User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 8567 Ratings

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  1. Jul 23, 2023
    9
    It was a production close to perfection. It felt like watching movie. so It was very touching
  2. Jul 27, 2023
    10
    35 hours into the game and I am still not done. Everything is peak. The boss fights, the stories, the combat system, the characters, I loved everything. The eikons are cool and overall this game is amazing. My favorite game right now. Def my pick for game of the year. I would fight people over that opinion.
  3. Jul 29, 2023
    10
    perfect game, from the plot at the combat system. i had a lot of fun playing it and after finishing it I have a beautiful and intense memory of this fantastic adventure. thank you
  4. Jul 29, 2023
    10
    La narrativa es la mejor de la saga, los personajes atormentados y con evolución, los combates son los más épicos que he jugado en un final fantasy... Menuda obra de arte
  5. Jul 29, 2023
    10
    Unforgettable experience. Top-tier storyline and characters. Dynamic combat system. 10/10
  6. Jul 29, 2023
    8
    Upon release many claimed that VII wasn't a true FF as it ditched the fantasy aspects, that VIII wasn't one as it was just a "glorified teen romance novel", that IX wasn't one a it was "too cartoony and childish", that X wasn't one is it ditched the traditional levelling system, that XI wasn't one as it was an MMO, that XII wasn't one as it ditched random encounters, that XIII wasn't oneUpon release many claimed that VII wasn't a true FF as it ditched the fantasy aspects, that VIII wasn't one as it was just a "glorified teen romance novel", that IX wasn't one a it was "too cartoony and childish", that X wasn't one is it ditched the traditional levelling system, that XI wasn't one as it was an MMO, that XII wasn't one as it ditched random encounters, that XIII wasn't one as it was just a hallway, that XIV wasn't one because it was another MMO, that XV wasn't one because you had a car and it was an action game, and now that XVI isn't one because it's also an action game and you can't control your party members. Ultimately it depends on what you value; for me, that's a world and narrative that mixes fantasy and science fiction and provides meaningful and emotive interactions between characters in a way that makes you feel as though the unique world your experiencing is actually real. Is it Final Fantasy? To me, 100%.

    Last piece of advice for anyone thinking of picking up the game - Ignore the reviews (including mine if you so choose). The 10/10 reviews generally come from a place of people already deciding that the game was great before it was even out purely because of the team making it, and the more negative reviews tend to come from a place of people already deciding that the game was bad before it was even out mostly because of 'ists' and 'isms', none of which were true. (There's a reason that most negative reviews come across as incredibly pretentious and condescending) The objective truth lies somewhere in the middle - that it is a flawed but ultimately fantastic game worthy of the Final Fantasy title. Not quite on the level of IX or VI, but leagues beyond the likes of VII, XII or even X. If you think this game might be for you, give it a shot and form your own opinion. If it doesn't look like if's for you, then that's a shame, but give it a miss. If you've already decided that you don't WANT it to be for you in classic FF fan fashion, then what are you even doing here?

