Please share and comment. It truly helps. Game is great fun, lots of combat, I dug the main story and the arts. However, lots of little things did pick away at the enjoyment. It was mostly just the huge change in focus to a singular story(or a more driven one) with him being the main combatant as well, with the odd world design. It Didn't feel as expansive as I had hope. My patreon www.patreon.com/AngryCentaurGaming
Nice edit with Torgol kicking the soldier off of the cliff right as you were talking about him. You still put the love into the editing even after all these years. Most people wont notice, but its that attention to detail that makes your videos stand out.
This game shows why we need more demos available for AAA games. So many people will pick this up from that free couple of hours. Made me go from a sale to day 1 for sure
@@smharyanto4660 This game was in a right mess and they still released and demo and the full release is just as bad yet non of the reviews call it out. ACG used to but nowadays it seems watching Digital Foundry is a must otherwise you have no idea what state the game will be in. An incredibly wobbly 60FPS at 720p is not acceptable and should have been called out.
These changes sound great to me but man, I get how long-time fans might be disappointed. I imagine it's how upset I'd feel if FromSoftware switched Souls games to team and turn-based combat. Thanks for another detailed and interesting review.
Judging from the demo alone, I really dig the change in focus to something more single-character driven. I'm one of those guys who plays these games specifically for the story, and not necessarily the challenge, so I really appreciate that Square-Enix threw in a story-mode for those of us who prefer to focus on that. The combat is still fun as hell, even if it does get simplified in story-mode. This might be one of the most accessible Final Fantasy games out there. As soon as the physical copy is available, I'm picking it up.
I agree. Although I think I am biased when it comes to these things. Now that I am older and deep into my career and having a kid, I've got less time to play games. I think single-player, story driven, linear games are easier to get immersed in for people who don't have the time to dedicate to larger, more open world games. I feel like FF16 is a game I could play and enjoy for a few hours a day and not feel like I've wasted time ticking off icons on a map. I've been less excited about open-world titles lately.
@@hannaduet4727 Yeah, I like a good open-world game like Horizon: Forbidden West, but a lot of them are just too open. Give me a linear game with a really strong story, and it'll keep me busy for a long time.
I'm not surprised FF16 has all these great reviews, It didn't take long for me to be invested in the narrative in the demo, coupled with the Dark fantasy vibe and the drastically different combat that works and well... This is probably the biggest launch since what 9 or 10? It's a good one.
I def agree with the second playthrough. I actually experienced this with the demo. I played the Wilson challenge through probably four times and it was more fun each time. By the end I was basically dancing around the battlefield and destroying Benedikta. I do REALLY wish there was an option to START in the final fantasy mode though. Elden Ring proved people aren’t afraid of hard games and they can still sell like crazy. Odd choice to not at least include it as an option.
Interested to experience the level design. You touched on linearity but actually every FF EVER is extremely linear baring 15 which was only open world in the first area... So I don't see this as a downside, but agree that the spaces look so beautifully crafted that I WISH I could explore them thoroughly rather than treat them as glorified hallways! Anyways, can't wait for launch and thanks for all u do man! Much appreciated as always
@@Idkwhtpsipto Right!?! Not sure where that sentiment comes from... I actually grew up with 10 and it is indeed my favorite purely from nostalgia. My dog is even named Yuna haha... Give it a go someday its easy to pick up and PC lets u speed things up a bit! Cheers
There’s a difference between linearity in the story progression vs linearity of level design. Early FF games had linear story, but with open world maps, maze like dungeons, and things like side quests or mini games to do that break up the story. There is an emphasis in exploring in past entries that it seems like 16 had left behind. In ff7 once you got an airship the world was your oyster and you could breed chocobos, fight super bosses, find ultimate weapons, etc. you had player agency to decide to do those things. In ff6 you would lose all your party members half way thru and then could find them again in mostly any order you wanted. So I think it’s not fair to call every FF ever extremely linear, when there was a lot of non linear exploration on offer.
@@LTNetjak the ff7 map honestly sucks as much as I love that game. The traversal with tiny bronco was so boring and the only thing you could miss is Wutai
@@WolfYama yes, this exactly. It's fine that they went more linear with the level structure (though I would have preferred a little more openness) but it's silly to insist that the other games (at least most of them) weren't more open in their level design
I like how you framed the focus on the people "beneath the Lannisters". Definitely a very interesting way to look at it and an intriguing way for a game to explore.
