Final Fantasy XVI

 PlayStation 5
User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 8567 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6,528 out of 8567
  2. Mixed: 693 out of 8567
  3. Negative: 1,346 out of 8567
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  1. Godzillahh
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy XVI is as close to a 10 as a game has gotten for me in a good while. It's rare to find a game that blends together so many aspects perfectly. From the soundtrack and story, to the gameplay, bosses , eikon fights and characters, CBUIII and Square Enix don't fail to deliver. I can't recommend this game highly enough.
  2. alahrav
    Jul 7, 2023
    2
    Solid combat, incredible Eikon battles, mostly terrible everything else: poor writing, sloggy quest design, largely uninteresting characters (save a couple standouts). The game ping-pongs between highs and lows with disorienting regularity. If not for the disaster that was FFXV, this would be my least favorite FF.
  3. sudoup
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    It was a fantastic gaming experience that couldn't have been better, despite a few points of dissatisfaction.
  4. Phorit
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    Best game played in years, the ending is impressive and full of creativity. Character, soundtrack, game play, the emotions in this game will make me smile in years to to come. It is a truly masterpiece and one that deserve to be called art
  5. vanmoran
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    I haven't played many Final Fantasy games, but I have to say that this game is a masterpiece unlike anything I've seen before. From the music to the story to the characters, everything is wonderfully written.During my 70 hours of play I was blown away by the combat, the graphics and the emotions that were conveyed to me. Despite all the hate this game has received, it remains one of theI haven't played many Final Fantasy games, but I have to say that this game is a masterpiece unlike anything I've seen before. From the music to the story to the characters, everything is wonderfully written.During my 70 hours of play I was blown away by the combat, the graphics and the emotions that were conveyed to me. Despite all the hate this game has received, it remains one of the most beautiful games I've ever played. Thank you for this wonderful journey!… Expand
  6. TIKCUS
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy XVI is a masterpiece and if you don't play it you will regret, the story is amazing, music is great and you feel great after finishing the game 10/10
  7. Vincentive
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    This was an amazing game, enjoyed about everything about it, and the story was deep, well-written, and was one of the best stories I've seen in a game, and I loved it, and I really liked the characters, I felt emotionally attached to them. I've also enjoyed the gameplay aswell as the controllable eikons in this game, it was a lot of fun, and I really liked the world I explored, and theThis was an amazing game, enjoyed about everything about it, and the story was deep, well-written, and was one of the best stories I've seen in a game, and I loved it, and I really liked the characters, I felt emotionally attached to them. I've also enjoyed the gameplay aswell as the controllable eikons in this game, it was a lot of fun, and I really liked the world I explored, and the medieval uk setting really helped set the mood, and several scenes shocked me and made me. I can see myself playing this game for a long time. With the amount replay value with new game plus. 10/10… Expand
  8. BraveHeart_
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    One of the best game this year to come out for the PS5 gaming system. Storyline is top notch and gameplay controls are smooth tight. Boss fights and Eikon fights are very memorable. The demo is available at the PSN store if you want to try it before buying.
    10/10
  9. Kyw0113
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    Good game!best game!fantastic game~!
    l am playing very fun final fantasy 16.
  10. Twam
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    Another Masterpiece for PS5. FFXVI runs perfect smooth fluidly with 60 fps and looks great. stylish combat-system. Interesting Story.
  11. SimonExMachina
    Jul 7, 2023
    4
    Please watch SkillUps review. The guy is on point. This game is 70-75% non interactive cutscenes, the rest is an outdated, brainless action game. No RPG mechanics, no chalange, no freedom or player agency. Game is very linear and even when there's an open area there's absolutely no reason to explore. Mission and level design are as basic & repetitive as it gets. Combat is flashy but soPlease watch SkillUps review. The guy is on point. This game is 70-75% non interactive cutscenes, the rest is an outdated, brainless action game. No RPG mechanics, no chalange, no freedom or player agency. Game is very linear and even when there's an open area there's absolutely no reason to explore. Mission and level design are as basic & repetitive as it gets. Combat is flashy but so easy there is no depth or strategy to it.

    Story was ment to be a dark fantasy tale inspired by Game of Thrones but it's juvenile, cheesy anime shlock. Just because there's violence, sex and profanity doesn't make it mature. It's a childs idea of what an adoult story is. Ther's no depth on nuance here, just over the top stupidity.

    To top it all of the performace is framerate mode is horrible - the game never hits a stable 60fps and runs at a low resolution with extreme motion blure to hide it.    … Expand
  12. Strider_Roshin
    Jul 7, 2023
    7
    If you asked my opinion at the 80% mark I would have put this game at a 9/10 easily. However the best aspect of the game (the story) fell off a cliff once it became more about the true villain of the game (which is near the end). If you don't care about a good story then the combat is fantastic, but it's a bit of an ability spam game rather than using your actual weapon. The itemizationIf you asked my opinion at the 80% mark I would have put this game at a 9/10 easily. However the best aspect of the game (the story) fell off a cliff once it became more about the true villain of the game (which is near the end). If you don't care about a good story then the combat is fantastic, but it's a bit of an ability spam game rather than using your actual weapon. The itemization is nearly non-existent. There are some great side quests; however, there are way too many of them, and a lot of them feel like fetch quests. The combat is also a bit too easy. I hear NG+ makes it better, but after experiencing the disappointing story once I'd rather not relive it.… Expand
  13. 2bsPeach
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    One of the few things that manage to live up to to, and even outdo, the expectations set in trailers advertising surrounding it even when playing bar gets set higher the more you play you expect more and they give it to you. Easily the best game I have ever played. The graphics were way ahead for its time no new generation game in 2023 or before has ever looked this polished besides FF7One of the few things that manage to live up to to, and even outdo, the expectations set in trailers advertising surrounding it even when playing bar gets set higher the more you play you expect more and they give it to you. Easily the best game I have ever played. The graphics were way ahead for its time no new generation game in 2023 or before has ever looked this polished besides FF7 Remake, the music OST was majestic and went well with wherever you were or situations you constantly face for example the eikon fights the way the game sews cutscenes to cinematically to gameplay during these fights has never been seen before the game gives you too much to take in at once. Also the gameplay / eikon summon fights is so fluidly smooth top notch.
    From start to finish final fantasy xvi doesn’t disappoint 10/10    … Expand
  14. TyphonBigArms_
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    As far as I'm concerned this is one of the best, if not the best games ever made best game I have ever played in my life. Even when i finished the game i just started over in new game plus. Its so big that you can do just that and still have fun with the beauty of fluid combat.
  15. Altair0043
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    Simplente espectacular. Combates, ambientación, historia.. Cuándo sale el próximo?
  16. SicEm
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    The most addictive game I ever played! Can't wait to get my hands on PC version too
  17. Mkhirai
    Jun 23, 2023
    10
    The game was worth the wait. One of the best narrative I played since Chrono Trigger. The sound design and gameplay during battles are just perfect. I believe this is the best the series put out so far since FFX. They didn't bother having a mature rating. They made a game based from their vision. I know there are a lot of haters there and I know their true motive, but for me, I just hadThe game was worth the wait. One of the best narrative I played since Chrono Trigger. The sound design and gameplay during battles are just perfect. I believe this is the best the series put out so far since FFX. They didn't bother having a mature rating. They made a game based from their vision. I know there are a lot of haters there and I know their true motive, but for me, I just had one memorable journey playing this game.… Expand
  18. TitanWreckage
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    Truly, not a single Action Role-Playing /RPG can compare to this game. Way ahead of its time best looking game of all time. Possibly the best game of the last century hands down. “If you hate this game, you hate gaming. Or just clearly hating for no reason Nintendo Zelda fan boys go and touch grass we can see it’s you review bombing 0/10 clowns.” Read the real reviews ignore these sadTruly, not a single Action Role-Playing /RPG can compare to this game. Way ahead of its time best looking game of all time. Possibly the best game of the last century hands down. “If you hate this game, you hate gaming. Or just clearly hating for no reason Nintendo Zelda fan boys go and touch grass we can see it’s you review bombing 0/10 clowns.” Read the real reviews ignore these sad people FFXVI is perfect in any aspect of the game, ost, graphics, story , gameplay, bosses/eikon fights.… Expand
  19. Moongazinq
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Excellent game......just remarkable, great story line, great gameplay, perfect interactivity, really sucks you into a world with no limitations from beginning to end with Eikon summon fights on such a grand scale never seen before FFXVI is way ahead of its time astounding
  20. Davja
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Great game, engaging story and the right type of ending for a final fantasy
  21. fishdash
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    I really enjoy this game!!
    amazing gameplay!!
    amazing music!!
    amazing story!!
  22. JankMedia
    Jul 6, 2023
    6
    It's not a bad game by any means but it's also not very good for what it is. FFXVI is a really shallow cinematic action game at it's core. There's lot of cut scenes, combat is fun but repetitive. The game is incredibly easy, not necessarily a bad thing but for those expecting something like actual DMC or Souls, it isn't happening. The game is incredibly easy/forgiving.