    Final score - 8.5/10.
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  7. Jul 30, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I cried every times and the ending gutted my heart so bad .. Expand
  8. Jul 30, 2023
    8
    Pros
    -Nice story -Badass characters -Intense soundtrack
    -Epic boss fights Cons
    -Repetitive combat without any strategically thinking on it
    -Use only of one character -Extremely boring side quests and filler moments
    -Some Eikon battles are too long over 20-30 minutes fight
  9. Jul 30, 2023
    9
    Die Story hat mich sehr überzeugt und das Kampdgameplay ist auch ziemlich gut. Es gibt jedoch so ein paar Aufgaben die mich gelangweilt haben
  10. Jul 30, 2023
    10
    La scrittura dei personaggi, la trama, gli intrecci, le dinamiche dei personaggi, la loro evoluzione durante la storia, è da applausi. Degna di tanti film o libri che hanno avuto riconoscimenti importanti. Il comparto sonoro è assurdo, le musiche, gli arrangiamenti (con le citazioni ad altre soundtrack del passato), il mixaggio sono sbalorditivi. Inutile sottolineare come anche quelloLa scrittura dei personaggi, la trama, gli intrecci, le dinamiche dei personaggi, la loro evoluzione durante la storia, è da applausi. Degna di tanti film o libri che hanno avuto riconoscimenti importanti. Il comparto sonoro è assurdo, le musiche, gli arrangiamenti (con le citazioni ad altre soundtrack del passato), il mixaggio sono sbalorditivi. Inutile sottolineare come anche quello video sia alle stelle. n un panorama videoludico sempre più povero di idee e valori, volto sempre di più al gacha, al pay to win, alla tossicità, al rendere il player uno schiavo dipendente a cui spillare soldi, a giochi senza un minimo di anima, senso ed amore, un’opera come questa è la SALVEZZA. Perché oltre a divertire, intrattenere e fare il videogioco, ha l’intenzione e cerca in tutti i modi di trasmettere un'idea, un messaggio, delle emozioni al player, come un romanzo di formazione cerca di fare. Vorrei dire tantissime altre cose, approfondire ogni sfaccettatura data ai personaggi, ogni passaggio della colonna sonora, ma risulterei tedioso. Non mi soffermo neanche su tante cose lette nelle recensioni italiane perché si capisce benissimo la povertà degli scriventi, forse perché non più abituati a scrivere mossi dalla curiosità verso l’opera e la voglia di analisi, anche se, visto il pubblico sempre più pigro, non posso biasimarli più di tanto, sono anche loro figli del loro tempo. CAPOLAVORO Expand
  11. Jul 30, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I just love how this game's ending has made us all cry like babies. Yoshi-P enjoying our collective suffering. Expand
  12. Jul 31, 2023
    10
    For me personally, I'd list it as one of the best games I've played. Certainly, it has its low moments- but those highs, those oh so perfect highs shatter the atmosphere and make you feel "this was all worth it". Not to mention the stellar combat that never gets old due to build variation, the amazing story that moves you to tears, the well written characters that carry so much depth andFor me personally, I'd list it as one of the best games I've played. Certainly, it has its low moments- but those highs, those oh so perfect highs shatter the atmosphere and make you feel "this was all worth it". Not to mention the stellar combat that never gets old due to build variation, the amazing story that moves you to tears, the well written characters that carry so much depth and attachment. You owe it to yourself to at least try this masterpiece- it's that good. Expand
  13. Jul 31, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Best ending ever!!
    the ending left me shock with a little bit of tears .. .
    Expand
  14. Aug 22, 2023
    5
    I was excited at first, but then I was met with cut-scene after cut-scene. Foul mouth, and out of place voice acting. The quests were MMO busy body quests. The game was linear and basically Devil may cry with summons. They took way to much influence from Game of Thrones. Performance mode ran terrible. Looks pixelated in battles. Made me second guess my PS5 purchase.
  15. Aug 28, 2023
    10
    Just saying, completely IGNORE all the 0/10 and 1/10 reviews, these are all fake. If you click on their user name you can see that all of them give FF16 either 0 or 1 and 10/10 to either Baldur's Gate 3 or Tears of the Kingdom. These people don't even have FF16 and i'm pretty sure they don't have PS5 either, they are just review bombing, because they can't accept reality that FF16 is aboutJust saying, completely IGNORE all the 0/10 and 1/10 reviews, these are all fake. If you click on their user name you can see that all of them give FF16 either 0 or 1 and 10/10 to either Baldur's Gate 3 or Tears of the Kingdom. These people don't even have FF16 and i'm pretty sure they don't have PS5 either, they are just review bombing, because they can't accept reality that FF16 is about million times better and more innovative than their garbage games. So yeah, just wanted to let everyone know, hopefully Metacritic Moderators will delete these fake reviews soon, because this is getting ridiculous. Expand
  16. Aug 28, 2023
    10
    FF16 is absolutely good game!! .
  17. Aug 28, 2023
    10
    An amazing story and graphics that drive the series forward in a amazing way. .
  18. Aug 28, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is goatet final fantsay 16 is such a good game it got me hooked and banned everything in the game is a 10/10 Expand
  19. Aug 28, 2023
    8
    Neutral: Took me about 55 hours to complete the main story, side quests and hunts.

    Good: The game looks great, has an interesting setting and fun combat. It is not a grindy game.

    Bad: It's a bit on the easy side. At times the frequency of cut scene made it feel like I was palying an interactive novel instead of an action game.
  20. Aug 28, 2023
    10
    One of the best games of final fantasy, very exciting and you can't get enough of this masterpiece
  21. Aug 31, 2023
    10
    FF6,7RE,8,9,10,10-2,12,13,13-2,13-3,15,16 즐긴유저로서.. 16은 진짜 손에 꼽힐만한 시리즈같네요..
    올해의 기대작답게 흥미진진하면서 재미있게 즐겼습니다.
  22. So8
    Sep 6, 2023
    7
    Acheté le premier jour de sa sortie, après des années de développement et un budget alloué conséquent, je vais faire une liste des forces et faiblesses :

