Final Fantasy XVI

 PlayStation 5
User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 8567 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6,528 out of 8567
  2. Mixed: 693 out of 8567
  3. Negative: 1,346 out of 8567
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  1. MoistMelon
    Jul 2, 2023
    8
    Hours Played: 50
    The story, dialogue, voice acting and the characters are absolutely fantastic. The combat is also fantastic. It is easy to grasp but hard to master. The open zone design is beautifully implemented, but unfortunately, the game does not give you a lot of incentive to explore these open zones. Enemy variety is also unfortunately lacking, which is disappointing considering    Hours Played: 50
    The story, dialogue, voice acting and the characters are absolutely fantastic. The combat is also fantastic. It is easy to grasp but hard to master. The open zone design is beautifully implemented, but unfortunately, the game does not give you a lot of incentive to explore these open zones. Enemy variety is also unfortunately lacking, which is disappointing considering the Final Fantasy series has a massive range of monsters in the series. Between the main scenario plot points, the game gets you to carry out tasks for your team mates and associates in the game which just feels like padding which can make the pacing of the game feel very off at certain parts of the story. Performance is unfortunately not great. The boss fights and Eikon battles are some of the most draw dropping scenarios I have seen in a video game and are extremely fun to play and visually gorgeous. I wish I could score FF16 higher, but despite it's amazing highs, it has quite a few lows which takes from the experience.    … Expand
  2. Duncra
    Jul 7, 2023
    2
    ● PRO: beautiful graphics ● PRO: cool cut scenes

    But: ● CON: poor ability to customize or meaninfully character build. ● CON: piss poor crafting system. ● CON: unengaging button smash combat system. ● CON: no meaningful choice and consequence system. ● CON: boring side quests. ● CON: terrible voices acting. ● CON: no good party dynamics. In sum, Square Enix has failed again in my    ● PRO: beautiful graphics ● PRO: cool cut scenes

    But:

    ● CON: poor ability to customize or meaninfully character build.
    ● CON: piss poor crafting system.
    ● CON: unengaging button smash combat system.
    ● CON: no meaningful choice and consequence system.
    ● CON: boring side quests.
    ● CON: terrible voices acting.
    ● CON: no good party dynamics.

    In sum, Square Enix has failed again in my opinion at another main title. The first 13 (XIII) was its last good single player... perhaps the studio should sell the rights to Final Fantasy to another studio than can actually make an RPG not just a movie with cut-player actions.    … Expand
  3. Cariono
    Jun 24, 2023
    9
    The Final Fantasy series has been in a lull for me since 13/15. This one finally feels like it has a coherent story again. Soken has stepped up and the music sounds incredible, as does the voice acting. I still would have preferred more of turn-based game. I don't hate the switch over to action - I've played a ton of DMC / Bayonetta, however and it can feel a bit easier in comparison ifThe Final Fantasy series has been in a lull for me since 13/15. This one finally feels like it has a coherent story again. Soken has stepped up and the music sounds incredible, as does the voice acting. I still would have preferred more of turn-based game. I don't hate the switch over to action - I've played a ton of DMC / Bayonetta, however and it can feel a bit easier in comparison if you're familiar with the genre.… Expand
  4. Soulsweeper
    Jul 18, 2023
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I want to love this game so much but there are some issues we need to talk about. I have played all the main entries of FF games and I enjoyed every single one since FF7, however despite having moderate expectations, FF16 falls a bit flat in important bit while it shines in big moments.
    This review is only about the first run (i don't have the motivation for the New Game Plus)

    Starting with Pros:
    - Almost every single cinematic moment is an absolute master class in direction.
    - The music is another huge highlight (except the music during Titan fight, that felt off for me). For me music is really important when being used in a story background and they don't miss here.
    - The combat feels really good, specially in a long run when you unlock more eikon powers that help stun, special dodges, etc, during fights.
    - You can use different abilities from Eikons to see the best combos you can use.
    - Eikon fights are visually amazing.
    - Character design feels more contained, compared with many FF titles but each character is well designed and easy to identify.
    - The story feels more mature than usual, I am glad they made a more adult story.
    - Game design is phenomenal, the visuals are another big highlight, I can't count how many times I stopped the game to take a screenshot.
    - Cid is probably the best Cid iteration we have ever had even if the character didn't reached the end of the game.
    - Monster design feels grounded but I think it's good.
    - High rank monsters feel like good challenges.
    - Best characters: Benedicta, Anabelle, Cid, Kupka, Gav.

    Now the Cons (this is going to hurt):
    - Gameplay, I kid you not, you can literally fight enemies with one hand and win, just use attack and dodge.
    - First part of the game is good since it teaches you about the world, world rules, characters, and life changing moments at the end of First Act.
    - Second part of the game is almost unnecessary, you continue your journey through the world with the story more focused on saving bearers. Some side quests are good but in general it just felt the same over and over with no impact in a long run.
    - Third part of the game felt much better as a closing act, however there is no closure for a game of such magnitude. All the work done around, secondary characters is worth nothing, Bearers have zero impact and in the end there is zero explanation of what happened to the world. You have a small epilogue and that's it. WTF?
    CHARACTERS! Holy s*** this is my biggest issue. You have characters like Cid, Dion, Joshua, even Byron, Wade and Gav. You can't use a single one of them. They could have made the same system like Torgal but no, sure you have Torgal but it's so basic and his abilities are the same from beginning to end.
    -Jill survives the whole game and could have easily been used as a secondary playable character. So much potential lost in terms of gameplay and story, she literally feels like a female token npc. Even Benedicta or Anabelle are more complex and interesting.
    -Barnabas, I literally skipped his dialogue whenever he appeared, I couldn't handle the way they made the character speak like he's reading Shakespeare the whole time. This character felt important at first but in the end it was just a big empty fart when it came to character building.
    - Dion could have been managed in a better way (big potential as a playable character).
    - Do not play in Performance mode because the frame drops are quite distracting, locked 30 fps makes it more bearable and still I had drops below 20 even in dialogue moments. It shows that the optimization isn't very good.
    - There are ZERO mini games or any kind of puzzle mechanic. Not even Chocobo racing, nothing.
    All side quests are all FETCH Quests, at some point it bored me to death. The only side quests that have real impact are the upgrade ones (potions, recipes for weapons).
    - There almost no magic to use, the world exists around magic but Clive can only use little balls of fire, or wind, etc, from little to no impact in gameplay.
    - Rpg elements are almost non-existent, don't expect to see special stats on weapons or accessories, it's just the basic stats and that's it.
    - The customization in Clive is just the sword, nothing else is visible in your character. You have one playable character and you can't even change the look of armor, bracelet, not even the story items given by npc's are visible.
    - I used my first Potion at the big Bahamut fight, I'm not joking. The game is very easy and the potion system is almost useless.
    - Second Hideway, There are too many Npc's that only give you information that is literally useless. Sure you can learn about characters and the state on the world but there is zero substance. The area it self is so big and forces you to walk so much to reach characters.
    - Maps are big despite being semi-open but they just feel so empty, some map areas like the region next to Dragon Talon just feel bland and rushed.    … Expand
  5. abowman
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    Final Fantasy is one of the main video game series that got me interested in video games more than 30 years ago. I have played every Final fantasy to date. There have been lots of good games, and lots of mediocre ones. Final Fantasy 16 is one of the best Final Fantasies in the series to date.

    I know a lot of people are probably disappointed that final fantasy has moved pretty far from    Final Fantasy is one of the main video game series that got me interested in video games more than 30 years ago. I have played every Final fantasy to date. There have been lots of good games, and lots of mediocre ones. Final Fantasy 16 is one of the best Final Fantasies in the series to date.

