The upcoming release of The Rising Tide, the second DLC for Final Fantasy 16, has been stirring excitement among the millions of fans of the franchise.
Set to be a more massive expansion that adds a brand new area into the game, the DLC promises to expand the Final Fantasy 16 universe with new challenges, including an epic confrontation with the “missing” legendary Eikon, Leviathan. This much-anticipated follow-up comes after the shadow release of the first DLC, Echoes of the Fallen, which, while on the short side, has already captivated the game’s audience with its compelling narrative and gameplay enhancements.
As part of The Rising Tide DLC, players can expect to dive deeper into the lore and setting of Final Fantasy XVI. This new expansion is set to explore the mysteries surrounding Leviathan, the Lost Eikon, which was conspicuously absent in the base game. The lore of Final Fantasy XVI hinted at the existence of Leviathan, but its story remained untold, leaving the players with many unanswered questions, especially leading up to the game’s conclusion. The Rising Tide, expected to be set before the final battle, seeks to fill this narrative gap, offering a new dimension to the game’s rich storyline.
The addition of Leviathan is particularly exciting for the series’ long-time fans, as it not only introduces new gameplay dynamics but also enriches the game’s mythos. Eikons, the colossal embodiments of power characters such as Clive (as well as Cid and Jill, who, unfortunately, aren’t getting story DLCs) can transform into, are central to the gameplay and story of Final Fantasy XVI. The introduction of Leviathan to FF16 promises to add a fresh set of Eikon abilities to Clive’s arsenal, bringing more depth and variety to the game’s combat system.
The Rising Tide DLC is expected to include new regions for exploration, along with new sets of enemies and challenges. It is anticipated to follow a similar gameplay structure to the base game, with the addition of new areas and enemies. It will take players to Mysidia, a recurring locale in the Final Fantasy series, known for its mystical and tropical ambiance. However, what’s interesting here is that the Leviathan was only mentioned in passing in the base game. Not to mention, Mysidia wasn’t mentioned at all. This addition to the expansive lore of Final Fantasy 16 is a sign that the Rising Tide DLC will add close to a dozen hours of story content. As a bonus, familiar creatures, like the Tonberry, help add a nostalgic touch to the expansion.
While the exact date within Spring 2024 isn’t specified, fan anticipation remain high. Avid players, many of which have already cleared through the Echoes of the Fallen DLC, have already begun sharing their ideas on how the DLC could change the ending of FF16, with some theorizing that it could introduce an alternate ending.
As for the pricing, the Rising Tide DLC is a paid DLC that’s likely going to cost more than Echoes of the Fallen, which is currently selling for $9.99. The Expansion Pass, $24.99, allows you to buy The Rising Tide for a discount.
As for the base FF16 itself, the PS5 exclusive, is one of the year’s best-selling and most popular games. It’s a critical hit and considered one of the franchise’s best installments. But, it’s been criticized plenty, including a former Square Enix executive, either for its lack of sales, exclusivity to PS5, and deviation from the standard Final Fantasy formula.
Regardless of whether you’re a fan or not, it’s clear that Square Enix isn’t done with Final Fantasy 16 yet. With a PC port still coming after the Rising Tide and FF7 Rebirth scheduled for February 2024, as well as other rumored ventures, fans of the franchise have plenty to look forward to.