    Forces : - Les combats de boss, c'est ce qui fait monter la note. C'est pour moi la grande force, les combats ont rarement atteint ce niveau épique. En particulier deux combats. - Les musiques, certains thèmes sont très bons. D'autres
    Acheté le premier jour de sa sortie, après des années de développement et un budget alloué conséquent, je vais faire une liste des forces et faiblesses :

    Forces :
    - Les combats de boss, c'est ce qui fait monter la note. C'est pour moi la grande force, les combats ont rarement atteint ce niveau épique. En particulier deux combats.
    - Les musiques, certains thèmes sont très bons. D'autres ont une boucle trop courtes et deviennent redondantes mais c'est rare. Le parti pris de la musique qui devient un genre d'électro ne m'a pas plu.
    Mais de façon générale ça va.
    - Le gameplay, style DMC, m'a plu, les combos s'enchaînent très bien et visuellement ça envoie.


    Numéro d'équilibriste :
    - Le scénario oscille entre le bon et le moins bon. La fin je l'ai trouvé très bonne et sujette à des interprétations. Cependant je trouve le coeur de l'histoire pas assez développé. Des batailles sur tout le continent à la GOT, et en quelques combats c'est vite expédié...
    - Les personnages principaux sont très inégaux, j'ai trouvé Shiva très fade. Joshua, à l'inverse, est réussi.
    Clive, du mal à m'y attacher...
    - Les graphismes, ça oscille entre le magnifique sur certains plans et sur le dégueulasse sur d'autres plans.

    Faiblesses :
    - La DA, deux ou trois lieux ont mis une petite claque, mais pas plus. C'est pourtant une force des FF. - Les quêtes secondaires infâmes, je n'en pouvais plus, c'est à 90% du temps de la livraison. -Les PNJs, aucun effort. C'est générique est trop ancien. - L'aspect "cinématique" quand ce n'est pas important, c'est vieillot encore une fois. On sent que le budget est passé dans les cinématiques de boss. - La facilité du jeu même en new game +, c'est le FF le plus facile que j'ai fait.
    - Pas de faiblesses/forces chez les ennemis, donc autant utiliser les attaques les plus puissantes.
    - L'aspect RPG, la montée de niveau, les armes et l'arbre de compétences j'ai trouvé ça pitoyable. On sent que ce n'était pas la priorité, voire même pire, ça a été délaissé.

    Le ressenti que j'ai eu c'était les montagnes russes, avec des phases excellentes pendant une heure suivi de deux ou trois de platitude.

    À faire si vous avez la PS5, à ne pas acheter la PS5 pour ce jeu si vous ne l'avez pas.
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  23. Sep 7, 2023
    3
    This game is far from a Role Playing Game, unless you’re defining it in a literal sense. At times it’s barely a game. Final Fantasy 16 is plagued with long, boring cutscenes and 1 dimensional gameplay with little to no challenge. The story is somewhat decent although if you want to compare it to the rest of the series it’s easily one of the weakest.

    The only redeeming qualities is the
    This game is far from a Role Playing Game, unless you’re defining it in a literal sense. At times it’s barely a game. Final Fantasy 16 is plagued with long, boring cutscenes and 1 dimensional gameplay with little to no challenge. The story is somewhat decent although if you want to compare it to the rest of the series it’s easily one of the weakest.

    The only redeeming qualities is the voicing acting, Cid and the world building, but unfortunately none of that outweighs the negatives.
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  24. Sep 8, 2023
    10
    Un excelente Juego de principio al final, con personajes con sus personalidades sólidas, buenos argumentos y buena jugabilidad. El final me hizo un nudo en la garganta... Un gran trabajo por parte de Square Enix.
  25. Sep 7, 2023
    6
    Stunning visuals, great voice acting and very good soundtrack.
    The story and characters were fine... could have been better.
  26. Sep 8, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy XVI - PS5

