Final Fantasy XVI

Final Fantasy XVI is a true masterpiece that demonstrates the incredible evolution of the Final Fantasy series. With its engaging storyline, memorable characters, refined gameplay mechanics, stunning graphics, and captivating music, it offers a gaming experience that will linger in the hearts of players long after the credits roll. Square Enix has once again proven its ability to deliver a breathtaking and unforgettable adventure that pushes the boundaries of what an RPG can achieve. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer, Final Fantasy XVI is an absolute must-play that showcases the brilliance of the franchise and sets a new standard for the genre.

I may be a diehard classic Final Fantasy fan at heart, but there’s no getting past the fact that this game, with all of its high-octane, DMC-inspired action, is an absolutely phenomenal example of RPG craftsmanship. Setting out in a new direction once again, the oft-bitter, yet irresistibly engaging story and addictive, action-focused gameplay allow Final Fantasy XVI to stand tall as a phenomenal example of contemporary video game craftsmanship.

It delivers stunning story beat after story beat, with just enough classic callbacks for you to remember that this is Final Fantasy. Turn-based gameplay is gone, but there are Moogles and Chocobos, and you pay for everything in Gil. The game also provide you with an open world and a hub early on, allowing you a level of agency and creativity in your gameplay.

Final Fantasy is a gorgeous epic that oozes polish and has some of the most spectacular sequences the series has ever seen. Not everyone will love its full action-RPG combat, but we think it's an absolutely terrific ride.

The combat, visuals and audio all work so well together in delivering a frantic action role-player that’ll give you tons of fun.

Final Fantasy XVI is a breath of fresh air for the Final Fantasy franchise despite its first steps into its grittiest, darkest, and most mature space yet. Its combat showcases action-forward combat held together by a backbone of RPG-similar ability management. Its highs truly showcase phenomenal displays of power in many forms, while its lows effectively strike emotional chords in the hearts of players. This might not be a Final Fantasy fans expect, but boy, it’s what Final Fantasy games SHOULD be going forward. FFXVI doesn’t have a strongest asset, per se, because its entire presentation is a gripping and fun compilation of the best parts of gaming without the filler and frivolity. PS5 owners, I implore you, don’t miss out on what is currently my favorite game of the PS5 generation thus far.

Final Fantasy XVI is the perfect combination of narrative, visuals, pacing, tension and combat and tells the most adult story in the series. The game is, without a doubt, one of the year's best, as well as one of the best Final Fantasy titles to date.

The game is by no means perfect – its pacing is inconsistent and side quests can be hit or miss – but the combination of the combat and the story at large are strong enough to reduce any complaints to minor quibbles. Recently, Square Enix has come out to say that Final Fantasy can take on many different forms depending on the team behind it, and the folks at Creative Business Unit III have found a way to make this latest game their own. There is so much joy and care put into making sure that this experience feels epic and rewards its fan base, even though it’s doing a lot of new things. Final Fantasy 16 is proof that the unexpected can be just as enjoyable as the tried and true.

Final Fantasy 16 is a shining example of narrative-focused games at their best, boasting immersive storytelling and cinematic action that invites you into its richly detailed world. The expansive, deeply immersive setting and cast of lovable, fully realized characters sets a gold standard for Final Fantasy titles, offering something that is more than the sum of its parts.

Final Fantasy 16 is an incredible journey and easily one of the best games ever made.

It's far too early to determine where Final Fantasy XVI sits in the ranks of Square Enix’s venerable series. However, this is an engrossing, entertaining and, most importantly, fiercely intelligent game. The developers have taken the AAA-blockbuster budget they had to work with, and used it to craft an experience with a strong, provocative and timely message, and then have that backed up with some of the most entertaining action combat we’ve ever seen. Not a second of the game’s runtime is wasted, there’s not a single dud character, moment, or scene, and the plot is a riveting epic "page-turner.” If only more blockbuster games were like this, game development would be a far more mature art form.

Final Fantasy XVI features excellent action combat and an intricate story, both with incredible depth. It combines gameplay, story, sound, and music together into one form all inextricably linked. It sets a new standard for action RPGs, and is quite possibly the pinnacle of the series.

Final Fantasy XVI sets a new benchmark in action-RPGs, featuring a rich and fascinating story, and a layered and enjoyable combat system.

Final Fantasy XVI will change what we think of the franchise moving forward. It’s groundbreaking on so many levels, elevating the thirty-five-year old series to new heights. The combat is highly engaging and invites creativity and experimentation by giving players a bevy of tools to play around with. The story is beautifully written, and although it takes nods from other fantasy properties, it builds its own unique universe to immerse one in.

Final Fantasy XVI is a game from the franchise worthy of a new generation of consoles, and its combination of classic and modern brings everything we love with what we didn't know we needed. It's strong, tense, exciting, revealing, it's a mix of feelings, places and stories. Clive's (anti-)hero journey, the people he encounters along the way, the weight of decisions, all culminate in a tale that moves and excites. And all that combined with a diverse and fun combat, and the beauty of the whole that this game is makes this a necessary title for any fan of the franchise or a good action RPG.

Epic. It's as simple as that when it comes to Final Fantasy XVI. Narrative, graphics, game design, combat. It's a flawless experience for both newcomers and hardcore fans. Innovative but also true to the franchise's roots, it's for sure one of the main titles of a really stacked 2023 for gaming.