    I know a lot of people are probably disappointed that final fantasy has moved pretty far from its original roots as a JRPG. I'm not one of those people. While there is some work to be done with this new direction, I do feel it has breathed new life into the series.

    The combat is absolutely phenomenal. In my opinion, It's probably in the top 5 combat systems of all time. Ryota Suzuki called FF16 his masterpiece, and boy oh boy does it show. I don't think I have had a larger smile across my face during some of the fights in this game. It's visceral, it flows well, and it FEELS good.

    The story and characters are also fantastic. As someone who couldn't relate as well with the last few protagonists of the final fantasy series, Clive, Cid, and many other characters were EXTREMELY relatable. The world and characters are complex, dark, grim, and MATURE. This is probably the best aspect of this new Final Fantasy and its a HUGE step in the right direction. I hope they continue down this path with future releases.

    Now, the bad. I agree with a lot of complaints regarding the overall "corridor" feeling that this game has. This game is MAJORILY on rails. There is SOME side quests in previous areas that you've visited, but you will almost always be experiencing the game exactly how everyone else is. This is where both FF16 and the FF7 remake suffer, and its where Square Enix needs to put their attention next.

    As someone who loves open world games, Final fantasy doesn't need to be open world. The game doesn't need to be fully open world. It does, however, need to FEEL LIKE A WORLD. Final Fantasy 16 feels like a series of corridors and scripted events, one after another. I think a system like Dragon Age 3, where you have maps of semi open world environments, would work well for Final Fantasy. This is absolutely where the game suffers the most. Square Enix needs to find better ways to break up the corridors.

    Overall I am loving this game. It's a huge step in the right direction and It will attract a wider audience. I'm hoping we see more mature Final Fantasy games in the future.    … Expand
  6. Rene69
    Jun 25, 2023
    10
    Juegazo de 10,que pena que la gente ande con tonterías dando 0 porque si...,lamentable son como bebes.
  7. Mikireq
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Llevo 15 horas y es espectacular. La trama te envuelve como si vieras Juego de tronos, el combate es adictivo, gráficos alucinantes, como si vieras una peli de CGI en muchos momentos del juego y su sistema RPG es intuitivo q más a más del sistema de información de la historia, personajes y lore en general hace q no te dejes nada por el camino. Desde FFX el mejor final fantasy
  8. celfhelp
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    exceptional game. i had hefty expectations of CBU3, and they surpassed all of them

    nothing in this game is ‘lazy’ or ‘for the sake of it’; everything has weight and purpose, including the more seemingly boring side quests. everything contributes to the world and the story in a way that few teams manage a bold shift for the franchise but not one that’s done carelessly. no one loves Final    exceptional game. i had hefty expectations of CBU3, and they surpassed all of them

    nothing in this game is ‘lazy’ or ‘for the sake of it’; everything has weight and purpose, including the more seemingly boring side quests. everything contributes to the world and the story in a way that few teams manage

    a bold shift for the franchise but not one that’s done carelessly. no one loves Final Fantasy more than the people behind this game, and it shows. excessively at times

    you’d do well to avoid any opinions coming from people whose job it is to *review* games, as ‘game reviewers’ are on the same path that games journalists traveled; it’s just the nature of the beast when you’re not being paid to simply play a game

    if you’re a fan of JRPGs strictly for their turn-based combat or loot/party kitting, you will not like this game; however if you’re a fan of JRPGs for their soul and message(s), you’ll love this game like all the others

    Final Fantasy XVI is a bigger success than GoW 2018 in my opinion when it comes to redefining a franchise while keeping the soul in tact

    this game is incredible for many reasons, and while you may not love every single aspect, it is a must play for anyone other than turn-based purists    … Expand
  9. MetaKritiker90
    Aug 11, 2023
    10
    Absolutely amazing game. Spectacular Eikon Fights, some of the best music that you'll ever hear in any medium (God bless Soken
  10. Edupmor
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Exceeded my expectations. Amazing game! After playing the demo I was surprised by the quality of the game, and just gets better as the gameplay progresses.
  11. jm89
    Jun 25, 2023
    10
    Really love the more action focused combat, i think it's a nive change of pace of the series.

    Story is alot more darker and epic, feels more akin to ff7.
  12. SeV5er
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    An epic game! The best Finaly Fantasy game released. The graphics are superb, the music is fantastic and it controls very well. The story and characters are very captivating. I recommend this game strongly.
  13. niladridas
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    Incredible story with amazing boss fights. Combat is just ot of the world l,easy to learn.Only issue is the performance in Performance Mode which is not stable at 60 fps.
  14. Blackbelt2018
    Jul 15, 2023
    10
    Personally, it’s one of the best games I’ve ever played. I have never seen such an epic story like this one. I’ve played a lot of FF games in the past but this one had a different impact on me than the others. I hope this style combat sticks around because it was a lot of fun and you could make some seriously crazy, powerful builds. I don’t usually give reviews but I just completed thePersonally, it’s one of the best games I’ve ever played. I have never seen such an epic story like this one. I’ve played a lot of FF games in the past but this one had a different impact on me than the others. I hope this style combat sticks around because it was a lot of fun and you could make some seriously crazy, powerful builds. I don’t usually give reviews but I just completed the game and felt compelled to leave it a quick review. I became really invested with these characters and the voice acting was top notch. You build really close relationships with so many different characters and you’ll find yourself emotionally sucked in, quick. Now I’m stuck with a video game hangover. Well done, Square Enix. 10/10. Do more of these!… Expand
  15. RealJSkeleton
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    Final Fantasy 16 is a visual spectacle with fluid but simple combat, epic Boss fights that may be some of the best in any game to date, a masterpiece of a soundtrack, interesting characters and an interesting story/plot that spans both the political side with Empires at odds with each other as well as the magical side which dives into incredible depths of intrigue. The main character,Final Fantasy 16 is a visual spectacle with fluid but simple combat, epic Boss fights that may be some of the best in any game to date, a masterpiece of a soundtrack, interesting characters and an interesting story/plot that spans both the political side with Empires at odds with each other as well as the magical side which dives into incredible depths of intrigue. The main character, Clive, has quite the Character arc that is bound to keep you interested, as well as the surrounding Characters, each of which have their own, unique and interesting personalities.

    The game took me just about 33 Hours focusing mostly on Main Story to complete, and although there is some bloat (main quests that feel like they should have been side quests), the pay off is worth it, as the game continues to develop and lead you to the next big (and often massive) story beat and each grand Boss Fight.

    The Boss Fights alone are impressive in scale and visuals, being sure to leave you on the edge of your seat. The Boss Fights include segments that are "cinematic" in nature, having you react to a timed button press or button mashing in which you often return back to the normal combat. The combat itself is simplistic in nature, having an evade button, an attack button, a magic button, a jump button, and then combos and special ability attacks, but it works well, feels satisfying and overall was appealing.

    The game has a pretty deep ability tree to unlock new abilities as well as upgrade ones currently unlocked, and gives you the option to reset certain abilities to get some ability points back to focus on others you may use more.

