Producer Naoki Yoshida showcased Final Fantasy XVI in the State of Play on April 14, 2023. Learn more about the game's release date, plot, and features like real-time combat, story-focused mode, and Cid's Hideaway.
State of Play: Final Fantasy XVI Overview
Releasing on June 22, 2023, on PS5
Final Fantasy XVI is the latest addition to the Final Fantasy franchise, and it is a stand-alone game that does not require players to have played any of the previous games. It is an actual role-playing game with real-time action and RPG elements that utilize the features of the PS5.
The game centers around the character of Clive Rosfield, the Shield of the Grand Duchy of Rosaria. The story follows Clive's life from his teenage years to his 30s, and players can experience the events that have shaped his past and present through a playable flashback.
Final Fantasy XVI Features
Real-Time Combat
In Final Fantasy XVI, combat is real-time and not turn-based, so players must make quick decisions and reactions during battles. As Clive progresses through the game, he will learn a wide array of abilities that he can use to defeat his enemies.
Each ability that Clive wields has different characteristics depending on the icon, and players will need Ability points to unlock or level up these abilities. Ability points can be earned by defeating enemies and completing quests, and players can choose which abilities they want to upgrade based on their playstyle and preferences.
If players are unsure which abilities to upgrade, they can allow the game to decide for them. The game will analyze their gameplay and suggest the most appropriate skills to upgrade based on their strengths and weaknesses. This feature ensures that players enjoy the game without feeling overwhelmed by the complex upgrade system.
Story-Focused Mode
Players can choose a Story Focused mode before starting a new game. Story Focused Mode is designed to fully immerse players in the game's narrative without worrying too much about the gameplay mechanics.
When players choose the Story Focused mode, the game will automatically equip accessories for them, which can provide additional support during combat. This means players do not have to worry about preparing the right accessories and can focus solely on the game's narrative.
The Story-Focused Mode benefits interested players about the game's story more than its gameplay. By removing some gameplay elements, players can enjoy the game's narrative without feeling distracted or overwhelmed by the combat mechanics.
However, it's worth noting that choosing the Story-Focused mode doesn't mean that players can't engage with the combat mechanics if they want to. They can still use their abilities and engage in combat, but the game will provide additional support through the automatically equipped accessories.
Cid's Hideaway
Cid's Hideaway is a location that Clive can access at a certain point in the game's story. It is a haven where players can purchase various items such as accessories and materials, including potions, and have the blacksmith forge weapons and armor.
Additionally, players can use an Arete Stone in the Hideaway to train Clive's skills. Training Mode provides a safe and secluded space for players to practice and hone their abilities without any distractions from the game environment. Once players feel confident, they can enter the Archaic mode to compete against other players worldwide.
Furthermore, the Hideaway is where players can find side quests unlocked throughout the game. They can also view all the side quests from Valisthea and choose which ones to undertake. The Hunt Board is also available here, which serves as a quest for monsters that Clive can hunt for rewards and experience.