Final Fantasy XVI is a tale of loss, sorrow, revenge, and hope. It’s a story that feels human and down to earth, yet still retains the essence of what makes Final Fantasy so great. [...] Final Fantasy XVI is a masterpiece. From its stellar writing, music, world-building and incredible cast, this has easily taken the mantle as my favorite Final Fantasy in the series to date.

Inspired by the past but modern at every turn, Final Fantasy XVI is the overhaul the series needed with unparalleled quality. Driven by a fantastic story and charismatic characters, built on accessible, exciting gameplay and impressive graphics on the PS5, it consolidates itself as one of the best games in the franchise history.

By no means perfect, it's as beguilingly flawed as its characters and world, and equally delightful as a result. With an incredible score, an enthralling story, and an eccentric and electric gameplay approach, Final Fantasy 16 is, quite simply, a modern masterpiece.

Blending brutal and flashy combat, a visually-impressive lore-filled world, and a story that offers intrigue and character-driven moments, Final Fantasy 16 is a completely fresh take on the series, despite having the heart of previous entries. It deserves every ounce of praise it will surely get, and in my view is a GOTY contender.

After 80 hours, what I find most fascinating about Final Fantasy XVI is its complete commitment to redefine what it means to be a Final Fantasy game, while also still staying true to the roots and themes of the series. This is a prime example of how Final Fantasy doesn't have to be bound by one idea or system, and I sincerely hope it serves as inspiration for future developers to take the series in their own, completely new, direction.

Final Fantasy XVI is an outstanding achievement. Every part of it, from its characters to its combat, was put there with a purpose. Not only does it deliver satisfyingly slick action RPG combat in between masterfully directed cutscenes, but also a story with real heart. Most importantly, it's incredibly clear that a team of creative individuals were behind every decision. There's a human element that permeates every aspect of Final Fantasy XVI, and it'll end up becoming a lot of people's favorite Final Fantasy because of that.

In a world full of games trying to stand out, Final Fantasy XVI has no problem rising above the rest. Wonderfully fun combat and beautiful presentation help make the excellent story even more impactful in an adventure well worth the price of admission. This is one that will surely sit with players for many years to come and will surely be one for the history books.

Final Fantasy XVI melds the best of the series’ themes with a modern, malleable take on combat—creating a heartrending, generation-defining tale of revenge, fate, and freedom.

In many ways, XVI hardly resembles the usual FF experience. There's no massive party of adventurers, no MP-based magic system, and no open world map traversal, among other things. And yet, I got the quintessential Final Fantasy experience. There's a sweeping, epic story. The stakes are incredibly high. Clive is beset by tragedy and hardship. He experiences character growth, moments of joy, companionship, and love. The battles go from mundane to impossibly epic. Clive is given all the power, special moves, and responsibilities of a capital 'P' Protagonist. The game is gorgeous, the music is incredible, and the story got its hooks deep into my flesh. Despite my initial misgivings, I've come to love this game completely. Long-time fans, series newcomers, RPG enthusiasts, hear me now: Final Fantasy XVI is the platonic ideal of FF games. They don't get better than this.

With a cast of characters that are easy to invest in, a story that pays off the promise of its impossible scale, and one of the best action combat systems ever committed to disk, Final Fantasy XVI is a game that you owe it to yourself to indulge in.

Final Fantasy XVI is the definitive real-time combat experience of the series. It expands the horizons of the franchise and mixes the concepts of RPG and Hack & Slash into one masterpiece. Being by far the most epic installment of the franchise yet, it delivers an astonishing soundtrack, a dark-themed story with deep characters and relationships, and an unmatched feeling in combat that even the most experienced will be in awe with.

So, yes, Final Fantasy XVI may not be entirely “new,” but it’s bold in a way Final Fantasy has never been. It’s meticulous, it wants to thrill, and it wants you to feel. All of this combined makes Final Fantasy XVI a new high-water mark for the series, and I don’t expect it will be matched for many entries to come.

Quotation forthcoming.

Overall, Final Fantasy XVI is a phenomenal gaming experience that I enjoyed from start to finish. With dynamic gameplay, amazing characters, and an emotional storyline, new and old fans alike will love the latest entry in the franchise.

Final Fantasy XVI may not be perfect, and surely some changes may not be welcomed by the fans of the older games, but these changes are necessary to push the series forward, and one day, all these new changes will be the ones that we know and love the Final Fantasy series for.

Final Fantasy XVI is one of those very rare masterpieces with issues. Developed by a stellar team, the game shines when it comes to story and combat, but fails in other aspects like narrative structure, itemization and RPG elements. Featuring an enthralling story and gripping characters that scream Game of Thrones, Final Fantasy XVI is an emotional ride from start to finish. With more than 10 hours of cinematic cutscenes and an amazing soundtrack, Final Fantasy XVI is a feast for the senses. And the best thing is that you don’t even have to have played any of the previous Final Fantasy games to enjoy the latest entry. Final Fantasy XVI is a must-play regardless of whether or not you like action RPGs.

Final Fantasy XVI is not only one of the best games of the year, it is one of the best role-playing titles made in Japan in a long time and, therefore, one of the most important exponents of the legendary franchise to which it belongs, thanks to to great production values and clear ideas that kept its development cycle on the right path, a matter that of course, leads to a tremendously solid video game that, despite not being perfect, undoubtedly has virtues that strongly outweigh its defects.

Final Fantasy XVI is not only proof that Square Enix is able to reinvent an immortal saga, and to do it well, but the symbol of a profound narrative maturity never reached before.