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

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

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

    All in all, the game is fantastic, but not perfect. I haven’t enjoyed a FF game as much as I enjoyed this one for multiple generations now.    … Expand
  17. cat15
    Aug 25, 2023
    10
    My favourite final fantasy so far, amazing soundtrack, good combat and a wonderful story 10/10
  18. KatanaJoe89
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Some of the best voice acting I've heard, cutscenes are beautiful and the gameplay had fun slick action. Loveable characters and a rich detailed world to explore with lore and interesting history.
  19. Tekpoak
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Un hermoso juego, con una historia oscura con personajes memorables, la mejor fantasia que puede tener un videojuego.
    El sistema de combate es lo mejor que tenemos a dia de hoy.
    Obra maestra.
  20. BigBalmore
    Aug 10, 2023
    9
    Much better than I expected it to be. I highly recommend playing FF16! Try it. You won’t regret it!
  21. Seawarrior
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Combat is extremely fun. Love the story. Game is gorgeous. Havent had any issues with frame rate, but slight drops or being at 30 fps doesn’t stop my enjoyment of the game. Final fantasy fans seem to be split between people enjoying the direction square is going and what final fantasy hasn’t been since 1999. Can’t wait to play on the final fantasy difficulty.
  22. bockwurst-mutti
    Jul 23, 2023
    2
    This is not a final fantasy! Mindless button mashing with no need to ever change the skillset. Open areas are dull and empty. For me it seems like the game is split in half. Epic main story battles and the rest of the game as afterthought. Even the graphical difference between those to aspects are huge. It feels just as empty and boring as Valkyrie asylum and forspoken. CharacterprogessionThis is not a final fantasy! Mindless button mashing with no need to ever change the skillset. Open areas are dull and empty. For me it seems like the game is split in half. Epic main story battles and the rest of the game as afterthought. Even the graphical difference between those to aspects are huge. It feels just as empty and boring as Valkyrie asylum and forspoken. Characterprogession has nothing to do with an rpg. Numbers in damage output barely change the whole game. Sidequests are as boring as the possibly could be. As if someone at square thought of it as „how to make the least final fantasy game ever and than slap the 16 on top of it!“ Those good review scores are just mindblowing to me and not understandable! Just as bad as 13! Square, maybe you should stick with the remakes and remasters of older games. There are at least good and worth the money. Or even better bring sakaguchi back or someone with his mindset. Ff16 is a terrible game for longtime fans and does not deserve the Name final fantasy!!… Expand
  23. Rayado80
    Jun 25, 2023
    10
    Simplemente espectacular gráficamente gracias al poder de Playstation 5, excelente historia, maravillosa actuación de doblaje, banda sonora espectacular, será GOTY seguramente!
  24. chevychiller
    Jul 24, 2023
    4
    Final Fantasy 16's greatest strength is its visuals, but it relies on them so heavily that it usually feels more like a movie, than a video game. FF16 is chock full of unnecessarily-long, constant cutscenes which break your engagement. The "gameplay" loop is 30 minutes of dialogue/fetch quests, followed by 15 minutes of action battles, and a choreographed boss fight (which also includesFinal Fantasy 16's greatest strength is its visuals, but it relies on them so heavily that it usually feels more like a movie, than a video game. FF16 is chock full of unnecessarily-long, constant cutscenes which break your engagement. The "gameplay" loop is 30 minutes of dialogue/fetch quests, followed by 15 minutes of action battles, and a choreographed boss fight (which also includes cutscenes throughout its climax). What RPG elements are present feel shallow and meaningless. There are very few customization options for equipment, or character builds. This game would have been better off as a spinoff, not a main series title.… Expand
  25. jmsbrolic
    Jun 25, 2023
    9
    I'M about 20 hours in. The game is amazing. Combat is awesome, story is great, visuals are solid, and while the side quests are simple, they really add to insight to the story / world.

    Much better than FF15! And while it is heavily combat based, I love it!
  26. Mc_Lowin1663
    Jul 16, 2023
    10
    Great game! This game is DMC5 type of action(but more) with GoT inspired anime lore and i'm 100% in for it!
  27. Kadusan
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Um jogo incrivel espetacular, Uma qualidade sem tamanho a historia o combate mais um exclusivo do playstation feito de forma perfeita, sou grato por ter um ps5
  28. Tra_Plays
    Jun 24, 2023
    9
    So far I’m loving ff16. It feels like a fresh take on an old game series and I’m all for square enix trying out different experimental approaches to their game series. The story is engaging, combat is fun, and the characters are interesting. The action scenes are breath taking as well. Outside of some dull side quests and a bit of a rough patch concerning frame dips at times I’d say it’sSo far I’m loving ff16. It feels like a fresh take on an old game series and I’m all for square enix trying out different experimental approaches to their game series. The story is engaging, combat is fun, and the characters are interesting. The action scenes are breath taking as well. Outside of some dull side quests and a bit of a rough patch concerning frame dips at times I’d say it’s all around an excellent game.… Expand
  29. Fahren
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    A great game with insane moments that will definitly be remembered a loooong time. The game is far from beeing perfect but the gameplay is really plaisant when mastered and i enjoyed pretty much every character.
  30. Yukso
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Awesome game, stunning graphics and fantastic story.
    I would give it a solid 8 out of 10, but considering how many trolls there are, who clearly have some sort of hate towards ff in general, I give it a 10.
  31. ShinySoda
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    I have been anticipating this game for quite a while now and being 48% through the game I can say it has not been a let down so far.

    First off, the game is absolutely gorgeous. The graphics are amazing, and each different country you visit has a massive difference in scenery which keeps it fresh and exciting. The music you hear really adds to it, and I am absolutely in love with some    I have been anticipating this game for quite a while now and being 48% through the game I can say it has not been a let down so far.

    First off, the game is absolutely gorgeous. The graphics are amazing, and each different country you visit has a massive difference in scenery which keeps it fresh and exciting. The music you hear really adds to it, and I am absolutely in love with some songs already. There's a mix of songs you expect to hear in a RPG and some unexpected but still absolutely amazing songs keeps every boss fight fun.

    While the different types of modes is something that has not often been seen before, I do like the idea behind it. Yes, you can decide to equip all the timely accessories if you know combat is just not your thing, making it so you truly have to press one button to get through fights. But, if you're up for a bit more of a challenge or want to experiment more yourself, you can mix and match to find out what your best pick is. For example, I only use the ring for Torgal cause I know otherwise I might have difficulty remembering everything. It's useful, and keeps my gameplay fun!

    On the subject of fights, the Eikon battles I have done so far are truly something else. You never know what to expect beforehand, and sometimes the over the top attacks make you sit at the edge of your seat. They keep it exciting and fresh with cinematic strikes and dodges, making you feel like you're really doing the fight even though it has a cutscene vibe around it.

    The story is one that I find absolutely amazing. It starts off in a way you expect after the demo, but the further you get into the story more twists and turns reveal itself. Some expected, some unexpected. There have been times I have been shouting at my screen for something I did not expect happening and truly taking me by surprise.

    The side quests are an absolutely must do. While they might look like simple quests, they are essential for the lore building and give you an insight on how the people live inside this world, what their opinions and culture are. Some are absolutely heart breaking, others just really cute and a good time.

    The ATL is something I find super useful in cutscenes. If you do not want it, you do not need to use it. Everything is explained later on, but if you are really, really curious about something the characters mention it is there for you to read up on and get even more immersed. I feel it allows the characters in the game to really talk about what is going on with the knowledge they should have instead of overexplaining everything for the sake of the player.

    Some additions later on in the game that I do not want to spoil add to this, allowing you to read more about the lives, opinions and allegiances you have with characters. Again, if you just want to rush the game for the sake of completing it you do not have to do it, but to me it all adds to the experience and immersion.

    All in all, I find this game an amazing game I keep coming back to and can't wait to see what happens next. It might not be to everyone's tastes, but I implore everyone to think critically about the 0 reviews. This game is doing an amazing job of telling a story which has different layers and does not try to hide the more dark sides of the world of Valisthea.

    I have 2 minor points that annoy me sometimes, but are in no way a reason for me to look at the game in a bad light. Motion blur cannot be turned off (yet), and while it is not always noticable it is something they should patch in cause I always turn it off in my games as soon as I can.

