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
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. FlippinFlippo
    Jun 27, 2023
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game is very good, gameplay and graphic wise, Im loving this game very much!… Expand
  2. pacheito
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Estoy totalmente sumergido en este juego, una maravilla. El combate es adictivo y la historia me sorprende cada vez que avanzó un nuevo capítulo. Totalmente recomendado
  3. IvanXiks
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Hand off xbox users and PC. Great game, great story!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  4. RinoTheBouncer
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    The best PS5 game to date. I’m genuinely blown away by everything from gameplay to storytelling, lore, world design, characters, visual fidelity, variety in world design, music ..etc.
  5. ParanoidRED
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Insane scale that make GOW3 pale in comparison, phenomenal graphics and combat, the locations are stunning and the music is godly.

    GG FF team, you nailed it this time
  6. AwesomeAndrew
    Jun 27, 2023
    9
    Combat is top Tier, story actually is actually entertaining graphics are fantastic especially with the amazing set pieces you get placed in. This is actually my 1st ff game ever and I'd recommend it to anyone who haven't played ff.
  7. azooz00
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Final fantasy is about pushing the boundaries. And this game is did that and more. Love it
  8. ace99
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Absolutely amazing game and easily the best I have played in years. The combat is so much fun and the story and characters are so incredibly compelling. Square Enix really knocked it out the park this time! :)
  9. hiko945
    Jun 27, 2023
    9
    PROS: Great story, characters in this game are likeable, Visually stunning, profound lore with active time lore (great features). Also, the ending of this game is very satisfying. I planned to New Game + right away to experience new challenges.
    CONS: performance issues, motion blur, 50% side quest I didn't like, lack of RPG elements.
    Conclusion: The best Final Fantasy game since Final Fantasy 12
  10. Hamam
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Absolutely amazing game,everything is too epic and addicting.Only issues is performance mode and i hope they will fix.This combat should be default for every FF game.YES ABSOLUTELY MASTERPIECE
  11. Baobunx
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Great combat, looks great, fantastic story. A return to form for the series.
  12. Jonny5784
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Absolutely outstanding game, and without a shadow of a doubt the best entry since Final fantasy X in my opinion, everything in this game just seems oozes polish and is on an epic scale especially the big Eikon fights, the story is very good and all the characters are likeable with good backstory and character building, the thing I expected not to like was the combat system, but that wasAbsolutely outstanding game, and without a shadow of a doubt the best entry since Final fantasy X in my opinion, everything in this game just seems oozes polish and is on an epic scale especially the big Eikon fights, the story is very good and all the characters are likeable with good backstory and character building, the thing I expected not to like was the combat system, but that was crazily one of my favourite things in the game, the battle system is outstanding for an all out action game never mind an RPG, honestly I can’t praise this game enough as it’s wonderful in pretty much every way, and definitely my GOTY so far.… Expand
  13. MatthewTCG
    Jun 27, 2023
    8
    Pros:

    Rated M Blood, guts, darkness, and cuss words Graphics, vistas, and cinematics are all top notch Very well polished game and experience Amazing and responsive combat Depth of the combat system Great voice acting Lots of bang for your buck with regards to the amount of content per dollar spent A nice deviation from the typical Final Fantasy formula Cons: The    Pros:

    Rated M
    Blood, guts, darkness, and cuss words
    Graphics, vistas, and cinematics are all top notch
    Very well polished game and experience
    Amazing and responsive combat
    Depth of the combat system
    Great voice acting
    Lots of bang for your buck with regards to the amount of content per dollar spent
    A nice deviation from the typical Final Fantasy formula

    Cons:
    The 'sidequests' are horrific, they felt like MMO sidequests
    The story was hard to follow at times, even with the 'Active Time Lore' feature
    The story lacked originality, it was painfully obvious that the writers took inspiration from Game of Thrones and popular anime
    Story pacing wasn't the best, you would have an hour or two of beefy story/fights then an hour or two of filler 'main' quests that really felt like sidequests, rinse and repeat for the entirety of the game
    Uninteresting crafting system that felt pointless throughout the game

    Ultimately, this is a solid game that deserves the AAA title. Definitely a step in the right direction for Square Enix and Final Fantasy.    … Expand
  14. Exc-Enthusiast
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    I want to start by saying that the game's narrative and story are its absolute highlights to me. The story is pretty strong, with engaging characters that we can love and hate and an epic quest that has some real surprises and twists along the way. The gameplay and story blend together so well in FF16 making for an incredibly immersive and entertaining experience. The combat is fast pacedI want to start by saying that the game's narrative and story are its absolute highlights to me. The story is pretty strong, with engaging characters that we can love and hate and an epic quest that has some real surprises and twists along the way. The gameplay and story blend together so well in FF16 making for an incredibly immersive and entertaining experience. The combat is fast paced and dynamic and the game explores a range of themes from politics and war to family drama and romance creating an engaging story that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The world is also beautifully realized and the main cast of characters are all well written and believable with compelling character arcs and relationships that truly drive the story forward. (From someone who isn't an RPG fan)… Expand
  15. Hoodedsoup
    Jun 27, 2023
    9
    Amazing Eikon battles and story telling. Characters are all fully fleshed out and the world feels like its a living place, slightly linear but not in a bad way I just want more areas to explore.
  16. Vikashtailor
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    I’m new to FF but this is going to stay with me for a long time! The music, story, characters, world - chefs kiss.
  17. Yoshi-p-is-god
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    This is a divine game created by P. Yoshida. I can say that this is the best Final Fantasy game since the 21st century, not to mention the best Final Fantasy game ever made. It goes beyond the boundaries of RPGs, and beyond the genre of games to bring us the best experience possible. Just as everyone is moved by Michael Jackson or Freddie Mercury, Yoshida P.'s game will make people feelThis is a divine game created by P. Yoshida. I can say that this is the best Final Fantasy game since the 21st century, not to mention the best Final Fantasy game ever made. It goes beyond the boundaries of RPGs, and beyond the genre of games to bring us the best experience possible. Just as everyone is moved by Michael Jackson or Freddie Mercury, Yoshida P.'s game will make people feel the most emotional feelings of all. Not buying this game is tantamount to making the wrong choice, like living in the modern world without Apple products.… Expand
  18. FFlovers
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Yoshida-san is our god! There's no reason why a game created by the gods shouldn't be fun! This piece deserves full marks!
  19. xxxasdf
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy 16 is the best game I've played recently
    I usually don't like to waste time review
  20. offerni
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    A Masterpiece! I haven’t played a game that incredible in every aspect in a really long time.
  21. Ashariel
    Jun 27, 2023
    9
    Game is different than final fantasy of old. It is more like today Sony games meaning story driven action game with rpg elements(old final fantasy games were almost always rpg first). That change makes it different(but different doesn't means bad).
  22. stroma12
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    The game is amazing.

    Personally, I always get any mainline Final Fantasy game as much as possible since I am a fan of the series. Up until may playtrough, I really can say that this is better than the previous 2 non-mmorpg mainline FF (which are 13 and 15). I'm currently enjoying the battle system and story. My only problem is there are parts where the frame drops (mostly on    The game is amazing.

    Personally, I always get any mainline Final Fantasy game as much as possible since I am a fan of the series. Up until may playtrough, I really can say that this is better than the previous 2 non-mmorpg mainline FF (which are 13 and 15). I'm currently enjoying the battle system and story.

    My only problem is there are parts where the frame drops (mostly on cutscences) but during battle, I haven't experienced this.

