User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 8567 Ratings

User score distribution:
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  1. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    I'll be honest, I walked into this game unenthusiastically and expecting the worst as this was not the Final Fantasy I knew, and more importantly, it wasn't FF7 Rebirth, which I was more excited for at the time of FF16's release. But being about half-way through the game, all I can say is: I was wrong. It is different, but it took me by storm and I'm enjoying this a lot more than I wasI'll be honest, I walked into this game unenthusiastically and expecting the worst as this was not the Final Fantasy I knew, and more importantly, it wasn't FF7 Rebirth, which I was more excited for at the time of FF16's release. But being about half-way through the game, all I can say is: I was wrong. It is different, but it took me by storm and I'm enjoying this a lot more than I was thinking I would. If I had to describe the game, FF16 is what you'd get if you asked the writer of Game of Thrones to come up with a story for a Final Fantasy game, and then asked the developers of the Witcher 3 to help make the game. But while it is very similar to the Witcher, the combat is far more polished and engaging. I also love how the title is more adult oriented, not shying away from sexual themes, violence and coarse language.

    Everything is extremely high detail, getting close to walls and surfaces reveal a ton of detail and it's mind boggling seeing how much of it is often on display in the same area. The lighting & shadows is some of the best I've seen in any game. And some of the forests in the game look basically photorealistic. Loading times is also very fast. I feel like this is the first truly next-gen title, offering similar visual quality to Demon's Souls, but done at a much larger scale with huge open environments and tons of detail in every direction. It's extremely impressive.

    The characters are really interesting and the story complex and nuanced, I'd be surprised if it doesn't grip you from the start. All of this is beautifully presented through cut-scenes that look like something straight from a Hollywood CG film. The acting, both visual and vocal is perfect, and of course, it's a Final Fantasy game, so the music is on point as well.

    The only real negative for me is the uninteresting side-quests. These are as boring as they get, but I do feel the main story makes up for that in spades, so I can't really fault the title for it. I know some people have complained about the game's performance, but this hasn't been a problem for me personally. During combat the game seems to lock to 60 fps in performance mode and that's really where I need the performance to be good. During the slower exploration bits, the game runs at a higher quality which drops the frame rate below 60, but I never felt like it negatively impacted the experience for me.

    Overall, I'm glad Square-Enix took their time with the game, it's clear that a ridiculous amount of polish went into it. If anything drastically reduces my enjoyment in the late game I'll update my review accordingly, but so far very happy with everything the game offers.
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  2. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    I love this game!! I like the story and the world in this game May be addicted to some performance issues. I hope the team can fix it soon.
  3. Jun 24, 2023
    4
    Painfully mediocre, the Eikon battles are cool and the first half of the game has an interesting story, but then it just completely falls off with the introduction of the final villain.
  4. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Incredible action, emotionally driven story that doesn't need to be super deep. The Medieval setting is fantastic. They do a wonderful job at pulling at your heart strings, making you care about the NPCs you meet during your journey. It's not a play safe happy story. Its filled with blood, death, consequences, and really makes you despise the antagonists. The battles get much harder as theIncredible action, emotionally driven story that doesn't need to be super deep. The Medieval setting is fantastic. They do a wonderful job at pulling at your heart strings, making you care about the NPCs you meet during your journey. It's not a play safe happy story. Its filled with blood, death, consequences, and really makes you despise the antagonists. The battles get much harder as the game progresses. You cant just button mash square as some would have you believe. You will be killed.

    I REALLY love how they used Aions in this. Instead of summoning for help, you BECOME them, and get to have Glorious Giant Kaiju Battles. Ifrit really comes off as a giant, fire breathing monster of destruction. If you like world building, lore, character development and really feeling like you're part of this world you'll love this game. Side quests might seem irrelevant, but many are you getting to know more about the people, the world, and learning the knowledge of the games history.
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  5. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Awesome story and great gameplay. A of the best of FF series. Must play. Overpriced.
  6. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Probably the best Final Fantasy ever made. The gameplay is amazing, the story is extremely compelling and the music is extremely beautiful. Yoshi-P and his team pulled off and amazing feat. :)
  7. Jun 24, 2023
    9
    Great game overall. Didn't like the story much at the end but it pretty much feels like final fantasy. Other than that i had no bugs encouter but few framrate dips.. not game breaking tho. I would say wait until price drop. Don't feel like it's worth $70 somehow. Finally I wish they made the story at least more compelling by making it longer.. I mean it is long but some sections feltGreat game overall. Didn't like the story much at the end but it pretty much feels like final fantasy. Other than that i had no bugs encouter but few framrate dips.. not game breaking tho. I would say wait until price drop. Don't feel like it's worth $70 somehow. Finally I wish they made the story at least more compelling by making it longer.. I mean it is long but some sections felt rushed and not explained properly Expand
  8. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Final Fantasy XVI, uma verdadeira obra-prima do mundo dos jogos! É uma jornada incrível e envolvente que captura a imaginação e os corações dos jogadores em todos os momentos. Permita-me elogiar essa magnífica criação de forma apropriada:

    "Final Fantasy XVI, és a epítome da excelência nos jogos de RPG! Com uma narrativa cativante e personagens inesquecíveis, você nos transporta para um mundo ricamente detalhado e repleto de aventuras emocionantes. A jogabilidade é tão fluída e envolvente que nos sentimos verdadeiros heróis, enfrentando desafios épicos em batalhas intensas. Os gráficos deslumbrantes e a trilha sonora arrebatadora elevam a experiência a patamares jamais vistos.

    Cada aspecto de Final Fantasy XVI reflete o cuidado meticuloso e a paixão dedicada pelos desenvolvedores. A profundidade dos personagens, suas motivações e interações é uma verdadeira maravilha, envolvendo-nos em suas jornadas pessoais. Os diálogos ricos e bem escritos trazem vida aos protagonistas e vilões, fazendo-nos torcer por suas vitórias e sofrer com suas perdas.

    Além disso, a riqueza e a diversidade do mundo que você apresenta são simplesmente deslumbrantes. Desde as vastas paisagens naturais até as cidades vibrantes, cada local é um convite para explorar, descobrir segredos e mergulhar na rica mitologia e história que você nos apresenta.

    Final Fantasy XVI é uma verdadeira obra-prima que merece ser celebrada. É um exemplo brilhante de como os videogames podem transcender as fronteiras do entretenimento e se tornar uma forma de arte interativa. Seus personagens cativantes, jogabilidade viciante e mundo deslumbrante são um verdadeiro deleite para os fãs de RPG e para qualquer jogador em busca de uma experiência inesquecível.