I still can't escape Final Fantasy XVI's world. I still think about all the events and the ending, and can't play any other game for now. Those are the kinds of feelings that emerge after watching the greatest of movies, reading the best of books and playing the perfect games. Just wow.

You may not hear a playful theme song when you ride a Chocobo, but the spirit of the series lives on in how Final Fantasy XVI weaves both combat and story to create an exciting experience that is hard to put down.

Although it struggles to find its identity early on, it grows into itself beautifully, with endlessly entertaining combat and a compelling storyline. It’s not quite a flawless masterpiece, but Final Fantasy XVI certainly stands out as one of Square Enix’s strongest outings since the turn of the century.

Final Fantasy XVI is the new pinnacle in the long-running series, which does a top-notch job in almost all areas. The intriguing story is captivating from start to finish. The gameplay is delightful thanks to the smooth action, and exploring Valisthea is a pleasure. Then there are the fantastic boss fights, the wonderful soundtrack, the spectacle. Too much to mention. Square Enix has thought of everything and that makes Final Fantasy XVI a game you should buy.

Very little gets in the way of the success that Final Fantasy XVI creates. The strength of combat on top of a compelling, deep narrative steals the show. Despite little need for world exploration and the occasional lower resolution texture, Final Fantasy XVI stays true to the namesake while forging its own path forward.

Final Fantasy 16 is one of the most impressive games Square Enix has ever made even with its few issues. The brilliant combat, superlative voice acting, amazing music, and gorgeous world come together to make the best single-player Final Fantasy since the PS2 era. This one’s an all-timer.

Final Fantasy XVI is a bet by Square Enix that went very well. His coming-of-age transition gives us one of the most complex stories in the franchise, and its frenetic combat could draw more people into this long-running saga. Its high narrative quality, exciting battles, and extraordinary visuals make this video game an experience everyone should try.

Type-O used to be the darkest and most mature game in the franchise, but now this title is usurped by Final Fantasy XVI. At times, the amount of blood, swearing and sex rivals even The Witcher’s. [Issue#262, p.48]

Final Fantasy XVI creates an unforgettable experience and continues the legacy of Final Fantasy.

Final Fantasy XVI is by no means a perfect game, but it is an exceptionally good one. The engaging plot, beautiful visuals, and enjoyable gameplay all combine to create something that feels special. It can occasionally be a little long for its own good, and the combat system is slow to get going, but once it hits all the right marks, it knocks them out of the park. I left Final Fantasy XV disappointed by how unfinished it felt, but Final Fantasy XVI is a true rarity these days: a fully finished game that is satisfying from start to finish.

Final Fantasy XVI is a complete package with a refreshingly mature storyline, full of surprises that keeps raising the stakes. The switch to real-time fights is a daring step, but works most of the time, as long as the graphical effects don't blur what's going on. The game can be greatly adapted to facilitate those that mostly play for the story, but also those that are looking for a real challenge. The most epic fights, those between the Eikons, are visually impressive, but a bit too hands-off.

Final Fantasy XVI is without a doubt one of the best RPGs I have played in years, and could possibly have knocked my beloved Final Fantasy VI off its perch as the favourite game in the series. Though it may feel different to previous, entries what Square has accomplished in almost every department is nothing short of phenomenal. The RPG elements may be a lot lighter, but what they’ve been replaced with is top-tier action and the kind of epic spectacle and story-telling that has made Final Fantasy the genre-defining series we know and love. Even if the main cast has names that make them sound more like workmates at an accountancy firm than a band of magical outlaws.

Like the Phoenix, Final Fantasy XVI rises from the ashes to regain its throne among the best RPGs. It is a game that exudes a confidence and firmness when it comes to carrying out everything that we have not seen in the saga for years, showing that Final Fantasy does not need to wait its turn to shine like a star.

Final Fantasy’s first crack at pure action-RPG combat plays exceptionally well, and has the worldbuilding and cinematic flair to ensure that you’ll want to push through even the occasionally bloated encounter.

New numbered FFs are good again. Stunning to look at, with new, punchy combat, and a great yarn, it is, if anything, too focussed, lacking a bit of the weird. [Issue#30, p.78]

Final Fantasy XVI is an absolute triumph. One of the best modern-day action RPGs out there if you can stand the Final Fantasy-ness of it. For newcomers to the franchise, it’s best to start either here or with Final Fantasy VII Remake then go back if you like what you see. Fans of traditional games may not like the departure from the traditional style but there’s still a lot here to like in my opinion. My final (fantasy) comment is that Torgal is the best boy, and you can pet him as often as you like!

Final Fantasy 16 is very much a game where the negatives don't come close to outweighing the positives. Even though I have some legitimate gripes with the quest design and world layout of FF 16 , these aspects paled in comparison to the highs found with the gargantuan boss battles and gripping gameplay. While the Final Fantasy series has seen its fair share of ups and downs over the past decade, Final Fantasy 16 is a real return to form in so many ways and proves why this franchise is held in such high regard to begin with.

Final Fantasy XVI is a fun and essential title for fans of the saga and video games in general. Its spectacular open world and its story will captivate you, supported by charismatic characters and unexpected events that generate great sensations in the players.

From the creators of the excellent Final Fantasy XIV the new single player entry of the franchise is nothing short of a triumph. Spectacular set pieces, intriguing storylines, one of the best love stories we have seen in any Final Fantasy to date and a great combat system are all working in tandem for an unforgettable experience.

