For over three decades, Final Fantasy has defined what it means to be a “fantasy” game — bold, experimental, and emotional. With each installment, Square Enix risks alienating traditionalists while chasing innovation. But Final Fantasy XVI takes this ethos to a new level, boldly embracing real-time combat, mature storytelling, and a darker political tone that divides its audience — and that’s exactly why it matters.
A Combat System Built for the Action Era
The most radical shift in FFXVI is its abandonment of the series’ iconic turn-based roots. Instead, it adopts a Devil May Cry-style action combat system, designed by Ryota Suzuki, the former Capcom combat director. Gone are the party micromanagement and ATB meters — in their place are parries, dodge-rolls, and stylish combo chains that feel closer to a character-action game than a traditional JRPG.
This move has been polarizing. Hardcore fans of classic entries like FFVI or FFX see it as a betrayal of the franchise’s strategic legacy. But for action-focused players — and especially new audiences — it delivers responsive, visually stunning combat that modernizes the series without diluting its identity.
Pro players will appreciate the Eikon ability loadouts, which add layers of tactical customization. Swapping between elemental powers mid-combat introduces build diversity and room for mechanical mastery, especially on higher difficulty modes like “Final Fantasy.”
Narrative Depth: From Crystals to Kingdoms
Narratively, FFXVI is a far cry from the anime tropes of some recent entries. Inspired by western medieval fantasy, the game leans heavily into geopolitics, moral ambiguity, and generational trauma. Clive Rosfield’s story is more grounded, tragic, and emotionally raw than most of his predecessors — closer to Geralt of Rivia than Cloud Strife.
The game doesn’t shy away from dark themes: slavery, state violence, systemic inequality. These aren’t just set dressing — they drive the worldbuilding and character motivation. Valisthea feels lived-in, cruel, and beautiful. It’s arguably the most cohesive and thematically mature Final Fantasy world to date.
Fans who grew up on the series during the PS1 era will recognize the DNA of Tactics, XII, and XIV in FFXVI. It’s a reminder that while styles change, the heart of Final Fantasy — complex, character-driven storytelling — remains intact.
The Sound of a New Fantasy
No Final Fantasy is complete without a memorable soundtrack, and FFXVI delivers in full. Masayoshi Soken’s score blends orchestral gravitas with modern cinematic flair, balancing sweeping main themes with high-octane battle tracks.
Tracks like “Find the Flame” and “Away” elevate both boss encounters and narrative cutscenes into unforgettable emotional peaks. As with FFXIV, Soken’s work is not just background noise — it’s integral to the game’s emotional impact.
Criticisms That Can’t Be Ignored
Final Fantasy XVI isn’t without flaws. Some players criticize its side quest design, which at times devolves into fetch missions that undercut the story’s urgency. Others note the lack of traditional RPG elements like party management, gear depth, or meaningful towns.
Still, it’s important to view FFXVI not as the new blueprint for the entire franchise, but as a bold genre experiment, much like FFVIII or FFXIII once were. Final Fantasy has always evolved, even if it means shedding skin along the way.
What It Means for the Series’ Future
With Final Fantasy VII Rebirth reaffirming turn-based traditions, and XVI pushing full-throttle into action-RPG territory, Square Enix seems content to diversify the franchise, offering different flavors for different fans. This is a smart move — it ensures that Final Fantasy can remain both nostalgic and cutting-edge.
For professional players, lore enthusiasts, and first-timers alike, Final Fantasy XVI proves that taking risks is not only necessary, but essential for long-term relevance. And in doing so, it earns its place as one of the most impactful entries in the series.