Final Fantasy XVI (PS5) review: A compelling melting pot of tradition and modernity

The Final Fantasy franchise has long been a puzzle box of shifting themes and stylistic transformations, with each iteration revealing a different aspect of its character. With a prominent Game of Thrones influence and a mature rating in the latest entry, you might question, "What truly forms the core of a Final Fantasy game?" The answer, while complex, remains rooted in the franchise's ability to captivate audiences beyond its signature chocobos and moogles. In my perspective, Final Fantasy transcends the simple concept of a game; it exudes an all-encompassing ambiance. Rest assured, devotees of the series will find the quintessential DNA of Final Fantasy pulsating within the realms of Final Fantasy XVI, helping navigate the game through its occasional troughs.

One of the most striking qualities of Final Fantasy XVI is its deliberate display of meticulous care in its thematic choices and character relationships. Borrowing from Final Fantasy VII's conservationist undertones, it resounds a clear message about our collective responsibility to our planet, urging players to imbue their interactions with kindness. Swear words and instances of violence are present, but they serve as genuine reactions to the chaos and desperation that ensue when gargantuan monsters threaten to demolish all in their path.

The game masterfully intertwines elements from the franchise's rich history to serve up a sense of nostalgia – the reappearance of the victory fanfare is a prime example. From treating players to exhilarating battles with fan-favorite monsters as in Final Fantasy VII Remake, to introducing a version of Cid who could arguably be the most captivating since Final Fantasy VII, Final Fantasy XVI respects its roots while charting new territories.

Final Fantasy XVI thrusts you into the life of 15-year-old Clive Rosfield, who holds the unique position of guardian to his younger brother, Joshua. Clive finds himself overshadowed by his younger sibling who is a Dominant, a being capable of harnessing and morphing into powerful Eikons. When a tragic turn of events puts Joshua's life in peril, Clive's existence is thrown into turmoil, catapulting him onto a vengeful trajectory.

This game adds to the tradition of the series' exploration of geopolitical conflict over territories and resources. Crystals, the sources of magic, engender discussions about ecological sustainability and free will – central pillars of the franchise since its inception. Still, Final Fantasy XVI repackages this familiar narrative within a façade of realistic high fantasy, creating an experience that, while fresh to the franchise, mirrors storylines commonly found in many western games.

Unlike Final Fantasy XV, which required numerous expansions and spin-offs to build its world, Final Fantasy XVI embeds world-building within the narrative through dialogue, anecdotes, and character reactions. With a historian, strategist, and an Active Time Lore feature at your disposal, you are offered the chance to delve deep into the lore during cutscenes. However, this treasure trove of information occasionally disrupts the pacing of the game, and extended cutscenes can hamper the overall rhythm of the gameplay.

These lingering scenes, while immersive, imbue the narrative with a heightened sense of urgency, subsequently deepening the complexity of Clive's character. He emerges as a layered and emotionally resonant protagonist, akin to Final Fantasy X's Tidus. Clive's likeable personality and engaging relationships form the heart of the narrative, adding a captivating layer to the overall experience of the game.

Square Enix's continued exploration of real-time hack-and-slash battles since Final Fantasy XIII seems to have culminated in the combat system of Final Fantasy XVI. While this new approach may feel invigorating to some, those unenthusiastic about mastering combos or varying attack styles may find the novelty wear thin. The intense battles can spiral into sensory overload, leading to a somewhat disjointed experience when juxtaposed with the grounded character narratives.

The level design could certainly use some refinement. The grandeur of castles quickly transforms into monotonous linear paths, with expansive, open areas serving as mere connecting threads. The outdoor world lacks vitality, and the bustling towns offer little more than a backdrop, featuring only a handful of NPCs with repetitive dialogue.

In the end, Final Fantasy XVI proves to be an exciting blend of tradition and innovation, reminiscent of the past, but not afraid to stride into the future. Despite some shortcomings, it succeeds in upholding the essence of the franchise while introducing fresh elements, ensuring an immersive gaming experience that keeps players captivated. Whether you are a longtime fan or a new player, Final Fantasy XVI has something for everyone in its sprawling, fantastical universe.

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