    Overall, CBU3 created a masterpiece and their vision of a great Final Fantasy game has come true.    … Expand
  23. RedMage_2
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Judging FF16 on its merits! Story is great. Battles are awesome. The music is fantastic!!!!! Most side quests focused more on worldbuilding. It's definitely light on the RPG mechanics but its doing its own thing like every other entry in the series. A must-play experience in my opinion!!!
  24. d0wt3r
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    One of the best games ive played in the past decade its so good to see a company create what they want the story they want to tell and not cave to the pressure of these sicko lgbtq wierdos trying to destroy everything us normal folk hold near and dear to our hearts ive bought the digital deluxe edition and will be buying the disk version also entertainment like this doesn't come alongOne of the best games ive played in the past decade its so good to see a company create what they want the story they want to tell and not cave to the pressure of these sicko lgbtq wierdos trying to destroy everything us normal folk hold near and dear to our hearts ive bought the digital deluxe edition and will be buying the disk version also entertainment like this doesn't come along often and we will probably not see anymore for a long time this type of entertainment needs to be supported more so we can continue to receive more of it THANKYOU SQUARE for the amazing game and the amazing adventure keep up the good work and dont change for no establishment… Expand
  25. Coutline
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy 16

    Realmente o jogo está incrível (ainda sim é pouco para descrever). Estou abismado com tamanha qualidade nas batalhas, em cada detalhe dos Eikons, diálogos, história e acontece muuuuuuuita coisa ao mesmo tempo na tela com muitos efeitos. É tantos efeitos em tempo real (não tem CGI) que realmente o Playstation 5 faz um show a parte É porradaria atrás de porradaria.    Final Fantasy 16

    Realmente o jogo está incrível (ainda sim é pouco para descrever). Estou abismado com tamanha qualidade nas batalhas, em cada detalhe dos Eikons, diálogos, história e acontece muuuuuuuita coisa ao mesmo tempo na tela com muitos efeitos. É tantos efeitos em tempo real (não tem CGI) que realmente o Playstation 5 faz um show a parte

    É porradaria atrás de porradaria. Sangue para todo lado :D adoro sentir aquela empolgação que me faz querer jogar mais e mais... Isso porque não fiz nem 9% do jogo. Para quem realmente tem dúvidas sobre só apertar ⬛, estão muito enganados. O jogo nesse pequeno período de gameplay já me apresentou uma variedade de combos usando vários botões (incluindo R1). A história é cativante e te deixa "hã? Como assim?" E você quer avançar mais hahaha. Final Fantasy 16 para mim soube lapidar para chegar em seu esplendor.    … Expand
  26. Epione
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    I've been playing Final Fantasy for 22 years, played and finished almost all of their games and let me say I absolutely love this game!
    It has all the qualities of a final fantasy game, great visuals and music, epic game play and an amazing story. On top of the typical qualities it also brings something new to the game, a more dark and adult feel and amazing voice acting (which was much    I've been playing Final Fantasy for 22 years, played and finished almost all of their games and let me say I absolutely love this game!
    It has all the qualities of a final fantasy game, great visuals and music, epic game play and an amazing story. On top of the typical qualities it also brings something new to the game, a more dark and adult feel and amazing voice acting (which was much needed in my opinion). This game made me laugh, cry and blush and had me on the edge of my seat with my butt cheeks clenched during big fights.
    Is it perfect... No
    Is it a wonderful game ... Most definitely!    … Expand
  27. primus161rus
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Хорошая игра,сюжет хороший ,не особо и греется ps5… Expand
  28. DanijelM
    Jun 26, 2023
    5
    I wanted to give it a 10 but then I saw gay characters in the game and NO! I don't play games with this woke BS.
  29. Aplefuzz
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Amazing game, with a great narrative, ecxellent combat system. one of the best games in 2023. voice acting is phenomenal
  30. eden_gf
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Gran obra maestra. Muy infravalorado. En unos años será muy bien recordado y formará parte del top de la saga Final Fantasy. He gozado de cada segundo, épico a rabiar.
  31. iYonko
    Jun 25, 2023
    10
    Great game if you considered playing it then don't hesitate and don't listen to this negative reviews check this game yourself and make an opinion based on your play through
  32. XbotsSuckAss
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    An amazing game. Don't listen to the haters saying this isn't a FF game or the Xbox fanboys trying to give it 0/10s because it's not on Xbox. This one of the best games of the year. The story and gameplay are amazing. The graphics are incredible and the music will leave you in tears because it's so good. This is my favorite FF game since FF7 on the PS1. Square Enix really outdid themselvesAn amazing game. Don't listen to the haters saying this isn't a FF game or the Xbox fanboys trying to give it 0/10s because it's not on Xbox. This one of the best games of the year. The story and gameplay are amazing. The graphics are incredible and the music will leave you in tears because it's so good. This is my favorite FF game since FF7 on the PS1. Square Enix really outdid themselves this time and this is a game I've been waiting for them to make for a long time as a longtime FF fan.… Expand
  33. NaevaOami
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Amazing story, soundtrack and gameplay. One of the best FF game ever. Really enjoy it.
  34. Rexato
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    Final Fantasy XVI is a flawed game, yet it gave me some of the highest moments in gaming in recent years. A beautiful story about loss, overcoming hardships and building a better world, even if that world might be years in the future, In my heart I would give this game a 10 but I can't ignore the major flaws that pretty apparent.

    Quest design is serviceable at best, aged and mediocre at    Final Fantasy XVI is a flawed game, yet it gave me some of the highest moments in gaming in recent years. A beautiful story about loss, overcoming hardships and building a better world, even if that world might be years in the future, In my heart I would give this game a 10 but I can't ignore the major flaws that pretty apparent.

    Quest design is serviceable at best, aged and mediocre at worst, 90% of them play the exact same and they get redundant pretty fast, during the main game it felt multiple times that a quest was added to pad the runtime, never bothered me until the ending of the 3rd quarter and by the end of the game, in the former there was a quest that literally led to me questioning my sanity given how little importance to anything it had, while in the latter... I'm not gonna go into spoilers but let just say a specific section might have been cut or shortened.

    The biggest problem with the quests however are the secondaries, all of them are the exact same and they get repetitive really, really fast. Were it not for some of the side character development and lore some of them offered I would have grown tired of them much faster, but by the end I was pretty fed up with the side quests sadly. The combat system is really really fun, it's not the magnum opus that was spoken of during interviews from a player standpoint but I think I know why they said it, it's got a lot of options and many ways to customize how you play and mawl your opponents, devil may cry this ain't, but some damn good action it sure be. (Altho it has to be said, it is on the easier side for habitual action game players, the lack of a fourth "hard" difficulty option together with the main two plus the NG+ final fantasy mode would have been appreciated. The rpg element is pretty linear, given the action game direction I don't wanna call this a flaw but it has to be said, the only real customization and rpg building will come in the form of which skills you acquire for your setup and which accessories you equip, weapons and armor are pretty linear otherwise, again, not a flaw given the context, but if you're expecting materia building, junctions or the ffx spherography, you'll be disappointed. The soundtrack is... Phenomenal, multiple times I just sat there going "WHAT THE HECK IS THIS MUSIC" and started jumping up and down in excitement. The voice acting (English) was honestly even better than I expected, every performer brought their a-game to the table and delivered one hell of a performance, I'm gonna use the main protagonist has a metric and say that yeah, they did one hell of a job. And now for the most important part arguably... The story. I have a lot to say about it but I'll start with the flaws, so that I can praise it to hell and back later. It has some very apparent pacing issues at multiple points, the worst being at the end tail of the game, it didn't detract too much from my experience (except the last part of the game, where I had to really swallow the pacing issue) but it has to be addressed, perfect pacing this is totally not. Not only that but some plotelines might be... I don't wanna say too ambitious but they might have needed some more work, it's already a complete package in my opinion but it's got some roughness around the edges.