FFXVI fulfills basic elements of the series. This is total visual feast and beautifully crafted game. If you are willing to open your mind and don’t require all the stuff from the past, you are here for a treat in terms of story, characters, the world, wild action game fights and astonishing soundtrack.

Final Fantasy XVI is the magnificent entry fans and newcomers needed. This somber take on the series’ traditional theme surrounding magic crystals an imposing Eikons readily evokes nostalgia on longtime fans and nicely introduces newcomers to the series. Its spellbinding story, emotive soundtrack, spectacular visuals, and fast-paced action combat make Final Fantasy XVI a must-play action RPG.

Final Fantasy XVI is an admirable new direction for the franchise. Square Enix shows tremendous confidence in moving away from one of the franchise's cornerstones, while never letting go of the essence that defines the magic of Final Fantasy. With an enticing story, unforgettable characters, a striking soundtrack, and epic battles, Final Fantasy XVI has its place reserved in the pantheon of the franchise.

The team at Creative Business Unit III has found their spark, and managed to use it to turn Final Fantasy XVI into unyielding flame. One that shines more than many others.

If Final Fantasy XV was meant to take the stray path, the 16th instalment made that path reach a worthy goal. Switching the old formula from a turn-based RPG to an all-out action-packed game may sadden some long-time fans. But the simple yet emotion-filled plot makes up for it, despite the sometimes awkward adult themes. Final Fantasy XVI somehow manages to stand on its own as one of the flashiest games ever and be a truly EIKONIK experience in every other aspect. Though wishing for the next one to rely a bit more on some of the traditional strengths of the series surely is a justified desire.

Final Fantasy XVI may not be the game that all fans of this legendary JRPG series were expecting, but the final product is a spectacular action game that will not leave anyone feeling indifferent.

Final Fantasy XVI decided it wanted to be different. Gone is any element of turn-based combat. But not all typical Final Fantasy elements have been left by the curb. An excellent musical score, great cast of characters, and a story that will be hard to top are all here. There are a few hiccups with this new style. I missed a minimap more than I thought I would, cutscenes back to back after taking ten steps was a common annoyance, and side-quests feel like an afterthought. But those are small potato issues. This is a Final Fantasy game for both newcomers and those who loved the old-school fantasy settings of previous entries. Final Fantasy XVI isn’t perfect, but it’s close.

It’s been a while since I’ve truly felt blown away by a big-budget videogame. In the third year of the current console generation, we’ve had some excellent stuff come out, but few notables that might be seen as defining titles in the medium. Final Fantasy XVI feels like that once-in-a-generation game. A dream team of designers, artists, and producers came together to forge a brave new path not only for the Final Fantasy series, but for action games in general. While debates on what makes the series special will continue, there’s no question that this one is setting a new standard for RPGs.

This was a big risk by Square Enix, but it paid off marvelously. The PS5 now has its Final Fantasy game, and although it doesn't really feel like a Final Fantasy game (mechanically), but it is an excellent game in its own right, with amazing graphics, incredible gameplay in what is possibly the OST of the year. I am so happy that this is my 300th review.

Final Fantasy XVI is the most ambitious entry in the saga. Luckily, the developers at Square Enix have been able to meet that challenge head-on, crafting a stellar RPG that will stand the test of time.

Darker, bolder and faster than ever Final Fantasy XVI is a fantastic return to form for the series. After years of trial and error this would be the absolute outcome but some light RPG elements and bland level designs puts it a little farther from perfection. Yet mind-blowing spectacles and a memorable story makes this entry one of the best of the series in the end.

It's solid. Its antagonists are cool. Its world is rich in nuances, the combat is fantastic, and it's one of those games that you won't be able to stop playing until the end.

Final Fantasy XVI is magical. Final Fantasy XVI is raw, Final Fantasy XVI is heartening. Final Fantasy XVI is everything I expected and more. Creative Unit Business III created a game that can light a flame in your heart and stay there forever.

An epic that closes its magnificent ending in a single piece. You can still feel and sense the taste of its creators, Naoki Yoshida and Creative Business Unit 3. Even in both strengths and its flaws.

Great action role-playing game with an exciting storyline, epic moments, fast-paced combat and a dark setting that is light on RPG elements.

Final Fantasy XVI isn't the next gen game I expected and as a fan you tend to be disappointed but if you go in with an open mind and Square Enix fixes that frame rate it's an action RPG not to be missed .

Final Fantasy 16 is a daring and ambitious action-adventure filled with memorable moments, gripping twists and a new, flashy combat system that delivers. It might have been even better if the game had said goodbye to its RPG roots altogether, but the love for Final Fantasy and epic storytelling is palpable every minute.

With strong characters, a captivating narrative and the best combat in the franchise, Final Fantasy 16 is a wonderful continuation of a series that has only gotten better with time.

It’s been a banner year for interactive entertainment, but Final Fantasy XVI manages to sit very near the top of the heap. An easy recommendation for fantasy and RPG fans.

Nothing short of a technical marvel, Clive Rosfield and Torgal are among some of the best character action duos and their 70-hour epic adventure across Valisthea will forever be remembered in Final Fantasy XVI

The most self assured Final Fantasy in decades. A well crafted epic adventure that manages to do its own thing while pays homage to the name it carries.

