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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 been lauded for its emotional depth, rich lore, and complex characters, with critics praising its mature themes of oppression and tragedy. While some point out flaws like pacing issues and predictability, the overall consensus remains positive, marking it as a standout narrative in gaming. It's a compelling entry that successfully captures the essence of a grand fantasy epic, despite a few areas needing improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

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 significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting its emotional depth, rich lore, and complex character arcs. Many reviewers, such as Areajugones and CGMagazine, regard it as one of the best narratives in gaming history, emphasizing the engaging journey of the protagonist, Clive Rosfield. Critics like IGN and GamingBolt commend the narrative for its mature themes, including systemic oppression, revenge, and personal tragedy, which resonate deeply with players. The intricate world-building and the exploration of socio-political issues, as noted by Wccftech and IGN Adria, further enhance the storytelling experience, making it a standout aspect of the game. However, the narrative is not without its flaws, as several critics pointed out inconsistencies and pacing issues. The Jimquisition describes the story as a "trainwreck" with a lack of coherence, while Digital Trends notes an uneven transition from a gripping opening act to a more mundane middle section. Critics like Riot Pixels and Guardian express disappointment in the predictability of certain plot elements and the absence of diverse characters, which can lead to confusion. Additionally, some reviews, including those from Gamereactor Finland and Vandal, mention that the latter half of the game suffers from pacing issues and a lackluster resolution, detracting from the overall experience. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers leans towards a positive reception of Final Fantasy XVI's story. Many critics, such as Gamer.no and Game Grin, appreciate the engaging narrative and character development, asserting that it successfully captures the essence of a grand fantasy epic. The emotional weight and complexity of the themes resonate with players, making it a memorable entry in the franchise. While some reviewers highlight areas for improvement, the majority agree that Final Fantasy XVI offers a compelling and mature narrative that elevates the gaming experience, marking a significant achievement for the series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI impresses with its fast-paced, accessible combat and stunning visuals, earning praise from critics as one of the series' best. However, it faces backlash for lacking depth, repetitiveness, and a high cutscene-to-gameplay ratio. While action fans might rejoice, traditional RPG enthusiasts may feel let down by its simplified mechanics. Overall, it's a thrilling experience with notable flaws that could be addressed in future games.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

