Final Fantasy XVI recently showcased an extended gameplay reveal at PlayStation’s State of Play event, held on Friday. The 25-minute video delved into the game’s summonable Eikons and combat mechanics. Producer Naoki Yoshida emphasized that prior experience with the franchise is not required as Final Fantasy XVI functions as a standalone entry. The game introduces real-time action and RPG elements similar to the Devil May Cry series, straying away from its traditional turn-based combat system. With the release date set for June 22, exclusively on the PS5, fans can anticipate a fresh and captivating experience.
During the presentation, Yoshida likened the gameplay experience of Final Fantasy XVI to a thrilling “high-speed rollercoaster ride.” Players will embody the protagonist, Clive Rosfield, in the enchanting realm of Valisthea as they witness his journey unfold across three notable periods of his life: his teenage years, his twenties, and his thirties. Additionally, the game will incorporate flashbacks that provide insight into Clive’s backstory and transformation into a committed warrior. Navigation revolves primarily around a world map, which gradually unveils new locations and objectives as players progress through the narrative. The main storyline is estimated to take approximately 35 hours to complete, with the potential for 70-80 hours of gameplay to fully explore and conquer the game.
The presentation also showcased a fast travel mechanic and a montage of breathtaking locations, including dungeons, lakesides, sprawling bazaars, and warzones. Accompanying Clive on his journey is Torgal, a loyal wolf companion who can be commanded by the player. Combat in Final Fantasy XVI is dynamic and real-time, with Clive utilizing skills acquired by defeating Eikons, formidable magical beasts. The gameplay footage demonstrates an array of elemental attacks, such as creating a path of piercing icicles, infusing weapons with fire, and unleashing blue flames through the power of a dragon Eikon, reminiscent of Elden Ring’s Grafted Dragon. Players collect ability points upon defeating enemies, which can then be utilized to unlock and upgrade Eikon abilities.
To accommodate players less familiar with action games, Final Fantasy XVI includes “timely accessories.” The demo presented the Ring of Timely Focus and the Ring of Timely Strikes, which enable players to slow down time and execute powerful combo attacks with a single button press. Additionally, there is an item specifically designed for automated evasion. Yoshida also mentioned that all accompanying party members are AI-driven and offer support during combat engagements.
A central aspect of the game revolves around a hideaway, housing weapon and consumable shops, as well as a blacksmith to aid in upgrading armaments. Players can access the Arete Stone within the hideaway, granting entry to a virtual training area for refining attacks and improving other skill moves. An Arcade mode is also included, allowing players to compete for high scores with others online.
Within the game’s expansive world, players can expect to encounter Dominants, powerful beings possessing the Eikons’ powers, as well as mechanized monsters from an ancient civilization. Developer Square Enix has highlighted that the Eikon versus Eikon battles are the game’s pinnacle, with occasional inclusion of quick-time events (QTE) due to their cinematic scale. Yoshida stated, “These battles differ depending on the Eikon encountered and every showdown is unique, right down to gameplay. Players will experience everything from a 3D scrolling shooter to a heavyweight wrestling match with devastating attacks that encompass the entire battlefield.”
Final Fantasy XVI will initially launch on June 22, exclusively on the PS5. Although a PC version had been planned for release six months later, Yoshida recently mentioned that further optimization may delay its availability.
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