To conclude, Final Fantasy XVI is truly an epic adventure. It has a fantastical story, over-the-top character performances, a sublime soundtrack, epic boss battles and it looks gorgeous to boot. Seriously, what’s there not to love about this game? It doesn't matter if you’re a veteran of the series or a newcomer like me, Final Fantasy XVI is one of 2023’s most brilliantly extravagant adventures and a sure-fire contender for Game of the Year.

Final Fantasy 16 is an excellent entry in the series, with a gripping story, thrilling combat, nuanced characters, and an ever-charming protagonist in Clive.

Final Fantasy XVI is a phenomenal game, through and through. A marvelous battle system, incredible story and characters, a wondrous world full of exploration and intrigue, plenty of RPG tropes, and an outstanding soundtrack all highlight why Final Fantasy XVI is truly something special. The last few entries stumbled out of the gates, sowing some doubt about the future of the franchise. In stark contrast, Final Fantasy XVI rises to the occasion, restoring the lofty status the series once enjoyed and taking the franchise in a new direction while still honoring its legacy. In a year full of amazing games, Final Fantasy XVI emerges as a frontrunner.

Featuring fast, reflex driven, action heavy combat, Final Fantasy 16 is certainly a departure from what fans may expect out of a Final Fantasy game, but its excellent story, characters, and world building are right up there with the best the series has to offer, and the innovative Active Time Lore feature should set a new standard for how lengthy, story-heavy games keep players invested in its world.

Stellar and surprisingly customizable combat, a masterfully written and engaging storyline, and beautiful audio visual presentation. It's a nearly complete package, but with a few annoyances that keep it from being the perfect game…That said, even with those frustrations in mind, Final Fantasy XVI is an absolute return to form for the mainline franchise, and easily a reason to get yourself a PlayStation 5 if you've yet to.

Just as The Legend of Zelda and God of War have recently done, Final Fantasy wins by throwing the rulebook out the window and rethinking what the series can be in a modern age. Where both XIII and XV felt trapped between worlds, Final Fantasy XVI definitely goes down the action game path. But it doesn't forget the essence of the series. Yes, the tone is dark and sombre and the style more realistic, but the sense of community and epic journey is fully present.

Final Fantasy XVI is a great RPG in nearly any aspect, concerning atmosphere, graphics including spectacular effects, twistful story or the fantastic soundtrack and voiceover. But the real star of this epic adventure is the combat system with its fast, fluid and diverse action, inspired by Hack-and-Slash dye games. Any fight is fun peaking in overwhelming bosses and mind-blowing Esper battles.

Final Fantasy XVI is a brave new direction for the long-running RPG series, and one that pays off. We haven't been this engaged by a Final Fantasy title in quite some time, and we absolutely love the new action-focused combat system. Sometimes elements of the new and old Final Fantasy clash, and the story has some elements that left us scratching our heads, but overall this will be remembered as one of the greats. With stunning visuals, a rousing soundtrack, a fun combat system and an engaging politically-driven story, Final Fantasy XVI is quite simply a triumph.

It may fall short in some respects, but it should be celebrated for its most stunning moments and the characters who embody them. FFXVI succeeds and earns its place within the Final Fantasy pantheon as one of the great entries, and does so on its own terms.

In ditching turn-based combat for combo-heavy melees, Final Fantasy 16 recaptures the spirit of reinvention that the series lends itself to. This new approach to action coalesces with a world you'll want to explore, and an endearing story which is powerfully executed by its voice cast. Overall, Final Fantasy 16 is an experience that stands alongside the series' greats.

Despite the weight of expectations from a series full of gaming hallmarks, Final Fantasy 16 stands tall as an outstanding experience that you won't want to miss out on.

The latest installment of Square Enix’s decade-spanning series gets its hooks in you immediately and never lets up. The stakes are consistently high, the scenery is always breathtaking, and the combat system is nothing short of fantastic— whether you’re battling bees on a sidequest or chipping away at Titan himself.

Uninhibited and assumed action, this is the new direction of this Final Fantasy XVI which has a specific objective: to please the greatest number, even if it means splitting and dividing Final Fantasy fans….Yes, this episode XVI is more eyeing the Devil May Cry, and that's probably the best thing that could have happened to it.

Final Fantasy XVI is an action JRPG polished to an iridescent sheen. Its well-designed combat system and enemies, outstanding character writing and worldbuilding, and consistently stellar side content make it a standout entry in this legendary franchise. Even when accounting for the weak villains and a lukewarm conclusion, this was a journey that truly gripped me from beginning to end. This is a must-play game of the year and a Final Fantasy adventure you won't forget.

Final Fantasy XVI is an epic in every sense of the word. Consistently sharp writing, a captivating cast of characters, exhilarating combat, and a timeless soundtrack coalesce into an experience that showcases what the PlayStation 5 is capable of at the highest level. It constantly finds ways to top its own scale in remarkable fashion, but never loses sight of the intimate journey it's built around.

At its best, Final Fantasy 16 is a jaw-dropping epic of rarely seen proportions. It's pretty much the pinnacle of cinematic spectacle in modern games, and its often gripping, emotional story is only matched by its fantastic combat system. While its overall quality does dip outside of the main plot, this is still a must-play action RPG, and the best single-player Final Fantasy in over a decade.

If you’re a fan of strong narrative experiences, Final Fantasy lore, breath-taking graphics and a particularly sassy Moogle, and you don’t mind a sprinkling of The Witcher, The Handmaid's Tale and the many accents of Old Blighty, then Final Fantasy XVI is the game for you. Heck, it might just be the best Final Fantasy yet.