NGL I was cautious about this one after seeing the trailers. There was stuff in them that had me second guessing if this was going to work out or not. I'm very glad to see so much positive reception. There are still changes that I am not a huge fan of but there is no doubt that it's going to be a good time when I let myself get over those little hiccups.
There are some things I would have liked to be done differently perhaps but damn.. it’s overshadowed by such beautifully crafted scenery, some of the best dialogue in video games, and amazing voice actors… I’m completely hooked.. every scene is amazing, and I haven’t felt like it’s dragging at all Probably one of my top Final Fantasy games of all time
I want to feel the same way as everyone else here, I loved the story too, however the way they didn't show Clive at the end there when that was going on while he was pleading felt disjointed from what was going on. Felt like it didn't line up with what was going on. Like they couldn't think of a way to make it so Clive could see it but couldn't try to run to them, I don't know. It felt like I got all the way to end of the demo for them to flub the most crucial part. Still getting the game mind you, this is a minor complaint but a serious one for me.
I am looking forward to this game. The music and story had me intrigued when i played the demo. It has a lot to live up to considering all the other greats in the series like FF7 and FF12. Can't wait.
I enjoyed 15 I know a lot of people weren't as big of fans. That being said 16 going a darker theme feeling a bit more mature not to mention the dominant battles at least visually look awesome. Looking forward to this one.
I enjoyed 15 a lot as well! I also am looking forward to 16. I’m not a purist FF fan, I try them all and I like they try new things, even if I end up not liking the game.
@@bobderbaumeisterthe2589 nah that's understandable that press and hold formula didn't work for a lot of people. But I felt like the more attention you paid to it the better it became. It's combat wasn't JUST hold down this button do this. It was direction and timing and picking the right weapons for the job. Then when they introduced the capability to play as each of the characters as well it opened a completely different experience. That being said I still can understand that the mechanics aren't for everyone. Some just outright disliked the way it controlled. For me it gave it a sense of fluidity
So excited for this review, I've been on the fence with FF titles since 13 and always wait to hear reviews ahead of time or hear how my friends enjoy the title. Thank you for getting this out ahead of time before release.
I didn't know the new game plus would have the new experience you mentioned. I was planning on doing the new game plus AFTER all the DLC was released so I can get the full experience without a third play through soon after the second just to go through the DLC. My big complaint about this game was, while I didn't mind it not being open world, I didn't like how there was barely much reason to explore. Like they didn't even put cool items on the map for players to find. It's just potions, high potions, and ethers you find in the world which doesn't matter much when you get a free refill when you die. I wish there was cool equipment, weapons, and crafting material to find in this world.
I do think they could morph today's graphics with a turn based approach to a rpg with a 3 or 4 unit team. It would be hard to get a perfect balance of fight speed and strategy but things these days seem to have to cater to newer players and those who would otherwise not buy a turn based system. It cost so much to make these games these days to not try and get a larger piece of sales. I grew up with strictly turn based rpgs which I'm guessing you did too but I don't think a bunch of newer players have the patience for.
@@jasonsmarr3621I grew up with them and played many including obscure ones and I still don't have the patience for them. Aside from very specific examples such as SMT, it's painfully clear there's almost no benefit in turn based battles from a player engagement standpoint, where action based gameplay can have all the elements of most turn based games without losing depth, and adds the challenge of timing and reflex skill, while being far more stimulating to control. Turn based gameplay was not a well refined gameplay choice, it was a cleverly devised WORKAROUND for the hardware and engine limitations of old software, it's not the right choice in most scenarios and offers very little in the way of innovation or engagement aside from a few cases, and Final Fantasy was as typical TBS JRPG as they came. People acting like this is some betrayal of Final Fantasy's philosophy when it's clear from the start this is the system they really wanted is laughable. What do people think ATB was made for? Or FF12s system? It was ALWAYS the goal for them to go full high speed combat spectacle and slowly bridging that gap with these in-transition systems, and now they finally had the talent they needed to execute it proper.