    With the flaws put forward I will now speak from my heart, I finished the game yesterday night and these are my hot impressions about the story and it's resolution... It was everything I wanted if a bit flawed, it delivered exactly what I was hoping for, emotion, excitement, over the top final fantasy moments, it had it all for me, many times I was always left wondering "where do we go from here" or "wow... So this is the stare of the world uh?", more than one time the story made me sad, angry, happy, joyful and sorrowful, it is a flawed story from some standpoints, but I found it beautiful, flaws included. As you can see I am very subjective on this matter, I cannot give this the 10 I wanted it to deserve because the flaws are there and they are too egregious to ignore (I won't go into framerate issues, they are inexcusable but I don't wanna make a point out of them in this review), that being said, Final fantasy XVI is not a perfect game, it has some flaws spurred from some poor game design choices and the inexperience with the new direction the franchise took, however... It's an experience worth playing that hopefully will make you feel the same things I did, don't listen to review bombers tho xD. May the flames guide you all in this adventure    … Expand
  35. mima924
    Jun 26, 2023
    3
    FETCH FANTAST XVI.

    I'll be short, my heart has died today. NO GDR mechanichs, NO weapons differences, fake open map, NO drop, NO rewards, thons of fetch quests (always the same). This game should have been 20 hours long and It's 70. No more words. One more thing: I never died during the first playthrough, do you know why? The game is so easy and the normal difficulty (final fantasy mode)    FETCH FANTAST XVI.

    I'll be short, my heart has died today.
    NO GDR mechanichs, NO weapons differences, fake open map, NO drop, NO rewards, thons of fetch quests (always the same). This game should have been 20 hours long and It's 70. No more words.
    One more thing: I never died during the first playthrough, do you know why? The game is so easy and the normal difficulty (final fantasy mode) is unlocked only once you finish the game...
    RIP Final Fantasy.    … Expand
  36. goremiko
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Vast, spectacular, fun. Great boss fights and wonderful presentation.
    Final Fantasy is back to its finest form.
  37. Gengar16
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    The combat, the gameplay, the story, everything is top notch! They really outdid themselves with this one right here. 10/10
  38. mattt54
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    Amazing game, combat is amazing, and cinematics keep your heart racing the whole time. The side quests aren't amazing but besides that the game is near perfect I'd even suffice to say it could be called one of the best video games square enix has made to date.
  39. acabado
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Such a great game,with a way more mature story when compared to the previous FF games
  40. LordVacant
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    One of the best numbered Final Fantasy without a doubt, the combat system is a delight and a spectacle even in common battles, and the story is simply mature and complex enough to hook the player.
  41. Orangephi
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    The best mainline FF title since FFX.

    If you like Nier Automata, you will love this game to pieces. The gatekeepers who have been review bombing this game have probably never finished FFTactics and as such have no room to discuss what they think “a true FF game” should be (FF7 original’s ATB system was literally created to make it play more like an action game). The only reason FF games    The best mainline FF title since FFX.

    If you like Nier Automata, you will love this game to pieces. The gatekeepers who have been review bombing this game have probably never finished FFTactics and as such have no room to discuss what they think “a true FF game” should be (FF7 original’s ATB system was literally created to make it play more like an action game). The only reason FF games were not action games was because of hardware limitations. FF games have always been about the story, and whatever medium conveys it best. At the time, turn-based RPGs were how you could tell a long, well thought out story…now…its not necessary.

    This games is great but stumbles a little bit here and there but is objectively, without a doubt leaps and bound better than the catastrophe that was FF15 and the snooze fest that was FF13.

    Square has been giving these gatekeeping “turnbased” kids way too much mind and I am glad they finally cut their toxic crap out. They have been holding this series back for years and finally, just like the Eikon phoenix, Final Fantasy has been reborn anew.

    This change was sorely needed and I am glad it happened. Now FF can start to evolve as it should…    … Expand
  42. sonicpsv
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    Definitely not the best FF in the series, but the best FF that square enix can bring to players nowadays.
  43. Tonberrian
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    A flawed masterpiece, but more than a sum of its parts.

    Cons: -Lack of enemy variety -Disjointed world map(s) -Missing QoL features; no mini map, no sprint button - Character and gear progression is dull Pros: - Amazing visuals - Amazing story and characters - Amazing voice acting - Amazing soundtrack - Fun, fluid combat that is as deep or simple as you want it to be -EPIC boss battles    A flawed masterpiece, but more than a sum of its parts.

    Cons:
    -Lack of enemy variety
    -Disjointed world map(s)
    -Missing QoL features; no mini map, no sprint button
    - Character and gear progression is dull

    Pros:
    - Amazing visuals
    - Amazing story and characters
    - Amazing voice acting
    - Amazing soundtrack
    - Fun, fluid combat that is as deep or simple as you want it to be
    -EPIC boss battles

    Overall a very even experience with incredibly high highs, while the lows are few and far between.    … Expand
  44. Marbert1014
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    This game is a serious GOTY contender. The gameplay, visuals and story are outstanding. You really do feel for the main character Clive as you take on an emotional journey. People are comparing the writing to Game of Thrones and I do agree with the statement. Games like this deserve to be in the GOTY running and I’m glad I got to experience this incredible game.
  45. pixypolly
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    (77% story progress and 49h in when I'm writing this. SPOILER FREE.)
    At this point I'm sure this game is at least a 9 or for me even if the story fell short in the end. Marvellous world building and a crew of lovable characters. Fantastic story telling with the highs that left me flabbergasted and reflecting back on it for days on end. Music is absolutely mindblowing. Side contents are    (77% story progress and 49h in when I'm writing this. SPOILER FREE.)
    At this point I'm sure this game is at least a 9 or for me even if the story fell short in the end. Marvellous world building and a crew of lovable characters. Fantastic story telling with the highs that left me flabbergasted and reflecting back on it for days on end. Music is absolutely mindblowing. Side contents are miss-and-hits. Some are very interesting and cover the lore bits that are not told in the main story but answer a lot of burning questions I had in the back of my mind. Combat can be either button mashing or very complex as you wish it to be. The game doesn't really force you to 'git gud' in the first playthough difficulty though which is quite unfortunate. Only certain optional challenges make you to rethink the way you play and even that they are still not punishing enough. Maybe this will improve in the new game+ difficulty which is actually why the game isn't a 10 for me yet. Locking harder difficulties behind one playthough is always a no for me. The game can still improve too on the optimization front. I have some framerate drop in small corridors which makes zero sense but it's there I suppose because the smokes from these stupid braziers. Framerate mode still needs patching and motion blur needs to go. (I am aware that they are planning to add an option to turn off motion blur but it is not here right now as I'm writing.)

