Reinvented: Final Fantasy XVI on PS5
Since its inception 35 years ago, Final Fantasy has continuously reinvented itself with each new numbered installment. Square Enix’s flagship franchise has been known for either building upon existing systems or changing half of the familiar elements for something new. Final Fantasy XVI is one of the latest sequels in the series that aims to reinvent itself, and it promises to be one of the most exciting games the franchise has ever offered.
The Setting of Final Fantasy XVI
The game is set in a medieval world, marking a significant departure from the more recent mainline Final Fantasy games. This is where players can immerse themselves in a world with medieval aesthetics infused with fantasy elements. The colour palette in this game is earthier, the weaponry is made of waning steel, and the drama grounded in the political machinations of warring realms and shattering family lineages.
The Storyline
The game tells a sweeping epic of a story with a massive ensemble cast, making it hard to follow for both developers and players. The new Active Time Lore feature lets players pause at any point during the gameplay, particularly in the middle of a cutscene. This feature allows players to read up on the events that just transpired, what’s happening at large in the world, jargon, factions, locations, and significant characters included.
Main Characters
Clive Rosfield is the main protagonist of the game who seeks to protect his younger brother, Joshua. There’s also Jill Warrick, the First Shield of the Phoenix; Joshua Rosfield, Clive’s younger brother; and Eikons, which are the game’s summons with unique abilities and attacks.
Gameplay of Final Fantasy XVI
The gameplay in Final Fantasy XVI is a massive departure from recent Final Fantasy games. Instead of the usual turn-based gameplay, it features a real-time action-focused combat system. This new battle system allows players to coordinate actions with various party members in real-time, making it an exciting and intense game to play.
The Battle System
The battle system is action-oriented and similar to that of God of War. Players can choose to play as Clive or summon an Eikon to fight alongside him. The player must build up a meter by landing hits on their enemies to summon the Eikon. The Eikons each have their unique abilities and attacks, allowing players to have a wide range of strategies when fighting foes.
Customization Options
The game offers several customization options such as changing weapons and armors of the characters, and unlocking different skills and abilities unique for each character.
Summing It Up
Final Fantasy XVI is a refreshing take on the franchise, breaking free from its turn-based roots and offering an action-packed real-time combat system. It’s medieval-inspired world with fantasy elements, unique storyline with an ensemble cast, and customized battle strategies make it an exciting game to play. With the game’s release, the imminent question is, will it take the franchise to new heights or turn off FF fans?
FAQ
1) What is Final Fantasy XVI?
Final Fantasy XVI is a role-playing video game developed and published by Square Enix. The game is set in a medieval world, marking a significant departure from the more recent Final Fantasy games, and features a real-time action-packed combat system.
2) What is the game’s storyline?
The game tells a sweeping epic of a story with a massive ensemble cast, making it hard to follow for both developers and players. The new Active Time Lore feature lets players pause at any point during the gameplay, particularly in the middle of a cutscene. This feature allows players to read up on the events that just transpired, what’s happening at large in the world, jargon, factions, locations, and significant characters included.
3) What is the game’s release date?
The game is set to release as a PlayStation 5 exclusive on June 22, 2023.
4) Is the game’s battle system similar to other Final Fantasy games?
Final Fantasy XVI is a massive departure from previous Final Fantasy games, marking a move away from the turn-based gameplay that previous games used. Instead, it features a real-time action-focused combat system similar to God of War.
5) What can players expect in terms of customization options?
The game offers a variety of customization options, allowing players to change their character’s weapons, armor sets and unlock different unique abilities for each character.