    XVI was clearly    It's not a bad game by any means but it's also not very good for what it is. FFXVI is a really shallow cinematic action game at it's core. There's lot of cut scenes, combat is fun but repetitive. The game is incredibly easy, not necessarily a bad thing but for those expecting something like actual DMC or Souls, it isn't happening. The game is incredibly easy/forgiving.

    XVI was clearly designed with a mass audience in mind. Some people are going to love it, some aren't. The thing that surprises me most is just how shallow it is, it really is just running from A to B while killing low level enemies followed by a relatively easy boss and then an even easier Eikon fight. It's lowest common denominator style gameplay in 2023. This game would even be considered basic in terms of gameplay if it released on the PS3 back in 2008.

    I can't even comment on any RPG mechanics because they are non-existent. Yes, you go up levels and you can craft gear. However, the gear you craft is locked to game progression, meaning that there is usually one 1 item to choose from and it's a +1 of whatever you can buy in the store. The upgrade system is a standard skill tree but for combat only. Don't expect to cast buffs/debuffs/libra. None of that is in XVI. It's purely hack and slash gameplay with cool down timers for special attacks.

    It has the stagger system as seen in other FF games but it does not utilize it well, very uninspired compared to FFXIII and FF7R. Enemies also feel like damage sponges. I'm enjoying the game but honestly have no idea what the hype is about. It genuinely feels like playing a remastered PS3 title.    … Expand
  23. martinknight29
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Gameplay 10/10
    Story 10/10
    Characters 10/10
    Villains 9/10
    World 10/10
    It was an amazing experience.
  24. Gabriel101
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    An absolute tour de force of bombastic action, Kaiju battles and chocobos, a must play for any PS5 owner whether you’re a long time final fantasy or new to the series.
  25. Temsik
    Jul 6, 2023
    4
    A action hack and slash game skinned as a Final Fantasy. This may be the game that was imagined by the creators when making previous FF games, however it is not what FF fans have followed the series for.

    overall it fells as if this game had an action battle system, and a extremely complex story and the development time was spent on graphics. After those elements were completed other    A action hack and slash game skinned as a Final Fantasy. This may be the game that was imagined by the creators when making previous FF games, however it is not what FF fans have followed the series for.

    overall it fells as if this game had an action battle system, and a extremely complex story and the development time was spent on graphics. After those elements were completed other things were added to try to fit into an action RPG category.

    The good:
    Graphics are very good, could be argued as the best graphics for a game.
    Voice acting is very good and professional.
    The active lore system is a great addition to get additional information.

    The Bad:
    No elemental importance negating strategy and no magic system with the current magic being laughable.
    No party system and any members damage assistance is minimal enough to not be noticed.
    The story is so overwhelmingly complex, notes are needed in order to keep up... hench the creation of the active lore system.
    Equipment is an afterthought as if it was previously set to auto upgrade as the story progressed and then changed at the last moment.
    Treasure chests and items were an afterthought and can be skipped completely.
    Using the rings for those who didn't want the action battle system turns the combat system into a single button masher battle system and makes the game un playable. This also locks the player into no being able to use accessories.

    Overall if you like the graphics and are interested in the story, watch it on streaming or YouTube while doing something that is actually entertaining.    … Expand
  26. luispinto99
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    This is one of the best video games in very long time. It's more similar to FF7Remake, than 90s FF games and that's how it needs to be. This is what modern FF is and if you don't like it, move on to somethin else.
    This game is amazing. This is easily the best game i have played in 2023.
  27. Killking241
    Jul 6, 2023
    3
    The story ends so bad it feels like i did so much work for nothing waste of my time I guess the gameplay is ok but still not worth it to me
  28. MustPlayReviews
    Jul 6, 2023
    6
    Final Fantasy 16 is a visually stunning game with impressive particle effects, showcasing the power and size of the eikons. However, the art direction has some poor choices, including excessive chromatic aberration and motion blur that cannot be disabled. The game lacks color variation, with most of the visuals appearing dark and lacking depth. The sound design is outstanding, with anFinal Fantasy 16 is a visually stunning game with impressive particle effects, showcasing the power and size of the eikons. However, the art direction has some poor choices, including excessive chromatic aberration and motion blur that cannot be disabled. The game lacks color variation, with most of the visuals appearing dark and lacking depth. The sound design is outstanding, with an emotionally moving score and excellent voice acting, although there are issues with voice placement and compression. The gameplay introduces an unconventional combat system that can be exhilarating but becomes monotonous during basic fights. The combat lacks strategic elements present in previous Final Fantasy titles, making encounters less engaging. The performance of the game is not very impressive, with frame drops and stuttering in the performance mode. The story, however, is a standout, featuring compelling character struggles and emotional storytelling. The world of Final Fantasy 16 is dark and war-torn, filled with pain and hopelessness, but also the determination to protect and make things right. Despite its flaws, Final Fantasy 16 is worth playing for those who can overlook its visual and gameplay issues. I give it a grade of D and question the high scores it has received any game that has chromatic aberration loses a tier from me purposely damaging the picture quality is unacceptable… Expand
  29. mc3027
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Really enjoyed this breath of fresh air to the series. The story really draws you in. After the lack of a comprehensive story and mythology in its predecessor, Final Fantasy XVI shows that there’s still life in the series after all.
  30. gonopoc499
    Jul 6, 2023
    1
    If you have never seen a top-notch visual production like Game of Thrones or a Marvel movie and have never played a good ARPG game, you might enjoy this game. The only good thing about this game is that it is short and can be finished in a short time.
  31. FredC
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    If you like Final Fantasy 14, then Final Fantasy 16 you will also like.
    I think this game is worth playing. very good!!
  32. AyyDee
    Jul 4, 2023
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I really wanted to like this iteration of FF but it I found myself falling asleep while playing a few times.
    The combat is OK..... Slash, slash, slash, limit break, eikon abilities, cooldown, repeat. It reminds me of FFXIV with a little active combat, on top of that the best Eikon, Odin.... isn't even unlocked until pretty much the end of the game. The game basically wants you to complete it first to then start having fun with having all the abilities and skills for new game plus. I'm sorry but I don't have the time or energy to play through everything AGAIN to get the best weapon to play arcade me for a high score.... What happend to all the cool side quests, dark aeon.... sorry Eikons, thing that you WANTED to do. Oh wow a few monster hunts.... AND!?!?!......
    there are about 5 side quest worth doing, all the rest are just to wasted your time to say the game took longer to complete then what it should of, generic fetch quests, run around needlessly for a few gil and creating items you will probably never use because all the stuff worth your time is pretty much at the end of the game. At the end of a cutscene a chracter says he wants to have a word with Clive, only for me to run across the other side of the hideaway to say two sentences that he could of just said in the original cutscene.... its a constant run around, of needlessly filler.
    The story is good, but again I feel the game keeps purpose postponing and slowing everything down on purpose and its quite annoying.
    The only character that had an impact for me was Cid.
    In short because I cant be bothered to write anymore... the game is mediocre, its FF, but only because of the Eikons, Crystal's and other nuances of the final fantasy series. Not a fan of the direction its headed and this just goes to show by the sale that have dropped by 90%. Please don't believe the hype.    … Expand
  33. Suter
    Jul 6, 2023
    4
    I'm 12 hours into this game, and I am immensely bored. While this game is absolutely stunning graphically, the characters, plot, and setting is immensely underwhelming, generic, and forgettable. Why does the main character have to be royalty? This was already done in FFXV and now we have it again? There is absolutely NOTHING relatable or truly likeable about any of the characters.I'm 12 hours into this game, and I am immensely bored. While this game is absolutely stunning graphically, the characters, plot, and setting is immensely underwhelming, generic, and forgettable. Why does the main character have to be royalty? This was already done in FFXV and now we have it again? There is absolutely NOTHING relatable or truly likeable about any of the characters. ChatGPT could easily create a better storeyline with charismatic characters and much more interesting elaborate backstories. The plot is thin, and oftentimes I just don't see the point to any of it. Playing FFXVI feels like a chore. This very well may be the worst FF game I've ever played.… Expand
  34. HatersLostlmao
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    This game sold over THREE MILLION COPIES, Haters lost, REAL Final Fantasy fans won, end of story : )
  35. Somefactsforu
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    This is one of the best video games in very long time. It's more similar to FF7Remake, than 90s FF games and that's how it needs to be. This is what modern FF is and if you don't like it, move on to somethin else.