    Anyway, 9.4/10. would buy any story DLC.    … Expand
  46. Citino
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    A game that revels in the spectacle of the Eikon battles. Combat is enjoyable and flexible, rewarding those willing to figure out different combinations of powers. Combined with compelling and likable cast, and an almost legendary soundtrack and voice acting performance, this is easily one of the best Final Fantasy games.
  47. Rzc110
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    30h in and im loving this game. Really well made, with an interesting story, deep characters and epic battles.
  48. alquee
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Really good game, despite all the flaws it was a interesting journey, the end was not expected but i enjoy the journey
  49. VSfongo
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    A masterpiece, an almost perfect game for writing, combat system and technical component. The only flaws in my opinion can be found in the models and animations of some NPCs which are never ugly anyway. A title that will shape the future of the saga and I hope of story driven games in general, we are witnessing, playing and experiencing something really important that will also fascinateA masterpiece, an almost perfect game for writing, combat system and technical component. The only flaws in my opinion can be found in the models and animations of some NPCs which are never ugly anyway. A title that will shape the future of the saga and I hope of story driven games in general, we are witnessing, playing and experiencing something really important that will also fascinate future generations.… Expand
  50. milkneko
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy XVI has opened a new chapter in the realm of video gaming, further reinforcing the franchise's well-deserved reputation for creativity, storytelling, and cinematic excellence. This PS5 exclusive takes full advantage of the console's next-generation capabilities, pushing the boundaries of what we thought possible in a video game.

    The immersion this game offers is second to    Final Fantasy XVI has opened a new chapter in the realm of video gaming, further reinforcing the franchise's well-deserved reputation for creativity, storytelling, and cinematic excellence. This PS5 exclusive takes full advantage of the console's next-generation capabilities, pushing the boundaries of what we thought possible in a video game.

    The immersion this game offers is second to none. The richly detailed environments, the realistic character models, and the seamless interaction with the world around you make it feel like you are truly living in the realm of Final Fantasy XVI. From the bustling cities to the serene landscapes, every locale is painstakingly crafted, urging you to lose yourself in its expansive world.

    The story of Final Fantasy XVI is nothing short of a masterpiece. The narrative unfolds in an intricate tapestry of political intrigue, personal growth, and emotional depth. The cast of characters is diverse and engaging, each with their own unique backstory and motivations that you can't help but be invested in. The narrative twists and turns are handled with finesse, keeping you at the edge of your seat till the very end.

    The in-game cinematics are the best that the franchise has ever seen. The transition between gameplay and cinematics is flawless, keeping the momentum of the story going without skipping a beat. The visuals are breathtaking, with every frame meticulously designed to bring out the most minute details. The animations are smooth and lifelike, making every scene a joy to watch.

    In conclusion, Final Fantasy XVI is more than just a game. It's an experience that tugs at your heartstrings, captivates your senses, and takes you on a roller-coaster ride of emotions. It is, without a doubt, the best entry in the franchise so far, raising the bar for what we can expect from video games in the future. If you own a PS5, this game is an absolute must-have.    … Expand
  51. vilkazar
    Jun 26, 2023
    0
    Bland world, boring characters, too many cutscenes, lack of any challenge. They made this game using a ff14 formula with the summoner class as a action class now. Literally the same engine but tweaked , therefore you get choppy empty landscapes, crappy ui, with cutscenes taking over 90% of the gametime and boring, dull sidequest. It's really not a final fantasy game at all, more like aBland world, boring characters, too many cutscenes, lack of any challenge. They made this game using a ff14 formula with the summoner class as a action class now. Literally the same engine but tweaked , therefore you get choppy empty landscapes, crappy ui, with cutscenes taking over 90% of the gametime and boring, dull sidequest. It's really not a final fantasy game at all, more like a spin off title like 13, 15 another bad final fantasy game.… Expand
  52. SmartieArtie
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    The pure spectacle of this game is insane. Paired with a super fun, high skill ceiling combat system, and plenty of incredible characters, FF16 hits every mark for me.
  53. SukinoVerse
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    Final Fantasy XVI is the most enjoyable title in the mainline series (excluding FFXIV).
    Combat and Eikon's fight are epic and impressive.

    I like straightforward storytelling, pretty much like watching long-epic dark-fantasy dramas.
  54. Richarddantes
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    Este juego es un dévil may cry con esteroides, los jefes son tan épicos que me recuerdan a god of war 3 , es un juego impresionante en cuanto historia principal, no es un 10 porque las misiones secundarias son aburridisimas a morir , son horribles pase de ellas completamente y una que otra misión principal aburrida, pero los combates se roban toda la atención son un completo espectáculo,Este juego es un dévil may cry con esteroides, los jefes son tan épicos que me recuerdan a god of war 3 , es un juego impresionante en cuanto historia principal, no es un 10 porque las misiones secundarias son aburridisimas a morir , son horribles pase de ellas completamente y una que otra misión principal aburrida, pero los combates se roban toda la atención son un completo espectáculo, pero es verdad el sobrecalentamiento cuidado, es el único juego con el que se sobrecalento mi ps5… Expand
  55. EldenRingLegend
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    This game was more than I was expecting honestly. Came into with a very hyped mindset anyway, but man did it blow me away. Story alone deserves atleast 9-10. Cutscenes are all great and rendered really well. Combat and gameplay to me is something I didn’t know much about since I haven’t played DMC style at all, absolutely loved every second of it especially once you are good enough to swapThis game was more than I was expecting honestly. Came into with a very hyped mindset anyway, but man did it blow me away. Story alone deserves atleast 9-10. Cutscenes are all great and rendered really well. Combat and gameplay to me is something I didn’t know much about since I haven’t played DMC style at all, absolutely loved every second of it especially once you are good enough to swap between the different abilities with combos. Clive is a dope ass character, loved every moment with him, but even the side characters they make so beloved. But I gotta talk about the boss battles because holy hell are they amazing. Reminiscent of old style God of War feel, truly something out of the PS2 but much much larger in scale such as the Titan fight. Only thing that was off on this game was two things, and that was sometimes the dull side missions and it felt they dragged from like set piece to another set piece. And then some of the graphical problems. Kinda had moments like the newest Star Wars Jedi Survivor but not so much on that scale. Still this game is what every gamer who enjoys a story, combat, visuals, huge grand opus set pieces, it’s all there and I thank the creators of this master piece for it ❤️… Expand
  56. RacineCity
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Since release day, I haven’t been able to stop playing. The game is beautiful, the combat is excellent and the story is one of the best I’ve experienced this generation. If you’re a fan of story driven games with a lot of fun combat and some of the best looking bosses in gaming, you will love FF16. A must play for JRPG fans. Don’t miss out on this masterpiece.
  57. ScottPilgrim
    Jun 26, 2023
    3
    after five hours i have officially dropped this game, it’s so painfully underwhelming. the story and the characters are so dull and boring , it feels like a rip off of like game of thrones . but my biggest complaint is the gameplay , the combat is not strategic at all, it is just mindless hack and slash and dodging predictable single attacks that the enemy throws out every five seconds ,after five hours i have officially dropped this game, it’s so painfully underwhelming. the story and the characters are so dull and boring , it feels like a rip off of like game of thrones . but my biggest complaint is the gameplay , the combat is not strategic at all, it is just mindless hack and slash and dodging predictable single attacks that the enemy throws out every five seconds , there is no strategizing anything or critical thinking needed to best the enemies . just a boring rinse and repeat of button mashing and dodging every five seconds . the performance is also terrible , here we are in 2023 and still forced to lock games at 30 fps , why not just lessen the fidelity so we can have smooth gameplay ? also this game just feels cheap , invisible barriers around everything , no interacting with the world , side quests are an embarrassment and have nothing to do with anything at all. just mmo type fetch quests . i am so bitter right now for blindly spending 75 dollars on this game when money is hard to come by. never again am i falling into hype. final fantasy is dead to me and so is modern gaming . if SE ever wants me back, then they need to bring back turn based combat or something challenging and fun. and fun and interesting characters like precious titles. i’m done… Expand
  58. Stokesy
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Final fantasy is a different direction yet still final fantasy.
    Great story,y good visuals and the most epic boss fights you'll ever experience.
  59. Devil_Crown
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    I have fallen in love again.

