PlayStation 5 is out now, but some of the best games for the console are yet to come. One of such games is Final Fantasy XVI (FFXVI). The long-storied franchise will be bringing its next game as a timed exclusive for the PS5, but details about this upcoming game are sparse. We gathered everything we know so far to keep you updated. Let's keep you well-informed about the latest developments of Square Enix's next epic.
Final Fantasy XVI returns to roots
Final Fantasy XV was a huge hit, but it diverged from the usual tropes of Final Fantasy. It was a true modern iteration for the series, but many fans still long for the old days. Thankfully, Final Fantasy XVI will be returning to its roots. Based on the reveal trailer and the official website, the setting returns to feudal kingdoms and will revolve around crystals. The world is called Valisthea, composed of warring kingdoms: The Grand Duchy of Rosaria, The Holy Empire of Sanbreque, The Kingdom of Waloed, The Dhalmekian Republic, The Iron Kingdom, and the Crystalline Dominion.
The game also returns the power to summon espers to just a handful of people. In Valisthea, only Dominants can summon Eikons, and the main character's brother is one of them. Meanwhile, the crystals are important because they stave away evil, called Blight.
The main character, Clive Rosfield, is seen in the trailer appearing in two instances. Based on his appearances, fans can expect to play through a long storyline, or play past a massive time skip. His first appearance depicted him as an older, gruffer-looking person with a face tattoo. Later on, we also see him as a young person, along with his brother, Joshua Rosfield, who he has sworn to protect.
Development may conflict with Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 2
Final Fantasy 7 Remake (FF7R) was a highly-anticipated game by Square Enix that released towards the end of the PlayStation 4 life cycle. The long wait was worth it, as fans got to enjoy a well-polished, high-budget game. However, FF7R was released to be part of a larger saga, with the second part releasing in a few more years.
The problem then arises on where Square Enix will focus their development priorities. Apart from that, marketing might be split between FF7R and Final Fantasy XVI. Fans are concerned that either game might fail if they focus on just one of the two.
However, based on Square Enix's track record, it's more likely for them to succeed commercially on both, if not critically.
Final Fantasy XVI Release Date
While the game entered development as early as 2016, it was only officially revealed during Sony's PlayStation 5 Showcase earlier this year. Fans got excited when it was announced near the PS5 release, expecting it to launch with the console. However, an official release date has not yet been revealed. Instead, rumors abound that the game won't be ready until 2022, with more updates about the game not shared with the community until 2021.
Since the game entered development almost the exact time Final Fantasy XV completed development, many fans assumed that the same team will be working on the next game. However, it's instead led by the lead designers of Final Fantasy XIV. The teams behind Final Fantasy XI and Dragon Quest Builders are also said to be working on the project.
Regardless, Final Fantasy XVI will remain to be one of the most anticipated games for the PS5 until its release.
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