    It's also hilarious to watch people already speculate what next FF should be and how it should change. Like what? How about you enjoy this one that came out few weeks ago and    This is one of the best video games in very long time. It's more similar to FF7Remake, than 90s FF games and that's how it needs to be. This is what modern FF is and if you don't like it, move on to somethin else.

    It's also hilarious to watch people already speculate what next FF should be and how it should change. Like what? How about you enjoy this one that came out few weeks ago and not worry about game that comes 2028 earliest. Spoiler alert, you will very likely hate FF 17 anyway, so yeah.

    FF 16 is GOTY.    … Expand
  36. Zski
    Jul 6, 2023
    9
    After about 25 hours, I feel comfortable reviewing. This game is fantastic. I really feel like this is Final Fantasy getting back to it’s roots while simultaneously experimenting in ways to drive the franchise forward. I grew up with FF4 and FF6, and while this game clearly looks and plays nothing like those two games, it actually follows the formula quite well. It’s almost as if theyAfter about 25 hours, I feel comfortable reviewing. This game is fantastic. I really feel like this is Final Fantasy getting back to it’s roots while simultaneously experimenting in ways to drive the franchise forward. I grew up with FF4 and FF6, and while this game clearly looks and plays nothing like those two games, it actually follows the formula quite well. It’s almost as if they reimagined a 16bit FF game in a 3D world with action combat. To start on the comment, this is the main reason why I couldn’t consider giving this game a 10 score. While I have a lot of good to say about it - it’s fluid, the controls are tight, it’s flashy and rewarding, they really did a great job with it. The issue is that after about 10 hours you unlock so many abilities that it removes any amount of effort or technicality in any of the battles. They all turn into rush the largest enemy, unload one series of power moves, unload the next series of power moves, unload another series of power moves, the enemy is staggered, then use the overpower mode, and suddenly the challenging enemy is at least 75% dead. This works for almost every single enemy encounter that has a tanky enemy, and the encounters with regular enemies just feel repetitive throughout most of the game. It’s just far too easy of a game. So while the combat is great, it feels like they just kept adding layers on top of a formula that came out of the oven too soon. It would have been nice to have some control over other party members, and the wolf is essentially pretty useless. This is even echoed in the weapon system, there comes a point very early in the game where you have more Gil than you have things to spend it on. The combat is miles better than FF15 and FF7R, but there is so much refining that needs to be done. If it weren’t for the excellent story, I think this may have bored me after 15 hours to the point of putting it down.

    So about the story. It’s very busy at first, there are so many moving pieces that try to set the foundation of the lore, but once it starts to connect the dots, man is it good. They do a wonderful job of blending the individual character story lines within the overarching narrative of clashing nations. The flow is executed so well that it’s easy to shift your attention from individual characters story arcs to the overall conflict between nations because they’re both good. As the story progresses, it gets pretty convoluted, but the active time lore helps fill in the blanks, and later on you unlock a system that recaps not only character relationships, but the overall world story. It’s truly a game changer, and they put a lot of effort into it. It will help a lot of the adult gamers who can’t dump 5 hours a day for multiple days in a row by allowing them to get refreshers of what is happening. The only complaint I have about the story is that sometimes the cutscenes make it sound like you’re going on an epic journey to the next place, but then it’s like a 3 minute walk through a marsh you have walked through multiple times already. Just felt odd at times.

    Otherwise, the graphics are excellent. Sometimes they are truly breathtaking, other times they look a bit muddy. The music is phenomenal. The voice acting is good, but those dialogue cutscenes are as awkward as ever, I hope that’s the next big overhaul for them. I don’t understand the complaints about the performance, it’s barely noticeable, and yet when you do notice, it’s not a big deal at all. It’s so weird that is where people got hung up on.

    All in all, the game is fantastic, but not perfect. I haven’t enjoyed a FF game as much as I enjoyed this one for multiple generations now.    … Expand
  37. Mikui
    Jun 30, 2023
    10
    What a great experiences from this game!
    Great graphics, great stories, great music, great combat, great fantasy. I’m so excited! I think FF16 can be the best one of Final Fantasy series. Thank you Yoshi-P and his team! I hope this game will spread all over the world!
  38. Soodhmdan55
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    A very wonderful and fun game, and the fighting and battles are very exciting and epic. Indeed, it is a game that deserves the award of the year
  39. And92
    Jul 6, 2023
    6
    Too easy, even on the highest difficulty I never died.
    Of RPGs it has nothing, much less excels as hack & slash, this game is a limbo where it fails at nothing, I give enough only for the fairly accurate story.
    The FF saga died with 12, a real shame.
  40. hika
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. 本当に面白かった、エンディングは泣いてしまいました。ゲームで泣くなんて数年ぶりです、主人公も仲間もすごく良いキャラクターで感情が高ぶります。シド、ガブ、ジル、ジョシュア、ミド、そしてクライブ、全員を好きになることは間違いないでしょう。
    戦闘も自分にあったアビリティ構成を考えるのが楽しい、何より召喚獣同士の戦いは盛り上がります、特にタイタンとバハムート。
    音楽に関しては素晴らしいの一言。
    サブクエは退屈なものも多いですが世界のことやキャラクターの深掘りがされていて物語により入り込めるようになっています。
    不満点としては育成要素がもっと欲しかった、パーティメンバーをもう少しいじでればよかったと思います。そして物語の後半は少し盛り下がった、最後の戦いはすごく熱かったですけどね。
    総評して95点です。    … Expand
  41. hamutarto
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Near perfect story and action! I'm still looking for my jaw. Anime game of thrones.
  42. OwtDaft
    Jul 6, 2023
    8
    Presentation
    The game has some of the best graphics I have seen to date,
    The music in the game is very good. Love the voice acting and me been a Yorkshiremen I love that there are multiple characters using Yorkshire dialect like Mid. Largest settlements that you may have seen in the trailers that your keen to explore can't be entered naturally and explored. They are linear moments in    Presentation
    The game has some of the best graphics I have seen to date,
    The music in the game is very good.
    Love the voice acting and me been a Yorkshiremen I love that there are multiple characters using Yorkshire dialect like Mid.
    Largest settlements that you may have seen in the trailers that your keen to explore can't be entered naturally and explored. They are linear moments in the game.
    The game could have had more secret bonus areas to explore.

    Story
    The Story is good but it's not at the level I have come to expect from a Final Fantasy game.
    The story starts off very good but after a big story point about 25% in, the story becomes less enjoyable. This is because (been as vague as possible) they took something out of the story that was working and failed to replace it with something as good. Also the story becomes very formulaic with the game having the feeling like it's broken up into levels.
    Story is almost always serious and there isn't enough good story moment between the main characters. Clive had more relationship building with side quest givers than the main cast. Like Mid has more personality than Jill. Final Fantasy XV had many side quests but they didn't prevent you getting to know the 4 main characters.
    The side quests are for the most part very mid to bad and there is a very high number of them. Some of the later side quest offer pretty good stories but apart from 2 or 3 they don't do much character development for the main cast and so I found my self not caring as much and they aren't very fun to do from a game-play angle. The main cast is so underdeveloped it would be hard to tell which ones even count as the main cast.
    Because many of the side quests are miss-able it makes you feel like you need to do them but doing so really hurts the games pacing as your constantly getting a new wave of side quest to do and it also makes the game even more easy, it hurts the games otherwise good battle system.

