The Final Fantasy game series comprises some of the most explosive combat visuals and mechanics. The upcoming addition to the series is about to take it to another level by breaking the classic combat tradition of turn-based RPG and adopting a more “rogue-like” combat system, similar to the Devil May Cry series.
While there is still some time before the release of Final Fantasy XVI, Square Enix has shared some exciting details about the new battle system and focus modes available in the game upon release.
If you’re wondering why you cannot find these details, then that’s because they are only updated on the official Final Fantasy XVI Japanese website. Here’s a complete rundown of all the new features coming to the highly-anticipated Final Fantasy sequel.
Focus Modes
The game features two main focus modes: Story and Action Focus mode.
The story mode is like an easier difficulty mode that targets a more casual player base who mostly lean toward the narrative aspect of the game and just want to enjoy the combat without repeating a boss battle several times.
The Action Focus mode will feature a challenging and more demanding combat experience. The combat mechanics will be turned up a notch, where the players themselves must perform every action. This focus mode is catered toward the players looking for a challenge. Luckily, the focus mode can be changed at any time during your gameplay.
Summoned Beast
Powerful beasts known as Eikons can be summoned to the battlefield. Eikons are the primary focus of Final Fantasy 16, controlled by characters called Dominants, such as Clive.
Players can use the beast summon action to infuse the powers offered by these beasts into their weapons and attack moves to deal devastating blows and damage to the enemies.
Players can easily switch between two Eikons during combat, using controller shortcuts, to mix and match their combat style.
Ability Enhancements
Character skills and the power of the beasts are referred to as ‘Abilities.’ These abilities can be upgraded to make Clive as powerful as the player wants. The players can decide which ability to learn and upgrade based on their play style.
Party System
Unlike the previous Final Fantasy games, Final Fantasy XVI does not feature controllable characters. The only character that players can control to a limited extent is Torgaru, a companion wolf. Torgaru is a new companion wolf that will accompany CLive on his endeavors fighting alongside him.
Other characters will also accompany Clive, but they can’t be controlled. They will be AI-assisted combatants and will join Clive as the story progresses.
Final Fantasy XVI is scheduled to release on June 23, 2023, exclusively for PlayStation 5.
