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Final Fantasy XVI

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Final Fantasy XVI
Item: Final Fantasy XVI
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Drama, Single Player

AvailableJun 22, 2023

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperCreative Business Unit III

Overview

Final Fantasy XVI is the first fully fledged action RPG in the mainline Final Fantasy series. Clive Rosfield is on a mission to free mankind from its fate, and must use the Eikonic powers at his disposal to overcome every obstacle his enemies lay before him.

Elsewhere

8.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI's story has received praise for its emotional depth, character development, and epic worldbuilding in the realm of Valisthea. Critics commend its engaging narrative and strong themes of revenge and trauma, enhanced by the Active Time Lore feature. However, some highlight significant flaws, including convoluted storytelling, uneven pacing, and underdeveloped female characters. While many celebrate its ambitious narrative, the complexity may alienate some players, indicating a divide in reception. Overall, it's a notable achievement with room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Final Fantasy XVI has garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, who have praised its compelling narrative and rich character development. Many reviewers, such as NPR and GameGrin, highlighted the emotional depth of the characters and the intricate relationships that unfold throughout the game. The narrative is often described as engaging, with critics like IGN and Push Square noting its epic scope and impressive worldbuilding set in the realm of Valisthea. Themes of revenge, trauma, and political intrigue resonate strongly, with several critics, including Gamereactor UK and TechRadar Gaming, appreciating how these themes are interwoven into Clive Rosfield's journey. The Active Time Lore feature has also been acknowledged as a valuable tool for enhancing the storytelling experience, helping players navigate the complex lore. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out significant flaws in the storytelling. Metro GameCentral and Digital Trends expressed concerns about the narrative's convoluted nature and uneven pacing, suggesting that it can feel long-winded and bogged down by unnecessary bloat. Critics like GAMES.CH and Guardian echoed these sentiments, noting that while the story begins with an intriguing premise, it loses some of its impact as it progresses. Additionally, several reviewers, including PC Gamer and Inverse, mentioned issues with character development, particularly regarding female characters, which detracts from the overall narrative experience. In summary, while the majority of critics regard the story of Final Fantasy XVI as a strong and engaging aspect of the game, there are notable criticisms regarding its complexity and pacing. The consensus leans towards appreciation for the emotional weight and thematic depth, with many reviewers, such as NME and Screen Rant, commending its ambitious storytelling. However, the concerns raised by critics like Metro GameCentral and Digital Trends indicate that the narrative may not resonate equally with all players, suggesting a divide between those who embrace its intricacies and those who find it lacking in coherence and character depth. Overall, Final Fantasy XVI's story stands out as a significant achievement, albeit with room for improvement in certain areas.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI's gameplay shines with fast-paced, engaging combat praised as "sublime" and accessible for both newcomers and veterans. Critics commend the integration of Eikon abilities and the overall excitement, but some highlight issues like repetitiveness, linearity, and a lack of depth compared to prior entries. Despite these drawbacks, the game is viewed as a bold and successful modernization of the series, with its thrilling combat making a strong impact on players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Final Fantasy XVI has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising its fast-paced, engaging combat system. Reviewers like The Loadout and NPR highlight the combat as a standout feature, describing it as "sublime" and "among the best in the series," respectively. The integration of Eikon abilities adds depth and variety, allowing players to experiment with different strategies and playstyles. Critics such as Impulsegamer and Gamereactor UK commend the combat for its accessibility, blending elements from other action games like Devil May Cry and Bayonetta, while still offering a satisfying experience that caters to both newcomers and veterans of the genre. The overall fluidity and excitement of the combat have been noted by multiple reviewers, with Game Informer and Digital Trends emphasizing the engaging nature of battles and the rewarding feeling of mastering the mechanics. However, despite the praise, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks in the gameplay. Guardian and Trusted Reviews expressed concerns about the combat's repetitiveness, with battles sometimes feeling overly long and side quests lacking inspiration. The linearity of the game was a common critique, as seen in the opinions of PlayStation Universe and Game Rant, where the structure is described as guiding players through point A to B without much room for exploration. Additionally, some critics, like Game Revolution and IGN, mentioned that the combat, while visceral, lacks the complexity and depth found in previous entries in the franchise, which may disappoint long-time fans of the series. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy XVI offers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, particularly through its combat system. While there are valid criticisms regarding repetitiveness and linearity, the majority of reviewers agree that the game successfully modernizes the franchise's approach to action RPG mechanics. Critics like Push Square and Hardcore Gamer encapsulate this sentiment by highlighting the combat's depth and accessibility, making it a significant draw for players. Ultimately, Final Fantasy XVI is seen as a bold step forward for the series, with its engaging gameplay and thrilling combat mechanics leaving a positive impression on the gaming community.