    Gameplay - 10
    Story - 10
    Sound - 10
    Music - 10
    Graphics - 10

    Final Score 10/10✨✨✨

    So far this is my game of the year, incredible story, fun gameplay with the whole Eikon Switching. Banging music, awesome characters. Play it!
  27. Sep 11, 2023
    10
    9, pero toca darle el 10, porque metacritic tiene un sistema de mierda dejando que par de cavernicolas tanto de revistas como de casa puedan poner sus notas sin criterio, me hare 16 cuentas mas para darle un 10, par de revistas de mordor dando notas pesimas, ni saben donde se sientan a cagar
  28. Sep 10, 2023
    8
    Final Fantasy XVI is truly an experience, even if an incomplete one. With a M rating and a near fully voice-acted game, XVI quickly solidifies itself as one of the boldest entries in the series to date. Taking inspiration from Game of Thrones this world and it’s politics are clearly laid out from the beginning creating immediate interest and investment into our cast of characters. With theFinal Fantasy XVI is truly an experience, even if an incomplete one. With a M rating and a near fully voice-acted game, XVI quickly solidifies itself as one of the boldest entries in the series to date. Taking inspiration from Game of Thrones this world and it’s politics are clearly laid out from the beginning creating immediate interest and investment into our cast of characters. With the focus on eikons (summons) and the dominants they inhabit, XVI quickly creates some of the most unique and memorable characters in the series history, as well as by far the best and most impressive boss battles in video game history. The gameplay with its flashy nature and multiple styles of play was almost always charming to me and a welcome direction for the series. Mix these pretty visuals with great characters and add in another legendary soundtrack, and from the beginning XVI hooks you.

    However, like most Final Fantasy games, this one is far from perfect. With a very straightforward story I would not normally complain about it’s linear nature, but the biggest missed opportunity is most of the landmarks spoken of in the game are ones you never visit. The capitol cities have big designs and we’re clearly detailed by the artists, but you only see them in cutscenes or at most briefly see pieces of them during story segments. This is really disappointing from a game with so much setup in the first act of the story, which leads to the second major disappointment, the story. XVI peaks nearly two-thirds into the adventure and never recovers. What started boldly with intense drive and conviction falls flat after a major threat is addressed, then overstays it’s welcome with a bland final act. The icing on the cake, the ending seems missing. With two DLC expansions on the horizon, I am completely convinced Square Enix is saving the true ending behind a paywall. While I’m excited even now to see how the story concludes, I’m disappointed that Square continues to do things like this with the franchise. There is always a chance I’m wrong about this, and if I am, then I would go so far to say this is one of the weakest endings in the series history.

    While far from perfect, Final Fantasy XVI is still an experience worth playing for any fan of the series. At its core it is fun, beauiful, intense, and impactful. I have far more happy memories with this game than I ever will unpleasant ones, and my opinion can only improve with upcoming DLC. Until then I have to judge the game as it is, and even with that in mind, what we have is still pretty dang great.
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  29. Sep 10, 2023
    10
    I bought the game without seeing any trailers or gameplay and now that i completed the game i must say what a game, The dark fantasy the characters are really good!!!!
  30. Sep 9, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy XVI has become one of the best games of the year for me, right behind HI-Fi Rush and the hotly anticipated Forza Motorsport! The game is very beautiful, large-scale, epic, it is one of the most expensive games in the Hack And Slash genre, as well as just games in general, Sqare Enix outdid themselves and created a real masterpiece; I already bought a game for a piece ofFinal Fantasy XVI has become one of the best games of the year for me, right behind HI-Fi Rush and the hotly anticipated Forza Motorsport! The game is very beautiful, large-scale, epic, it is one of the most expensive games in the Hack And Slash genre, as well as just games in general, Sqare Enix outdid themselves and created a real masterpiece; I already bought a game for a piece of **** called Ps5, and now I'm waiting for the release on XBOX, thanks a lot to Sqare Enix for this monumental bible!! Expand
  31. Sep 10, 2023
    9
    Final Fantasy 16 to me is a Masterpiece. Right up there with FF7. This game hurt me with the loss of.... You know if you know... All the sacrifices the characters made. The story, the gameplay. Amazing. I just wish that you could play as the other characters. I feel that was a huge missed opportunity. I put 80hrs into this game before I could give my review and I'm glad I waited. The lastFinal Fantasy 16 to me is a Masterpiece. Right up there with FF7. This game hurt me with the loss of.... You know if you know... All the sacrifices the characters made. The story, the gameplay. Amazing. I just wish that you could play as the other characters. I feel that was a huge missed opportunity. I put 80hrs into this game before I could give my review and I'm glad I waited. The last 20% of this game was the best. Is it really a Final Fantasy game if it doesn't break your heart? Expand
  32. Sep 8, 2023
    10
    NOTA: 10
    Historia: 10
    Gameplay: 10
    Graficos: 10
    Batalha com Chefes Épicas !!!