    Game-play
    The world is pretty big and there are many locations to travel though.
    The game relies on the map screen too much, it really hurts immersion. The map comes together more as you play but it still very much map screen and teleporting focused.
    The the game auto runs and so if you want to explore at a more casual pace to take in the sights, it's very clunky.
    The battle system has been getting a lot of criticism but I think it is a great deal of fun.
    The controls of having to cycle between different Eikons is clunky and the Eikon abilities are overpowered which centres the combat around them too much. I found the combat more fun at the start when you only had the one.
    Some of the big Eikon battles can be extremely long winded and tedious despite visually been amazing. They just take forever to go down.
    16 too often feels way too easy, even with out the assistance accessories and I am one of these people who was wanting an easy mode in the Souls games and so, if this game is easy to me then it really is easy. There should have been the option of a harder mode from the start.
    There is a a bug were enemies are almost dead and they will walk to their starting position and reset their health to full. Normally in games you have to lead the enemy far away form their starting position for this to happen. In FF16 it can happen very close to it.
    Though I enjoyed 16's battle system, I personally prefered VII Remake's Action/ATB hybrid style battle system.

    Thoughts
    There has been claims that this isn't a true Final Fantasy game. Final Fantasy 1 through to 9 were all very similar in their game design and all been menu based battle systems (1, 2 and 3 been Turn-based and 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 been ATB) and also having top down overworlds to explore that functioned in a similar way to each other. Final Fantasy 16 is very different from those earlier games. 10 went back to been turn-based switching from the classic Final Fantasy ATB system but lost the overworld and the series has had more drastic changes since and so by now, change have become more than just story and world and been a bigger part of Final Fantasy and I think it's unfair to say Final Fantasy 16 isn't a true Final Fantasy game especially since Final Fantasy XV had already made the jump to action based combat with big battles against giant enemies. Plot also has many similar story beats to other Final Fantasy games like Final Fantasy XV. Main Character been royalty, father dying at the start, war between nations, the end of the world slowly creeping forward and city powered by a crystal. The story feels like a Final Fantasy story.
    I really enjoyed Final Fantasy 16 despite the issues as it's a very high quality title and the are areas where it does shine keep the game been a lot of fun.    … Expand
  43. Rdotsmith
    Jul 6, 2023
    7
    I'm giving this game a seven out of ten because it lacks the RPG mechanics that I've come to love in Final Fantasy games. The combat feels more like Devil May Cry than a traditional Final Fantasy game, and I think that's a mistake. They're trying to appeal to new players, but they're alienating fans of the series in the process. The story is excellent, and the characters are amazing, butI'm giving this game a seven out of ten because it lacks the RPG mechanics that I've come to love in Final Fantasy games. The combat feels more like Devil May Cry than a traditional Final Fantasy game, and I think that's a mistake. They're trying to appeal to new players, but they're alienating fans of the series in the process. The story is excellent, and the characters are amazing, but it's still missing that sense of wonder that I felt when I first played the original Final Fantasy VII. The world feels smaller and more linear, and the sense of exploration is lacking. I'm not saying that this is a bad game. It's just not the Final Fantasy game that I was hoping for. If you're a fan of Devil May Cry, then you'll probably enjoy this game. But if you're a fan of traditional Final Fantasy games, then you might be disappointed.… Expand
  44. Playtest67
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy XVI represents everything I look for in a game, and more specifically in a Final Fantasy.
    The story is fascinating and so well written!
    The staging is epic and each character, from the most important to the most secondary, brings something and makes an impression. No doubt, Final Fantasy XVI is one of the best games I've played and goes straight into the best Final Fantasy.    Final Fantasy XVI represents everything I look for in a game, and more specifically in a Final Fantasy.
    The story is fascinating and so well written!
    The staging is epic and each character, from the most important to the most secondary, brings something and makes an impression.
    No doubt, Final Fantasy XVI is one of the best games I've played and goes straight into the best Final Fantasy.
    Congratulations and thank you Square Enix for giving us this unforgettable adventure !    … Expand
  45. SephsMeteor
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy XVI is the best video game that I have played in my lifetime. This "semi open world" game was ahead of its time. The story telling of this is second to none, and this game has so many memorable soundtracks. Combine that with the boss battles Eikon battles and areas you visit this is my perfect 10/10 game.
  46. Crabzilla
    Jul 6, 2023
    5
    OK lets be honest here.

    I anticipated this game A LOT after the horrible FFXV, playing this saga since VI. Its not terrible, but it isnt great either. Main story and graphics are awesome dont get me wrong, but secondary quests, RPG elements and customization are horrible. Battle is OK but repetitive. Speaking about characters, Clive is terrible, has a 2 number IQ and isnt charismatic at    OK lets be honest here.

    I anticipated this game A LOT after the horrible FFXV, playing this saga since VI.

    Its not terrible, but it isnt great either. Main story and graphics are awesome dont get me wrong, but secondary quests, RPG elements and customization are horrible. Battle is OK but repetitive.

    Speaking about characters, Clive is terrible, has a 2 number IQ and isnt charismatic at all.

    Since boredom takes like half of your playtime, I really cant give it anymore than 5.    … Expand
  47. Souteago
    Jul 6, 2023
    9
    Joguei o 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15 e agora o 16. Final Fantasy continua sendo minha segunda franquia favorita!

    Final Fantasy 16 é um game com uma história complexa, adulta, pesada e emocionante digna de Final Fantasy, os personagens com fortes traços de personalidade, e mundo repleto de detalhes e histórias. Gameplay a princípio pelos trailers me deixaram receoso, assim que joguei a demo    Joguei o 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15 e agora o 16. Final Fantasy continua sendo minha segunda franquia favorita!

    Final Fantasy 16 é um game com uma história complexa, adulta, pesada e emocionante digna de Final Fantasy, os personagens com fortes traços de personalidade, e mundo repleto de detalhes e histórias.

    Gameplay a princípio pelos trailers me deixaram receoso, assim que joguei a demo fiquei muito mais tranquilo, o combate é intenso e muito satisfatório que continua evoluindo até o final da história.

    Trilha sonora simplesmente perfeita, tudo encaixa com o que está sendo mostrado na tela, as músicas encaixam perfeitamente nos combates dando um empolgação extra nas batalhas épicas de Eikons.

    Pontos fracos:
    Mágica elemental e status negativos inexistentes.
    Poucos elementos de RPG.
    Pouca variedade de inimigos.
    Relativamente fácil (dificuldade Final Fantasy melhora muito).    … Expand
  48. drseven
    Jul 6, 2023
    9
    After having played the game with all the additional content, it has been 60 hours of play.

    Pros The most remarkable thing about this game is the story and its narrative, there are points in the game where the narrative meets a powerful audiovisual section, which without a doubt can elevate it to one of the most epic moments in the video game industry. Its cooldown-based combat    After having played the game with all the additional content, it has been 60 hours of play.

    Pros

    The most remarkable thing about this game is the story and its narrative, there are points in the game where the narrative meets a powerful audiovisual section, which without a doubt can elevate it to one of the most epic moments in the video game industry.

    Its cooldown-based combat system is fun and snappy, though you end up getting so powerful that the later stages of the game are a walk. However, the game has an extra difficulty for those who want a greater challenge.

    One of its negative points was the high blur motion that the game presented, it has been recently fixed.

    cons

    The secondary missions are poor, some give you good lore, but at the level of execution it is the simplest of the saga. That causes the game's rhythm to be broken by those moments where Clive becomes an errand boy, it is a point that overshadows the moments that he reaches excellence.

    As a personal request I have found extra content missing such as: chocobo races, card minigames... It has been something that has been present in many FF and gave them duration and magic. In this game the only mechanics are fighting or running errands.