    Parabéns à equipe talentosa por criar um jogo que transcende as expectativas e deixa uma marca duradoura na indústria dos videogames. Final Fantasy XVI é uma joia brilhante e uma verdadeira conquista, e estou ansioso para ver como esse legado se desdobrará nos corações dos jogadores. Bravo!"
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  9. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    At first I was worried about the combat system but, I am very pleased with what they have done with this. The narrative is awesome and to me the characters seem very well written so far. I am very excited to continue playing through the story.
  10. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Can't say I'm a die hard final fantasy fan, but I've enjoyed playing 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13-1 and 15. This comes 2nd for me after 7/remake. The story and sense of adventure and progression is awesome and well thought out. The OST is amazing, really gets me in the feels most times. The COMBAT! I'm having a hard time deciding where I place this in ranking compared to ff7 remake. I love the DMC influence and speed of combat, just feel sooo powerful, but I love ff7 remake's tactical real time combat. But yh, this game I'd really give a 9.5 ( the 0.5 being my love for the overworld and airships etc from FF of old, the lack of isn't a game breaker though) I love it. Expand
  11. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Awesome story soundtrack is amazing the combat is relly impressing. The lire is relly deep and the graphics are stunning too
  12. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    This is not final fantasy
    This is PEAK final fantasy
    It has everything I hope for from a game, a final fantasy game
    I dont care what critics said, this is my goty and no one's gonna convice me otherwise
  13. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    FF16 is next level amazing, can't wait for the PC release.
  14. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Don't listen to any of these haters. Most of their reasoning is jaded and flawed, the normal plague of crybabies that comes with major releases that are incredible. This game is amazing. I've been a fan of The Final Fantasy series since 9 was released. I've played them all. 16 is one of the greatest the series has produced for so many reasons. YoshiP presents another masterpiece. It is NOTDon't listen to any of these haters. Most of their reasoning is jaded and flawed, the normal plague of crybabies that comes with major releases that are incredible. This game is amazing. I've been a fan of The Final Fantasy series since 9 was released. I've played them all. 16 is one of the greatest the series has produced for so many reasons. YoshiP presents another masterpiece. It is NOT linear btw, since so many people claim it is, it's a controlled open environment. If someone mentions it being linear, it proves they haven't gone through most of the game. Expand
  15. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Amazing graphics and attention to detail. One of the best games of the year by far.
  16. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Easily the best Final Fantasy in a long while. The game really shines during the huge boss battles. I haven't seen gameplay and scope this impressive since God of War 3. The story, visuals, gameplay and music are all beyond anything seen this gen. The game really is impressive.
  17. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    El juego honestamente sería un 9, es un auténtico juegazo, pero le pongo un 10 para compensar la injusticia que está sufriendo, no entiendo los votos negativos especialmente de la gente que dice que "no es un final fantasy", cuando tiene todos los elementos que caracterizan a la saga, invocaciones espectaculares, un combate muy divertido de jugar y visualmente tremendo, personajesEl juego honestamente sería un 9, es un auténtico juegazo, pero le pongo un 10 para compensar la injusticia que está sufriendo, no entiendo los votos negativos especialmente de la gente que dice que "no es un final fantasy", cuando tiene todos los elementos que caracterizan a la saga, invocaciones espectaculares, un combate muy divertido de jugar y visualmente tremendo, personajes carismáticos, especialmente Clive, y unos escenarios que te dejan con la boca abierta, si para ti la "esencia" de final fantasy es que tenga combate por turnos es que te has parado poco tiempo a pensar lo que es realmente la esencia. En cuanto a la linealidad que tanto se critica tiene exactamente la misma que todos los final fantasy a excepción de los 2 primeros, incluso el final fantasy X es más lineal que este y es uno de los menores juegos de la saga.
    De lo mejor del año y el mejor final fantasy de los últimos 20 años
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  18. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Story is very good and well paced. Combat is fun, fluid, and they have a very creative way of teaching new people how to start playing action combat (if you don’t abuse it).
  19. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy XVI is a stunning game with beautiful graphics that truly showcase the power of next-generation consoles. The attention to detail in every aspect of the game world is impressive and immersive. In addition, the combat encounters are thrilling and keep the player engaged throughout the entire adventure. While the game is already challenging, having a higher difficulty optionFinal Fantasy XVI is a stunning game with beautiful graphics that truly showcase the power of next-generation consoles. The attention to detail in every aspect of the game world is impressive and immersive. In addition, the combat encounters are thrilling and keep the player engaged throughout the entire adventure. While the game is already challenging, having a higher difficulty option would be a great addition for those looking for an even greater challenge. Overall, Final Fantasy XVI is a true testament to the capabilities of modern gaming technology and a must-play for fans of the series. Expand
  20. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    One of the best Final Fantasy games to-date, the combat is engaging, world exploration is fun and all the side quests are filled with great story. The game has a ton of FF14 references to enjoy as well as a darker tone to it’s grand adventure. 10/10 Final Fantasy experience.
  21. Jun 24, 2023
    8
    The game has utterly incredible and fantastical moments that are almost completely squandered by boring, pointless RPG tedium. It’s baffling that such unreal set pieces and stellar combat is broken up by sections of utter rubbish. This is the games biggest issue, besides this bizarre pacing the game is astounding. The story falls a little flat yet the combat, art direction, HUD, music andThe game has utterly incredible and fantastical moments that are almost completely squandered by boring, pointless RPG tedium. It’s baffling that such unreal set pieces and stellar combat is broken up by sections of utter rubbish. This is the games biggest issue, besides this bizarre pacing the game is astounding. The story falls a little flat yet the combat, art direction, HUD, music and acting are all highlights representing the very best in games. I would still recommend this game, if you’re willing to do some boring RPG side quests. Expand
  22. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    This game is my game of the year so far. The story, combat system, and music are amazing. If I must pick one negative thing to say about it, I wish the gearing system could be a little more diverse and complex. For example, I want to see more different outfits and slots that have different effects. However, the ability chart kind of makes up for it. You still have a lot of playstyles toThis game is my game of the year so far. The story, combat system, and music are amazing. If I must pick one negative thing to say about it, I wish the gearing system could be a little more diverse and complex. For example, I want to see more different outfits and slots that have different effects. However, the ability chart kind of makes up for it. You still have a lot of playstyles to choose from. Be aware that this is not your typical ff game. Don’t hold the ff stereotype when you jump in, or you will be disappointed. What else can I say? The devs took the risk, and it turned out epic. Expand
  23. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Unquestionably one of the best games I have ever played in this year. Everything is almost perfect, the characters are really likeable; every character has his own personality, background and desires/ambitions. There’s even characters you’ll like from the first scene. The story is just perfect; not everything is just about the protagonist and his companions, the conspiracies and events inUnquestionably one of the best games I have ever played in this year. Everything is almost perfect, the characters are really likeable; every character has his own personality, background and desires/ambitions. There’s even characters you’ll like from the first scene. The story is just perfect; not everything is just about the protagonist and his companions, the conspiracies and events in the world is shocking and exciting.
    The music of the game truly astonishing; depending on the situation, the music vary between calm music in the peaceful moments and dramatic osts in the dramatic/action battles and scenes.
    The gameplay is quite good, excellent actually.
    Every character has its own abilities and way of fight, the abilities of the protagonist (Clive) and how every ability is totally different and unique is perfect. The combos you can do and the abilities you can use combined is pleasing.

