Final Fantasy 16 is more than a blockbuster sequel. According to early footage and April's developer showcase, Final Fantasy 16 is making a clean break from previous entries in the long-running series. The title will attempt to usher in a new, and mature, era for the popular RPG. However, its role as one of this generation's earliest AAA fantasy titles is far more critical. Fantasy RPGs are set to make a significant comeback this generation, with titles like Avowed and The Elder Scrolls 6 currently in development. Together, these games attempt to stake the genre's claim at the forefront of modern gaming. This summer, all eyes will be on Final Fantasy 16 to set the bar high.
Final Fantasy 16 arrives in less than a month, and all signs point to a genre-defining experience. The title follows Clive Rosfield during three distinct periods of his life, and features a much darker and more mature tone than previous installments. In addition, developer Square-Enix has created a unique accessibility system that displays a shift, and modernization, of the series' focus. Before beginning its campaign, players can choose whether they wish to focus on the story or a challenging RPG adventure. Regardless of choice, all players can equip items in-game that allow for further combat customization, catering to their specific play styles and needs.
Final Fantasy 16 May Provide the Blueprint for Future Fantasy Titles
Final Fantasy 16's attempts at modernization could be a game-changer for the entire industry. In addition to its wide range of accessibility options, the title boasts a fresh approach to storytelling, linear gameplay, and traditional RPG side quests. The Hideaway is perhaps the best example of these elements in-motion, as players can invest their time in combat training, side quests, hunts, shopping, and reviewing in-game records from this central hub. The implementation of side quests, in particular, further exemplifies this new vision, as Final Fantasy 16 allows players to instantly fast travel to any NPC quest giver, eradicating an age-old cycle of traveling back and forth to progress various questlines.
Final Fantasy is setting the bar high for other highly-anticipated RPGs. Square-Enix has taken one of the genre's oldest and most revered franchises and rebuilt it for the future. If Final Fantasy 16's approach proves successful, its newest features and accessibility options could chart the path for future fantasy titles.
Final Fantasy 16 Paves the Way for Genre Diversity
Fantasy RPGs often struggle to forge a unique identity, as the genre consists of a few very similar formats. This can lead to games getting lumped together, based on shared characteristics. The highly anticipated Avowed and The Elder Scrolls 6 are stuck in the same situation, as may feature highly similar gameplay and are both stuck in a lengthy development period. However, there is still time for them to adopt Final Fantasy 16's groundbreaking approach, which sees its newest features break decades of well-worn tropes while providing fans with better means of seeing its story through to the end.
Final Fantasy 16's new features mark a critical shift in the fantasy-RPG landscape. While the genre is well known for its tough-as-nails challenges, grinding, and lengthy narratives, Final Fantasy 16 establishes a renewed focus on player experience and story prioritization. By opening up the experience to all players, through a myriad of customization options, the title attempts to set the standard for AAA fantasy's future. Final Fantasy 16's release, and the industry-wide reception to its ideas, could very well be a dry run for the next generation's most ambitious titles.
Final Fantasy 16 launches June 22 for PlayStation 5.