    Conclusion: one of the most epic stories of recent years overshadowed by an unambitious design of missions and extras.    … Expand
  49. SoulsLike_
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    This is quite honestly the best game I have ever played in my entire life. the people who say this game is overrated haven’t played it and are review bombing this 0/10. but it is not overrated gets the recognition it deserves. 10/10 game ignore all the bad reviews
  50. PrimalAwakenin
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    One of the greatest games of all time, if not the greatest. This was the game that broke down boundaries for gamers the expectations they revealed even broken through them raised the bar higher than any other game has in so long been waiting for experience like this again. and for the first time really showed what a game can represent to people absolutely loved every minute of this game.
  51. DragoonJump_IV
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Just came here to pay my tribute to the best game ever made. This game is so ahead of its time, the title alone is genius. The music is easily the best soundtrack you can find in a video game.
    10/10 for me best game you’ll ever play.
  52. FFXIVBunny
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    No more needs to be said about this game. The best game ever, I'm not sure but if any game has to have that title then I don't mind it being this one. Games don't come much better than this. Highest peak of gaming history definitely worth playing ! 10/10
  53. VersesXIIINoct
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Greatest game in history. The entire Final Fantasy Mainline has an incredible storyline and every character had it's own unique personality that made them instantly recognisable and very easily loved or hated. At the time of the game's release, nothing could compare to the experience this game gave you it encapsulated you, you’ll never experience a game so beautifully polished the scale ofGreatest game in history. The entire Final Fantasy Mainline has an incredible storyline and every character had it's own unique personality that made them instantly recognisable and very easily loved or hated. At the time of the game's release, nothing could compare to the experience this game gave you it encapsulated you, you’ll never experience a game so beautifully polished the scale of everything in this game is perfect nothing feels out of place in this medieval setting. Despite only being single player video game. 100% worth playing way ahead of its time… Expand
  54. TifaBranford
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    This game is a masterpiece. The music, the story, the gameplay, the bosses eikon fights...all of it is spectacular. There is really not much else for me to say. If you give this game below 9, you are out of your mind.
  55. tri_fire
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Flawless in every way, teaching the player everything they need to know, and remaining interesting and fun, this game simply perfect.
  56. ScarredGav
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    As a final fantasy 14 fan I can say this is one of the greatest of all time, nearly perfect in every way graphics, sound, ost, story, gameplay and eikon fights. Has so much replay value . Best game I have ever played love the homage to previous ff games looking forward to what they do next!
  57. PrincessTerra
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Simply put the best game ever made. This game redefined the entire game industry and set a new standard nothing matches the scale of this new generation title. The experience that i have had with this game has not been matched and will never be matched again.
    I’ll be buying final fantasy xvi again on pc when it drops.
  58. GodFistLockhart
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    This game is the work of enlightened genius. Euphoric and powerful gameplay make this the best game that i have ever played and i would be surprised if anything ever surpassed it.
  59. InvictusXVI
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    An absolutely fantastic game, this is now my favorite FF game! FF7 will always be special but XVI? Phenomenal. Clive was spectacular as a MC! Soundtrack is peak. THAT boss fight left me with my jaw on the floor. Emotional and engaging the game leaves me wanting more every time I played!! Truly a stunning experience.

    Great Job Creative Business Team III
  60. pelona39
    Jul 6, 2023
    6
    I bought a PS5 only for this Final Fantasy XVI, what I've got? Disappointments
    I love Final Fantasy series, but this is kinda not acceptable, too hyped for a new FF title
    If it's not "Final Fantasy" I definitely will not finish the game. I saw a lot positive reviews, not really sure are they playing FF series before or not. Story The story of FF16 is basically JRPG in general, but    I bought a PS5 only for this Final Fantasy XVI, what I've got? Disappointments
    I love Final Fantasy series, but this is kinda not acceptable, too hyped for a new FF title

    If it's not "Final Fantasy" I definitely will not finish the game.
    I saw a lot positive reviews, not really sure are they playing FF series before or not.

    Story
    The story of FF16 is basically JRPG in general, but the text or language (I used English subtitle) to this game are not fit for a such "JRPG". English text in this game are suit to western games. I know that the producer of this game said that this game NOT a JRPG, he said this is RPG in generally but for me it's really JRPG in general with western-style language, from innocent character, to become vengeance, and then killing God... yeah basically JRPG.
    This is too hard to accept as Final Fantasy, maybe if this game is not "Final Fantasy" I think this story will be best. Because they only put iconic summon from FF like Ifrit, Shiva, Odin, Bahamut and yes it will automatically turned into Final Fantasy... and oh don't forget Cid, mothercrystal and moogle.
    Also thing I don't like, that they put some fillers in main story which is annoying for me.

    Sound/music
    Good, but not memorable like previous FF titles... I am not saying this is bad, just not memorable

    Gameplay
    Final Fantasy with their iconic turn-based gameplay is dead now, and it's turned into fully combat-action gameplay. The gameplay is too easy, I am not even use help-accessories. If this game compare too DmC, then this game is like easy-mode in DmC.

    Graphic
    No comment, it's good

    Overall
    For me as Final Fantasy fan, this game... this new title of Final Fantasy, is not good. I though this going to be best from FFXV, but this is worse... sorry. That's all my honest review    … Expand
  61. Yine
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Definitely game of the year for me. Great storyline, seemingly boring side quests but very well reflecting the world and characters. Engaging combat system that could be slightly more complicated/difficult. Beautiful world. Finally, the corridor nature, which still gives the opportunity to "sightseeing" - after all open worlds, a nice difference.
    The game has a few flaws and not    Definitely game of the year for me. Great storyline, seemingly boring side quests but very well reflecting the world and characters. Engaging combat system that could be slightly more complicated/difficult. Beautiful world. Finally, the corridor nature, which still gives the opportunity to "sightseeing" - after all open worlds, a nice difference.
    The game has a few flaws and not "understandable" treatments - some "things" could have been done better, but it definitely deserves a 10. ;)    … Expand
  62. RagnarokF4
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Haven't finished the game yet. Initially it felt like an 8 or 9 but after 30h it feels like a 10/10. Combat is great and intense and even after tens of hours the combat keeps evolving. Graphics and soundtrack are incredible, one of the best looking games with the soundtrack of the year. It has a lot of FF14 DNA, no doubt from the intriguing dark story and storytelling, to maps, explorationHaven't finished the game yet. Initially it felt like an 8 or 9 but after 30h it feels like a 10/10. Combat is great and intense and even after tens of hours the combat keeps evolving. Graphics and soundtrack are incredible, one of the best looking games with the soundtrack of the year. It has a lot of FF14 DNA, no doubt from the intriguing dark story and storytelling, to maps, exploration and world-building, and I love it! I'd love to see FF14 evolving into something like this one day. This game is an action RPG alright, the elements are there. The only missing thing here for me is to be able to use other party members, but it is fine. This is the GotY for me so far. Impressive game!!!… Expand
  63. Xyfur
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Overall characters, set pieces and gameplay stand out the most and are what make this game so memorable.
  64. RevengeFate
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy XVI is the single greatest single player video gaming experience for the PlayStation 5. Anyone who says it is boring is obviously not a serious gamer. The graphics were amazing for the PS5 way ahead of its time, best looking new generation game visually, the music score was amazing. the story was riveting. The gameplay, Eikon fights were best experience I ever witnessed, theFinal Fantasy XVI is the single greatest single player video gaming experience for the PlayStation 5. Anyone who says it is boring is obviously not a serious gamer. The graphics were amazing for the PS5 way ahead of its time, best looking new generation game visually, the music score was amazing. the story was riveting. The gameplay, Eikon fights were best experience I ever witnessed, the rest of the game was extremely fun.… Expand
  65. ZettahFlare
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Blows everything right out of the water. I actually miss this game when I'm not playing it.......I wish some games would be as revolutionary as this one. The use of the Eikons fights adds to the great wonder of this game. Must play ! Best game ever !!
  66. 1wingedkefka
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Nothing else comes close to being as good as Final Fantasy XVI. This is and will always be the best game of all time.
  67. LadyMariah
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    This is the best game ever made. The graphics are way ahead for its time, the music I ordered the ost straight away after hearing it was amazing and went well with the eikons or situations you constantly face. Also the gameplay is so smooth, Clive does exactly what you want him to do all the time. Seriously he stops perfectly when you let go of the joystick. Amazing game. Also the story isThis is the best game ever made. The graphics are way ahead for its time, the music I ordered the ost straight away after hearing it was amazing and went well with the eikons or situations you constantly face. Also the gameplay is so smooth, Clive does exactly what you want him to do all the time. Seriously he stops perfectly when you let go of the joystick. Amazing game. Also the story is very ammirsing. It creates a world with creatures and their habitats and stuff like that. Looking forward to the future the franchise.… Expand
  68. YouNeedTherapy
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    One of the few things that manage to live up to to, and even outdo, the massive expectations hype surrounding it. Easily the best game I have ever played.
    Best game of all time
  69. Fate_
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    I lack words for this game. Every single aspect of this masterwork screams of utter perfection and grace. Believe it or not, but this game is exactly as vital to your PS5 as the heart and lungs are to your body.
  70. Zodiac_
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Every time I see the intro screen to this game, I'm instantly hit with a pure feeling of nostalgia. Top notch graphics not a single game released on new generation console is on the standards this calibre game way ahead of its time, at the time these graphics were fantastic. The controls are so fluid, the items were fun to use and the eikon fights being the biggest scale fights in gamingEvery time I see the intro screen to this game, I'm instantly hit with a pure feeling of nostalgia. Top notch graphics not a single game released on new generation console is on the standards this calibre game way ahead of its time, at the time these graphics were fantastic. The controls are so fluid, the items were fun to use and the eikon fights being the biggest scale fights in gaming of all time 40/50 minutes goosebumps in these out the world fights always fun and would keep you staring at the screen for hours. The characters always made you laugh, smile, and hits you with a lot of emotional moments you felt the need to talk to everyone in sight. Cutting this short, I personally consider this to be the greatest game in history
    Nothing is topping this ~    … Expand
  71. Risenifrit
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    About this game i can only say that is perfect. I cant express by words how much i love this game.
    Final Fantasy XVI Masterpiece best game of all time 10/10 this smokes every game that came out in past decade that’s tough
  72. Computerchip
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Truly, not a single action role-playing game can compare to this game.
    The best game ever made, is perfect in any aspect of the game, music, graphics, story, gameplay, bosses, and eikon fights so much more
  73. Winter_Storm
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    As far as I'm concerned this is one of the best, if not the best games ever made. Even when i defeated the game i just started new game + straight away with my previous completed save file and started over.
  74. TheSearch_
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    I'm one of those people who think that this is the greatest game of all time, no matter what quality games are out now or will be out ever.
    Final Fantasy XVI is best action role-playing game of all time
  75. menghsun
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    I Love This Game!!!!!!!, the Story are so good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  76. OnlyOneHere
    Jul 5, 2023
    0
    This game is a steaming pile of garbage. Nothing in this game scream next-gen to justify the outrageous price of $70. The physics are beyond horrible. The lighting effects are a joke. The story is complete trash. It is the typical "muh dark mature story" cliche garbage beloved by toy-collecting Millennials. Maybe if these developers were more mature about developing their games thanThis game is a steaming pile of garbage. Nothing in this game scream next-gen to justify the outrageous price of $70. The physics are beyond horrible. The lighting effects are a joke. The story is complete trash. It is the typical "muh dark mature story" cliche garbage beloved by toy-collecting Millennials. Maybe if these developers were more mature about developing their games than writing cringeworthy stories for bully-victims, this game wouldn't have facial animations as awful as Mass Effect Andromeda. For goodness sake, why are developers so obsessed with exaggerating the dramatic music in games? Enough already. It's embarrassing to be a gamer these days because of stupid garbage like this.