    The audio balance between cutscenes, or just roaming the world and battles is a bit weird at times. The battles are so much louder I have to tell my friends I cannot hear them at the moment. At the same time, it does give you an extra layer of immersion. So like I said it is not exactly things to look at the game in a bad light, just slight things that might annoy you at certain points.    … Expand
  32. Yacerkaan
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    This game is masterpiece like you can get all what you need and want the system combat is a masterpiece the story is a masterpiece the characters are all well designed
  33. truekingnoctis
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    The game is perfect almost in every single way, the only thing i feel that could have improved is having an open world instead of a world selection screen.
    Nevertheless I give this 10/10
  34. GAMERDOE
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    GAME is amazing, definitely GOTY contender. Alot of the these negatives reviews come from Xbox fan boys who gave redfall a 10. This game is next level
  35. Valsamis
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Just incredible! VA, battle, and story are excellent. It may even be the best FF of all time. I really like the mature path they took.
  36. Vegardo
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Don't listen to the review bombing. This is one of the best game I have played in the series. Best way to describe it is GOT on steroids. Good mature story that keep on surprising and is not afraid to take chances. Also, the gameplay is realy fun! Music and graphics on top ,as always from Square
  37. Gamerboy22
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    This game is incredible!! Great story! Awesome action and great characters!
  38. Peiper45
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Gutes final fantasy kein woke müll einfach mal eine super mega Story und auch sehr Einsteiger freundlich bin echt begeistert
  39. Musicaltravesty
    Jun 24, 2023
    8
    Different, but definitely worth your time. FF XVI abandons much of what is found in other itirations of the series, but the soul is preserved. Fan service is sufficiently present, but still, this game asks you to keep an open mind to what could be. It is by no means a perfect game, but it has kept me riveted from the get go. Forget the reviews. Experience this game for yourself. You won'tDifferent, but definitely worth your time. FF XVI abandons much of what is found in other itirations of the series, but the soul is preserved. Fan service is sufficiently present, but still, this game asks you to keep an open mind to what could be. It is by no means a perfect game, but it has kept me riveted from the get go. Forget the reviews. Experience this game for yourself. You won't be disapointed.… Expand
  40. Imapen
    Jun 25, 2023
    9
    それでも高い次元で融合したシナリオ、音楽、グラフィックやコンボを追求したくなるアクション、胸に刺さる声優の演技など非常に満足感の高い体験だった。

    ただストーリー的にちょっともう少し説明してほしい箇所等はいくつか見受けられた。 思ったより召喚獣バトルの種類が多くなかったので、DLC等で出来たらいいなー。 でも総合して素晴らしかった、徹夜でゲームやったのなんか久しぶりだ。    それでも高い次元で融合したシナリオ、音楽、グラフィックやコンボを追求したくなるアクション、胸に刺さる声優の演技など非常に満足感の高い体験だった。

    ただストーリー的にちょっともう少し説明してほしい箇所等はいくつか見受けられた。
    思ったより召喚獣バトルの種類が多くなかったので、DLC等で出来たらいいなー。

    でも総合して素晴らしかった、徹夜でゲームやったのなんか久しぶりだ。
  41. goregons_05
    Jun 26, 2023
    8
    FFXVI isn't the worst game ever like many people online would have you believe. However, it certainly isn't perfect by any means, and has a number of flaws holding it back from all of it's potential of being a truly great game.

    Pros: * For every weak character in the cast, there are at least two strong and well-written characters. One particular highlight for me was a character    FFXVI isn't the worst game ever like many people online would have you believe. However, it certainly isn't perfect by any means, and has a number of flaws holding it back from all of it's potential of being a truly great game.

    Pros:

    * For every weak character in the cast, there are at least two strong and well-written characters. One particular highlight for me was a character you'll meet early on named Cid, who oozes with charm, personality, and might just be the best Cid in the series.

    * The voice acting is absolutely stellar. Almost every single character in the main cast is voiced beautifully and helps carry the scenes even when they are particularly lacking (which will be elaborated on.) Ben Starr in particular does an excellent job as Clive, to the point where his voice during some particularly emotional scenes brought me to the brink with tears.

    * The battle system is very good, although the amount of time before it truly expands and the many hours between the unlocking of new skills will make some encounters tedious.

    * The accessibility and optimization in this game is excellent, from the various rings included to the Active Time Lore feature. (The latter I had to use many times, and although I did not use the former many times, I hope that the rings can help someone's experience.) Besides the current lack of the option to remove motion blur (which is to be patched,) I hope that many games as a whole will take a page from FFXVI's book and implement these features into their games.

    * The soundtrack is amazing, enough said.

    * There are certain over-the-top battles roughly every 7-9 hours, and they are the best moments in the game. Some of them are perhaps even some of my favorite moments in the series, which considering the many moments so far, is hard to accomplish.

    Cons:

    * The women aren't really written that well, and considering the other characters and relatively well-written LGBTQ+ characters in this game (whom were actually confirmed as queer, to my extremely pleasant surprise), it's truly such a shame that they round out as the weakest of the cast. Our main heroine is a great character when the writers allow her to BE one, and a certain character (those whom have finished the game might have a solid guess on who) deserved so much more than what she was given.

    * Without giving much away as well, while the antagonists often pose a threat, but there were very few who ultimately intrigued me. Many of them are very weak in terms of writing.

    * The pacing is not too awful, but just enough to detract from the experience. FFXVI ultimately has one of the same, and biggest, flaws of Endwalker: after an extremely large climatic event that rocks your socks off and makes you invested in what happens next, there is often a boring quest that while contributing to the plot, takes you out of the suspense that the story was meant to make you feel.

    * Near the third act, there are many reused mobs that make the game rather predictable in terms of action. I actually counted one mob adjacent to a miniboss used about four times within the span of the third act, and that's not counting how that boss can be boiled down to a recolor with different colored attacks. (And, while the recolor reason is somewhat valid in that case, there are some bosses that do not get that excuse.)

    ------

    Overall, if you are looking for an Action RPG with an emphasis on a solid gameplay with great characters, then FFXVI is absolutely the game for you. However, do not expect a revolutionary combat system or story, and as with almost every game, please be sure to come in with your expectations mildly tempered.    … Expand
  42. Moidiene
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Only a couple hours into this and you can totally feel the love that went into it.

    From story, world building to character design everything just feels so much like that old school FF feel. The music is also amazing and really invokes feelings of power, mystery and emotion.
  43. Jabur
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Definetely a top 3 of the franchise. Amazing combat, superb story. The side quests gives a Lot of insight about the world, and the map Works great for a non open world game. A must play for the fans of the franchise and ps5 owners.
  44. love_dig_it
    Jul 15, 2023
    9
    I've been playing Final Fantasy games for over 2 decades and I thought this game was amazing, really loved the story. Are there things that could have been better? Sure, but the overall experience was everything id hoped the game would be. Definitely will be replaying this for years to come!
  45. Drolnar
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Très bonne surprise , l'intérêt du jeu débute réellement au bout de 5h , un chef-d'œuvre du jeu vidéo
  46. Macrophage
    Jun 26, 2023
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. In short, this game is great with a very entertaining combat, epic soundtrack and good story. However, there were some parts of the story did not give the feeling of the moment (e.g. you feel that the characters are emotionless).… Expand
  47. Donatty
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    This game will be the next goty for sure. Outstanding visuals and combats. If you are with any doubt about play it, give a chance and ignore the players that just see it from the youtube. This is definety a final fantasy game.
  48. PariahComplex
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Very enjoyable game so far, people who say "too many cutscenes", have you played a final fantasy?! People who say "you can just spam one button and beat everyone", well, unequip your timely rings that allow you to combo and dodge with one button, not complicated. It does have some frame rate drops but honestly, what game doesn't til patches come out. Remember cyberpunk, the one you peopleVery enjoyable game so far, people who say "too many cutscenes", have you played a final fantasy?! People who say "you can just spam one button and beat everyone", well, unequip your timely rings that allow you to combo and dodge with one button, not complicated. It does have some frame rate drops but honestly, what game doesn't til patches come out. Remember cyberpunk, the one you people were sending death threats about "another delay" then death threats it wasn't perfect, now your praising it like you loved it from the beginning. My best guess is 90% of these zero reviews are people mad it's an exclusive and also the same people lauding Xbox for buying companies to get exclusives and laughing at Sony players.