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, highlighting its fast-paced and engaging combat system. Many reviewers, including NPR and GameCritics, praised the action-oriented mechanics, describing them as among the best in the series. The combat is noted for its accessibility and visual flair, allowing players to execute stylish combos and utilize various Eikon abilities, which adds depth to the experience. Critics like Push Square and The Loadout emphasized the satisfaction derived from the combat's responsiveness and the variety of abilities available to players, making it enjoyable for both newcomers and veterans alike. The balance between linear action sequences and exploration was also appreciated, with some critics noting the seamless integration of story and gameplay, enhancing the overall experience. Despite the praise, several reviewers pointed out significant shortcomings in the gameplay. Critics such as SpazioGames and Multiplayer.it highlighted the lack of depth in combat and RPG elements, suggesting that the gameplay can feel overly simplified and scripted at times. The high cutscene-to-gameplay ratio was mentioned by Cubed3, which contributed to a sense of tedium during play. Additionally, the linearity of the game and the repetitive nature of some combat encounters were criticized by multiple reviewers, including Digital Trends and The Jimquisition, who felt that the experience could become monotonous over time. The absence of traditional RPG mechanics and customization options was also noted as a disappointment for long-time fans of the series, as mentioned by Impulsegamer and Generación Xbox. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy XVI offers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, albeit with some caveats. While many reviewers, such as Merlin'in Kazanı and Gamereactor UK, found the combat to be engaging and visually spectacular, they also acknowledged the game's shortcomings in depth and challenge. The shift from traditional RPG mechanics to a more action-oriented style appears to resonate well with a majority of players, as highlighted by Areajugones and CGMagazine, although it may not satisfy purists. In summary, while Final Fantasy XVI's gameplay is celebrated for its dynamic action and engaging combat, the criticisms regarding depth and linearity suggest that there is room for improvement in future installments.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI wows gamers with breathtaking graphics and artistic direction, fully showcasing the PS5's capabilities. Critics praise its stunning environments and character designs, particularly during grand Eikon battles. However, issues like performance hiccups, lack of Ultrawide support, and some awkward animations detract from the immersion. While not flawless, it remains a visually captivating title that leaves a strong impression.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Final Fantasy XVI have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the game's stunning visuals and impressive artistic direction. Reviewers from outlets like IGN and MMORPG.com highlighted the breathtaking environments, detailed character models, and the overall immersive experience that the game provides. The game effectively utilizes the capabilities of the PlayStation 5, showcasing vibrant landscapes and intricate lighting effects that enhance the storytelling. Critics such as Digital Trends and COGconnected noted the game's ability to create a sense of place and ambitious world-building, particularly during Eikon battles, which are often described as visually striking and grandiose. The attention to detail in character expressions and the overall art design has been recognized as top-tier, making it one of the most visually impressive entries in the Final Fantasy franchise. Despite the overall positive reception, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings that detract from the experience. Issues such as performance hiccups, including frame rate drops and motion blur, were mentioned by reviewers like Gamer.no and GamePro Germany. Some critics, including MGG and The Games Machine, noted that while the visuals are stunning, they can feel artificial and lack depth, leading to a less immersive experience. Additionally, there were complaints about the lack of Ultrawide resolution support for PC gamers, as highlighted by Player 2, and inconsistent quality between cutscenes and gameplay, as mentioned by New Game Network. Critics also pointed out that some animations, particularly during combat, can feel wooden or awkward, which can disrupt the overall flow of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy XVI excels in its graphics and visual design, with the majority agreeing that it is a visually stunning title that showcases the capabilities of modern gaming hardware. While there are some technical issues and concerns regarding immersion and depth, the game's artistic direction, impressive environments, and character designs have left a lasting impression on most reviewers. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and GamingTrend encapsulated this sentiment by acknowledging the game's beautiful presentation and its ability to transport players into the richly crafted world of Valisthea. Ultimately, Final Fantasy XVI stands out as a visually captivating experience, despite some minor drawbacks that prevent it from achieving perfection.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI's sound design and music, led by composer Masayoshi Soken, are largely praised for their orchestral richness and emotional depth, enhancing the game's atmosphere. Critics highlight the soundtrack as one of the best in recent years, effectively complementing gameplay and narrative. However, some note it occasionally lacks the standout themes and subtlety of previous entries, feeling repetitive at times. Overall, the music is seen as a strong component of the game, elevating key moments despite some criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

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 a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising the contributions of composer Masayoshi Soken. Reviewers like Game Informer and Vgames highlighted the soundtrack as one of the best in recent years, noting its orchestral richness and emotional depth that enhance the game's atmosphere. Critics such as IGN Adria and Digital Chumps emphasized how the audio-visual presentation elevates the overall experience, with sound design effectively complementing gameplay and narrative elements. The soundtrack's ability to blend original compositions with nostalgic themes was also appreciated, as noted by GamersRD and Digitally Downloaded, which added joy for long-time fans of the franchise. However, some critics expressed reservations about the music's impact, suggesting it occasionally fell short of the high standards set by previous entries in the series. Eurogamer Germany and The Games Machine pointed out that the music felt overly epic and lacking in subtlety, with the former stating it failed to impress compared to the franchise's legacy. MGG echoed this sentiment, mentioning that while the soundtrack complemented epic moments, it lacked memorable themes outside of a few standout tracks. This sentiment of repetitiveness was echoed by others, indicating that while the music was generally good, it did not always reach the heights expected by fans. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Final Fantasy XVI are strong components of the game's overall experience, with many praising the immersive quality and emotional weight of the soundtrack. Despite some criticisms regarding the repetitiveness and lack of standout tracks, the majority of reviewers found the music to enhance gameplay significantly, particularly during key moments and battles. Critics like Gaming Age and Press Start Australia emphasized the soundtrack's ability to capture the essence of each scene, reinforcing the game's emotional beats and epic moments. Thus, while there are areas for improvement, the sound design and music are widely regarded as a highlight of Final Fantasy XVI.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI's voice acting is widely praised for enhancing the game's narrative, with standout performances from Ben Starr (Clive) and Ralph Ineson (Cid) noted for their emotional depth. However, mixed reviews highlight inconsistencies in quality, with some characters lacking emotional range. Overall, the voice acting is deemed effective and immersive, successfully appealing to a Western audience, despite areas needing improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