    The combat is boring and repetitive. When I pay $70, I expect a combat system with depth and detail. All the developers did is put pretty lights during every move, to give players the illusion that the game is fun. None of that is fun for me. This game fails to add the attention to detail you would expect in a AAA game. There are too many invisible walls in this game, just like the last two arty farty God of War games. Speaking of God of War, there are too many cutscenes, even during the terrible boss fights. I don't want to watch a freaking movie, I just want to punch monsters. The side quests are boring. The level design is poor and so are the camera angles. Dead bodies and plants don't react to your movement. The animations are pathetic.

    There is no multiplayer. So once you beat the story, this game will go back to the shelf and collect dust. Charging $70 for a game with no replay value is a cash grab. The greedy developers were too cheap and lazy to implement multiplayer. I am sick to death of these greedy developers increasing the prices of games, only for us to get half of the game. I don't recommend this game at all, unless you want to support laziness.    … Expand
  77. NicoCC
    Jul 5, 2023
    0
    If you love Devil May Cry, this game is for you. If you love Final Fantasy games, this game is NOT for you. I've literally played all previous FF games and I love the RPG games in general. So here are my reasons for giving it a zero:

    1. The story is terrible and terribly written. 2. It is absolutely NOT an RPG game. 3. Dialog is very boring. 4. Characters are forgettable. 5. Side    If you love Devil May Cry, this game is for you. If you love Final Fantasy games, this game is NOT for you. I've literally played all previous FF games and I love the RPG games in general. So here are my reasons for giving it a zero:

    1. The story is terrible and terribly written.
    2. It is absolutely NOT an RPG game.
    3. Dialog is very boring.
    4. Characters are forgettable.
    5. Side quests are boring.
    6. Battles are very easy.
    7. Item and weapon pallet is small.
    8. Crafting is terrible, you collect a ton of things that you have nowhere to use.
    9. You can't buy back items, so don't sell anything because you will miss an opportunity late in the game without warning.
    10. Music is not on par to previous titles.
    11. Some aspects of the game design are very unnecessary.
    12. OVERALL: this is a complete failure as a "Final Fantasy" title. As a "Devil May Cry"-type title, it works. Graphics are nice too. But the most important aspects of the game are terrible.

    If this is the direction SquareEnix is going with Final Fantasy, then Final Fantasy as we knew it is dead.    … Expand
  78. KhalifaObaid
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    The new GOW3, the technical details that went into ekion fights are insanely good and need to be explored more for the next gen.
  79. Seth842
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    I will admit going into this that I may be fully biased. Final Fantasy is one of my favorite game series of all time with 10 being my favorite game. That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed 16. The story, the combat, the music. All of it was a home run for me.

    The combat director formerly worked on Devil May Cry 6 and it shows. It feels fluid and clean just like the former. It can feel    I will admit going into this that I may be fully biased. Final Fantasy is one of my favorite game series of all time with 10 being my favorite game. That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed 16. The story, the combat, the music. All of it was a home run for me.

    The combat director formerly worked on Devil May Cry 6 and it shows. It feels fluid and clean just like the former. It can feel simple yet as you progress and become more comfortable with it; you can pull of more complicated combos and weave together more powers. I found it a much more engaging solution to FF15's leave from the more original combat of Final Fantasy. Eikon battles are absolutely insane and truly take the game to a higher level. There are plenty of accessibility accessories you can equip that modify the combat to be easier. This is great for those either newly interested players or those that struggle with this gameplay. The story is absolute dynamite. A fantastic cast comes together to bring this to life. Clive's actor definitely understood the character and added so much subtext to it all that came through. The relationships between all the characters as they progressed were wonderful to watch. Even comedic relief was incredibly well done and well timed. As always, the strongest suit of Final Fantasy is a story that engages you and makes you feel many emotions while playing. Simply a fantastic cast of characters.