    Graphics are good, game is fun, if you want more challenge as mentioned don't equip timely rings so you control all aspects of your combat instead of one button, some framerate issues, give it time for an update if thats something that bothers you.    … Expand
  49. Worldshaking
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    Epic Boss and Eikon battles. Rich lore. Unforgettable characters. Fun and exciting battle system. Dark story. Fantastic soundtrack. This is my favorite Final Fantasy so far. Can’t wait for FF7 Rebirth and what the next FF.
  50. Zeeeerak
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    وەڵا هەربژیت ئەوەیە گەمە، خوا موبینە حەقی دوازدە لە دەی هەیە هەی بتخۆم یۆشیپی هەر بمێنی بۆ ئەو قەومەی
  51. 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!！
  52. Asellus
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Le doy un 10 y porque no hay más nota. Un juego que debe ser jugado por la comunidad. Ojala existiera en más plataformas y lo pudieran disfrutar más personas es la única pega que le puedo poner. Tiene algunos aspectos que se pueden mejorar, pero tiene lo que tiene que tener un Final Fantasy. Tiene buena historia, una banda sonora espectacular, personajes maravillosos, un sistema de combateLe doy un 10 y porque no hay más nota. Un juego que debe ser jugado por la comunidad. Ojala existiera en más plataformas y lo pudieran disfrutar más personas es la única pega que le puedo poner. Tiene algunos aspectos que se pueden mejorar, pero tiene lo que tiene que tener un Final Fantasy. Tiene buena historia, una banda sonora espectacular, personajes maravillosos, un sistema de combate diferente pero muy divertido, el conjunto del videojuego lo hace una obra maestra. Por favor no se guíen por lo que digan los demás os invito a que juguéis unas 5 horas y le deis una oportunidad. La guerra de consolas hace daño a videojuegos como este y no se valoran y que si merecen la pena.

    Agradezco al equipo que ha participado en este videojuego, mis mayores felicitaciones. Habéis creado algo maravilloso, no tengo palabras, gracias por devolvernos esa magia que echábamos en falta. GRACIAS!!    … Expand
  53. Vithok
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Épico a más no poder. Una obra maestra. Lo mejor: narrativa cuidada, gameplay y OST.
  54. SorryDaSlayer
    Jun 27, 2023
    9
    This is the first Final Fantasy game I’ve ever played I’m about 12 hours in and I love it with all of my being. Will update score when I finish the game but right now it is a solid 9. In a recent single player gaming world where most of the new releases are open world games that are completely empty with nothing but dull side quests and the same activity to repeat, this game was theThis is the first Final Fantasy game I’ve ever played I’m about 12 hours in and I love it with all of my being. Will update score when I finish the game but right now it is a solid 9. In a recent single player gaming world where most of the new releases are open world games that are completely empty with nothing but dull side quests and the same activity to repeat, this game was the freshest breathe of air ever. The linear kinda railroaded experience and focus on story is absolutely stunning visually and heartbreaking emotionally. I love this game and if you enjoy fantasy or just good story telling in general you will to. Also the combat designed by the guy who designed Devil May Cry’s combat is just a plus to what is already an amazing game. Play it!… Expand
  55. BlackOrion
    Jun 27, 2023
    10
    Expongo los puntos que hacen que para mi sea uno de los mejores FF (no esperaba nada desde el XII):
    -Historia adulta que te atrapa de principio a fin al mas puro estilo game of thrones.
    -Apartado artístico sublime. -Banda sonora es un 10, toma mucha fuerza en cada situación. -El nuevo estilo de combate dirigido por el director de combate de devil may cry es muy divertido, nada de los    Expongo los puntos que hacen que para mi sea uno de los mejores FF (no esperaba nada desde el XII):
    -Historia adulta que te atrapa de principio a fin al mas puro estilo game of thrones.
    -Apartado artístico sublime.
    -Banda sonora es un 10, toma mucha fuerza en cada situación.
    -El nuevo estilo de combate dirigido por el director de combate de devil may cry es muy divertido, nada de los sistemas toscos de anteriores entregas implementando el action rpg.
    -Personajes carismaticos y con profundidad que se van construyendo paso a paso y sin marchas forzadas.    … Expand
  56. feddyfedfed
    Jul 31, 2023
    0
    I finished the game but can't get myself to do NG+, but I will do it anyway since I already paid for this game.

    I'm happy that this is catering to the vast majority whose standards are low. At least Square-Enix will thrive. But for anyone with even an inkling of having a critical eye, it's not difficult to see that this game has deviated so much from what the whole franchise was all    I finished the game but can't get myself to do NG+, but I will do it anyway since I already paid for this game.

    I'm happy that this is catering to the vast majority whose standards are low. At least Square-Enix will thrive. But for anyone with even an inkling of having a critical eye, it's not difficult to see that this game has deviated so much from what the whole franchise was all about. Sure, I did get excited when you got to the new hideaway, and when a certain uncle went with you. But that was all the takeaway. The high-octane battles and "story" that everyone else were praising were really lackluster to me. I give it a zero the same way unjustified 10s are being thrown in this utter disrespect to the legacy of Final Fantasy.

    If they really cared, they should look at what the negative comments are highlighting (there's already so many valid points raised) and publicly address whether they're justified or not.    … Expand
  57. earlyybird
    Aug 9, 2023
    9
    I wish I could give this game a perfect score, and it's so close to getting it, but unfortunately most of the side quests are just terrible. They are optional thankfully, but they're just complete garbage. It's really awkward to see in comparison to the rest of the game. Other than that the game is amazing!
    Fantastic characters, beautiful settings, wonderful music, and an engaging story.    I wish I could give this game a perfect score, and it's so close to getting it, but unfortunately most of the side quests are just terrible. They are optional thankfully, but they're just complete garbage. It's really awkward to see in comparison to the rest of the game. Other than that the game is amazing!
    Fantastic characters, beautiful settings, wonderful music, and an engaging story. Combat is fun and bosses are incredible.    … Expand
  58. victini9
    Aug 10, 2023
    10
    Great story, enjoyable gameplay. Must play game for sure. People hate it just because no black people in game
  59. dundiditt
    Sep 7, 2023
    9
    I had an absolutely amazing time playing this brilliant game. Great storytelling, superb musical score, nice graphics and atmosphere. From what I gathered this game was several years in the making and it shows! The time, care and effort are obvious from start to finish. It may not win GOTY, because of the highly anticipated Starfield, BG3, spiderman and more, but it definitely deserves toI had an absolutely amazing time playing this brilliant game. Great storytelling, superb musical score, nice graphics and atmosphere. From what I gathered this game was several years in the making and it shows! The time, care and effort are obvious from start to finish. It may not win GOTY, because of the highly anticipated Starfield, BG3, spiderman and more, but it definitely deserves to be nominated.… Expand
  60. AlexMercer047
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    An absolutely gorgeous game with a best gameplay this year and best graphics with best boss fights ever been made in history !
  61. guiacr
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    A great addition to the franchise, a visceral FF, with very dynamic combat and one of the best stories in games.
    You realize that the game is really good when almost all the criticisms are "this is not RPG" or "runners in full ps5", when in fact these are not negative points, just personal taste of each one.
  62. JrDouble
    Jun 24, 2023
    9
    I have been playing Final Fantasy games since VII in 1997 (which had remained by favorite until VII Remake took it's place). This is now my new favorite Final Fantasy game, surpassing even VII Remake. I love the shift to action-orientated combat and feel it is exciting, rewarding, and a true spectacle. I only wish the world was a bit more filled-out and graphics in low-lit areas a bit lessI have been playing Final Fantasy games since VII in 1997 (which had remained by favorite until VII Remake took it's place). This is now my new favorite Final Fantasy game, surpassing even VII Remake. I love the shift to action-orientated combat and feel it is exciting, rewarding, and a true spectacle. I only wish the world was a bit more filled-out and graphics in low-lit areas a bit less murky, but other than those items this is now the greatest Final Fantasy game ever made and a must play.… Expand
  63. bmcarbaugh
    Jun 24, 2023
    9
    It's excellent. Everything I've wanted from a mainline single-player Final Fantasy since 10. A lovingly crafted, linear, narrative roller coaster ride, with a kickass battle system that is an absolute joy to interact with.

