Final Fantasy XVI captivates its audience from the very beginning with an enigmatic opening scene. The game introduces a complex political landscape, with power struggles among the Iron Kingdom, Waloed, Dhalmekian Republic, and the Holy Empire of Sanbreque. This narrative choice draws inspiration from the gritty realism of Game of Thrones and reflects the producer’s intention to modernize the revered Japanese role-playing series.
In this installment of Final Fantasy, players assume the role of Clive Rosfield, a brooding soldier seeking revenge for his deceased brother, wielding a comically large sword. Although the initial storyline can be confusing, the game’s design communicates its essence clearly. Departing from the franchise’s traditional turn-based combat, Final Fantasy XVI embraces action-oriented hacking and slashing, perfectly encapsulating the protagonist’s anger and showcasing its utility. The game unfolds within discrete, mostly linear levels, rather than an open-world setting.
The game’s environments are meticulously crafted, reminiscent of Pre-Raphaelite paintings and Tolkien’s literary landscapes. Whether traversing the Greatwood’s sprawling forest or exploring the cataclysmic crater at Phoenix Gate, players are treated to both intimate and grandiose spectacles. The Iron Kingdom section stands out with its blend of medievalism and eerie futurism, where desolate wilderness meets enigmatic monolithic structures, all set against an ominous drone soundtrack. Despite being the 16th entry in the series, Final Fantasy XVI maintains a sense of aesthetic adventure that is unmatched.
As the story unfolds and the symphonic music swells, Final Fantasy XVI reaches its climax with thrilling boss battles. Characters like Clive and his mentor Cid transform into awe-inspiring Eikons, towering embodiments of their inner demons. This installment is more than a sweeping RPG; it is an action-packed adventure that balances bombast with emotional depth. Drawing inspiration from both kaiju monster movies and classic PlayStation 2 games like Devil May Cry, Final Fantasy XVI delivers unparalleled excitement.
Amidst the bone-crushing battles, the game provides moments of respite in The Hideaway, a secret sanctuary for those persecuted by the world’s fascist factions. These quiet interludes reveal the game’s thematic core, as the community grows over time, creating their own utopia amidst the ruins of the realm. One poignant conversation between Cid and Clive highlights their desire to establish a place where people can live on their own terms, challenging the grim reality they face.
It is this blend of sentimentality, both whimsical and poignant, that sets Final Fantasy XVI apart from being a mere digital imitation of Game of Thrones. While the game dazzles with its over-the-top action and stunning visuals, the developers aim for something deeper. They embrace absurdity while striving to evoke genuine emotional resonance. In this pursuit, Final Fantasy XVI exceeds expectations, earning a well-deserved four out of five stars.
Available on PlayStation 5 from June 22
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