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 significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting its overall quality and effectiveness in enhancing the game's narrative. Reviewers such as Push Square and PCMag commend the voice performances for their depth and emotional resonance, noting that they contribute significantly to character development and storytelling. Ben Starr's portrayal of the main character Clive has been particularly lauded, with critics like GamingTrend and GameCritics emphasizing his ability to convey a wide range of emotions, making the character feel relatable and real. Additionally, Ralph Ineson's performance as Cid has been spotlighted by multiple reviewers, including Easy Allies and PlayStation Universe, as a standout that adds to the game's immersive experience. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out notable inconsistencies in the voice acting quality. Eurogamer Poland and Gamer.no express concerns regarding the monotony and limited emotional delivery of certain characters, which can detract from the player's connection to the narrative. Furthermore, Gamereactor UK mentions fluctuations in voice acting quality that undermine the otherwise strong character development. While GameStar acknowledges the extensive voice work, it does not delve into specifics about quality, suggesting a missed opportunity to highlight potential shortcomings. This mix of opinions indicates that while many performances shine, there are areas where the voice acting could have been more cohesive. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a positive reception of the voice acting in Final Fantasy XVI, with a strong emphasis on its contribution to the game's emotional depth and storytelling. The majority of reviewers, including VGC and Comicbook.com, agree that the performances elevate the narrative experience, despite some criticisms regarding specific character portrayals. Critics like SpazioGames and RPG Site reinforce the idea that the voice acting significantly impacts character immersion, indicating a successful shift towards a more Western audience with the English voice cast. Ultimately, while there are areas for improvement, the prevailing sentiment is that Final Fantasy XVI features commendable voice acting that enhances its overall appeal.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI impresses with polished visuals and mostly smooth gameplay on PS5, but suffers from inconsistent frame rates and performance hiccups, especially in intense scenes. Critics acknowledge its potential but highlight technical flaws that detract from the experience. The PC version shows some promise, though optimization issues persist for lower-end systems. Overall, the game is enjoyable but needs patches to fix its performance issues.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

66%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

Final Fantasy XVI has garnered a range of opinions regarding its technical performance across different gaming platforms, particularly the PS5 and PC. On the PS5, several critics noted the game's polished visuals and overall smoothness in gameplay. For instance, Shacknews praised the game for its completeness and craftsmanship, while NPR highlighted its polished performance and innovative quality-of-life features. Many reviewers, such as GamersRD and SECTOR.sk, reported a stable experience with minimal bugs and no significant loading issues, which contributes positively to the overall gaming experience. Furthermore, IGN Italia pointed out that the performance mode, despite some issues, still provides fluid combat and good optimization during intense scenes. However, the PS5 version is not without its drawbacks. Multiple reviewers, including Digital Trends and Game Informer, expressed concerns about performance hiccups and inconsistent frame rates, particularly in performance mode, which often fails to maintain a stable 60 FPS. Critics like Eurogamer Poland and KeenGamer noted that these performance issues can detract from the overall experience, especially during exploration and intense battles. Additionally, while some critics, such as The Enemy and Power Unlimited, acknowledged the game's visual appeal, they also pointed out frame rate drops and motion blur issues that hinder the experience. On the PC front, while some reviewers like Player 2 and Gaming Age mentioned that the PC port is functional, they also highlighted optimization issues leading to frame rate stutters, particularly on lower-end systems. The overall consensus among critics is that while Final Fantasy XVI showcases impressive visuals and has moments of solid performance, it is marred by notable technical issues, particularly on the PS5. Many reviewers agree that the game is generally playable and enjoyable, but the inconsistent frame rates and occasional drops during critical moments can detract from the experience. The expectation for patches to address these issues is a common theme, with several critics, including KeenGamer and Vgames, mentioning that updates are anticipated to improve performance. On PC, while the optimization seems better for high-end systems, the experience can vary significantly based on hardware capabilities. In summary, while Final Fantasy XVI has the potential for a strong technical performance, it currently suffers from inconsistencies that need addressing to meet the high expectations set for a title of its caliber.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI has some replay value thanks to its New Game+ mode and side quests, which offer varied gameplay and engaging narratives. However, many critics argue the game suffers from linearity, shallow mechanics, and repetitive side quests, limiting its overall replay appeal. While there are enticing elements, the consensus leans towards a lack of depth, leaving players wanting a more robust experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

