Whether you’re dodging enemy attacks and performing over-the-top combos or engaging in literal kaiju-monster battles, the highs of this game are exceptionally high.
Then, immediately following those boss battles, you’re performing mid-2000s MMO-style fetch quests because you and you alone are the only person who can go collect dirt.
THE NATIONS OF FINAL FANTASY XVI SET UP AN INTRIGUING STORY
Square Enix was never shy about how much influence Game of Thrones has over FFXVI. Anyone familiar with the popular HBO series, based on the A Song of Ice and Fire series of novels by George R. R. Martin, can spot familiar story beats and character traits.
This relationship and the world’s dependence on these magical crystals are the foundation for Final Fantasy XVI’s narrative. Clive is an incredibly nuanced hero who defines himself based on his successes and failures.
For a game that tries to set itself as a darker, more mature fantasy compared to previous series entries, Final Fantasy XVI does a great job of delivering that promise.
Given that the game is 75% cutscenes, that’s not an exaggeration either; there is a lot of story happening here. For the most part, it’s super enjoyable. Don’t be surprised if you’re comparing the characters in the game to who you remember from Game of Thrones.
Sadly, it also takes a page from the end of Game of Thrones and sees a gigantic drop in quality. I’ll keep it spoiler-free, but it’s almost as if Square Enix pulled a page from Vince McMahon’s book from the Higher Power storyline.