Today marks a significant milestone in the history of the critically-acclaimed FINAL FANTASY franchise as SQUARE ENIX announces the release of FINAL FANTASY XVI. This latest standalone entry, now available for PlayStation 5 (PS5) consoles, is the first true action role-playing game (RPG) in the beloved series.
FINAL FANTASY XVI combines a dynamic real-time action combat system with traditional RPG features, offering an expansive and thrilling gameplay experience. The game is the brainchild of an experienced development team led by Naoki Yoshida, who aimed to create a FINAL FANTASY title that would appeal to both series fans and new players.
The game introduces innovative features such as Timely Accessories, allowing players to customize game difficulty via gear to suit their individual play style. The Active Time Lore (ATL) system is another unique addition, enabling players to learn more about the world and characters at any point in the game, even during cutscenes. With over 2,800 written entries, ATL provides a deep dive into the backstory of Valisthea and its inhabitants.
Players can get a taste of the realms of Valisthea through the FINAL FANTASY XVI Demo. The demo, which covers the opening prologue, allows players to step into the shoes of protagonist Clive Rosfield and experience the start of his epic tale. Progress made in the demo will carry over to the full game upon its release.
FINAL FANTASY XVI introduces an all-new story in the FINAL FANTASY universe. Set in the realms of Valisthea, a land blessed by the light of the Mothercrystals, the game unfolds an epic dark fantasy where peace is threatened by the spread of the Blight. The fate of the land lies in the hands of the Eikons, mighty summoned beasts, and their Dominants, individuals blessed with the ability to call upon and control them.
The game follows the tale of Clive Rosfield, a warrior known as the “First Shield of Rosaria,” sworn to protect his younger brother Joshua, the Dominant of the Phoenix, Eikon of Fire. Tragedy soon strikes, leading Clive on a path of revenge against the Dark Eikon known as Ifrit, a mysterious entity that brings calamity in its wake.
FINAL FANTASY XVI is rated USK 16 / PEGI 18 / Mature and is available now for the PlayStation 5 console.