Final Fantasy 16’s place in the Final Fantasy series is interesting for several reasons.
On one hand, it serves as a testament to the franchise’s ability to adapt and thrive. On the other hand, it’s drawn criticism for its exclusivity, combat system, and lack of sales.
While the uproar wasn’t enough to vault FF16 to the top of this year’s most-searched games on Google, Square Enix, at the very least, saw enough upside to release two DLCs for the game. But, that’s not all.
After already releasing the first one and promising bigger things for the second DLC, Square Enix has revealed just how much more expansive the FF16 expansion will be.
This second DLC will bring about ten hours of additional gameplay (we’d love to joke about how much longer it is than a certain game’s campaign, but we wouldn’t want to find ourselves in Christopher Judge’s position).
This significant extension contrasts with the earlier DLC, Echoes of the Fallen, which, while engaging, added only a few hours of playtime. The Rising Tide promises to take players deeper into the game’s lore, offering new challenges and a captivating storyline centered around the enigmatic Eikon, Leviathan.
Eikon battles, a central feature of Final Fantasy 16, have been a highlight for players, blending spectacle with immersive gameplay. The inclusion of Leviathan, an Eikon absent from the original game, is expected to introduce novel combat mechanics and strategies, enhancing the already rich combat experience. This addition will undoubtedly satisfy long-time followers of the series who appreciate the depth and variety brought about by these colossal beings.
If Noctis’ battle against Leviathan in Final Fantasy 15 is any indication, Square Enix and Creative Business Unit III have a good time planned for fans.
Again though, the DLC isn’t merely about the admittedly amazing gargantuan battles but also about exploration and its narrative depth. The Rising Tide will transport players to new regions within the game’s universe, adding fresh layers to the already complex world of Valisthea. These new areas are expected to be teeming with unique enemies and challenges, further enriching the gaming experience.
Another exciting aspect of this DLC is the potential to explore untold stories within FF16 universe. The base game hinted at the presence and significance of Leviathan, leaving many questions unanswered. This expansion is an opportunity for the developers to fill in these narrative gaps, providing a more rounded and complete story.
Unfortunately, in the same interview, Square Enix dashed any chances of a character-specific DLC revolving around Cid or Jill.
As for the technicalities, the PC version of FF16 is also in the works, with an announcement possibly coming later next year. The developers have emphasized the necessity of an SSD for optimal gameplay experience on PC, indicating their commitment to delivering a high-quality product.
In terms of pricing, The Rising Tide is expected to be more costly than its predecessor, Echoes of the Fallen, which sells for $9.99. Players can also opt for the Expansion Pass, priced at $24.99, which includes both DLCs, for a more economical option.
The anticipation for the expansion is a reflection of the enduring popularity and influence of Final Fantasy. Each entry, including FF16, continues to push the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay, offering fans new and exciting worlds to explore. This upcoming expansion is no exception, promising to deliver a rich, immersive experience that will captivate both veteran players and newcomers to the franchise.
With a promise of about ten hours of additional gameplay, new challenges, and deeper narrative exploration, The Rising Tide could be the bow to the proverbial tie and complete the FF16 experience.
As for what’s next for the franchise, fans can look forward to FF7 Rebirth in February and FF14’s arrival on Xbox as well as its next expansion. The next mainline entry is likely in development already as well.