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI impresses with breathtaking visuals and artistic direction, rivaling high-budget films. Critics praise its stunning graphics, particularly in Eikon battles, and high production values on PS5. However, some elements feel dated, and performance issues, like frame rate dips, detract from the experience. Overall, it’s a visually striking title that showcases modern gaming prowess despite some criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Final Fantasy XVI is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its impressive visuals and artistic direction. Reviewers such as Noisy Pixel and CGMagazine highlight the game’s stunning graphics that rival high-budget films and anime, particularly during Eikon battles, which are described as spectacular and well-designed. Critics like Gaming Age and Pocket-lint commend the meticulous attention to detail in the environments, character models, and cutscenes, emphasizing the game's ability to create a breathtakingly beautiful world. The game is also noted for its high production values, with many reviewers, including Game Informer and Twinfinite, appreciating the gorgeous presentation and seamless performance on the PS5. However, there are notable criticisms regarding certain aspects of the visual design. Some reviewers, such as Power Unlimited and Digital Trends, express that while parts of the game are stunning, others feel average or even dated, particularly in NPC models and environmental variety. Additionally, the world design has been described as lacking depth and feeling artificial by critics like The Games Machine. Performance issues, including frame rate dips during intense action sequences, are mentioned by several reviewers, including Wccftech and Guardian, suggesting that while the visuals are impressive, they can sometimes detract from the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy XVI delivers a visually stunning experience that showcases the capabilities of modern gaming hardware, particularly the PS5. While there are some criticisms regarding optimization and certain visual elements that feel less polished, the majority of reviewers agree that the game excels in its artistic direction and high-quality graphics. Critics like IGN and Game Rant encapsulate this sentiment, noting that the visuals enhance the overall experience, making it a significant entry in the Final Fantasy series.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI’s sound design and music, crafted by Masayoshi Soken, receive rave reviews for their emotional depth and epic quality, with many critics calling it the best soundtrack of 2023. While voice acting, particularly by lead Ben Starr, is praised as top-tier, some believe the music occasionally falls short of the franchise's legendary standards. Despite minor critiques, the overall consensus is that the game’s audio elevates the experience, making it immersive and resonant, solidifying Soken's legacy in the series.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Final Fantasy XVI have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the exceptional work of composer Masayoshi Soken. Critics like Game Informer and IGN have highlighted the soundtrack as one of the best of 2023, noting its ability to enhance emotional and epic moments throughout the game. The diversity and richness of the score, described as "sublime" by Cubed3 and "haunting and heartfelt" by GameSkinny, contribute significantly to the game's atmosphere, making it feel immersive and alive. The voice acting has also received high praise, with GameCritics and Wccftech noting the top-notch performances that elevate the narrative, particularly that of lead actor Ben Starr. Additionally, the integration of iconic themes and motifs from previous entries in the franchise, as mentioned by Gamepressure and Post Arcade, adds a nostalgic layer to the experience. While the overall reception has been overwhelmingly positive, some critics have pointed out areas for improvement. For instance, The Games Machine suggested that the music, while good, may not reach the heights of the stellar voice acting, indicating a potential imbalance in the audio experience. Additionally, although the soundtrack is celebrated for its emotional depth and variety, a few reviewers felt that certain pieces could be somewhat underwhelming compared to the franchise's legendary standards. This sentiment is echoed by The Loadout, which acknowledged the superb score but also noted that the sound design could enhance the battles further. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy XVI excels in sound design and music, with the majority emphasizing its quality and emotional resonance. Critics such as Malditos Nerds and NPR have underscored the soundtrack's ability to complement the game's themes and enhance the overall experience. With a combination of powerful orchestration, memorable battle themes, and high-quality voice acting, the game successfully creates an immersive world that resonates with players. Despite minor critiques regarding certain aspects of the music, the overwhelming sentiment is that Soken's work not only meets but often exceeds expectations, solidifying his position as a successor to the franchise's esteemed musical legacy.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI's voice acting has been lauded as exceptional, with standout performances by Ben Starr (Clive) and Ralph Ineson (Cid) enhancing the game's emotional depth and storytelling. Critics agree it’s a key feature that elevates the overall experience. However, some reviews point out inconsistencies in performance quality, suggesting not all roles hit the mark. Overall, the voice acting is a pivotal element of what makes the game compelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Final Fantasy XVI has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with the majority praising the performances as exceptional and integral to the game's storytelling. Ben Starr's portrayal of the protagonist, Clive, has been frequently highlighted as a standout, bringing both humanity and emotional depth to the character, as noted by CGMagazine and IGN. The ensemble cast, including Ralph Ineson as Cid, has also received accolades for their genuine and memorable performances, which enhance character engagement and narrative immersion. Critics from sources like Easy Allies and GameCritics echo this sentiment, emphasizing that the voice acting significantly contributes to the overall emotional weight of the story, making it a key element of the gaming experience. However, not all reviews are uniformly positive. While many critics laud the quality of the voice acting, some, like Gamereactor UK, mention that the quality can fluctuate, suggesting that not every performance hits the mark. This inconsistency could detract from the otherwise strong character development and storytelling that the game aims to achieve. Additionally, GameStar's review notes a lack of explicit discussion regarding the voice acting quality, indicating that while the performances are present, they may not have made a significant impact on every player’s experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the voice acting in Final Fantasy XVI being described as one of the game's standout features. The combination of strong performances, particularly from Ben Starr and Ralph Ineson, along with the diverse range of accents and emotional delivery, has created a rich auditory experience that complements the game's narrative. Critics from sources such as Pocket-lint and PC Gamer affirm that the voice acting elevates the gameplay, making it a memorable and engaging experience for players. The general agreement among the majority of reviewers suggests that the voice acting is not just good, but a pivotal aspect of what makes Final Fantasy XVI a compelling title.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI receives mixed reviews for its technical performance on PS5 and PC. The PS5 version impresses with stunning visuals and smooth gameplay, though it suffers from frame rate inconsistencies, especially in performance mode. The PC version shines on high-end systems but struggles with stability and optimization on lower-end hardware, resulting in performance drops and stuttering. Overall, PS5 offers a more refined experience, while the PC version is hit-or-miss depending on your setup.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