    Overall, some may be upset with the combat changes or diversion from the FF norm. Lots of reviews claiming that the game is too easy!! (While playing with every easy modifier). This is a Final Fantasy that anyone can truly get into and enjoy. As always, fantastic work to Square Enix, congratulations to the production and cast, and, finally, enjoy the journey.    … Expand
  80. LadyLaLa08
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    Every Game has small flaws, but for me that doesn’t take away anything from my enjoyment level. I’m a long time Final Fantasy fan, and I know some people are upset about the lack of turn based combat, or perhaps the lack of controllable party members….Now I love turn-based combat, but the franchise has been moving away from that direction for decades now, so for me, it seems a silly thingEvery Game has small flaws, but for me that doesn’t take away anything from my enjoyment level. I’m a long time Final Fantasy fan, and I know some people are upset about the lack of turn based combat, or perhaps the lack of controllable party members….Now I love turn-based combat, but the franchise has been moving away from that direction for decades now, so for me, it seems a silly thing to gripe about. In my opinion the strongest aspect of the franchise has always been storytelling, and this game is coming up all aces in that regard. Characters, storyline, music, cinematography all 10/10. The voice acting is utterly top notch. Ben Starr is an obvious standout as our main hero Clive, but there really are no weak-links in this cast, they all have such heart. You may not have the traditional “party” that many FF games have, but you absolutely have a great crew that feel so real. Even the minor side characters have their own stories you can learn about in side quests. And yes, I will admit…some of the side quests are simple “fetch quests” and kinda lame, but quite a few are really great for world and character building. Some are just downright silly, which is a charm all it’s own. All the Clive x serving food quests were pure meme’s by the end, and I grudgingly ended up loving it. This game is absolutely visually stunning. When even the weakest video game, over the shoulder shots look as good as this, what is there to complain about? I certainly don’t know. The explorable area’s are beautiful, the atmosphere’s are perfect, the cinematography in the cutscenes are artful. The fact that we can have such subtlety that speaks volumes in video games today is truly remarkable. And the boss battles!? The Boss battles!!! They are pure unapologetic spectacle!!!! Just wow. Final Fantasy is known for having great music and XVI delivers. Beautiful, heartstring pulling Melodies, as well as straight bangers! My personal favourite thing about all the music was the classic crystal theme that weaved in and out of many songs throughout the game at always just the right time. Going back to combat…although many of us lament the death of turn based, XVI’s combat is very fun. I’m not very good at action games myself, but this system is fluid and very satisfying. Ability tree’s that open up throughout the game are fun to play around with as you can re-spec your ability points at anytime for free. I think some of the hardcore gamers out there who like punishment might have wanted a harder difficulty from the onset, instead of having to wait for New Game+, but as that is definitely not me, I can’t say. XVI had some scepticism to combat, us Final Fantasy fans can be a hard to please lot. With this being the first M rated entry, and the mediaeval setting it was advertising, I think some of us didn’t know how to feel. One worry in particular I remember harbouring myself was, “Is it going to feel like a FF game?” I didn’t want a game that felt like a new dark souls because those are so popular. Well I’m pleased to say with confidence, that this is without a doubt a Final Fantasy game. It has that spark that I personally can’t quantify. That something that’s beyond chocobos, moogles, and magic. No game is perfect, but Final Fantasy XVI is a masterpiece all the same in my eyes.… Expand
  81. Cargograph
    Jul 5, 2023
    8
    Overrated by the critics. Interesting story ruined by bidimensional storytelling, missions and dull, generic protagonist. Not the step forward final fantasy fans have been waiting for. A good battle system without the substance in storytelling Final Fantasy is known for.
  82. lovejina83
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is the game that make me buy my first PS.
    This is the game that make me play FF.    … Expand
  83. Babayaga26
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Love the game!!! Story + gameplay are on point, very fun game to play even if you are new to the franchise, the story is great, game is beautiful, gameplay is fun, KUDOS SQUAREENIX!!!!!!!
  84. tmsrq8
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    10/10 deserves it music is amazing gameplay keeps getting better and better and the characters are amazing and have depth and you can tell they poured their love into the game .
  85. slimpyman
    Jul 5, 2023
    8
    Though there are many things dropped that make this a rpg, this is a fun game. The cutscenes are great, voice acting top shelf, combat is easy but responsive and interactive. The world is well crafted, but invisible walls and hallway simulations are abundant. The characters are great. I wish more quests with rpg elements introduced. I will certainly revisit this game in due time!

    The    Though there are many things dropped that make this a rpg, this is a fun game. The cutscenes are great, voice acting top shelf, combat is easy but responsive and interactive. The world is well crafted, but invisible walls and hallway simulations are abundant. The characters are great. I wish more quests with rpg elements introduced. I will certainly revisit this game in due time!

    The codex of info readily available to read or research while in cutscenes is now a tool which should be implemented in all games that try to craft a believable intricate world. Very well done, even if I wouldn't call it a final fantasy. I guess we now hope dragon quest is the new standard of RPGs, while the final fantasy series is being done like a western adventure action game. The audio production is second to none. Though Mobius isn't making the music, it's pretty good though not as catchy and memorable. The composer will be a great in due time.    … Expand
  86. coic
    Jun 26, 2023
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Adjustment on the 10hr review: Final Fantasy 16 is badly written. That Bahamut fight was a ridiculous and stupid reminded of power rangers but at least power rangers knew their audience. I gave yoship and his team the benefit of the doubt with endwalker due to their concentration on this game but holy **** man respect the legacy of the game. Bad. Really bad.… Expand
  87. Eversoul
    Jul 5, 2023
    3
    This game was a huge disappointment for me. The first half was pretty great, but then I got to the halfway mark and just kept asking myself "is this all there is?"

    First off I love action combat in RPGs, but the fighting is so shallow and easy in the game a gnat couldnt drown in it. Enemy variety is abysmal and you stop running into new enemies before the halfway mark and they are all    This game was a huge disappointment for me. The first half was pretty great, but then I got to the halfway mark and just kept asking myself "is this all there is?"

    First off I love action combat in RPGs, but the fighting is so shallow and easy in the game a gnat couldnt drown in it. Enemy variety is abysmal and you stop running into new enemies before the halfway mark and they are all fought exactly the same. No strategy other than depleting a stagger bar then using a couple of big moves and repeat it ad nauseum. Thats egregious for a 20 hour long game