    Here we are, at the end of a long awaited journey. As a fan of the franchise since FF4, this game made me remember the true essence of what Final Fantasy is. It's not about the combat system nor being stuck in the 90's for 30 years. FF is about worlds, stories and characters desperately trying to protect what is worth protecting and fiercely fighting for    I have fallen in love again.

    Here we are, at the end of a long awaited journey. As a fan of the franchise since FF4, this game made me remember the true essence of what Final Fantasy is. It's not about the combat system nor being stuck in the 90's for 30 years. FF is about worlds, stories and characters desperately trying to protect what is worth protecting and fiercely fighting for what is worth fighting for.

    The combat system was a complete 10/10, the soundtrack was beyond anything imaginable (expected from Soken), the side quests flowed nicely with the main story (some of them even made me tear up at some point) and accessibility features were good enough even if I didn't use them.

    A love letter for the series. It felt like a dream that I didn't want it to end. A round 10/10 for me.    … Expand
  60. Skaruin
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    Great continuation in the Final Fantasy series. Combat is fun and satisfying, story is gripping and interesting, and the boss battles are spectacular. Highly recommend.
  61. amir110
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    An awesome game with a wonderful story, involving combat, gigantic set pieces and great graphic. Don't miss this
  62. Silverstu
    Jun 26, 2023
    4
    Graphics A++
    Story A++
    43yrs old, played every single Ff game… No party play F
    Not being able to summon F
    Battle system hack and slash F
    I know FF13 gets a lot of heat but best battle system I’ve ever seen. Just amazing Wish they would utilize FF4 characters or something along that story line.
    Yes you can change eikons but class- F
  63. Killshotroxs
    Jun 26, 2023
    5
    Final Fantasy PS5 Review:

    If someone's here just for a number then here is it Rating 5/10, kindly take it and leave. For those who wants an unbiased review of a Game... not the franchise but simply FF16 from a viewpoint of a player who has never touched another FF game then here it is... read on my Friend: Summary: The Game is an orgasmic dish for those who want beautiful    Final Fantasy PS5 Review:

    If someone's here just for a number then here is it Rating 5/10, kindly take it and leave.

    For those who wants an unbiased review of a Game... not the franchise but simply FF16 from a viewpoint of a player who has never touched another FF game then here it is... read on my Friend:

    Summary:

    The Game is an orgasmic dish for those who want beautiful cutscenes, a decent story, some Thrill (Press Square to activate though), and moments of decent Boss Fights, But as a Game it lacks an Unifying character which will never soothe your soul while playing, in one line.... "It's always Lacking Something no matter where u are in the Game".

    Gameplay:

    The way Devs only gave 2 modes of difficulty and locked the most difficult mode behind approx. 40Hrs of gameplay felt brutal just after about 5 hours into the game, the game seems to never challenge you, and that's saying after trying almost all Rings, Bands, Swords, Spells and Abilities with all boss fights and High Tiered Enemies even some Arena Fights (sage fight is a must) in the span of whole Tiresome Gameplay.

    Here's an Example: The very first few things you get unlocked in the quests are rings: They have many abilities one such is Timely Evasion: After about 10mins in and i knew something was wrong.... the ring Literally Evades all the attacks of even Boss Fights ( Lowest point of the Gameplay ), even a 6yr old kid with one hand could have played this game by just doing Button smashing and he still would have been able to finish it without any Help... I wouldn't be surprised if there's an Youtube vid out soon with a person achieving something same after challenging themself to do it.

    For a challenged gameplay i replaced the evasion Ring with increased defense rune which still didn't make the gameplay worthy of your full involvement, and at this point it will hit you that you have been playing a game which lacks a major core part of it... The Gameplay, For those of Y'all still wondering why go on then? why not just give up and get rid of it and be done with it? Because That's when the good part comes in.... The PLOT, as anyone who has finished the game by now would agree... also what disappointed me more was that when you’re not spamming your Eikon abilities, you’ll be smashing your default sword attack until the charge meter goes full or atleast one of Ur abilities recharge.... speak about Tiresome, even if they do all recharge.... they all contain almost same amount of Damage so this FF game basically took away your choice to strategize.... I may be New i know but isn't that why this Franchise was famous for?

    Plot:

    The only thing that Studio may have pulled off perfectly is the Plot, It keeps on Rewarding Just a Little to get you through to a Mid Gameplay that you don't leave it in the Middle and makes you Anticipate what the next part in the story would be.... Now if you're a movie buff and regularly see Suspense Thriller movies then even you too will see some plot twists coming from a mile away but the Story elements and Suspense laid with Electrifying Cutscenes somehow weirdly makes you wanna play and get to the End to know how it unfolds...

    There will be cutscenes where you will be Like DAMNNN and there's a perfect soundscore playing in the background which will make your soundbar go nutss and the added mystery component plays it's part well too but the political themes in game are not that intriguing and have the potential to tell a powerful story about injustice, war, and personal strife, However, the game fails to live up to its potential because its exploration of these themes is shallow. The game's lectures on the horrors of slavery are little more than superficial and do not have a significant impact on the protagonist or the overall story.( Literally gonna Ignore the part where a Bearer and even a Dominant is slave to normal Humans?? )

    Lore and Characters:

    It's hard to understand the Importance of characters who popup after like 40% of the gameplay and the role they playing in Protagonist's Story. There are various factions divided in the Vlaisthea some foes and some friends ofcourse but even the leaders of such factions get little to no intro and after you're done with the first quest in the area, there's a hard chance you will even want to talk to them, there were a few ofcourse but not motivating enough for a gamer to do this with every Important Figurehead with a sidequest.

    It is the Game's responsibility to grip it's users to the Game as much as it is of a Gamer's to play it..... if you don't have that going for you then it's a Losing battle for any title.

    Rating 5/10
    Final Fantasy 16 presents itself as an Cinematic antiquated encounter, almost trying to resemble and old RPG gameplay from the past that fails to grasp the essence of appeal to any gamer of any Level. Consequently and Sadly it offers no significant value.    … Expand
  64. Nighty9
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Wonderful but have some obvious flaws,hope ff17 can make this series great again.
  65. Slappyjigg
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    This game is astounding, and really has the soul of Final Fantasy in it. The story is riveting and complicated (especially if you like diving deep into lore and the nuances of different nations and characters, their relationship to the story and to each other). The music is phenomenal as well, thanks to Mashayoshi Soken (the composer of the fantastic score of Final Fintasy XIV). He evenThis game is astounding, and really has the soul of Final Fantasy in it. The story is riveting and complicated (especially if you like diving deep into lore and the nuances of different nations and characters, their relationship to the story and to each other). The music is phenomenal as well, thanks to Mashayoshi Soken (the composer of the fantastic score of Final Fintasy XIV). He even wrote the music while in the hospital battling cancer! the visuals are, of course, top tier, and as usual Final Fantasy is looked at to set the bar of what's possible in gaming currently, and what the current gen systems are capable of.

