craft Stormcry in Final Fantasy 16 where to find Blackthorne
Stormcry is crafted using one Wind Shard at Blackthorne’s forge in Final Fantasy 16. Blackthorne is located in Cid’s Hideaway (later called The Hideaway).
Finding Blackthorne
Enter The Hideaway and head to the forge area called The Black Hammer, found in the northeastern section near the crafting stations. Blackthorne stands at the anvil, ready to interact for crafting.
Crafting Steps
Talk to Blackthorne, select “Use the Forge”, then go to the “Craft” tab where Stormcry appears at the top. Hold the prompted button (X on PlayStation) to craft it instantly with the Wind Shard.
Key Notes
Crafting becomes available after defeating Garuda in Chapter 14’s “Awakening” quest and returning to The Hideaway. Stormcry cannot be reinforced but upgrades into Flametongue later-do not sell it.
Where is Cid’s Hideaway located in Final Fantasy 16
Cid’s Hideaway, also known as The Hideaway later in Final Fantasy 16, is a central hub located in the Central Storm Deadlands region of Valisthea.
How to Access
Players first reach it automatically during the main quest “Hide, Hideaway” (the fifth quest), after “A Chance Encounter,” when Cid brings Clive there. Afterward, fast travel to it anytime via the World Map.
Key Features
It serves as a sanctuary built inside a massive Fallen construct ruin, offering crafting at Blackthorne’s forge (The Black Hammer), shopping at Charon’s Toll, the Arete Stone for training, side quests, and more. The area unlocks progressively as the story advances.