Final Fantasy XVI is a weirdo black-sheep entry for the series. It won't be for all nor what all fans necessarily want for the franchise, but I also love it for that boldness. It's a gripping and harrowing page-turner of an epic high-fantasy story with plenty of heart the series is known for. Complex too are the characters, even if not all see their justice by the end. Valisthea is an eerily gorgeous setting, providing some of the most memorable vistas you'll have seen in a Final Fantasy game yet. Accessibility might not be at the forefront of the combat in-game but on offer is some of the most stylistic, and satisfying gameplay we've ever seen in an Action RPG. Even if you take further umbrage with its small flaws, there's no denying that Final Fantasy XVI is a special and memorable event. Through thick and thin, that franchise magic is captured once again. Frankly, you can't ask for anything better than that.

It’s difficult to judge a Final Fantasy against the crystalline legacy of its predecessors. But Final Fantasy XVI takes a confident step into new territory and doesn’t slip.

A gripping story, a dynamic combat system, and the gigantic staged esper battles make Final Fantasy 16 a feast for the eyes, ears, and fingers, while minor flaws such as weak side quests and an unstable frame rate largely fade away.

Final Fantasy XVI remains an eloquent, sturdy work that achieves almost everything its creators hoped. It is not the most innovative Final Fantasy ever made. It’s just one of the best.

Final Fantasy XVI is an excellent starting point for the Square Enix saga, which after several missteps seems to have found the right balance between the tradition of the franchise and a blatantly more mature new ethic. By focusing everything on a complex narrative and dedicating maniacal care to the construction of the world, Yoshida's dream team has however neglected the rhythm of the story, which in addition to reserving some less inspired moments, even slows down the growth of the character.

Final Fantasy XVI is a fantastic adventure, but slightly irregular. There are some aspects that prevent it from being on the podium with the best entries in the franchise, but, when it is over, it leaves a great aftertaste that makes you forget about those imperfections.

Final Fantasy 16 combines the flashiness of games like Devil May Cry 5 with a compelling story about family, hardship and eudaimonia. It is not without flaws, with its formulaic side missions, pacing issues, and inconsistent open-world design. However, Final Fantasy XVI is still one of the best games in the Final Fantasy series. With some of the best cutscenes and animation in the industry, along with compelling characters and mesmerizing moments, Final Fantasy 16 is undoubtedly one of the best games to play on the PlayStation 5.

Opulently presented action RPG that regards the action part very uncompromisingly - certainly too uncompromising for some fans of the series.

Final Fantasy 16 finds itself at the center of a paradox: it's so close and yet so far from the ideal excellence level always pursued by the saga. It's the best installment of the series in many years, sporting a wonderful plot which pays honor to the classics, creating an extraordinary game universe and a roster of incredible characters. At the same time, the rhythm is unbalanced and imperfections constantly emerge: the devs went all-in on the magnificent spectacularization of the series essence, but they forgot a lot of unreplaceable components. In this hurricane of contradictions, the game still manages to achieve the most important result: it's the modern chapter which stands the closest to the historic roots of the saga.

Final Fantasy XVI is a title with a fascinating proposal, unfortunately hampered by certain aspects. Going even deeper into the action than its predecessor, the game delivers spectacular combat and rich possibilities thanks to the powers of the Primordials. These confrontations have all the more impact as they take place within an exciting story and a mature and credible universe. It is also on the graphic level that FFXVI puts your eyes on it through its clashes of Primordials and its environments, despite a fluctuating framerate in performance mode. Unfortunately, all of this is marred somewhat by linear levels, limited exploration, and sketchy staging that create a disconnect with the modernity of the rest of the experience. Despite these dated elements, the Final Fantasy saga proves with this episode and FFVII Remake that it is still able to amaze, more than 35 years after its debut.

With more than 65 hours of FFXVI behind me, I still have a lot to do beyond the story, and I’m glad my time with Creative Business Unit III’s latest isn’t at its end yet. FFXVI has some of my favorite moments in modern Final Fantasy, but its lows threaten the pace at which they arrive. I wish FFXVI’s various elements were intertwined more seamlessly. Still, when I look back at my time with Clive, his friends, his enemies, and Valisthea, it’s those highs that I vividly remember. FFXVI is very different from its predecessors, but in many ways, very familiar; And it’s still a Final Fantasy, through and through, reminding me why I love this series so much.

Solid is the first word that comes to mind when we think of Final Fantasy XVI as a whole, with its interesting universe and hard-hitting gameplay, including some of the most impressive boss battles ever seen. But there's still a "little something" missing, in the form of a whole host of small flaws which, when put together, detract from the game's enjoyment. There are many avenues for improvement, but with this new episode, Square Enix and Creative Business Unit 3 have fulfilled their contract with flying colors, laying solid new foundations for the FF saga.

Final Fantasy 16 manages an extremely successful modernization of the gameplay with its battle system, but the story has its weaknesses.

No, you don't have to have played the previous fifteen games to understand this story. And yes, FFXVI is an excellent entry point to get to know this long-running series of Japanese role-playing games. Purists denounce how "Final Fantasy" has become less and less "role-playing game" and more and more "action game," but they err. This is a winner.

Final Fantasy XVI leaves its RPG roots behind and focuses on action gameplay… And it’s a gamble that works out very well. This is a spectacular, breathtaking game, even if it sometimes buries the good under the average.

Watching Clive’s work come to fruition and build the world for future generations may be the most powerful summoning spell ever cast in the entirety of Final Fantasy.