    This is really one of my favorite Final Fantasy games of all time. It differs from other FF games in that it's far more action-oriented, swapping heavy stats and customizable weapons and armor for a more streamline crafting system that gives you choices but doesn't interfere too much in your performance and progression. You only control Clive, the main character, and give commands to his trusty hound, but get guest party members at different times through the story. The locales and regions you visit throughout the game are a combination of fairly large open areas to explore and story-driven corridors (not NEARLY as bad at Final Fantasy 13). Plot progression is clearly the name of the game and the driving force behind the team's decision to guide you through some simplified dungeons which lead you through room-to-room battles. Though it may seem disappointing that some area's are fairly simple in their design, the story at the end and the battles to get there definitely make up for it.

    As far as performance, I'm playing in graphics (fidelity) mode. There's a performance mode that target's 60fps, but it's far more variable and you can tell it bounces around in framerate depending on what's going on. Graphics mode is far more stable at 30fps, looks sharper and cleaner, and "shows off" the game a little more.

    My only gripe are the side quests, in how they seem to REALLY stand out in comparison to the story. All RPG's have side quests, be it fetch quests or "kill this monster and save my village", but after defeating a huge, towering God and seeing what Clive can do as he battles these massive Eikons (summons), it's a bit jarring whenyou return from one of those huge fights with ground-breaking implications on the story and have to pick up soil for a gardner who wants to grow fruit, or collect limestone to help someone make a knife. The developers try so hard to make Clive feel like a badass, and in battles and especially in the Eikon fights they succeed, but those simple quests right afterwards really put a leash on him.

    Overall, I HIGHLY recommend the game, for first-timers and old Final Fantasy veterans alike. Turn up the sound, enjoy the amazing sound effects and high-impact bass thuds of those epic fights with top-tier orchestrated music, and get lost in the world of Valisthea.    … Expand
  66. imannuqman
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    So many epic boss fights…srsly one of the best rpg games that i have played..Great work square enix
  67. heguozi
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    It's been a long time since there was a game that made me so immersed.It gave me an unparalleled experience
  68. Zac2023
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    I've been playing FF since 2005 and I can guarantee, contrary to some reviews, that FF16 is a legitimate Final Fantasy. Today he is in second place for me, behind only FF7 REMAKE.
  69. Roffy_15625
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. El juego tiene una banda sonora muy hermosa gráficos están bien la historia es una pasada el gameplay me gusto demaciado un parecido al del dmc 5… Expand
  70. VivalLaZam
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    In progress review

    This has been so hard to put down. Definitely going to play all the other FF games after this. Great way to introduce the series to a new audience.
  71. VungusSnart
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I think Final Fantasy XVI is one of the best entries in the Final Fantasy series that we got.… Expand
  72. MILIH
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Making according to previous reputation. Although it was a straight road, I enjoyed the story and action. The collaboration between visual beauty and BGM is wonderful. It's not suitable for gamers looking for a degree of freedom, but it's worth buying for those who are willing to enjoy FF16.
  73. thefascinations
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy XVI is an evolution in the world of action RPGs. With its sixteenth mainline entry, the franchise steps away from its traditional RPG roots and embraces the character action genre with an unprecedented fervor. The game blends fast-paced combat with role-playing character development, resulting in an unforgettable gaming experience​1​.

    This entry in the legendary series    Final Fantasy XVI is an evolution in the world of action RPGs. With its sixteenth mainline entry, the franchise steps away from its traditional RPG roots and embraces the character action genre with an unprecedented fervor. The game blends fast-paced combat with role-playing character development, resulting in an unforgettable gaming experience​1​.

    This entry in the legendary series takes us back to the high fantasy roots of Final Fantasy, drawing inspiration from the likes of Game of Thrones. Set in the beautifully deadly realm of Valisthea, the story unfolds over decades, navigating us through a world torn apart by an encroaching blight. The story is rich, layered, and deeply engaging, focusing on the struggle for untainted resources, including the precious Mother Crystals that source the realm's magic​1​.

    The narrative centers around Clive Rosfield, a prince and protector of his brother, Joshua. Clive is a robust and relatable protagonist, his journey masterfully portrayed by actor Ben Starr. His transformation over the course of the story is compelling, making him a character you'll grow to adore. The supporting cast is equally brilliant, featuring characters like Jill, Clive's empathetic childhood friend, and Cid, an inspiring leader voiced by Ralph Ineson​.

    Final Fantasy XVI excels in its storytelling, ensuring you never feel overwhelmed by its extensive lore. The game introduces an innovative feature – Active Time Lore – which provides contextual information during cutscenes or conversations at the touch of a button. This feature keeps the player engaged and informed about the game's complex world and history​.

    The game's combat system is a fresh and exciting evolution in the series. Each character has unique abilities, and the game encourages strategic management of these skills, making every battle a thrilling and satisfying experience. The existence of Eikons and Dominants adds another layer to the combat, with Dominants being able to tap into the power of these immense beings​​.

    Final Fantasy XVI is not just a game; it's an epic saga told over 50+ hours of gameplay. It offers an outstanding blend of character-driven storytelling, innovative combat, and immersive world-building. With its memorable characters, fantastic soundtrack, and moments of sheer spectacle, Final Fantasy XVI proves itself to be a must-play title for any fan of the genre.    … Expand
  74. FioraLafleur
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Tbh it's more like 8.5/10, not perfect but ultimately very good, but I'm giving it a 10 to spite review bombers. Gameplay's excellent, best boss fights I've ever seen, one of the best OSTs ever composed, an often iffy plot that occasionally scratches the heights of what a story in a game can be. Definitely recommend.
  75. psjay
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy 16 is a milestone in the FF series and a milestone in PS5. Although the aging engine makes the picture performance not amazing, it is really fun. I love this game!！
  76. LucasCaelum
    Jun 26, 2023
    4
    This game is horrible and I am regret to preorder this. It is horrible in the sense as follows:-
    1) the battle is horrible wrong and boring. FF is always surrounded by magic element but in ff16 the element doesn't matter. There is no different from fire, ice, thunder. Everything is just a small colourful ball. All you need to do is just dodge and spam like crazy waiting the monster to    This game is horrible and I am regret to preorder this. It is horrible in the sense as follows:-
    1) the battle is horrible wrong and boring. FF is always surrounded by magic element but in ff16 the element doesn't matter. There is no different from fire, ice, thunder. Everything is just a small colourful ball. All you need to do is just dodge and spam like crazy waiting the monster to staggered and repeat till the end of this game.NO STRATEGY INVOLVED AT ALL!!
    2) The most disappointing part to me is the limit break. What this **** of limit break in this FF16?? Seriously? a glowing fire sword??? which deal small amount of damage??! where is the omnislash, lionheart, etc limit break??.
    3) Lastly, zero customisation of equipment. Just choose the higher number and spam dodge till the end.
    4 marks!! A product that like a lazy kid passup his homework on deadline with full of errors and copy the eork from others without looking at the subject.    … Expand
  77. JimmieRamone
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    I was skeptical about the move to full-on action RPG, but FFXIV floored me. On top of it all, an amazing setting, spectacular music, and one of the best stories in the series. It may not top FF6 as my all-time favorite, but it sure comes close.
  78. secondclass1776
    Jun 26, 2023
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I have been playing FF games since NES. I finished the main quest line on the Sunday after it released. I am so disappointed in this game I don't know where to start. I guess I will just tell you what you won't get. First you won't get a fleashed out story that doesn't contradict itself. In the earlier parts of the game Joshua traps Ultima in his own body. But it doesn't matter that he did because there are like 10 Ultimas. It is the cause of his death. Another big one is in the middle of the game you're on the ship the Enterprise (which you never get to explore and yes the name did not escape me)You get a cut scene where Lord Byron is saying goodbyes because he is leaving (you watch him row away) to get an army for your coming up battle. Then ten minutes later you're talking to another person and they say Lord Byron stayed with the ship to keep it safe. Later you get a cut scene where he is talking to some Lord and asks to borrow his men the Lord is refusing and in comes Dion who just destroyed his entire empire and killed his father and evil half brother and killed probably hundred of thousands of people and offers the dragoons and everyone is like thanks pal. There were others eventually I quit trying to keep track of them all.
    Next there isn't any real exploration you can see all the pick ups from across the area pretty much. 99% of the linear maps are small and you can run around the entire area within 5-10 minutes. This is because of the linear style game play. Which wouldn't have mattered to me but you don't get to explore the cool places or the big cities you get a hideout the refugee camp, some dirt huts a town that all your families old slaves went to with like 4 houses. You won't get a party that you can outfit or that you can control.
    You get eikons which are just summons only you turn into them and your a God of some sorts.
    In an article the director is telling ign how they are fans of Game of Thrones, Clive is basically Jon Snow, Olivier is Robin Arryn, there are other ones too. There is even white walkers. A lot of the doors you have to press X then hold R2 just so Sony could show off their trigger feedback function.. You get a jump button that is basically useless. A lot of QTEs. The crafting was just handing over whatever thing you got from your last boss battle that you beat with QTEs. And then get a sword crafted. If you want to max out the magic you are forced to play the fetch quests that add nothing of value to the world, and a good portion of the main quest could have been more interesting as side quest and made no sense as main quest. This isn't an RPG. This is an action adventure game with little nuggets of FF in it. The most memorable Final Fantasy part about this game is the name. This was a huge disappointment and I really wanted to like the game. In the end though it felt like a chore to play. The creative director is from FF14, and a lot of the design reminded me of it (the map, and the quest icons) and I am not a huge fan of MMORPGs. All in all this game is a mess it doesn't know if it is FF, Game of Thrones, the devil may cry or something else entirely. To each their own you may like the game me I won't be buying anything after FF VII remake.    … Expand
  79. harumina
    Jun 25, 2023
    10
    私はFFファンなので評価には寛容な点が多少あると自覚しているが今作は素晴らしいと言わざるを得ない
    個人的にストーリーとバトルと音楽、UIがぶっ刺さった
    それらの要素はほぼゲームの全てであり小さな不満は気にならない
    創ってくれてありがとう
    日本からFF16が産まれたことを誇らしく思う
  80. Koustav04
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    Good: Visuals, Eikon fights, the plot, characters and music
    Average: Combat, dialogue and pacing of story
    Bad: User interface and level design