@@johnwrath3612 yea yakuza like a dragon became my favorite yakuza game i loved it so much it became part of the few games i actually platinum in my lifetime
Finally finished this game what an emotional ride. The major issue I had with the game was that exploration felt unrewarding and at times nonexistent in dungeons or what the developers call stages. Definitely doesn’t hit as high for me as FFXIV but the presentation is of course quite better than that. The spectacle and emotional scenes were great. The most times I have cried during a Final Fantasy game, and yes that includes FFXIV And yes I like it so much that I started new game+ though I had to step away from it because it was causing me to shun other things such as sleeping on time and gym XD
The music alone in this entry is sure to blow people out of the water. I also love the more mature tone we've seen with diologue. The demo alone throws in more profanity than any FF game I can recall
They need to bring Nobuo back for one last Final Fantasy. I know he likely doesn’t want to, but no one made video game music like he. VIII is the best soundtrack, followed by VII, IX, VI, and V in my opinion. But heck, any soundtrack from I-X could be considered one of the greatest video game soundtracks ever.
I loved ,loved this review as always Karak has a way with words explaining intricate gaming details and letting you focus on specific words ‘fun factor’, ‘for everyone everyone’ and more this is why when I look for reviews ACG is my first to check definitely saving up to pre order game . Keep it up bro you got a forever fan !
As testament to this particular game, I haven’t been in to this IP for a few years and really wasn’t looking forward to it, but the demo was so striking, gorgeous, well written, and epic in scale, that it absolutely hooked me and I can’t wait to play it; the full game.
Ff15 did NOT gel with me at all. The combat, the constant soldier drops, the boyband-on-tour feel. That made me cautious for ff16... until I played the demo and saw other takes on the game.
Great review :) Admittedly, I was under the impression we were getting something closer to Tales of Arise in terms of gameplay, didn't expect it to be 100% All Clive All the Time. The voice work from the demo gave me FF12 vibes, and the music was aces. So regardless of the shift in gameplay and focus, it looks like my gritty, rasberry jam.
I think you explained the game issues and strengths really well. I'm in the "this is not the FF game I wanted" camp, but still enjoying the main movie... I mean story. This will get only one play through from me. All of the games I play through more then once are because the story and game play were exceptional. Playing through multiple times is so I can experience that over and over. To me this missed the mark in their attempt to make this a game for everyone. "Jack of all trades, and master of none" comes to mind. I very rarely buy a game on release, and after this one I will wait for a second hand copy of any future FF game releases should the game play remain the same. Thank your for the great content.
Enjoying the game but was let down by the linearity of the level design. Might as well just have a level selection. I knew it wasn’t open world but i do hope it opens up more I’m only about 6 hours in so far. I just love the since of adventure in an big open world game like the witcher 3, horizon, red dead or skyrim. And its crazy how much the graphical quality can change depending on the scene. I still would recommend the game just have some gripes with it.
Considering the history of Devil May Cry, the comparison might be more apt than you realized. Devil May Cry started out as a Resident Evil game, but the direction veered so far from the series roots that they just decided to make it its own franchise. Final Fantasy XVI looks like it would've benefitted from the same treatment.
I was gonna buy till i played the demo. Edgelord character, spammy combat, and stuttering even in “performance mode” that constantly goes 720p… yikes. Hard pass, thankful for the demo though - saved me 70$
Ive noticed reviews have stopped mentioning qtes. Ive also noticed the game includes them, so is the silence a matter of resignation or acceptance? Personally, i think games should justify removing control from the player, but if people have generally come around what made them 'click' for you?
Probably the first Square Enix game that wowed me as a teen was Kingdom Hearts II, mainly for its combat system (especially on Proud or Critical difficulties) and brilliant optional super-bosses, especially in the Final Mix version. It doesn't sound like Final Fantasy XVI will quite hit those highs I experienced with KHII's gameplay with heavily-automated set piece battles against the summons and pointless and few side quests, but due to my first experience with SE being arguably their best action RPG to this day, I'm sure I'll enjoy Final Fantasy XVI for finally not trying have an awkward combination of real-time and turn-based mechanics and just going full-on action. More recently, playing the OG Dragon Quest showed me that a story focused on only one character (albeit with fun NPCs all around) could be refreshingly simple and engaging, and I'm actually glad that the game is not open-world for once, might have some actual level design for the first time in a while. Isn't this also directed by the same guy that made Final Fantasy XIV the only really good and consistent thing about modern Square Enix? This might be the game that finally convinces me to get a PS5, especially in the likely event the eventual PC port will suck. Just need to find a more-permanent job in this economy, first.