    The writing is wonderful, the world is like Ivalice with extra mud, and the voice acting / animation is about as good as it gets for a game with this kind of scope,    It's excellent. Everything I've wanted from a mainline single-player Final Fantasy since 10. A lovingly crafted, linear, narrative roller coaster ride, with a kickass battle system that is an absolute joy to interact with.

    The writing is wonderful, the world is like Ivalice with extra mud, and the voice acting / animation is about as good as it gets for a game with this kind of scope, in 2023. I will also add that this is hands-down my favorite Cid in the entire franchise.

    My only complaint (aside from how British people pronounce chocobo "chokka-bo") is it's a little monochrome, if you catch my drift. Not unusual for a jrpg, and yeah yeah, it's a "euro medieval" setting, whatever. Dhalmekians should be brown. Hugo should look like Raubahn from 14, at minimum. It's an ongoing distraction that mars an otherwise great game. Even Game of Thrones, which this entry liberally borrows from, has more color in the cast than what you see here. It breaks new ground in other departments (Dion!) but yeah. That aspect I don't love.    … Expand
  64. Dariu
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Love this game. Story, Gameplay. 10/10. Go buy it it’s fun as hell. I’m an older guy so I remember final fantasy being turn based but this gameplay will be able to reach a wider audience.
  65. RPG_Fanatic
    Jul 19, 2023
    4
    Excuse my English,played for 42 hours and stopped.
    I have been a fan of FF since the first one and i am sad to see what the FF RPG has become over the years.This new game is more button mashing than RPG,in which there is no strategy.The game play is ridiculously easy and has little RPG,sub quests ridiculous.I will never forgive the developers for turning the RPG FINAL FANTASY into Hack    Excuse my English,played for 42 hours and stopped.
    I have been a fan of FF since the first one and i am sad to see what the FF RPG has become over the years.This new game is more button mashing than RPG,in which there is no strategy.The game play is ridiculously easy and has little RPG,sub quests ridiculous.I will never forgive the developers for turning the RPG FINAL FANTASY into Hack 'n' Slash generic game.
    Although sad and disappointed with this 16.it at least has good music and story.
    : (    … Expand
  66. FTC
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Another FF game means it's time for another round of review bombing!

    Seriously, just ignore all of the negative reviews. Utterly none of them were written by intelligent lifeforms.
  67. xodestroxo
    Jun 24, 2023
    9
    lol 7.2 user score. you morons will complain about a game like this and drool over FF7 remake, one of the most mechanically shallow games ever made.

    FF16 is hopefully a new chapter and a new standard moving forward for FF main series games in general. outside of the MMO's, this is the first solid installment we've seen in nearly 20 years. the soundtrack is fantastic, the combat is    lol 7.2 user score. you morons will complain about a game like this and drool over FF7 remake, one of the most mechanically shallow games ever made.

    FF16 is hopefully a new chapter and a new standard moving forward for FF main series games in general. outside of the MMO's, this is the first solid installment we've seen in nearly 20 years. the soundtrack is fantastic, the combat is FINALLY customizable and has more depth than a puddle, unlike 15. The characters and story are both great, there's a bit of skipping around in the timeline which i've never been a fan of when FF does it, but it pays off later on.

    Honestly this game's review score should be nowhere close to XV or FF7 remake, it's on a whole other level. If you have a PS5, check it out for sure.    … Expand
  68. irinafer
    Jul 16, 2023
    10
    Great game! Absolutely loved everything about it. This is game of the year right here everyone. I have seen a number of people spread misinfo about this game but trust me and just play the game. This has to be the best Final Fantasy game ever made.
  69. vincentyu0226
    Jul 20, 2023
    3
    An empty game. Gorgeous graphics, but that's the only good thing about the game. The battle system is terrible. It is the worst battle system I've ever played. Equipment system is terrible. The story is fascinating at first, but it also feels unappealing in the end. A lot of stories are missing.
  70. Orionstar
    Jul 20, 2023
    4
    I honestly have a very high expectation for this game. I’ve been a fan of Final Fantasy since the 90s. Saw my sibling played 8 and fall in love with 9 and 10. Played through the older FF using DS and still playing the online one. I even played 15 on launch day.

    This game, although did not disappoint me as much as 15, was still a disappointment. Maybe it was my expectation, but knowing the    I honestly have a very high expectation for this game. I’ve been a fan of Final Fantasy since the 90s. Saw my sibling played 8 and fall in love with 9 and 10. Played through the older FF using DS and still playing the online one. I even played 15 on launch day.

    This game, although did not disappoint me as much as 15, was still a disappointment. Maybe it was my expectation, but knowing the person who did Dragon’s Dogma do the battle, as well as story by the person who did Heavensward, I was expecting more, especially a flesh out story.

    The story, for me, is pretty much unforgivable. They promoted it as mature and dark, but what I found was superficial themes and focus on nudity for that “look at us, we are so mature we have r-rated scene”. Instead of Game of Thrones, maybe they should have look into Evangelion more and Akira to have a deeper philosophy, especially since a lot of it is anime inspired rather than some ‘realism’.

    The pacing is awful and the game is 80% cutscenes. It is a failure as a game itself. It doesn’t have much customisation or just gameplay. We went from point A to point B, fight a boss, watch cutscene, and repeat. I found myself bored and tired. Theres no reward for exploration as well, no hidden dungeons to tell extra lore. All lores + details that actually add depth and development to the main story are in side quests for some reason. Side quests that the developer said was optional. No sprint button and OMG no auto run for chocobo!? Like we have to hold R2 for the chocobo to sprint. Like why?

    I do like the characters but the story beats are awful. I think I can forgive the lack of gameplay but I can’t forgive the story. I feel FF strangers of paradise have a better story and twist than this. The ending is emotional but I cant shake off the superficial storytelling. They should have edited the story / direction of the game more.    … Expand
  71. FF16isAmazing
    Aug 25, 2023
    10
    Amazingly Phenomenal Final Fantasy Game, one of the best in the entire series! Both FF 16 and FF 7 Remake are Amazing games and both belong into Top 5 FF games of all time! I'm extremely hyped for FF 7 Remake Part 2. Final Fantasy series is right now better than it has been over last 10 years and that's amazing. 2023-2024 is best time ever to be modern Final Fantasy fan!

    Also ignore    Amazingly Phenomenal Final Fantasy Game, one of the best in the entire series! Both FF 16 and FF 7 Remake are Amazing games and both belong into Top 5 FF games of all time! I'm extremely hyped for FF 7 Remake Part 2. Final Fantasy series is right now better than it has been over last 10 years and that's amazing. 2023-2024 is best time ever to be modern Final Fantasy fan!