    Ninguém esta preparado para essas lutas incriveis !!! Squareenix com o FFXVI elevou o patamar dos games a outro nível jamais vistos !
  33. Aug 5, 2023
    10
    Great game. I love it. Nice story telling, beautiful design, action - gaming heart, what more do you want.
  34. Sep 9, 2023
    9
    Yoshi-P delivers a Final Fantasy masterpeice. Locked 60fps with beautiful visuals, and combat that puts bayonetta and Devil may cry to shame.
  35. Sep 10, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Będąc szczerym to jest jedna z najlepszych gier w jaką kiedykolwiek grałem walka w tej grze jest unikalna w porównaniu do wielu innych tytułów fabuła i świat są świetnie napisane tak naprawdę do niczego się nie mogę przyczepić zakończenie nawet najtwardszych umie przełamać gra jest zdecydowanie 10/10 Expand
  36. Sep 9, 2023
    6
    The game is beautiful graphically, combat is flashy and looks nice at the start at least.
    The main story is boring and cliche, you can see everything coming from miles away.
    Side quests are a joke to say the least. Pick items, deliver them to an npc an the camp, go back for the reward. Combat system or the luck of it, just pick 3 eikon abilities and spam them, makes no difference, you
    The game is beautiful graphically, combat is flashy and looks nice at the start at least.
    The main story is boring and cliche, you can see everything coming from miles away.
    Side quests are a joke to say the least. Pick items, deliver them to an npc an the camp, go back for the reward.
    Combat system or the luck of it, just pick 3 eikon abilities and spam them, makes no difference, you will win every fight with that tactic. You just need to spam your buttons and you win.
    Eikon battles are boring and use the same spam the 2 abilities and do a combo every now and then. The battles are way too long, its like watching a bad anime and hitting/spaming the buttons every now and then.
    There are no RPG elements in it, crafting system is useless and not required, leveling system is non existing.
    You just gain a level and attributes are automatically assigned.
    To sum up my thoughts, the game is very linear, lacks RPG elements/mechanics, the story is cliche..
    I'm ~20 hours in and every time i run it i start wondering "why am i doing this ?"

    6/10
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  37. Sep 2, 2023
    10
    Amazing boss battles and mind-blowing graphics with a soundtrack to match them. Overall a terrific package.
  38. Sep 10, 2023
    10
    Flipas loco!!!junela que me maten patos laos pegando palos!!te quedas to pillado!
  39. Sep 8, 2023
    10
    el mejor juego del año para mi y de los mejores que e jugado, buena historia, persoanjes, graficas, jugabilidad y en especial la musica, no hay ningun otro juego que te tenga tanto hype en una boss battle como este y sera dificil de experimentar en otros juegos algo asi despues de jugar este.
  40. Jun 26, 2023
    10
    I've never played a FF before. The demo convinced me to get a PlayStation 5. I've been playing it for 10 hours thus far. This is a masterpiece!!! I am happy that I was right about this game, which is fantastic and jaw-dropping in every aspect, e.g., graphics, sound, battle, and story.
  41. Sep 8, 2023
    10
    peakkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk
  42. Sep 11, 2023
    10
    Este Final Fantasy es el mejor de todos los tiempos y Clive es uno de los mejores personajes de todos los FF.
  43. Jul 27, 2023
    9
    Beat the game few hours ago and these are my thoughts.

    Pros : - Best looking game this year so far, everything is extremely detailed and look great. - Mature storyline and dialogue, great voice acting from the cast as well. First time I choose to play in ENG VO - Awesome gameplay, if you like DMC gameplay then this is pretty much in your alley. I would say it's much more easier to
    Beat the game few hours ago and these are my thoughts.

    Pros :
    - Best looking game this year so far, everything is extremely detailed and look great.
    - Mature storyline and dialogue, great voice acting from the cast as well. First time I choose to play in ENG VO
    - Awesome gameplay, if you like DMC gameplay then this is pretty much in your alley. I would say it's much more easier to execute certain combos, parries than DMC5 itself.
    -The boss fights
    -The Music

    Cons :
    - Uninspired early side quests, but it gets slightly better towards the end game.
    - Some performances issue or maybe the PS5 is just not powerful enough to carry the game , framerate drop in gameplay/combat are barely noticeable.
    - Equipment upgrades / weapons are pretty much too simple. Not much RPG-ness to it.

    Closing statement :
    The good outweighs the bad at the end. I hope Yoshi P and his team would direct the next FF17 as we all could see the production value and passions that have been put into the game itself.