    One of the year’s speacials.
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  24. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    I have been playing Final Fantasy since FF7 on the PSOne and have been following the numbered series ever since. Some entries in the series were not as important or impressive as the ones I had the chance to play. However, FF16, despite setting aside some RPG aspects, returns with what has always made Final Fantasy unique. To my surprise, it's not just the RPG elements that keep this gameI have been playing Final Fantasy since FF7 on the PSOne and have been following the numbered series ever since. Some entries in the series were not as important or impressive as the ones I had the chance to play. However, FF16, despite setting aside some RPG aspects, returns with what has always made Final Fantasy unique. To my surprise, it's not just the RPG elements that keep this game alive to this day. It's the unique way it narrates events and presents a rich and immersive universe. Every moment of the game is wonderful Expand
  25. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    This game is great! It is nice to see Final Fantasy go back to a medieval setting with a much more mature story. Graphics and gameplay are top notch and with two settings at the start of the game you decide what best fits your gaming style on whether to have an action focused experience or a story focused experience. I haven't beaten the game yet and would say I'm probably 60% throughThis game is great! It is nice to see Final Fantasy go back to a medieval setting with a much more mature story. Graphics and gameplay are top notch and with two settings at the start of the game you decide what best fits your gaming style on whether to have an action focused experience or a story focused experience. I haven't beaten the game yet and would say I'm probably 60% through the story but cannot wait to check out the NewGame+ mode afterwards. A great addition to the final fantasy franchise and 100% worthy of the name. Ignore the negative reviews and if anything try out the demo and decide for yourself because like always trolls are going to troll and haters are going to hate. Expand
  26. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    La gente ya no sabe apreciar el esfuerzo de una compañía por hacer un buen juego, y a todo le quiere hacer review bombing , el juego tiene excelentes gráficas, un divertido modo de pelea y si las misiones secundarias son sosas pero bueno, los juegos no son perfectos, me queda claro que este juego lo amas o lo odias , aun así creo que cumple con su cometido por que es controversial...
  27. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Graficamente um jogo lindo, sistema de combate simples, porém fluído e divertido. A medida que você avança na história o jogo te prende ainda mais, pela história e gameplay. A trilha sonora é uma obra prima, épico do início ao fim. Modo foto poderia ter mais opções para edição e há realmente um excesso de cutscenes em alguns momentos. Mas nada disso atrapalha na diversão. Um acertoGraficamente um jogo lindo, sistema de combate simples, porém fluído e divertido. A medida que você avança na história o jogo te prende ainda mais, pela história e gameplay. A trilha sonora é uma obra prima, épico do início ao fim. Modo foto poderia ter mais opções para edição e há realmente um excesso de cutscenes em alguns momentos. Mas nada disso atrapalha na diversão. Um acerto gigantesco da Square depois de uma leva de jogos que não fizeram o sucesso esperado. Expand
  28. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Best Final Fantasy since almost two decades.
    The story is fascinating. I love the combat system.
    And I find the design of the world very well done.
    I don't notice the 30 FPS in graphics mode at all, unlike in other games.
  29. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    This game is amazing. This is easily the best game i have played in 2023.
  30. Jun 24, 2023
    10
    I will start by saying this game is not a perfect game. However, after the sadness of ff15 this is a phenomenal come back. There are performance issues and the battle system could be better, but where has a story this immersive and memorable ever shown up in a game. Some people complaining about the cuts cents and whatever but any true final fantasy fan knows that the biggest thing thatI will start by saying this game is not a perfect game. However, after the sadness of ff15 this is a phenomenal come back. There are performance issues and the battle system could be better, but where has a story this immersive and memorable ever shown up in a game. Some people complaining about the cuts cents and whatever but any true final fantasy fan knows that the biggest thing that sets ff apart from other series in the genre is its amazing ability to tell a story. And tell a story it did. Never have we had a story this realistic and mature. It shows the negatives of war and the loss of life. It doesn't just sugarcoat everything to be happy go lucky and Clive and Jill for life!!!! Expand
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 146 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. 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. 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.
  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]