36%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Final Fantasy XVI on both the PS5 and PC platforms has garnered a mix of praise and criticism from various gaming reviewers. On the PS5, many critics highlighted the game’s impressive visuals and overall polish, with CGMagazine noting a "solid presentation" and IGN acknowledging its visual impressiveness. Reviewers like Impulsegamer and Malditos Nerds emphasized the near-flawless performance, with smooth gameplay and virtually no loading times. Gamereactor UK and GamesRadar+ also pointed out that the game runs smoothly, with minor performance dips being largely ignorable. The implementation of haptic feedback and fast load times were also praised, enhancing the immersive experience of the game. Despite the positives, several reviewers pointed out notable technical issues on the PS5. Critics such as Game Informer and Power Unlimited expressed concerns over the inconsistent frame rates, particularly in performance mode, which struggles to maintain 60 FPS. Digital Trends and Wccftech echoed similar sentiments, indicating that performance hiccups detract from the overall experience. Frame rate drops during intense battles and exploration were frequently mentioned, with critics like Easy Allies and Cubed3 noting fluctuations that could impact gameplay. These issues, while not game-breaking, were significant enough to be highlighted by multiple reviewers. On the PC front, the consensus is similarly mixed. While some critics like Digital Chumps and GamingBolt praised the PC version for its excellent performance and optimization, others like Gaming Age and Multiplayer.it pointed out significant stability issues, especially on lower-end hardware. Critics noted that the PC port has high hardware requirements, leading to performance drops and stuttering, particularly during combat or cutscenes. GGRecon and Hobby Consolas mentioned issues with locked frame rates and inconsistent performance, which can hinder the experience for players on mid-range systems. Overall, while both platforms showcase the game’s technical ambition, the PS5 offers a generally smoother experience despite some frame rate inconsistencies, whereas the PC version excels in performance for high-end setups but struggles with optimization for lower configurations.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI boasts impressive replay value with over 65 hours of gameplay, enriching side quests, and features like New Game Plus and Active Time Lore that encourage exploration. However, critics are divided; many find side quests tedious and lacking depth, leading to a sense of finality after the main campaign. While some praise the engaging narrative and combat, concerns about shallow content limit its overall replay appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Final Fantasy XVI reveal several positive aspects that critics appreciate. Many reviewers highlight the game's extensive content, with Game Informer noting over 65 hours of gameplay, and CGMagazine emphasizing the enriching side quests that enhance the narrative. The inclusion of systems such as New Game Plus, as mentioned by Dexerto and IGN, adds layers of replayability by allowing players to engage with the game on higher difficulty levels or revisit sections for better performance. Additionally, the Active Time Lore system, praised by CGMagazine, provides context that encourages players to explore the world more deeply. Features like encounter replay and training modes, pointed out by Easy Allies, also contribute to the game's replay value by allowing players to refine their skills and experiment with different combat strategies. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value, primarily due to the perceived lack of depth in side quests and exploration. ComicBook and Game Revolution both criticize the side quests for being tedious and lacking variety, which diminishes the incentive for players to engage in them again. Digital Trends echoes this sentiment, stating that the shallow RPG systems and repetitive nature of side quests do not offer meaningful rewards. Critics like Guardian and Wccftech also note that many side quests feel like filler, which can lead to a one-and-done feeling after completing the main campaign. This sentiment is reinforced by Trusted Reviews, which suggests that the game leaves players with a sense of finality after the 40-hour campaign. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a divide between those who appreciate the game's narrative and combat systems and those who find the side content lacking. While some reviewers, such as Noisy Pixel and NPR, highlight the substantial replay value through various modes and challenges, many others, including PC Gamer and Ragequit.gr, point out the limitations posed by linear gameplay and unengaging side quests. Ultimately, while Final Fantasy XVI offers a compelling main story and some replay features, the criticisms regarding the depth and engagement of side content suggest that its replay value may not be as robust as some players would hope.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Final Fantasy XVI is largely positive, with many critics praising its bold new direction and engaging gameplay. Reviewers such as Twinfinite and CGMagazine herald the game as a significant evolution for the franchise, highlighting its compelling narrative, exhilarating action combat, and stunning visuals. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Digital Chumps commend the polished experience and captivating story, with many noting that the game successfully pushes the boundaries of what players expect from a Final Fantasy title. The combination of emotional depth, memorable characters, and a high-quality soundtrack has resonated well with both fans and newcomers, establishing it as a must-play action RPG in 2023. However, despite the acclaim, several critics have pointed out notable shortcomings. Issues such as shallow RPG elements, linearity, and performance problems on PC have been cited by reviewers like Digital Trends and Impulsegamer. Critics from Game Revolution and The Games Machine express concerns over the game’s departure from traditional Final Fantasy mechanics, suggesting that while the action-oriented gameplay is engaging, it may alienate long-time fans who expect more depth in RPG systems. Additionally, some reviewers, including Trusted Reviews and Screen Rant, mention pacing issues and uninspired side quests, which detract from the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy XVI represents a significant and successful evolution of the franchise, despite some flaws. Many reviewers, such as Easy Allies and Malditos Nerds, view it as a triumph that honors the series' legacy while paving the way for future entries. While there are valid criticisms regarding its RPG elements and performance on certain platforms, the majority of opinions reflect a strong appreciation for the game’s narrative, combat, and visual presentation. Overall, Final Fantasy XVI is celebrated as a standout title that has set a new benchmark for the series and the action RPG genre as a whole.

TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI is hailed as a bold and engaging evolution of the franchise, with praised narrative, action combat, and visuals. Critics celebrate its emotional depth and character development, marking it as a must-play RPG of 2023. However, some point out issues like shallow RPG mechanics, linearity, and performance glitches, which may alienate traditional fans. Overall, it’s recognized as a standout title that reshapes the series' future, despite its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

265 reviews found

100

Dexerto

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy XVI is described as a triumphant action RPG that deserves attention, with a compelling story, memorable characters, and an exceptional combat system. The review gives it a perfect score of 5/5.

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100

But Why Tho?

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy XVI is highly praised as a game that stands out and rises above the rest. The combination of fun combat, beautiful presentation, and an excellent story make it a memorable and impactful adventure.

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100

Hey Poor Player

PlayStation 5

Jun 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy XVI is praised for its engaging story, addictive gameplay, and stands as a phenomenal example of contemporary video game craftsmanship, receiving a perfect score of 5/5.

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100

Malditos Nerds

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy XVI is hailed as a groundbreaking entry in the franchise, combining narrative depth, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and an exceptional soundtrack. It sets new standards for the series and the industry.

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100

GamingTrend

Oct 1, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy XVI Complete Edition is described as a complete package that excels in performance and offers a fantastic experience, making it the ultimate way to enjoy this entry in the series.

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100

The Loadout

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy 16 is a completely fresh take on the series, blending brutal and flashy combat, a deeply detailed and lore-filled world, and a story that offers intrigue and character-driven moments. It deserves praise and is a Game of the Year contender.

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100

CGMagazine

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy XVI is described as a huge title that stands as one of the generation's tentpoles, with echoes throughout the industry. It is praised for being a genuine Final Fantasy experience that pushes technical and creative boundaries, reminiscent of the franchise's earlier successes.

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100

Screen Rant

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy 16 is a modern masterpiece that refines the franchise's formula, offering an enthralling story, engaging gameplay, and a memorable world. Despite some flaws, it stands as one of the best entries in the series.

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100

Try Hard Guides

Sep 20, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy XVI, while a departure from traditional elements, successfully retains the essence of the franchise, making it a favorite among fans and newcomers alike.

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100

New York Daily News

PlayStation 5

Jun 29, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy XVI is a spectacular entry into a new era of the franchise. It tells a deep and meaningful story, offers satisfying gameplay, and has stunning visuals. It completes the franchise's DNA upgrade.