Great review. I'm really pleasantly surprised that they made such a ballsy move with their departure from party based games. Looking forward to it. My only gripe is that some of the areas feel kind of empty, but I haven't seen a lot of the game so my impression could be wrong.
in the demo there was a long part where you walk/run for 10s between cutscenes over and over - does that continue happening a lot in the game? it might be a deal breaker for me it just annoys me that i keep getting control and its taken away every moment
It may happen a few times but rarely did I feel like I was just walking to and from cutscenes with nothing in between. At worst, some side quests do this but most of the time there’s combat, a boss, or the next piece of dialogue is right around the corner.
I am excited to try this one out. I have never gotten into Final Fantasy aside from briefly playing FF 10. It was fun, but I probably just mostly didnt enjoy turn based combat. I appreciate all your videos, really enjoy hearing your takes and seeing if I might want to jump into any of these hundreds of games always coming out. Thanks for your content!! 🎉
@@who_hurt_youproductions8826I think Squeenix is really REALLY underestimating how many people like proper turned-based combat. Pokemon sells like hot cakes and it hasnt deviated from turned based combat at all. Not to mention the popularity of card games. I think if Squeenix made a FF game that harkened back to old school turned based combat, they'd be shocked at the amount of people who'd buy in.
I find it quite concerning, or telling, that the comments are full of people saying they've never been an FF fan but think this looks cool, or they've only played 15 ... Let's hope it feels enough like final fantasy for us older fans too ... Tho I ain't sure
Wtf is with this year? I don't have the money or time to play the games I want. TotK, Diablo4, now this one... And then there's still a lot coming. My poor wallet
Thanks for a great review. I thoroughly enjoyed the FFVII remake and the overall quality of the Final Fantasy games as a whole. However, I'm not an old school die hard fan so I will find less issues in the overall presentation of the FFVI story and can't wait to dive in .
I was so sad about Final Fantasy 15’s DLC is getting canceled but I wasn’t sure and I finally just picked up the game the newest game for like $36 physical instead of spending 70 and I’m happy I did. It’s still great though I still like it it’s just reminds me a little bit of of the harvestella combat and the town and mechanics are similar to harvestalla sans the farming.
@@dannyslagI'm hype for this one, but I would _really_ like to see a modern turn based FF, and also, I would like to see an FF CRPG - that would be amazing.
This game I might grab in the future, but I'm not a fan of paying $70 for ANY game... especially when most games these days are treating it like an entrance fee and the REAL price comes from all the extra features that easily bring the price into the triple digits.
The review is detailed, honest, and unbiased as always, and I really appreciate it. I may have to pick this one up. Thanks, Karak! God bless and stay safe!
I like most of the changes but the fight system of VII remaster is a better balance with a slight more complexity. The ending was upsetting for me, I feel they do not had the slight uplift you have felt at the end of XV...
The more I hear, the more I think I'll be missing out if I don't play this. The game sounds like it'll scratch an itch I didn't even know I had. This year is overwhelming with good releases: Diablo 4, Tears of the Kingdom, Armored Core (Presumably), FF16, Hades 2(Hopefully at least in Early Access Form). 2023 is just shaping up to be my year. Got a decent job, graduated college, getting married in October, and best gaming year in a long time. Cheers you grumpy horse-man hybrid, and thank you for all you do for the gaming community!
8:47 have you played previous ff games? 15 was the only one that was open world. Literally only two of the previous games had any open areas of exploration…
Appreciate all the work! I'm glad you were able to approach the game with some critical thoughts in mind, I know it can be easy to get swept up in the momentum of word of mouth so glad there are still some things that could be worked on. This was a day 1 for me but I'm always glad to hear other opinions on it.