    Also ignore every review that gives less than 7/10, these people don't even own the game.    … Expand
  72. Gorgola34
    Jun 23, 2023
    9
    De los mejores FF, es un juegazo brutal increíble, los combates, la historia, los personajes Buff... Recomendado 100% JUEGAZO
  73. NxtDoc
    Jul 1, 2023
    7
    Final Fantasy XVI is a solid game. Pro's: The soundtrack is very good. The characters are enjoyable, Clive, Cid, Gav, Joshua, and Jill are all very likeable. The voice acting is solid. Con's: Let's get the combat out of the way. Sure it's "fun", however it is a complete clone of Devil May Cry. Swings are nearly the same, the "Devil Trigger" is the same. It's all far too familiar,Final Fantasy XVI is a solid game. Pro's: The soundtrack is very good. The characters are enjoyable, Clive, Cid, Gav, Joshua, and Jill are all very likeable. The voice acting is solid. Con's: Let's get the combat out of the way. Sure it's "fun", however it is a complete clone of Devil May Cry. Swings are nearly the same, the "Devil Trigger" is the same. It's all far too familiar, and lacks originality. Sure the Eikon battles can be epic. However, even those at times can lack inspiration.

    The visuals are not that impressive. For being a PS5 exclusive I was expecting more. I feel like it could have been on last Gen as well. Character models look uninspired, move minimally and go into poses during conversation. But I guess that could be nostalgic.

    The open areas are far too empty, items in the world are waiting for you to pick up with a large white glow. It feels uninspired. Overall I feel like Final Fantasy wanted to be something else, rather than what made it an iconic franchise. I understand others are rating it highly. I don't completely agree. This doesn't make it a bad game by any means, it just isn't anywhere near an A grade.    … Expand
  74. Soodhmdan55
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    A very wonderful and fun game, and the fighting and battles are very exciting and epic. Indeed, it is a game that deserves the award of the year
  75. playgamer_23
    Jun 23, 2023
    10
    O jogo tá incrível, mais uma vez a Square acertando em cheio no final fantasy, já o console do fracasso não tem nada pra jogos, se contentam com jogos medíocres q sai no mediogopass.
  76. XxHawkx2
    Jun 23, 2023
    9
    Very good game. Very good combat system, incredible lore. An amazing game!!
  77. Zellot_OG
    Aug 11, 2023
    10
    judge this game for what it is vs. what you thought it would be. Please discount the 0 scores because they are review-bombing this game. Take scores that are 6 out of 10 or 7 out of 10 more seriously because at least some people try to be objective and maybe this wasn't to their liking. Here's what this game gets right.

    +Amazing fleshed-out story that spans 20 years. +Great writing    judge this game for what it is vs. what you thought it would be. Please discount the 0 scores because they are review-bombing this game. Take scores that are 6 out of 10 or 7 out of 10 more seriously because at least some people try to be objective and maybe this wasn't to their liking. Here's what this game gets right.

    +Amazing fleshed-out story that spans 20 years.
    +Great writing and voice acting.
    +Great world-building.
    +Game of the year type music that is varied, bombastic and subtle in places.
    +Active Time Lore - you can choose to use it or not.
    +Accessibility of combat for those wanting only story. - Choose to use the accessories or not.
    +Sandbox gameplay that makes all of the abilities useful in any fight with infinite combo potential limited only by your imagination and skill level. You choose your playstyle and can change it at any point without consequence.
    +Amazing boss battles that we haven't seen since God of War III and Asura's Wrath. Very few games had me say "Wow" or "Holy **** as this game has consistently.
    +/- Streamlined RPG elements that are hit for some and a miss for others. This re-enforces the change to combat.
    +/- Very simple side quests early on but by the middle and end are FANTASTIC and add to the main story and side characters. The side quests also level up your potions and open up more crafting abilities.
    +/-Inconsistent pacing for some but it was for me, moments where the game breaths and tries to let you soak in the environment and world.
    -Inconsistent frame rate and poor implementation of motion blur on Performance mode.
    +Very consistent Graphics mode where it does not detract from the gameplay.
    +New game plus with very hard encounters and new mob placements throughout the story.
    +Arcade mode for those that want to compare their actions skills with others.

    There are so many other little things that make this game great that people just gloss over.

    It's really sad that people are mistaking the developers' vision for this game with "bad game" design. It's perfectly fine to not like their choices, but it doesn't make the game objectively bad, only not your taste. I don't play the Zelda games because it's not my thing or preference but you would never see me rate it a 0 out of 10 because it's 30 fps barely an open world, with shalow story, etc. It's still a 10 out of 10 game for most.

    Judge this game for what it is and you will love it. Do not go in with any expectations. It is its own thing and I LOVE IT. The ambient NPC dialogue, the references to prior FF games, using voice actors from 14 in a very funny way (Estinien as a dragoon, and Urianges as the voice of the "traiter" in the prologue. There is a lot to love and this game objectively cannot be a 0 out of 10, that is just absurd.    … Expand
  78. X-File
    Jun 29, 2023
    4
    Is this even a FF game? Pretty much nonexistent gear and item system. Combat is screwy, two ability slots to use for all those skills. Yes, you can "queue up" four more and rotate through them, still screwy. Fights are short and easy. The story is so linear, you might as well be walking down a hallway. No chocobo music while riding! They have crossed the line here. What game is this?
  79. Macoveronez2
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    a great game, definitely one of the best games of the year with breathtaking boss fights, thanks yoshi-p for this masterpiece
  80. AkariTim
    Jul 4, 2023
    4
    FFXVI really frontloaded some awesome moments to hook players, but in the end, it ended up delivering a half-hearted action game that feels like a blatant rip off of Game of Thrones and Devil May Cry.
  81. Agsman90
    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
  82. xJoy
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    I played almost half the game and the storyline is brutal in beautiful ways and magnificent dialogues, the gameplay is awesome if want more challenging walk-through select action focus and don't use the helpful gameplay accessories.
    its for me one of the greatest games every Thanks square enix and all staff who work hard to made this masterpiece.
  83. Xuflit
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Some of the review is from the people that didnt play the game, or just being ignorant and denial, the game is superb, from the graphic, story, and music even the combat is revolutionary from prev ff franchise, its how i vision the world of final fantasy while its still on low poly or pixel form, the world is beautiful, and the story of saving the world is what final fantasy is about, thisSome of the review is from the people that didnt play the game, or just being ignorant and denial, the game is superb, from the graphic, story, and music even the combat is revolutionary from prev ff franchise, its how i vision the world of final fantasy while its still on low poly or pixel form, the world is beautiful, and the story of saving the world is what final fantasy is about, this is the truest final fantasy game ever be, and nothing can change that… Expand
  84. Ylixon
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Exactly what FF is all about : Moogles and Chocobos, summons, crystals, Cid, incredible boss fights, beautiful musics, amazing and endearing characters and a story that makes you wanna replay the game. (and refs to other FFs obviously)
  85. manujm23
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    el mejor final fantasy desde final fantasy XII, su inspiracion en juego de tronos esta muy bien hecha, los personajes son icreibles, sobre todo el prota y jugablemente, platinum games y el director de combate de devil may cry, nada mas que añadir, simplemente brutal, para mi el GOTY en lo que va de año
  86. kyuuka
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Combat and action are top notch, and some cutscenes are jaw dropping and make action movies look silly compared to this. This game knows what it wants to be and it's pretty good at it. My 2023 goty for now
  87. engenier94
    Jun 23, 2023
    10
    Es un excelente juego, tiene todo lo que los amantes de la acción requieren. A parte su historia, es una de las más profundas y espectaculares que he jugado, su banda sonora es maravillosa junto a su apartado gráfico. Es lo que necesitaba a la saga para un renacer. Un deleite las batallas. En resumen, es el mejor Final Fantasy que he jugado hasta la fecha. Bien square.
  88. PolarisRZR
    Jun 23, 2023
    10
    The game is stunning. The gameplay is good and requires actual skill if you're not using accessibility options. There aren't any drops in quality if you actually take care of your playstation.
  89. PeterCCC
    Jun 23, 2023
    10
    I think that the story is the best of Final Fantasy series.