While Final Fantasy 16 may not appeal to all long-time fans due to its significant departure from typical franchise elements, there is still much to like in this title. It offers a fresh perspective, a richly drawn setting, and a captivating story that stands on its own. Its action-oriented fighting and darker themes are a departure but also highlight the series’ willingness to branch out. Even if it seems different and isn’t quite the Final Fantasy many of us grew up with, FF16 is still an exciting and enjoyable adventure. It serves as a reminder that the series isn’t hesitant to grow and defy expectations, even if the outcome isn’t unanimously praised.

While it would be easy to look at Final Fantasy XVI from certain angles and proclaim something looks rough when looked at as a single package and a sum of its whole, this is a fantastic game. The cinematic flair, crazy action combat and extremely involved story with a nice side dish of world building make this a game worth playing. This is likely to appeal to fans of most character action games but also to those who just want another cool Final Fantasy to get lost in. Absolutely get this game.

While Final Fantasy XVI is a focused game that has no hesitation in eliminating the unnecessary, the breathtaking realm of Valisthea feels polished like a true AAA title. It is a high-quality experience that can be cherished through its many details. That being said, the series’ more traditional tropes don’t always match Final Fantasy XVI’s modern production standards, which can at times stand in the way of the player’s enjoyment.

Final Fantasy XVI for the PlayStation 5 marries iconic series elements with brutal political intrigue and intense action to create a gripping entry unlike any other in the franchise.

My tastes have changed over the years, and I neglected certain franchise titles in that time. However, despite its missteps, I can wholeheartedly say Final Fantasy 16 managed to bring together in one title the things I loved about the earlier series’ entries, all while making most of the experience fresh and entertaining. The grim-dark tone, spectacular “kaiju battles,” and grandiose transformations with over-the-top action kept me entertained.

Final Fantasy 16 is more an evolution than a revolution. It's an ode to the license, a reinterpretation of the myth as rarely seen, and a spectacular game. It's an accomplished modern vision, an assertive turn to action with near perfect gameplay but which has almost nothing left of an RPG. A remarkable game full of sincerity.

Combat is in real-time, but then the way to tell a story is purely old fashion.

Final Fantasy has a habit of reinventing itself. That's why the series, with all its ups and its few downs, has remained relevant to this day. Final Fantasy 16 is no exception. Who knows how long the series will remain this straightforward a story and action-experience. For now and for this game, anyway, it works wonderfully. And not because its combat is particularly outstanding or the story changes the way we'll look at fantasy in the future, but because Final Fantasy has always been more than the sum of its parts. That has rarely been more true than for Part 16.

Final Fantasy XVI is a difficult beast to judge, a divisive experiment that would have found itself more at home as a spin-off, rather than in the awkward guise of the final official installment of a much-loved series. A passionate plot and a successful combat system keep their attention for the approximately 30 hours it takes to finish the game, but unfortunately they are forced to divide the scene with rose-water "role-playing" mechanics and a sadly arid and artificial world , net of a commendable artistic direction. On the JRPG front we are faced with a very controversial result, but overall a more than decent game.

Final Fantasy XVI is the series at its most spectacular, for good and bad. However, Square Enix has taken a lot of the criticism aimed at previous games into account, and the battles offer more freedom, the characters are fleshed out, and thanks to detailed world-building, you finally get the sense again that there is a world out there that needs saving.

Final Fantasy XVI is something very different from what fans know, and yet by some miracle Square Enix managed to maintain the series' identity. A successful step in a new direction.

Spectacular, with an epic story and astonishing graphics: and yet, Final Fantasy XVI forgets what is really important for the series. It's impossibile to create a build and there's nothing important left for you to manage through the menus. Proper RPG options are gone, dungeons are just banal corridors, players are forced to play the entire game in easy mode and you can beat the game with literally no effort. There's a decent base for the future, but it's not enough to see a real rebirth for the saga.

Final Fantasy 16 is a bold new benchmark for the series that puts emotional complexity and courageous world building at the forefront. Clive Rosfield’s epic journey is defined by constant bouts of hurt and tragedy, but it’s also lined with an inescapable aura of hope in how our heroes are fighting for a world worth saving. Every person you meet and village saved from ruin are worth protecting, with heartfelt dialogue and ferocious combat mixing together in service of an RPG that, while flawed and glacial in some spots, I’d struggle to label as anything other than a triumph.

Final Fantasy 16 is a massive game that, in many ways, feels like a response to years of rocky terrain. This is one of the most beloved series in gaming, but one that has had big ups and downs, especially in recent memory.

Final Fantasy 16 is an essential addition to a beloved series. The world of Valisthea is grim, bloody and captivating — the perfect setting for one of Final Fantasy‘s darkest stories to date — while its hack-and-slash combat is guaranteed to win over long-time Square Enix fans and Final Fantasy newcomers alike.

Final Fantasy XVI has reinvented the role-playing formula, focusing more on the action genre. These new mechanics really work and we will have a game full of adrenaline and paraphernalia. However, more traditional fans will miss options that have been in the series forever. The graphics will take your breath away, and the soundtrack is masterful.

Final Fantasy 16 largely shines as an epic-length action game, though the places where it attempts to find a comfortable compromise between action game and RPG feel largely unambitious, and certainly fade into the background against aspects that are approached with gusto. But it’s difficult not to get swept up by the earnest saga that Final Fantasy 16 eagerly lays out for you, and the egregious heights of spectacle it displays.