I think it's early to say the combat system lacks the depth of other action games. I don't say this because I think FF16 can compete with Devil May Cry 5 for example (I don't), but because combat depth is directly correlated to hidden/unintended tech, and that is something reviewers 99% of the time don't dig deeper enough to find. A good example is God of War 18' and Ragnarok, on the surface level the combat is straight in your face, in a "what you see is what you get" kind of way. But then, guys like GameBreakerGod start finding how to cancel mechanics here and there and all of a sudden the difference between a normal player just enjoying the game and someone actively trying to find tech becomes enormous. This happens in almost every game with a combat system, even Ghost of Tsushima, which has a very strict system, you can still do juggle combos people that played the game from start to finish 3 times never saw. From what I experimented with in the demo and from what I saw from good players on youtube, I think it's very fair to say FF16's combat is right below DMC and Bayonetta, but that's about it. I hope this doesn't come out as offensive as it may sound but I don't think ACG would know the extent of the depth of this combat system by the time of this review, not because of him as a player but because nobody skilled enough (and that's not me either, it's the 2% that will grind this game to find stuff) would have. Not even Ryota Suzuki himself, hell.. what made Devil May Cry make the jump (no pun intended) to the next level and modern DMC gameplay was a mechanic that wasn't intended in the first place. FF16's system seems "free form" enough to almost guarantee we'll see unintended mechanics surface, sooner or later.
This review helped me tailor my expectations! I've sort of felt like the cinematic hand-holding (sometimes easy mode) gameplay on crucial moments has watered down some of the narrative stakes in the series. Why am I spending countless hours on honing characters when the game will just give me a pass at certain points? I am interested in trying out how deep this combat system goes, though.
What really frustrates me about these newer Final Fantasy games is not that they aren't good, it's that they are good, great even, and I love them... but I can't help but still feel the loss of the traditional Final Fantasy game, and the success of these games makes me feel like we will never go back to that. So, I am caught in a place where I am frustrated that the games they are making are so good, but are still not quite what I am wanting them to be. I would really love to see them take the franchise and split it. One branch making these new, more linear, action games. The other, a turn-based, super open world, more exploration-heavy game... with AIRSHIPS in it again. God, I miss the excitement of getting your first airship mid-game. The flying mod to the car in XV just didn't quite pull that off. I do like the more mature approach though for both game types. Sadly, I know I am wishing for something not likely to ever happen.
I’m on my way to platinuming the game, just need to do new game plus, and it’s biggest issue for me is that the gear is useless UNTIL new game plus. The stat bonuses are minute and the power difference is barely noticeable between upgrades. It’s only noticeable if you don’t upgrade for awhile but resources are so plentiful that there’s no reason not to. The party system is also non existent. I barely notice when my party is doing something and if they are, I mistake them for an enemy and dodge their attacks. Banter is barely there either.
Looking forward to this, especially the new combat system. The fact that it isn't a massive open world game doesn't bother me as sometimes it is nice to just have a more focussed experience.
I just don't know what to think of this,. It's been so long since a final fantasy and myself clicked.... I just cannot get myself hyped for any of these games anymore. Even final fantasy 7 remake let me down a bit and I love the original
This game looks so amazing that I'm very tempted to buy a PS5. Having always been a FF and Dragon Quest fan, it would be nice to see a FF game back on top. The pre-launch event was amazing, and you felt like they really put their heart and soul into it.
Hello Karak, Long time watcher of your channel first time commenter. You're my favorite reviewer. I laugh every time I watch a video and often watch a review for a title that I know I will not buy just to hear your review. Please keep it up. I love your work. I am hopeful for a ps5 copy. I have played FF when I was first out in the states. DMC and FF sounds like a perfect match, thanks.
I’m always cautious to preorder games since cyberpunk but that’s why I love reviews like these that come out quickly and just hit the nail on the head! Thank you for the review! Edit: Nail not Mail goddamnit
I am really happy to see how the Japanese Developers are no longer constrained under their original/previous game structures in the recent years. Like Yakuza series departure from their beat them up, Zelda and now Final Fantasy. The teams are really talented and creative when being unleashed, I just hope more big name developers are approaching this more. As someone who has played since Nes era, it is really hard to be excited for new game when it's only a fresh coat of new paint.
