Final Fantasy XVI (PS5) in depth Review

Since its humble beginnings in 1987, the Final Fantasy saga has been a beacon of awe-inspiring storytelling, breath-taking worlds, and memorable characters. Developed by Square Enix, a renowned Japanese video game company, the series has evolved from its origins as a last-ditch effort to save a struggling studio. Led by visionary game designer Hironobu Sakaguchi, the team poured their hearts and souls into the creation of Final Fantasy, unaware that it would become a worldwide phenomenon.

Located in Tokyo, Japan, Square Enix brought together a talented group of developers, artists, musicians, and writers to craft each game of the franchise. Nobuo Uematsu, the mastermind behind the iconic Final Fantasy soundtracks, filled the games with emotive melodies that have become beloved by fans. The original games, such as Final Fantasy I for the NES and Final Fantasy IV for the SNES, laid the foundation for the series and were exclusively available on their respective platforms.

The Final Fantasy saga has captivated millions of players worldwide with its epic storytelling, immersive worlds, and unforgettable characters. From the the revolutionary Final Fantasy VII to the enchanting Final Fantasy X, each instalment has left a lasting impression on gamers. Now, the highly anticipated Final Fantasy XVI is set to continue this legacy, offering a new chapter in the beloved franchise.

Release Date
Final Fantasy XVI has finally arrived, delighting fans with its highly anticipated release on the 22nd of June, 2023. This long-awaited instalment in the beloved franchise is set to captivate players with its immersive world and captivating storytelling. The wait is over, and players can now embark on an epic adventure like never before.

Price
As fans eagerly dive into the world of Final Fantasy XVI, they can do so at a price of £69.99 on Amazon UK. This price point offers players exceptional value for the incredible experiences that await them in this highly anticipated title. With its stunning visuals, engrossing gameplay, and captivating narrative, Final Fantasy XVI is a must-have for fans of the franchise who are ready to embark on a new and unforgettable journey.

Platforms
Final Fantasy XVI takes its first steps into the gaming world exclusively on the PlayStation 5. This platform offers players the opportunity to experience the game’s stunning graphics, seamless gameplay, and immersive world like never before. With the power of the PS5, players can fully immerse themselves in the rich and detailed environments, engaging in thrilling battles and unraveling the captivating story that awaits them in Final Fantasy XVI.

Developers and Publishers
The development of Final Fantasy XVI is helmed by Square Enix, the renowned studio behind previous successful titles in the franchise. With their expertise in creating memorable RPG experiences, fans can expect a game that delivers on both story and gameplay fronts.

Graphics and Gameplay
When designing Final Fantasy XVI, the development team faced important decisions regarding the game’s combat system and overall gameplay. Director Naoki Yoshida conducted surveys within the Final Fantasy community, finding a division between fans of action-based and more traditional turn-based combat. Taking into account sales potential and modern gaming trends, Yoshida chose to implement a real-time action-based battle system. While this approach risked polarizing series fans, Yoshida believed that trying to please everyone would compromise the game’s vision. To bring expertise in action combat to the project, Yoshida enlisted Ryota Suzuki, a Capcom veteran who had previously worked on the Devil May Cry series, as the battle designer. The battle system was built around the idea of transforming the ability system of Final Fantasy V into a real-time combat experience.

In terms of narrative and world-building, Yoshida brought on board Kazutoyo Maehiro, known for his writing style and world-building skills. Maehiro’s initial script, inspired by early seasons of Game of Thrones and various classic and contemporary anime, was then checked and completed by Michael-Christopher Koji Fox. The team made a deliberate choice to shift away from the science fiction elements present in recent entries, embracing a traditional medieval setting inspired by classic Final Fantasy games. The story revolves around Clive and his relationships with different individuals amidst warring nations, with a central theme focusing on the clashing of values. Crystals, a recurring element in the series, are portrayed as an analogy for depleted fossil fuels, while Dominants and Eikons serve as analogies for weapons of mass destruction. The game’s aesthetic design includes prominent female characters, but the story remains centred around Clive and his journey.

The game’s graphics in Final Fantasy XVI are nothing short of breath-taking. The stunningly detailed environments, intricately designed character models, and astonishing special effects all contribute to a visually captivating experience. The attention to detail and the seamless integration of cutting-edge technology bring the game world to life, immersing players in a visually striking adventure.
Graphics: 9.5/10
Gameplay: 9.5/10

Cooperative Features
When it comes to multiplayer options, it’s important to note that Final Fantasy XVI does not include any cooperative or competitive gameplay features. The focus of the game is on the single-player experience, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in the captivating narrative and explore the richly designed world on their own. While some players may prefer multiplayer interactions, it’s worth acknowledging that Final Fantasy XVI prioritizes delivering a compelling single-player adventure. Therefore, in terms of cooperative gameplay, the game receives a rating of 0/10.

Story and Characters
The storyline of Final Fantasy XVI takes players on a gripping journey filled with political intrigue, personal sacrifices, and the struggle for power. From Clive’s initial role as Joshua’s bodyguard to his transformation into Ifrit, the narrative is woven with unexpected twists and emotional moments. The story explores themes of betrayal, redemption, and the consequences of wielding immense power. With its complex characters and dramatic events, the story of Final Fantasy XVI receives a rating of 8.5/10 for its engaging and impactful storytelling.

Overall Rating: 9/10

Final Thoughts
Final Fantasy XVI holds immense potential to become a standout entry in the franchise. With its stunning graphics, engaging gameplay, and captivating story, it has the makings of a must-play title for both long time fans and newcomers alike. As we eagerly await its release, Final Fantasy enthusiasts can anticipate embarking on another unforgettable journey through the fantastical world that has captured our hearts for decades.