    If Yoshi P or any FF16 team member is reading this, Ignore the trolls. They can't recognize a good game even if it's in front of them. I hope you guys could make a DLC/Story expansion for Clive to give him the Geralt treatment in Blood & Wine.
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  44. Sep 10, 2023
    10
    fantastic game. the fights are spectacular, the story is fantastic and epic. the music stays with you and you hear it inside your head while you sleep or while you eat.
  45. Sep 12, 2023
    7
    The story was great and the mechanics were... interesting. The overall issue I had with the game is the same issue that most AAA games, especially those coming out of Square Enix lately (mind you this is my favorite studio and favorite franchise of all time), it's more of a movie than a game. There is lackluster exploration with little no reward for. Back to the mechanics, whileThe story was great and the mechanics were... interesting. The overall issue I had with the game is the same issue that most AAA games, especially those coming out of Square Enix lately (mind you this is my favorite studio and favorite franchise of all time), it's more of a movie than a game. There is lackluster exploration with little no reward for. Back to the mechanics, while interesting, they lacked any real substance. I have a love for magic in my fantasy games and there is that element in the game, but honestly it's so underwhelming. Square said they would return to their roots with this game and in a lot of ways, they did, but not enough. This cinematic beauty still leaves a lot to be desired. Expand
  46. Sep 10, 2023
    9
    FF 16 is really good but not my favorite of the year. The fact that BG3 has both a higher critic score and user score than FF 16 and TOTK (which isn't affecting this review) is honestly mindblowing and somewhat rigged. Thank you, Square Enix. Also, most of the "zero" reviews on FF 16 are fake (just like most games really) so ignore them
  47. Sep 8, 2023
    10
    Easily the best game of the year. This game is a true masterpiece, so much so that any xbox fan and pc can never understand, and I say this as a huge xbot myself.
  48. Sep 8, 2023
    10
    sim duda el mejor juego de todos los final fantasy !! el arte y las batallas son impresionantes y la historia te atrapa bastante rapido.
    joyita
  49. Sep 8, 2023
    7
    ff16 is a welcome addition to the final fantasy lineup taking you on a quest through the medieval time period set in a fantasy world. whilst the combat lacks compared to ff7r the story creates intrigue learning all about the mothercrystals and political state of the world. one drawback of the story was the unnecessarily long cutscenes which took up half of the playthrough wanting to get toff16 is a welcome addition to the final fantasy lineup taking you on a quest through the medieval time period set in a fantasy world. whilst the combat lacks compared to ff7r the story creates intrigue learning all about the mothercrystals and political state of the world. one drawback of the story was the unnecessarily long cutscenes which took up half of the playthrough wanting to get to the next icon fight which was the highlight of the graphical showcase paired with an epic soundtrack. Overall I found the traversal limited to linear world which felt more confined then open and rpg mechanics that felt empty and more linear feeling like a chore to upgrade equipment and no sense of exploration. Side quests felt repeated fetch quests and lackluster story additions. Expand
  50. Sep 11, 2023
    9
    Even though it barely qualifies as a RPG, Final Fantasy XVI more than makes up for it with its excellent story, characters, gameplay, soundtrack and spectacle. Certainly an accomplishment that Yoshi P and his team can be proud of.

    The game set out to reinvent the wheel and redefine what a Final Fantasy title can be with its switch to a combat system resembling that of Devil May Cry. I
    Even though it barely qualifies as a RPG, Final Fantasy XVI more than makes up for it with its excellent story, characters, gameplay, soundtrack and spectacle. Certainly an accomplishment that Yoshi P and his team can be proud of.

    The game set out to reinvent the wheel and redefine what a Final Fantasy title can be with its switch to a combat system resembling that of Devil May Cry. I am happy to report that it has partially accomplished its goal or atleast, where it matters the most.

    The combat system is one of the most satisfying ones I've ever experienced in a game. It depends less on weapon builds or stats, because you only have one weapon type (sword), but more on the Eikon skills you unlock after every major Eikon fight. These skills offer some of the best moves and attacks in the video game industry and it's quite easy to come up with some crazy builds and get the ball rolling. The game also features companions in the form of AI controlled NPCs that fight alongside you. (Torgal is best boy) Although, that is not to mean that they'll play the game for you, you'll still need to do most of the heavy lifting to win the fight.

    One of the biggest highlights of the game is its astounding soundtrack made by Masayoshi Soken. The quality of music he offers with his composition is a true work of art and unbeaten by any game released this year. From the instruments to the vocals, you can just feel the story hidden inside the tracks.

    The game also offers one of the best Final Fantasy stories to date, despite its dark and gritty tone. I would even dare to argue that this tone enhances the story and enables alternative, transparent ways to tell it. It's a story about the bonds of family and friendship, human nature and our will to endure every threat that stands in our way.

    Clive is also one of the best protagonists of the franchise, on the same pedestal as Cloud. The side characters are also a treat and handled like real people trying to survive in a world that wants to enslave and/or kill them. This however, does not mean that the characters act like angsty teenagers all the time. There is a very human and hopeful side to them that really shines through in the dialogue, cutscenes and gameplay. One of the best cast for a mainline Final Fantasy game in a long while.