Honestly, Karak, I really appreciate your humor and alliteration, as well as you general honesty. It is always a pleasure to hear you talk about something you enjoy! Stay blessed, Friend! 💛
Can’t wait to hear you guys start talking about this game on the podcast and inevitably spiral on to 15 tangents about other things. It’s what I listen for!
I've never played a FF game before because turn-based games are just not my thing but the story, the world and the characters always looked super interesting. Now with the change of genre, I'm soo excited to play it later this year when I have a bit more time. 😊
Fantastic review. Not sure how I’m going to fit this in between Totk, Diablo 4, and a backlist of games several miles long, but I’m definitely looking forward to diving into this one eventually.
Seasons in Diablo 4 doesn't come out until end of July that's when the real endgame begins I plan on shelving it until then so FF gets my undevided attention
I held off on Diablo 4 bc the devs keep updating and patching items and mechanics. It makes it feel like the game isn’t finished yet or “the best” it could be.
So What I hearing is a good game, but not a good final fantasy game. Personally I wish companies would stop doing this. If I wanted to play a DMC game I would buy DMC. I buy FF because I want to play FF. And look if a developer wants to branch out and try something different that's great, but call it something different then. Don't tack it on to an existing franchise to try and capitalize on the name. That is a recipe for eroding fan trust and engagement over time. Just imagine if Naughty Dog had called Uncharted, Jak and Daxter 4 instead...
thank you. if you want a fanta buy a fanta. Dont ask cola to change so that you can like it, that makes no sense lol. That's why you have the fanta and the other choices.
Hello ACG, love the idea of the audio only review to really avoid spoilers, keep up the great care you exude when reviewing games! I tried FFXV and while intrigued by the story, the gameplay just couldn't hook me in so I'm excited to try a more combat-focused version of this game.
I've replayed the demo several times at this point. The combat in this game has great combo potential. Its addicting, labbing the combat system to figure out all the cool stuff you can do.
@@golfboy7438did you play the Eikolon challenge? Also did you play without the rings? Doing both can really enhance the perspective of the combat itself also on the regular demo you can just try to master certain skills see how you like them and be able to combo that skills within other skills so no and so forth.
@@golfboy7438 Make sure that when you play the Eikon Challenge after you beat the main demo you go to your equipment and unequip two rings that change how the game is played. If you already did do that then it all becomes about chaining your moves together along with your special moves. Holding the square button will envelop fire around Clive’s sword (after you unlock that skill) if you jump and let go of that button he will launch opponents into the air. You can then press circle to teleport to them and start your air combo. You can switch the teleport ability at any time to (currently) two other abilities. One of them is like a grappling hook that pulls people towards Clive, allowing you to continue your air combo. Make sure to get “stomp” and “master” it in the Eikon challenge so you can jump off an enemy, this lets you stay in the air longer and let’s you continue your combo even more. Then switch your ability one more time and press RT and Triangle, which should send you straight down dealing massive damage. That’s just one example
@@golfboy7438 yup, you can also try to press triangle right after square for extra magic burst, sometimes it ain't easy doing the whole 4-combo doing so, so give it a try, rings are to make the ge easier if you never play these type of heavy action games before.
Never played really any Final Fantasy, but the amount of changes this one appears to have I may jump in as I don't have any prior history with the earlier entries.
This game so far has actually been one of the most pleasant surprises in gaming history. The combat feels immense, rewarding and responsive. Big thanks and congratulations to the team behind the game and always big thanks to lord Karak.
I'm so happy Final Fantasy 16 is a return to form for the series (for the singleplayer mainline titles and excluding remake), it's been so long for SE to go back to medieval fantasy and deliver on that. Great review as always! On your take on side quests, this is pretty much always my gripe with recent final fantasy. Their side quests are mostly forgettable. It is a problem for most modern JRPG but I expected much more from SE, since they're the one who's still leading the genre and it's such a shame that the side quests are still not that good. The tone change in 16 is actually what excites me the most, more gritty and more grounded is a good fit for FF 16, especially after how 15 really failed on that tone they originally strived for.
