When a new Final Fantasy title drops, the gaming world stops and pays attention. For decades, the series has defined what it means to be an RPG, blending emotional storytelling, innovative gameplay, and cutting-edge visuals. Final Fantasy XVI is no exception — but it’s also a bold departure. From its more action-oriented combat to its darker, more mature themes, this entry seeks to push the franchise into uncharted territory. After spending over 80 hours in Valisthea, I can confidently say this is one of the most immersive, exhilarating RPG experiences in years — but it isn’t without its flaws.
Gameplay and Mechanics
The first thing you’ll notice in Final Fantasy XVI is that it’s not your traditional turn-based RPG. Instead, it leans heavily into real-time action combat inspired by modern titles like Devil May Cry. This evolution has split the community, but for me, it worked surprisingly well. Controlling Clive Rosfield feels fluid and intuitive, with combos that become increasingly satisfying as you unlock new abilities.
The Eikon battles — massive, cinematic showdowns between god-like beings — are the crown jewel of the gameplay. These sequences are unlike anything I’ve ever seen in a game: think epic anime battles brought to life, with explosions, quick-time events, and jaw-dropping visuals that make your heart race. However, some players argue these battles sacrifice depth for spectacle, and I can see where that criticism comes from.
Another welcome feature is the streamlined progression system. Rather than overwhelming players with countless skill trees and stats, the game keeps things accessible without feeling overly simplified. For someone who enjoys the RPG grind, I appreciated the balance between depth and accessibility.
Graphics and Sound
If you’re playing Final Fantasy XVI on the PlayStation 5, prepare to be blown away. The visual fidelity is nothing short of stunning. From the sweeping vistas of Valisthea’s kingdoms to the intricate detail on Clive’s armor, every inch of the game world feels alive and meticulously crafted. Cutscenes blur the line between pre-rendered cinematics and real-time gameplay, creating a seamless storytelling experience.
The sound design and music deserve their own spotlight. Composer Masayoshi Soken, known for his work on Final Fantasy XIV, delivers a soundtrack that’s nothing short of legendary. From epic orchestral scores during boss fights to hauntingly beautiful melodies in quieter moments, the music amplifies every emotional beat. Combine that with the powerful voice acting — especially from Ben Starr as Clive — and you’ve got a game that doesn’t just tell a story, it makes you feel it.
Storyline
One of the biggest draws of Final Fantasy XVI is its dark and mature narrative. Gone are the days of light-hearted quests and cartoonish villains; this is a brutal, politically charged tale of betrayal, love, and revenge. Clive’s journey, driven by personal loss and the weight of destiny, kept me engaged from start to finish.
The world of Valisthea is complex, with warring nations, social hierarchies, and morally grey characters that make the story feel rich and grounded. Themes of oppression, identity, and sacrifice give the narrative weight, making every victory bittersweet. While some side characters feel underdeveloped, the core cast — especially Jill, Cid, and Joshua — are compelling and memorable.
However, there are moments where the pacing drags, particularly in the mid-game. Certain fetch quests break the momentum of the otherwise gripping narrative, and I found myself wishing those segments were trimmed or more meaningful.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Stunning visuals that push the PS5 to its limits.
- Fluid, engaging combat that rewards skill and strategy.
- Epic Eikon battles that feel truly next-gen.
- Incredible soundtrack and top-tier voice acting.
- A dark, emotional story with mature themes and strong character arcs.
- Streamlined RPG systems that are approachable for newcomers.
Cons
- Pacing issues in certain story segments.
- Limited exploration compared to earlier entries.
- Some side quests feel repetitive and uninspired.
- The action-focused combat may alienate fans of traditional turn-based systems.
Replayability or Long-Term Value
While Final Fantasy XVI is primarily a story-driven experience, there’s still a decent amount of replayability. The New Game+ mode adds a layer of challenge, letting you carry over your abilities and face tougher enemies. Completing hunts, mastering Eikon abilities, and exploring every corner of Valisthea can easily push your playtime beyond 100 hours.
That said, players looking for the deep customization and party management of older Final Fantasy titles might find the experience more linear. The focus here is clearly on narrative and spectacle rather than open-ended RPG mechanics.
Tips and Recommendations
- Take your time with side content. While some side quests are filler, others offer rich lore and rewarding character moments. Don’t rush through them.
- Experiment with Eikon abilities. Each Eikon brings unique combat mechanics; finding the right combinations can make battles much more satisfying.
- Use accessibility options. Square Enix included “Timely Accessories” to simplify combat for players who struggle with action mechanics. They’re optional but worth trying if you find yourself frustrated.
- Replay in New Game+. The higher difficulty and carried-over abilities make it a fresh, challenging experience.
Final Verdict
Final Fantasy XVI isn’t just a return — it’s a reinvention. It takes bold risks with its combat and narrative tone, and while not every gamble pays off, the result is a game that feels fresh, modern, and unapologetically ambitious. It’s a love letter to long-time fans while opening the door for a new generation of players to fall in love with the series.
If you’re a fan of action RPGs, cinematic storytelling, or just want to experience one of the most polished games of this generation, Final Fantasy XVI is a must-play. While it may not be perfect, its highs are so high that they more than outweigh its shortcomings.
Rating: 9/10