    THE highlight of the game however, are the Eikon fights, where you turn into a Godzilla-sized Eikon called Ifrit and battle iconic summons such as Garuda, Titan, Bahamut and Odin. The sheer spectacle and outsatnding choreography included in these fights is otherworldly. Adding to that, most of the spectacle happens in-game with the player controlling Ifrit rahter than through cutscenes. At this point of the game, it also becomes very apparent that they did not save any money. They had a huge budget and they used it.

    The only drawbacks to the game however are the insignificance of the RPG mechanics and the complete removal of the traditional turn-based combat. Crafting and equipping a sword with higher numbers is as RPG as it gets and that's about it, which wouldn't have been a problem if Square-Enix hadn't marketed the game as an Action-RPG. I also believe they could have struck a great balance between real-time and turn-based combat like the FFVII remake.

    All in all, Final Fantasy XVI is a game that I will remember for a very long time, due to its outstanding story, excellent characters, unforgettable soundtrack and satisfying gameplay.
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  51. Sep 7, 2023
    7
    Eu definitivamente não sou jogador de final fantasy, o jogo e lindo, a história tava boa, a jogabilidade... ok pra boa, mas e muitaaa história, não consegui terminar, sou com 26 horas e com 70% da campanha e não aguentei mais. Vou dar uma pausa e tentar terminar depois
  52. Sep 8, 2023
    6
    Oooofff... after going through the game by 86%, I finally quit due to exhaustion. The nice graphics and the amazing cinematics really kept me going, but the 'timed challenges' were the last nail in the coffin which I gladly accepted as opportunity to go back to games that are fun and feel less like work. The game is well executed, don't get me wrong, but as expected from an announced AAAOooofff... after going through the game by 86%, I finally quit due to exhaustion. The nice graphics and the amazing cinematics really kept me going, but the 'timed challenges' were the last nail in the coffin which I gladly accepted as opportunity to go back to games that are fun and feel less like work. The game is well executed, don't get me wrong, but as expected from an announced AAA title, the developers didn't take any risks, so they delivered a smooth experience that hurts nobody, so smooth it is sadly really boring for me. Every mission (which is odd for itself for an rpg) follows exactly the same structure, the side-quests are boring as hell, character customisation is really flat and building of an own party is simply not there (most of the time I didn't even knew who as in my automatised party, neither did I care. The developers tried really hard to make the game more mature and dark, I think. I however miss the fat chocobo summons... I hoped for a good FF game but got a slippery devil may cry spin-off with boring 'press two buttons' action focussed combat. I am very sorry my friends, I really wanted to like it, but sadly, I don't. Maybe I have come to the point where I should avoid triple A titles completely and focus on smaller indie titles that are not afraid to take the risk of targeting a smaller audience, but deliver a unique experience. Expand
  53. Sep 8, 2023
    9
    Great game. Not perfect, but a good and mature FF game.
    Pros: Great characters, amazing emotional story, great gameplay.
    Cons: Repetitive side quests, no turn based combat, lack of character armor options.
  54. Sep 8, 2023
    9
    Pros: - Some of the boss fights in this game are nothing short of astonishing. I don’t think I can play another game and feel satisfied with the bosses anymore, they are simply incredible.
    - Soundtrack is magnificent, just like all the other FF games. (Especially the boss fights)
    - The combat system is great, especially as you progress through the game and learn how to combo different
    Pros: - Some of the boss fights in this game are nothing short of astonishing. I don’t think I can play another game and feel satisfied with the bosses anymore, they are simply incredible.
    - Soundtrack is magnificent, just like all the other FF games. (Especially the boss fights)
    - The combat system is great, especially as you progress through the game and learn how to combo different moves/abilities.
    - The story is very compelling, it’s a bit confusing at first but it’ll all make sense as you progress through the game.
    - Incredible voice acting, especially from the main character.