    The world itself utilizes ps3 era design philosophies and feels either extremely lazy or low budget. No dungeons to explore. no meaningful gear to find. no puzzles to solve. no character to build. no party to control. The games side quests feel worse than most korean free to play MMOs. They offer no meaningful rewards or content to do and only try to shove the games main plot point down your throat incessantly in bite sized chunks. There are way too many of these as well and they always pop up in horrible spots totally ruining the pacing of an already weirdly paced story. There are a few things I did enjoy about the game though like some of the characters and a few of the boss fights werent terrible. I also appreciated the grounded approach to story telling, but that almost is fully abandoned by the end with what I can only describe as the "god is the badguy" cliche and you have to prove to him humanity can survive. It really feels out of place in what was a somewhat intriguing political fantasy tale although it did rely on game of thrones tropes too often. All in all I dont HATE the game, but it honestly feels like several steps back from FF12 which is what it seems to want to emulate. It feels watered down and the budget feels like it was only placed in visual fidelity rather than actual game design. Ill say its a personal 7 out of 10 for me.    … Expand
  88. Couchp
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    Great game. It does exactly what it wants to, and it does so well. The combat is very fun and responsive. If you're a fan of the genre, you'll like the game.
  89. Jennyb010
    Jul 5, 2023
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I absolutely loved this game. The cut scenes were so good and at times so beautiful! The fight animations were so great. I loved the main characters so much. This game reminded me so much of FF14!… Expand
  90. Holycrazia
    Jul 5, 2023
    9
    An amazing game. Story wise we are on a high level. Graphics and set pieces are out of this world. Holy moly some cinematic battles! They beat even god of wars. Some of the side quests are a bit underwhelming but most are good, and are making the game world feel even more identifiable to our world. I can in all earnest recommend this game to everyone who like fantasy and like a good storyAn amazing game. Story wise we are on a high level. Graphics and set pieces are out of this world. Holy moly some cinematic battles! They beat even god of wars. Some of the side quests are a bit underwhelming but most are good, and are making the game world feel even more identifiable to our world. I can in all earnest recommend this game to everyone who like fantasy and like a good story with some memorable characters. There are many, but I can identify all of them, and put names to their faces. Which means you become close to these characters and feel even more for them!… Expand
  91. CliveCloudy
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Can‘t say in Words.. it was amazing love the People the Story the battles the places the Soundtrack… Expand
  92. WorldMapRunner
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    It's a masterpiece. As a long-time fan, I can say this game deviates from traditional formula in its action gameplay only (and FF12 and FF15 already did that too. This game just did it better). Nearly everything feels extremely polished and top-notch. The story premise and execution, dialogue, acting, music, visuals (technically and artistically), and gameplay responsiveness are all top-tier.
  93. NeptuneAria
    Jul 5, 2023
    4
    Oh no, it's a shame what has happened to the series. I'm glad that more people are falling out of the honeymoon phase and critiquing the game with more realistic scores. 10/10 should be nowhere near this game. The story isn't bad, but it's not this revolutionary epic that we see in some of the commentary since the game's release. The characters are charismatic, yet, they lack the diversityOh no, it's a shame what has happened to the series. I'm glad that more people are falling out of the honeymoon phase and critiquing the game with more realistic scores. 10/10 should be nowhere near this game. The story isn't bad, but it's not this revolutionary epic that we see in some of the commentary since the game's release. The characters are charismatic, yet, they lack the diversity the series is known for. Not a lot of tactics in the combat either, which I never thought I'd say for an FF game. The graphics are very pretty and cinematic. Even so, that alone doesn't win me over. A proper score for this game is 5-7. Mine is a 4, because of the lack of actual Final Fantasy in this Final Fantasy game.… Expand
  94. RaddyC
    Jul 5, 2023
    8
    The gameplay, characters, music, sidequests, and bosses absolutely the best in any game I've played in a long, long time. RPG mechanics and the main antagonist are absolutely awful and poorly written. The first 2/3 of 16's story are easily one of the best in any game in the last 15 years. I have never seen a game trip at the finish line quite as badly as Final Fantasy XVI. The mainThe gameplay, characters, music, sidequests, and bosses absolutely the best in any game I've played in a long, long time. RPG mechanics and the main antagonist are absolutely awful and poorly written. The first 2/3 of 16's story are easily one of the best in any game in the last 15 years. I have never seen a game trip at the finish line quite as badly as Final Fantasy XVI. The main offender was the main villain. I 100% get what they were going for, I really do. But it was handled in the least compelling way I can imagine. He is generic, bland, uninteresting and has been done dozens of times before.… Expand
  95. UnexpectedQuaza
    Jul 5, 2023
    9
    Final Fantasy 16 has the best action pieces in video game history. It brings back the awe and epicness of past games like God of War 3. The gameplay is fun although too ability focused which makes combos irrelevant unless you go out of your way to just have fun with the amazing combo system which the game allows you to. The graphics are some of the best there is especially in the finalFinal Fantasy 16 has the best action pieces in video game history. It brings back the awe and epicness of past games like God of War 3. The gameplay is fun although too ability focused which makes combos irrelevant unless you go out of your way to just have fun with the amazing combo system which the game allows you to. The graphics are some of the best there is especially in the final stages and boss battles where the linear levels seem to allow for some amazing visuals that is unfortunately missing in the open world in which 90% of the game takes place. The story is beyond perfect, from the very first time we got our hands on the demo, we knew this was going to be special and I am so happy it was. The highs of this game are beyond anything that has been done in video games and for that reason, I believe this is a must have experience… Expand
  96. OldManLav
    Jun 29, 2023
    10
    Seriously engrossing story, characters that stick with you long after the credits roll, a gorgeous fantasy setting with console showcasing-level visuals (I'll take the limited FPS to *finally* get to play a game that actually looks next-gen) and a masterful soundtrack. To me, that's the ingredients to a great Final Fantasy game. And to the crybabies who are bashing the combat without evenSeriously engrossing story, characters that stick with you long after the credits roll, a gorgeous fantasy setting with console showcasing-level visuals (I'll take the limited FPS to *finally* get to play a game that actually looks next-gen) and a masterful soundtrack. To me, that's the ingredients to a great Final Fantasy game. And to the crybabies who are bashing the combat without even giving it a chance: get over yourselves. The game is a whole lot of fun to play.… Expand
  97. ghostlytoast
    Jul 5, 2023
    7
    This is a hard game to recommend. Because it’s not just a solid 7/10 experience all the way through. That would be fine, slap a 7 on the box, buy it or don’t, kills a few hours but has no lasting effect. No, quite frustratingly, this game has some awesome 10/10 moments that will blow you away, but they are consistently let down by 4/10 design, some baffling choices and tedious gameplay.This is a hard game to recommend. Because it’s not just a solid 7/10 experience all the way through. That would be fine, slap a 7 on the box, buy it or don’t, kills a few hours but has no lasting effect. No, quite frustratingly, this game has some awesome 10/10 moments that will blow you away, but they are consistently let down by 4/10 design, some baffling choices and tedious gameplay.

    For example the combat, it looks and feels amazing. Fighting smaller enemies gets dull relatively quickly but the larger enemies with the stagger bar are always fun. You’ll be dodging, countering, staggering and then letting rip with your most powerful moves, it feels great. That is until later on when enemies get much more numerous, now you’re spending most of the fight worrying about attacks coming from offscreen, picking off little guys with a few swipes until you can take on the bigger guy. And don’t think you’ll be able to attack the little guys you want, nah, the game will decides who you attack at this point, wanna go after the annoying magic **** you’ll have to dodge your way over to him away from all the other guys swarming you.

    Combat also looks incredible, each attack from you and your enemy is accompanied with flashy particle effects that are just beautiful. That is until later on (again), get ready for an absolute bukakke of bloom and particle effects filling your screen, especially in boss fights. You’re dodging flaming shockwaves from falling comets and sidestepping the dancing arcs of lightning crackling above your head. Oh you missed barely conceivable blue glow underneath you, now you’ve been penetrated by an ice spike and your day is ruined. Although that’s not to say bosses are hard, they’re not. They are however an incredible spectacle to behold. But how does a boss battle feel epic if it’s easy, well you make it really **** long apparently. I’m sure some of the bosses go on for over an hour, or at least it feels like it. And when you have multiple phases of doing pretty much the same thing, over and over, followed by some cutscenes with QTEs and then an Eikon section, followed by another boss phase and then a QTE cutscene. Well it can drag on a little.

    So that’s over, I’ve just punched a dragon into oblivion, cracked a continent and been to outer space in an epic showdown and I’m still only a third of the way through. What next? How can you possibly top that? You want me to do what? Pick some flowers? Um… Okay. Yeah The lows can get a little jarring, after the epic, admittedly overlong highs. Especially when more than a few side quests consist of, talking to a quest giver, fast travelling to a place to talk to another person and then fast travelling back to the quest giver.

    So why play? Well, the story is well worth it. It actually kept me going until the end when I was done with everything else. And the good parts of the game are there in abundance, and you will enjoy them. But it will be harder to overlook the equally abundant issues for some people. Which is why this game seems so divisive.

    I will say this, to give this game a 10 you have to overlook some pretty egregious issues. To give it a 0 you have to overlook everything the game gets right. These reviews are best ignored. Do your research, read as many reviews as possible and if it looks like the issues won’t ruin the game for you, go and get it. You won’t be sorry.    … Expand
  98. Sweeb
    Jul 5, 2023
    9
    Great game, I don't mind the new direction square is going. Be cool of they made action combat and another project that focuses turn based.
  99. JuanFFG
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    the best game in the history of final fantasy and RPG games.

    The soundtrack is a 10, accompanied by a story worthy of holliwod, without a doubt enters my top 1, and I've played all the final fantasy so far.
  100. Higepanda
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    【English】
    I was very satisfied not only with the beauty of the game but also with the challenging battles.
    The performance during the battle with the bosses was also thrilling and filled me with emotion! Although the game is not a completely open world, you can feel the vastness of the world and enjoy the fun of exploration. There are also memory-collecting and viewing elements that    【English】
    I was very satisfied not only with the beauty of the game but also with the challenging battles.
    The performance during the battle with the bosses was also thrilling and filled me with emotion!
    Although the game is not a completely open world, you can feel the vastness of the world and enjoy the fun of exploration.
    There are also memory-collecting and viewing elements that allow you to delve deeper into the backbone of the characters, and I recommend it to those who want to enjoy the entire world setting.
    Photo mode is also a nice touch.

    【日本語】
    美しさだけではなく、バトルもアクションとしてのやり応え十分で、大満足です。
    ボスとの戦闘中の演出も、滅茶苦茶アツくて、感情移入しまくりでした！
    完全なるオープンワールドではなくても、世界の広大さを感じられ、探索の楽しさを味わえます。
    キャラクターバックボーンを深掘りできる備忘録のコレクション・閲覧要素もあり、ゲームを世界観設定ごと楽しみたい人にもお勧めです。
    フォトモード常備なのも、嬉しいポイントですね‼    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

16
#16 Best PlayStation 5 Game of 2023
1
#1 Most Discussed PlayStation 5 Game of 2023

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 146 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 134 out of 146
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 146
  3. Negative: 0 out of 146
  1. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Jan 22, 2024
    100
    Final Fantasy XVI is an excellent game in every way. If you're a fan of the series for the stories and characters, you won't go wrong here, and if you've avoided the series for, say, turn-based combat, the sixteenth installment offers the perfect opportunity to get started with this legend of the gaming industry. [Issue#329]
  2. Riot Pixels
    Oct 30, 2023
    73
    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.
    Read full review
  3. PLAY
    Sep 17, 2023
    90
    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]
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