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 a mix of positive elements that some critics highlight. Several reviewers, such as NPR and GRYOnline.pl, emphasize the presence of a New Game+ mode, which allows players to carry over attributes and items, thereby enhancing replayability. Critics like GamingTrend and Digital Chumps note that this mode encourages players to experiment with different builds and strategies, adding depth to the gameplay experience. Additionally, some side quests and optional content, as mentioned by Hardcore Gamer and Gamereactor UK, provide engaging narratives and rewards, suggesting that there is enough content to keep players occupied for a considerable amount of time. However, a significant number of critics point out various shortcomings that limit the overall replay value of the game. SpazioGames and Game Revolution express concerns about the lack of depth in gameplay mechanics and the repetitive nature of side quests, which fail to offer meaningful rewards. Critics like Digital Trends and Merlin'in Kazanı also mention the game's linear structure and the simplicity of side content, which may diminish the exploration experience over time. This sentiment is echoed by multiple reviewers, including VG247 and Guardian, who argue that the game lacks strong RPG progression and engaging side quests, ultimately leading to a less appealing replay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Final Fantasy XVI does offer some replay value through its New Game+ mode and additional challenges, many reviewers feel that the linearity of the game and the lack of depth in side quests significantly limit its potential for multiple playthroughs. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and GameSpot acknowledge the presence of additional content but caution that the overall experience may not encourage extensive replay due to the repetitive nature of many side quests. Thus, while there are elements that could entice players to return, the prevailing sentiment leans towards a limited replay value, with many reviewers advocating for a more robust and varied gameplay experience.

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 regarding Final Fantasy XVI from critics is predominantly positive, highlighting several strong elements that contribute to its acclaim. Many reviewers commend the game for its impressive visuals, engaging combat system, and rich storytelling. Critics like NPR and IGN praise it as a worthy entry in the franchise, with NPR noting it as one of Square Enix's strongest outings in years. The game's narrative depth and emotional complexity are frequently mentioned, with GameGrin and The Mako Reactor emphasizing the dynamic gameplay and character development that enhance the overall experience. Additionally, TechRadar Gaming and Jeuxvideo.com point out the successful blend of traditional and modern gameplay mechanics, making it accessible to both newcomers and long-time fans. However, despite the praise, several critics also point out notable drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. Issues such as pacing, linearity, and a lack of depth in RPG elements are commonly cited. Metro GameCentral and Trusted Reviews mention the dullness of the overarching adventure and uninspired side quests, respectively, which can lead to a less immersive experience. Moreover, some critics like Game Revolution and New Game Network express concerns about the game straying too far from the traditional elements that define the franchise, potentially alienating long-time fans. The mixed reception of the PC version, as noted by Multiplayer.it and GGRecon, also highlights performance issues and hardware requirements that may hinder some players’ experiences. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy XVI is a significant and ambitious entry in the series, with many considering it a triumph for Square Enix. While it does have its flaws, such as pacing and a departure from traditional RPG mechanics, the majority of reviewers, including those from Hardcore Gamer and Atomix, agree that the game offers a captivating journey filled with emotional depth and stunning production values. The overall verdict leans towards being very good, with many critics recommending it as a must-play for both fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

Final Fantasy XVI earns mostly positive reviews for its stunning visuals, engaging combat, and rich storytelling, hailed as one of Square Enix's best in years. Critics praise its emotional depth and character development, appealing to both new and veteran players. However, it faces criticism for pacing issues, linearity, and a lack of traditional RPG depth, with some concerns about alienating long-time fans. Despite its flaws, it's deemed a captivating must-play, with a strong consensus that it's a significant entry in the franchise.

MONSTER

Reviews

270 reviews found

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

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

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

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

IGN Brasil

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2023

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

Final Fantasy XVI é considerado um dos melhores jogos de 2023, combinando elementos clássicos e modernos da franquia, com uma narrativa emocionante e um combate divertido.

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100

MMORPG.com

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2023

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

Final Fantasy XVI is hailed as a masterpiece, combining stellar writing, captivating gameplay, and breathtaking visuals. It stands out as one of the greatest RPGs in the series, offering a rich and immersive experience.

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100

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2023

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

Final Fantasy XVI is described as an engrossing and intelligent game that successfully combines blockbuster entertainment with a strong, timely message, making it a significant entry in the series.

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100

GamingBolt

Xbox Series X

Jun 19, 2025

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

Final Fantasy XVI is highly recommended as one of the best action games of the generation, combining an ambitious narrative, beautiful visuals, and satisfying gameplay.

100

Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Jun 21, 2023

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

Final Fantasy XVI is a standout title that revitalizes the franchise with its engaging story, innovative gameplay, and stunning presentation. It is highly recommended for PS5 owners and is considered one of the best games of the generation.

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