Not without flaws or a few soft bellies, FINAL FANTASY XVI shows many qualities through its narration, gameplay and replayability, enough to keep coming back to the epic side of the game.

Not everything comes together in an ideal way, but this is a journey I won’t soon forget. FF16 was able to excel in many of the most important aspects of what video games mean to me - and because of that I found it hard not to love in spite of its shortcomings and foibles.

Final Fantasy XVI is without question a great game, but after about 45 hours with it, I can't help but think it often isn't great at being a Final Fantasy game.

FF16 is clearly the best numbered single-player Final Fantasy since the PS2 era. For series fans, FF16 will inevitably provoke debate. I expect it to be both beloved and reviled. The discourse will be unbearable. That’s how you can tell it’s a good Final Fantasy, by the way. For newcomers, this presents a different, thoroughly modern Final Fantasy: full of wonder, and joy, and flaws in a way that feels most appropriate to the rest of the series.

Final Fantasy has never played better, and 16’s cast is destined to be fan favourites. We just wish that when they are outside of the Hollywood blockbuster-tier adventures of the main quest, they were given some more interesting adventures to pursue.

Final Fantasy 16 is a very good game, offering a touching and extremely well-told story. We feel that the story of Valisthéa and Clive and his friends is at the heart of the experience, much more than the gameplay. The latter is enjoyable thanks to the use of the powers of the Primordials and the fights with the creatures are visually incredible. Despite a very interventionist format and uninteresting side quests, FF 16 takes us on board and leaves us with a masterful journey.

Final Fantasy XVI is a technical masterpiece with some jaw-dropping scenes, but the game’s genre (it’s a hack’n’slash, not an RPG!) fails to fully support 40 hours of gameplay. I’m happy that I had the opportunity to play it, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that the developers put more meticulousness and money than heart into it, forgetting a pinch of madness that would have made this undeniably impressive game truly stellar.

Final Fantasy XVI is all over the place. It’s a game of incredible highs and distasteful lows, boasting such a narrative trainwreck of disarranged ideas it’s borderline incompatible with itself. Endeavoring to tackle themes of fascism and slavery would be laudable if the result wasn’t inelegant at best and offensive at worst. The frustrating, exhausting nature of XVI’s miserable narrative is countered by notably enjoyable combat, impressive setpieces, and truly stunning boss encounters. When it’s not boring, it’s exhilarating. When it’s not exhilarating, it’s insulting. When it’s not insulting, it’s delightful...I love Final Fantasy XVI when it’s Game of Thrones with Kaiju. Every attempt to be more than that makes me like it far, far less.

Final Fantasy XVI has epic scenes with combat system, story, Eikon battles. The fact that it is almost completely disconnected from RPG dynamics and important mistakes puts the game in a good game mold rather than a classic.

This is a solid RPG/action game. Some elements of the game are unusual and fresh for single-player parts of the Final Fantasy series, but some are too dull and rudimentary.

Final Fantasy XVI continues to push the series into a new direction. While it has a well-realized setting, good characters, satisfying combat, and excellent cinematic large scale battles, the slow pacing, lackluster RPG elements and barebones optional content grind the excitement to a halt too often.

As a successor to the hugely popular Final Fantasy 15, Final Fantasy 16 leaves a bitter taste in the mouth. Sure, the crucial elements of a Final Fantasy game are all present and accounted for – engaging boss battles full of impressive visual effects, fluid combat and an interesting storyline – but for every win, there’s a massive fail, be it the bland semi-open world devoid of much to do or the frankly uninspired never-ending list of fetch-style side quests. Charming voice acting, a plethora of twists and turns and Hollywood-esque cut scenes helped keep me entertained through the majority of the 40-hour campaign, but once it was over, I was done. There was no urge to explore the semi-open world or even dive into the new Game+ mode. It’s very much a one-and-done affair, which hasn’t been the case for previous Final Fantasy titles I’ve played.

The creative aims are clear and well-met: to create a Final Fantasy game with a more serious and grounded story, a more fashionable battle system and more mature world in which magic and monsters exist, and their effects on human ambitions and systems of power. On these counts, Final Fantasy XVI's gamble is a success. But whether this is a game to inspire passion among a new generation, in the way the high points of the series did, is debatable. [Issue#387, p.106]

Final Fantasy XVI tells a fantastic and entertaining story, but many of the gameplay systems are quite frankly very dull.

Final Fantasy 16 is an uneven game. There were moments – like the Platinum Games-tinged Eikon fight against Titan – where I was convinced that this was one of the best things I’ve ever played, but for every section as good as that, there are hours of drudgery. If you don’t think MMO-style fetch quests are the pinnacle of game design, you’re probably going to feel the same way.

Final Fantasy 16 is a rich, visually arresting spectacle with engrossing set pieces let down by a bloated story and stifled combat.

While Final Fantasy XVI didn’t meet this fan’s expectations for a new series entry, newcomers to epic fantasy and action games will be swept away by the eye-melting combat and enormous-yet-approachable scale.

An excellent battle system shackled to a dispiritingly dull and long-winded fantasy adventure, that takes an inordinate amount of time to say nothing of value.

Final Fantasy XVI is a messy game that sometimes delivers and sometimes does not. The new combat system only becomes good after many hours and the fetch quests are an insult. Still, the story is captivating and so are the characters.

A smart combat system straining under the weight of a characterful but ponderous pseudo-medieval soap opera, with some of the grandest bosses and dullest sidequests in FF history.