    I'd say its 8.5/10 critically, but as a Final Fantasy fan I'd give it 9/10.
  81. dmppm
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Great music, top notch graphic, good story, awesome characters, bold topic, action is so so so so smooth and could be easily adjust accordingly. PS5 not over heated once so far. This game will be my top 3 this year without a doubt. Have been playing ff games for years and FFXVI did well put a well managed and interesting action elements to the series and I love it.
  82. nullpointer79
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    I love this game. You just don't get games like this anymore. Fantastic work CBU3 team.
  83. HeavenStudios
    Jun 26, 2023
    0
    Absolutely nothing about it is innovative, the story is regurgitated and pretty much trying to ride the success of Game of Thrones and other epic shows which are "meta" right now.

    Gameplay is worse than some 2005 games and calling it an ARPG/JRPG/RPG is an insult. Even DMC3:SE was far superior. Graphics are a joke for a PS5 game, putting a lot of effects in the screen is not synonym    Absolutely nothing about it is innovative, the story is regurgitated and pretty much trying to ride the success of Game of Thrones and other epic shows which are "meta" right now.

    Gameplay is worse than some 2005 games and calling it an ARPG/JRPG/RPG is an insult. Even DMC3:SE was far superior.

    Graphics are a joke for a PS5 game, putting a lot of effects in the screen is not synonym to good graphics, specially if you can't even keep 60 FPS consistently.

    Ah! And can't forget, the crystals and a billion pointless garbage side-quests to artificially inflate the size of the game to justify charging full game price for a 20 hour experience which is what made some parts of FF7R mediocre on what could have been an overall amazing game and got people worried about the sequels.

    I remember the days when Final Fantasy was synonym of trailblazing and doing things that no game had done before, this game was another nail in the coffin of mediocrity that is the current state of Square.

    Final Fantasy XVI is literally the cookie cutter of games, exactly what was expected of a game directed by Yoshi-P. Did not disappoint in that sense, the most run-of-the-mill, vanilla, mediocre game with zero memorable features. It was either that or doing what he does for most of XIV which is recycle old Final Fantasy content.

    Congratulations, you created the single player version of Final Fantasy XIV. Canned tuna with the budget and quality of a studio that should deliver caviar.     … Expand
  84. Ardwood
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    best game I have played in ages. I had so many “wow” moments when important things happened. Cried. Literally cheered and had other outbursts from narrowly beating enemies I felt personally invested in beating. The only games to get me hooked in recent years have been Ys 8/9 and Elden Ring. This one goes in the hall of fame. It does have a slow start though and I almost gave up in thebest game I have played in ages. I had so many “wow” moments when important things happened. Cried. Literally cheered and had other outbursts from narrowly beating enemies I felt personally invested in beating. The only games to get me hooked in recent years have been Ys 8/9 and Elden Ring. This one goes in the hall of fame. It does have a slow start though and I almost gave up in the earlier parts. So glad I stuck with it because it becomes amazing after 10 hours or so.… Expand
  85. Nana111
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Amazing. The visuals, the action, and the story are all captivating and wonderful.
    ​
  86. XOXAJLEEXOX
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    I don't how all the hate this game got but it's been outstanding, storyline is out of this world, cutscenes is unreal, combat is very good and the graphics are unbelievable. Side missions are very good. People should actually play the game before reviewing bombing because of jealousy they can't play it. I'd like to thank square enix for this game, it truly had been a amazing project thatI don't how all the hate this game got but it's been outstanding, storyline is out of this world, cutscenes is unreal, combat is very good and the graphics are unbelievable. Side missions are very good. People should actually play the game before reviewing bombing because of jealousy they can't play it. I'd like to thank square enix for this game, it truly had been a amazing project that you have worked on.… Expand
  87. belrioze
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy XVI is a heartfelt masterpiece that touches the depths of your emotions. The characters are not only visually stunning, but their journeys are filled with profound moments of joy, sorrow, and self-discovery. The story weaves a tapestry of emotions, drawing you in with its epic scale and intimate moments of vulnerability. The combat system not only delivers thrilling actionFinal Fantasy XVI is a heartfelt masterpiece that touches the depths of your emotions. The characters are not only visually stunning, but their journeys are filled with profound moments of joy, sorrow, and self-discovery. The story weaves a tapestry of emotions, drawing you in with its epic scale and intimate moments of vulnerability. The combat system not only delivers thrilling action but also conveys the emotional stakes of each battle. The stunning visuals and mesmerizing soundtrack amplify these emotions, immersing you in a world where every triumph and tragedy resonates deeply. Final Fantasy XVI is not just a game; it's an emotional odyssey that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It's an undeniable contender for the game of the year, offering an experience that will touch your heart and soul.… Expand
  88. Userback
    Jun 26, 2023
    5
    no llegar a ser buen rpg, no llega a ser buen juego de accion...no es mundo abierto pero como lineal es demasiado pasillero y nada explorable, y aun asi tiene secundarias como si fuese de mundo libre...ni hablar del rendimiento y calidad... vale la pena el juego por 20 euros como mucho
  89. OcelotBoy
    Jun 26, 2023
    7
    I am genuinely confused why this game is being praised the way it is. While I admit that the combat was pretty good, and the presentation was absolutely stellar, I don't think the game has much else going for it either.

