Final Fantasy 16: A Refined but Dull Journey
Hey there, fellow gamers! Let’s talk about Final Fantasy, a series that holds a special place in all of our hearts. Now, I know we all have our favorite entries, but there’s no denying that not all of them can be winners. Today, I want to delve into the world of Final Fantasy 16 and share my thoughts on whether it lives up to the hype. So grab your controllers and let’s dive in!
Refinement at the Cost of Excitement
Now, I finally got around to playing Final Fantasy 16 during the holidays, and I have to say, it’s a fine game. It’s polished and refined, like a perfectly crafted sword. But sometimes, all that sanding can make things a bit dull. If you’re a fan of games that have a bit of roughness to them, like me, you might find Final Fantasy 16 lacking that special spark.
It’s clear that Square Enix wanted to create a game that captures the essence of God of War within the Final Fantasy universe. And while they succeeded in creating a cohesive experience, it just doesn’t hold a candle to its predecessor, Final Fantasy 15.
The Power of Writing
One of the biggest letdowns in Final Fantasy 16 is its writing. Clive Rosfield, the protagonist, is performed well by English voice actor Ben Starr, but the character itself falls flat due to poor writing. He’s a grumpy guy, and that’s about it. The supporting cast doesn’t fare much better, with underdeveloped characters like Jill. This is where Final Fantasy 15 truly shines – its writing brings the characters to life and makes them feel like real people.
A Band of Brothers
Now, let’s talk about the heart and soul of Final Fantasy – the characters. Final Fantasy 15 made a smart choice by focusing on just four main characters. Spending so much time with them in the Regalia, their trusty vehicle, allows each character to shine. From Prompto capturing special moments with his camera to Ignis creating mouthwatering recipes, these characters feel like lifelong friends.
And let’s not forget Gladio’s undying love for Cup Noodle. It’s these little details that make them so memorable and relatable. I’ll never forget the emotional impact of the photos in Final Fantasy 15’s ending. They truly added depth and meaning to the journey.
Memories That Last
At the end of the day, what truly matters in a Final Fantasy game is the emotional connection we form with the characters. Sure, flashy battles and epic moments are great, but it’s the characters who stay with us long after the credits roll. Final Fantasy 15 may have had its flaws, but it delivered on creating a cast of characters we cared about.
In contrast, Final Fantasy 16’s story falls short, fumbling with its slavery storyline and lacking insightful commentary on the concept of free will. The combat, inspired by Devil May Cry, offers more variety than its predecessor but still fails to impress. When you combine these shortcomings with underwritten characters, Final Fantasy 16 falls into the realm of mediocrity.
A Hot Take for 2024
So here’s my hot take for the new year: Final Fantasy 15 may not have excelled in every aspect, but its character writing elevated it to greatness. In a series like Final Fantasy, that’s what we need – characters who make us laugh, cry, and feel a deep connection. As we embark on new gaming adventures, let’s remember the power of storytelling and the impact it can have on our gaming experiences.
So, my fellow gamers, let’s keep our controllers charged, our spirits high, and our love for Final Fantasy burning bright. And who knows, maybe the best Final Fantasy is yet to come. Until then, let’s cherish the memories we’ve made and the characters who have touched our hearts. Happy gaming!