    Cons:
    - There are over 70 side quests, many of which are very similar to each other and it may eventually become tedious. (Luckily, many of them are pretty short)
    - The will be subjective, but I thought the was pretty easy. In summary, when this game is good, it’s good, VERY GOOD.
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  55. Sep 8, 2023
    9
    One of the better Final Fantasy games in the series. Admittedly, the combat is a strong departure from older titles, but this game makes up for it with the story. While not perfect, the story is absolutely one of the better ones in the series.
  56. Sep 8, 2023
    9
    Top o jogo, excelente jogabilidade, gráfico e história muito boa. Recomendo para que é fã da série.
  57. Sep 8, 2023
    7
    Kinda linear but I had fun. Not your typical Final Fantasy but I it’s pretty good.
  58. Sep 8, 2023
    5
    Boss fights were cinematic, but the story and side missions become a slog very quick. Absolutely 0 RPG elements as well. No real customization or loot at all.
  59. Sep 8, 2023
    10
    his is one of the best video games in long time , it's just wow!! .
  60. Sep 9, 2023
    10
    I've played it twice and in hard mode it's wonderful. The story of Clive and Josua is great, all the characters once again have that "magic" of the previous games. Final Fantasy is back.
  61. Sep 9, 2023
    10
    Definitely the best game of the year 2023. Incredible plot, gameplay, everything is at the highest level. It's 10/10.
  62. Sep 9, 2023
    10
    One of the best FF game ever ,love the story and combat !! .
  63. Sep 9, 2023
    8
    Final Fantasy 16 captivated my heart with its enthralling narrative, intriguing characters, and breathtaking visuals. Let's delve into the highs and lows that influenced my score.

    Story & Performances: The narrative, albeit somewhat predictable, remained engaging. The journey propels players through uncharted territories; albeit linear at first, there's more exploration as the game
    Final Fantasy 16 captivated my heart with its enthralling narrative, intriguing characters, and breathtaking visuals. Let's delve into the highs and lows that influenced my score.

    Story & Performances: The narrative, albeit somewhat predictable, remained engaging. The journey propels players through uncharted territories; albeit linear at first, there's more exploration as the game progresses. Sadly, these expanses lack intriguing discoveries.

    As for performances, the cast delivered impeccably. Clyde, Cid, Jill, and Benedicta showcased stellar portrayals, setting a high bar for immersion. Though the side characters could benefit further development, the primary ensemble held their own brilliantly.

    Gameplay: The gameplay was satisfying. The build and ability diversity suggest multiple play styles, keeping things fresh. Boss battles stand out, not for their complexity, but for their awe-inspiring aesthetics.

    Side Quests: Admittedly, these were a letdown. Although they occasionally provided insights into the broader world, they often felt more like hindrances than delights. A scant few offered valuable rewards, but the majority seemed like uninspired filler. For completionists, wading through lackluster side quests can be tedious.

    RPG Elements: A crucial component for any Final Fantasy title, yet they seemed underwhelming here. While Clyde's abilities offered some build variety, the armor and weaponry system felt lackluster. Armor and weapon progression tied too closely to main missions, with few exceptions, which diminished player choice. Trinket equipping introduced some depth, but its impact felt minimal.

    To end on a positive note, despite my criticisms, I truly cherished my time with FF16. It stands as a memorable title in the series, and my favorite since FF12.

    My rating suffered a slight deduction due to the trophy unlock system requiring a game replay. A note to developers: please reconsider such mechanisms. They're more irksome than rewarding.
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  64. Sep 9, 2023
    8
    Buena historia con un gran combate, aunque con unos fallos de exploración y misiones secundarias propios de anteriores generaciones.
  65. Sep 9, 2023
    10
    I've played since the first final fantasy and haven't truly enjoyed myself to this degree since 10
  66. Sep 10, 2023
    10
    Incredible game, best ff games !! my GOTY in 2023!! .
  67. Sep 10, 2023
    10
    This game seems to have a charm about it. The story and the combat flow smoothly and most - not all - side quests are pretty interesting; they can give a dive on the past of some of the side characters. As the news comes that they are in the works for DLC, I’ll, with no doubt, come back to this game in the future.
  68. Sep 10, 2023
    10
    This game so good! music is amazing! my GOTY!!!! .
  69. Sep 11, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A good ending is always nice but in my opinion this ending fits good to the game because its dark and like evil. Expand
  70. Sep 11, 2023
    10
    It’s one of my favorite FF games! music and combat is so good!! .
  71. Sep 11, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Um Game que preencheu completamente minhas espectativa, me deixou muito satisfeito principalmente sua gameplay que graças a deus não e um jrpg, graficamente incrível sem nenhum erro, ele é um pilar pra saga final fantasy e mais que um jogo, um exemplo de como fazer um jogo. Expand
  72. Sep 11, 2023
    10
    Such an amazing game from start to finish this will be a final fantasy people will talk about for a long time.
  73. Sep 11, 2023
    10
    Good story, good music, good combat- truly a rollercoaster ride.and I hope the series continues on this trajectory.
  74. Sep 12, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This ending broke me. I cried so hard : ( . Expand
  75. Sep 12, 2023
    2
    Never played it. Will pirate PC version because me so poor I can't buy to play. I will wait the RUNE or TENOKE version of the game. Thank you Sony for investing, very nice! Much love Jim!
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]