    Try this game if you have PS5.
  90. Vkane01
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Amazing and thrilling battle, graphics, story. The best FF in recent years.
  91. orionsacuroa
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    20 hours in loving the combat and the rpg light elements. up til now its ranking in my top 5 favorite final fantasy's
  92. Villaindeadshot
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Sadly for no real reason people are trying to review bomb. But in truth it’s a fantastic game with great gameplay and story.
  93. MrSynology
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    I wouldn't usually post a review but with the review bomb happening I have decided to add my opinion.
    I'm about 15 hours in, so far I think the game has been close to perfect. The setting and world design have been phenomenal, the way the game doesn't shy away from showing the sheer brutality of the people in power, all the little interactions between main and non playable characters.    I wouldn't usually post a review but with the review bomb happening I have decided to add my opinion.
    I'm about 15 hours in, so far I think the game has been close to perfect. The setting and world design have been phenomenal, the way the game doesn't shy away from showing the sheer brutality of the people in power, all the little interactions between main and non playable characters. These nuances really drive home the story. Yes, it builds slowly at the start but this allows you to get to know the characters properly before they start throwing new ones and new plot lines at you. Yes, it is linear at the start, but that is because they want to set the story in motion before opening up. The gameplay is so smooth, you can see the devil may cry influence - there is a touch of the souls-bourne fought difficulty too. This leaves fast paced, technically rewarding fights. Yes, they introduce new mechanics slowly, but this gives you time to master the new tools you have been given. I'm loving everything about this game to the moment and expect I will play through more than once, which is a rare thing for me.    … Expand
  94. NeptuneAria
    Jul 5, 2023
    4
    Oh no, it's a shame what has happened to the series. I'm glad that more people are falling out of the honeymoon phase and critiquing the game with more realistic scores. 10/10 should be nowhere near this game. The story isn't bad, but it's not this revolutionary epic that we see in some of the commentary since the game's release. The characters are charismatic, yet, they lack the diversityOh no, it's a shame what has happened to the series. I'm glad that more people are falling out of the honeymoon phase and critiquing the game with more realistic scores. 10/10 should be nowhere near this game. The story isn't bad, but it's not this revolutionary epic that we see in some of the commentary since the game's release. The characters are charismatic, yet, they lack the diversity the series is known for. Not a lot of tactics in the combat either, which I never thought I'd say for an FF game. The graphics are very pretty and cinematic. Even so, that alone doesn't win me over. A proper score for this game is 5-7. Mine is a 4, because of the lack of actual Final Fantasy in this Final Fantasy game.… Expand
  95. Temsik
    Jul 6, 2023
    4
    A action hack and slash game skinned as a Final Fantasy. This may be the game that was imagined by the creators when making previous FF games, however it is not what FF fans have followed the series for.

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

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

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

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

    Overall if you like the graphics and are interested in the story, watch it on streaming or YouTube while doing something that is actually entertaining.    … Expand
  96. Aerox152
    Jul 7, 2023
    2
    To be honest, im very confused while i write this Review. Final Fantasy never made it harder for me to review one of their Games.

    At first i was a bit hyped, and tried to really sink into this Game like i did with any of the other Titles. But here i just dont feel it. Usually i loved every Final Fantasy, especially the older ones, thats why i was completely blown away by VII Remake. But    To be honest, im very confused while i write this Review. Final Fantasy never made it harder for me to review one of their Games.

    At first i was a bit hyped, and tried to really sink into this Game like i did with any of the other Titles. But here i just dont feel it. Usually i loved every Final Fantasy, especially the older ones, thats why i was completely blown away by VII Remake.

    But this is just a really boring Game, you litterally grind trough every fight pressing only a few Buttons and Dodge. No more thinking about any Strategy its just hack and slay.

    Also im so bored out by the Story, this is more of a bad Game of Thrones Spinoff than a Final Fantasy. Im quite sure that it will be the first Final Fantasy Title that i stop playing mid game, cuz after 20h in the game i already really have to force myself to play it. Its no fun at all. I dont feel the Characters. Its just a very bad Game in my Opinion.    … Expand
  97. woahseph
    Jul 9, 2023
    1
    The most important thing to know about this game is that it is mostly cutscenes. That isn't an exaggeration, the vast majority of your time "playing" this game will be watching cutscenes. Final Fantasy XVI wants so badly to be a tv show, it resents the player trying to actually play it. The actual gameplay is a watered-down devil may cry/god of war. Move to the markers on the map and spamThe most important thing to know about this game is that it is mostly cutscenes. That isn't an exaggeration, the vast majority of your time "playing" this game will be watching cutscenes. Final Fantasy XVI wants so badly to be a tv show, it resents the player trying to actually play it. The actual gameplay is a watered-down devil may cry/god of war. Move to the markers on the map and spam your power attacks until you win. I found the storyline to be extremely predictable. FILLED with plot-holes that the game doesn't want you to think about. The two main characters, Clive and Jill, have no fixed personalities and no inner conflicts. They are simply vehicles for the plot to move forward. This game gets one point from me because... the voice acting is good. There, I said something positive.… Expand
  98. Pompowang
    Jul 13, 2023
    2
    Absolutely atrocious. Shallow button mashing crap. FF is no longer a rich and complex rpg but a third rate action game. When compared to god of war etc, the game would be laughable if it wasnt so tragic. Avoid.
  99. freshtodhef
    Jun 24, 2023
    9
    I’ve been playing Final Fantasy since 6 and this is by far one of my favorite entries in the series. The game earns its mature rating not just from the violence and language, but from the grown up storyline featuring complex relationships and power dynamics rarely seen in a JRPG. I do think there’s room for improvement but overall this is a huge step forward for a series that’s lost itsI’ve been playing Final Fantasy since 6 and this is by far one of my favorite entries in the series. The game earns its mature rating not just from the violence and language, but from the grown up storyline featuring complex relationships and power dynamics rarely seen in a JRPG. I do think there’s room for improvement but overall this is a huge step forward for a series that’s lost its way over the past few entires, with the exception of the online MMO.… Expand
  100. ToastyRoach
    Jun 26, 2023
    10
    The game is a masterpiece! yes it has certain things I would have liked changed like adding a top right mini map but I can’t put the game down the story the combat the music the graphics I mean it has it all. Ive been sleeping 2 or 3 hours and back to playing it’s absolutely amazing!!
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Awards & Rankings

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

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 146 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 134 out of 146
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 146
  3. Negative: 0 out of 146
  1. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Jan 22, 2024
    100
    Final Fantasy XVI is an excellent game in every way. If you're a fan of the series for the stories and characters, you won't go wrong here, and if you've avoided the series for, say, turn-based combat, the sixteenth installment offers the perfect opportunity to get started with this legend of the gaming industry. [Issue#329]
  2. Riot Pixels
    Oct 30, 2023
    73
    This is a solid RPG/action game. Some elements of the game are unusual and fresh for single-player parts of the Final Fantasy series, but some are too dull and rudimentary.
    Read full review
  3. PLAY
    Sep 17, 2023
    90
    New numbered FFs are good again. Stunning to look at, with new, punchy combat, and a great yarn, it is, if anything, too focussed, lacking a bit of the weird. [Issue#30, p.78]
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