Thanks for the review as always. It's good that they are trying new things rather becoming stagnant. The story is a key factor to the final fantasy series and I hope it delivers. Looking forward to it
I respect and was thrilled actually about the new direction the series is taking, I did love the battle system in previous installments, like FFX , but I do appreciate Square Enix taking a bet on evolving into a bold direction and experimenting rather than staying stagnant and complacent. This way the game also lowers the entry barrier to people who are not that hardcore fans of JRPG turn based games, but would want to experience Final Fantasy. I’m a FF fan since SNES, and really don’t mind the action driven FFXVI, Square Enix is adapting and embracing change, and to me that shows character in a development studio. I don’t see people condemning Super Mario for taking bold bets in the past with Mario 64 and going 3D. Another thing I’m excited about is that the development team of FFXVI knew that there would be fans asking for a challenge after beating the game, and having the New Game Plus right from day-1 is really an amazing decision (versus having to wait for a DLC for years) so those who would rush and finish the game have indeed more to look forward to with the challenges to come. About the story, I’m a Tolkien and GoT fan, so I’m pleased with it and cannot be 100% objective, but I would say it is another creative bet to take the game to “Mature” level with Fantasy more connected to real-life themes, I loved the presentation on the demo, and some might say those were “cliché” moments there comparable with GoT, but for those out there GoT fans, we loved the show for that didn’t we, why can’t we accept the story for FFXVI.
Turn based will always be my preference, but I do prefer the Baldur's Gate 3 or even Yakuza: Like a Dragon style, where the fight moves around an arena rather than just lining up
I dont mind the DMC style of exploration where there is a little but not a lot and the combat in this game is... so fluid and cinematic. Im so very excited about finally getting to play!
I was waiting for this review before buying it. I haven’t played a final fantasy game for well over a decade, but the demo got me hooked on this one. I’m glad too see it’s true to the rest of the game!
I understand we no longer have the turn based. Final Fantasy needs to return to some of its roots. Discovering and recruiting allies each w/ their own backstory. Example FF6snes / FF7/ OCTOPATH 1&2 PS1/ Chrono Trigger. I'm still waiting on SQUARE ENIX to do this down the line for the FF series. FF16 is a lone swordsman.
Never played a final fantasy game before but this one has me really intrigued, been watching your videos for a long time love your thorough reviews keep up the great work!
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Please share and comment. It truly helps. Game is great fun, lots of combat, I dug the main story and the arts. However, lots of little things did pick away at the enjoyment. It was mostly just the huge change in focus to a singular story(or a more driven one) with him being the main combatant as well, with the odd world design. It Didn't feel as expansive as I had hope.
My patreon www.patreon.com/AngryCentaurGaming
I've no interest in FF games so I'll leave this for the rhythmic algae.
We luv u bro
@@Elwaves2925 rhythmic algae lul
It's 10/10 you fckin goofy woke reviewer
Honestly some of your issues seem like positives to me lol.
Nice edit with Torgol kicking the soldier off of the cliff right as you were talking about him. You still put the love into the editing even after all these years. Most people wont notice, but its that attention to detail that makes your videos stand out.
THANK you for noticing man!
This game shows why we need more demos available for AAA games. So many people will pick this up from that free couple of hours. Made me go from a sale to day 1 for sure
Most companies wont do it, especially if they try to hide the horendous state of their game just like cyberpunk, gta trilogy DE, redfall, etc.
@@smharyanto4660
This game was in a right mess and they still released and demo and the full release is just as bad yet non of the reviews call it out.
ACG used to but nowadays it seems watching Digital Foundry is a must otherwise you have no idea what state the game will be in.
An incredibly wobbly 60FPS at 720p is not acceptable and should have been called out.
Ironically it had the opposite effect for forspoken. It actually saved people from buying that hot mess.
@@chadbizeau5997
Gamestop threw all their steelbook editions out.
I wish they did that in the UK, I'd have gotten the lot and sold them for 10 a pop.
True, but only polished games where the developers believe in what they’re selling can do this. Others just wanna cyberpunk us into paying for a dud.