    Gameplay: 8/10 Combat is pretty good. Not the deepest or most innovative system, but it was thoroughly enjoyable and satisfying to pull off long combos and be treated    I am genuinely confused why this game is being praised the way it is. While I admit that the combat was pretty good, and the presentation was absolutely stellar, I don't think the game has much else going for it either.

    Gameplay: 8/10

    Combat is pretty good. Not the deepest or most innovative system, but it was thoroughly enjoyable and satisfying to pull off long combos and be treated to the audio-visual effects and numbers popping up all over the screen. Not much else outside of combat though. Sidequest stories can be pretty great, but the gameplay design is just so dated and tedious. The lack of any meaningful itemization (outside of a handful of accessories) really hurts the gameplay loop, as while the combat is quite fun, it's not quite deep or varied enough to carry the entire game by itself. If only the game was a little bit more of an RPG, it could go a long way to give it more substance in the long term.

    Story: 6/10

    Yeesh. The story felt pretty good up until the second major time skip, when the game decided to throw away all the political drama set up in favor of a typical JRPG 'save the world' plot with terrible one-dimensional villains. Many of the 'main characters' also feel quite a bit underbaked, like the game never really gave any of them enough development to properly earn their major story beats. So many dramatic moments in the game were absolutely ruined for me because characters kept saying and doing things that made no sense, with some of the worst offenders actually making me physically cringe. Can hardly believe that this was brought to me by the same people who created Emet-Selch.

    Graphics/Performance: 8/10

    The game's presentation in terms of audio and visual design is fantastic. The sound and visual effects are always satisfying, and are a big part of what makes the combat so enjoyable for me. The Eikon battles are also quite impressive, enough to make me really not care about their rather stripped-down gameplay. The voice-acting is also perhaps the best Square Enix has to offer, which is unsurprising considering that localization has always been one of FF14's strongest points. The impressive visuals even succeed at hiding some of the game's flaws, like how the vast backdrops and larger-than-life structures work to make the game's world feel larger and more open than it actually is.

    It's not all great though, and the use of the FF14 engine does make a lot of the NPC animations look rather stiff outside of animated cutscenes, leaving the game looking a bit dated at certain points. The performance also leaves something to be desired, with noticeable frame drops during key moments in both Framerate and Graphics mode. But these complaints are relatively minor in the grand scheme of things.

    Overall, I don't think FF16 is an awful game, but it's also just totally not the mind-blowing game so many people seem to be calling it. Saying this is GOTY worthy puts it on par with God of War or Elden Ring, and that is just crazy to me.    … Expand
  90. Tnuggs
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    A great story with amazing and lovable characters. The combat is also so fun. I highly recommend playing this game.
  91. SaiDharmaTej
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Best game of 2023 so far
  92. MacelloVerum
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    It's been a while since a game really "changed" me. And I don't say that lightly. Final Fantasy as a franchise has been in my top 3 for a while now, with games like VII and XV leaving a huge impact on my life. Among the other two in my top 3 (TWEWY and KH), Final Fantasy was a bit of an outlier, since I'm not a super-fan that's played every title and loves most of them. I've only played aIt's been a while since a game really "changed" me. And I don't say that lightly. Final Fantasy as a franchise has been in my top 3 for a while now, with games like VII and XV leaving a huge impact on my life. Among the other two in my top 3 (TWEWY and KH), Final Fantasy was a bit of an outlier, since I'm not a super-fan that's played every title and loves most of them. I've only played a handful, and even then, besides the two games previously mentioned, I can't say that they've really "changed" me. XVI broke me. This game was everything I could've hoped for and more, and it leaves an unbearable emptiness in my heart now that it's all over. Of course, I will keep playing this game for a while. It's just that, my first experience, was so unlike anything I've ever felt playing a game before. It's unreal. This game has changed my life, and I'm really glad to have been able to play it. A 10/10 score doesn't do this masterpiece justice.… Expand
  93. Reaperofoz
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Awsome game. Love the fantasy aspects and the epic battles. Its a bot on the easy side but that didn't bother me too much.
  94. Knightsofblood
    Jun 26, 2023
    1
    Its missing that final fantasy feel from the past games.
    It felt too animated, and movie like instead of being what it truely is. A game.

    75% cutscenes. Made me wanting more from the game, I wish we had more to explore.

    The story was a bit cookie cutter.
  95. Edencross
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    Some want to say this game is bad but it isnt. It has great graphics, a fair and unique ability system that lets you try many builds with jo penalty. There’s no super overwhelming build that can carry you and then you want to forget everything else. You can with anything if you just put points into the magic type. I found the cinematics and cutscenes nice but maybe dull more often than notSome want to say this game is bad but it isnt. It has great graphics, a fair and unique ability system that lets you try many builds with jo penalty. There’s no super overwhelming build that can carry you and then you want to forget everything else. You can with anything if you just put points into the magic type. I found the cinematics and cutscenes nice but maybe dull more often than not when I was normally engaged in other FF games. But they give you so many surprises and fights i never had imagined they make them go certain ways. All in all its a worthwhile time.… Expand
  96. AresYon
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Graphics 10/10
    Performance 10/10
    Gameplay 10/10
    Characters 10/10
    Story 10/10
    Soundtrack 10/10
    FUN - YES
    GOTY - YES

    *Demo Available YES
  97. FadedKamui
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    I'm a massive home theater enthusiast and this game delivers on my system like very few do. Incredibly stunning HDR implementation and absolutely beautiful sound design in 7.1 surround sound. The controller haptics on the Dualsense are implemented in a way that feels like very few games can pull off. I so wish that when this game releases on PC that they give it the Dolby Atmos treatmentI'm a massive home theater enthusiast and this game delivers on my system like very few do. Incredibly stunning HDR implementation and absolutely beautiful sound design in 7.1 surround sound. The controller haptics on the Dualsense are implemented in a way that feels like very few games can pull off. I so wish that when this game releases on PC that they give it the Dolby Atmos treatment like they did for FFVII Remake but even better. I couldn't be much happier with this game.

    As for the story, gameplay, and world design, I'm in love with them all in this game. This is going down as one of my favorite Final Fantasy games and possibly one of my favorite games of all time, period!    … Expand
  98. Ohyah
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    It's refreshing to play an actual game. This takes me back to the days of linear narrative days of mafia and metal gear. With so many games coming out as open world messes that try to keep you engaged with multiple check mark quests and busy work. The game gives you the basics and little by little adds more tools to your repertoire. If you are fond of the devil may cry games than this willIt's refreshing to play an actual game. This takes me back to the days of linear narrative days of mafia and metal gear. With so many games coming out as open world messes that try to keep you engaged with multiple check mark quests and busy work. The game gives you the basics and little by little adds more tools to your repertoire. If you are fond of the devil may cry games than this will be a fun game to experience.… Expand
  99. ArcZyon
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Great sorry, great action and epic music! RPG elements are a bit slim but it is what final fantasy looked like in your head 20 years ago.
  100. YoursOnly
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Incredible game, since the moment it starts, the combat, the cinematics and the story its just soo good that my first play (after the demo) I spend around 4 hours just playing this game I love it!!
Page:

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]
See all critic reviews »