Despite being the most recent one, Noctis probably isn't the first Final Fantasy protagonist that comes to mind when players think of the diverse bunch. More likely, beloved characters like Cloud, Squall, and Zidane present themselves first, as players have fond memories with these characters. There are a lot of criticisms towards Noctis as a character, and while they are all valid, the prince often gets a bit more flak than he deserves. In truth, he was a much better protagonist than players remember, but it all comes down to how players perceive him as they play through the game.
Noctis took the lead in Final Fantasy 15 as the chosen one of this universe, destined to bring light back to Eos. Initial reactions to his character were mixed, and things didn't get much better after players got their hands on the game. Though his relationship with the others in his party is often a point of praise from critics, fans found his personality to be lacking any redeeming qualities, leading many to view the game as a whole in a negative light. In order to examine Noctis as a character, though, it's important to look at his character arc as a whole.
Criticisms of Noctis
Even before Final Fantasy 15 was released, Noctis was criticized for his brooding appearance and lethargic attitude. From what players had seen, it didn't look like there was anything Noctis cared about. It always seemed like there was something else he'd rather be doing, and even when he did get excited it was muted. The character also tends to complain a lot, always lamenting his role as the chosen one despite his friends' support. None of this works to give the prince a very good look, so it's no wonder that fans weren't too thrilled about the character.
While all of this certainly makes him an unlikable character, he does end up changing towards the end of the story. Much of his character development is locked behind hours of gameplay, though, so many players don't get to see it or find it to be too little too late. Finally, where he really makes a transformation is after the time skip at the end of FF15, but most of this happens off screen. For these reasons, there's a lot of players that aren't fond of him as a protagonist.
Noctis' Character Development Serves the Story
The truth of it is that Noctis' character arc is an interesting one, one that did indeed serve the story. Players love the reluctant hero like Cloud, but it's important to see that change take place. Though many are tired of the "chosen one" trope, Noctis could be seen as a satire of that, as he doesn't want the responsibility to begin with. Seeing the character grow alongside his friends and eventually accept that responsibility would have been a much better approach then having it all happen behind closed doors after a ten year time skip.
Even so, for the story that Final Fantasy 15 was trying to tell, Noctis' character fits the bill. It may not make him an especially interesting character to play for the majority of the game, but there is something satisfying about seeing his older self come back and finally be a hero. It may have been annoying to see the character act childishly for so long, but it makes the pay off of when he gets himself sorted out feel that much better.
Final Fantasy 15 is available now on Mobile, PC, PS4, and Xbox One.