Played the demo without having watched any trailers so i didnt know what to expect but hot damn did that story grab me by the end. I need more!!
me too lol
bought it instantly
Yo buddy . I was able to ignore all media related to FF16 until this Monday. Needless to say it’s downloaded and I’m ready 🤙🏻
Same
same hereee
Same
I'm really enjoying it and with it being more linear, I can appreciate the story telling. The combat is great also. Thanks for the review!
Thank god you got a review code cause your review is one of the only reviews I trust. So excited for this game
These changes sound great to me but man, I get how long-time fans might be disappointed. I imagine it's how upset I'd feel if FromSoftware switched Souls games to team and turn-based combat. Thanks for another detailed and interesting review.
Someone that gets it.
@@jamesswope9732ya I’m done with this 2023 BS it doesn’t even run well currently 💩
It has been mediocre experimental tech demos since the prerelease FFX footage came out to “showcase” the Emotion engine
Judging from the demo alone, I really dig the change in focus to something more single-character driven. I'm one of those guys who plays these games specifically for the story, and not necessarily the challenge, so I really appreciate that Square-Enix threw in a story-mode for those of us who prefer to focus on that. The combat is still fun as hell, even if it does get simplified in story-mode. This might be one of the most accessible Final Fantasy games out there. As soon as the physical copy is available, I'm picking it up.
I agree. Although I think I am biased when it comes to these things. Now that I am older and deep into my career and having a kid, I've got less time to play games. I think single-player, story driven, linear games are easier to get immersed in for people who don't have the time to dedicate to larger, more open world games. I feel like FF16 is a game I could play and enjoy for a few hours a day and not feel like I've wasted time ticking off icons on a map. I've been less excited about open-world titles lately.
@@hannaduet4727 Yeah, I like a good open-world game like Horizon: Forbidden West, but a lot of them are just too open. Give me a linear game with a really strong story, and it'll keep me busy for a long time.
Yeah, what we needed all along was for final fantasy to be more like every other game.
I'm not surprised FF16 has all these great reviews, It didn't take long for me to be invested in the narrative in the demo, coupled with the Dark fantasy vibe and the drastically different combat that works and well... This is probably the biggest launch since what 9 or 10? It's a good one.
Bro going from zelda to this is like going from one 5 star hotel to another 5 star hotel 😂❤❤
Despite being trash, 15 had the biggest launch in the franchise
@@mingyuhuang8944 Zelda has no story
@@JettzCGXV was amazing
I'm so hyped... For this review.
Amazing
ACG does the best reviews.
And Skill Up!
@@tamto6328Skill Up is rubbish.
@@jigzyonline2 your opinion, not fact
I def agree with the second playthrough. I actually experienced this with the demo. I played the Wilson challenge through probably four times and it was more fun each time. By the end I was basically dancing around the battlefield and destroying Benedikta. I do REALLY wish there was an option to START in the final fantasy mode though. Elden Ring proved people aren’t afraid of hard games and they can still sell like crazy. Odd choice to not at least include it as an option.
It is getting really annoying to have to play through the game once or twice before "the real game™" starts.
So excited for this game! Im not the biggest FF stan, but seeing the gameplay and demo had really sold me on this
Bro going from zelda to this is like going from one 5 star hotel to another 5 star hotel 😂❤❤
Interested to experience the level design. You touched on linearity but actually every FF EVER is extremely linear baring 15 which was only open world in the first area... So I don't see this as a downside, but agree that the spaces look so beautifully crafted that I WISH I could explore them thoroughly rather than treat them as glorified hallways! Anyways, can't wait for launch and thanks for all u do man! Much appreciated as always
I always say this same thing. They’re all linear, ESPECIALLY 10 which is apparently fan favorite.
@@Idkwhtpsipto Right!?! Not sure where that sentiment comes from... I actually grew up with 10 and it is indeed my favorite purely from nostalgia. My dog is even named Yuna haha... Give it a go someday its easy to pick up and PC lets u speed things up a bit! Cheers
There’s a difference between linearity in the story progression vs linearity of level design. Early FF games had linear story, but with open world maps, maze like dungeons, and things like side quests or mini games to do that break up the story. There is an emphasis in exploring in past entries that it seems like 16 had left behind. In ff7 once you got an airship the world was your oyster and you could breed chocobos, fight super bosses, find ultimate weapons, etc. you had player agency to decide to do those things. In ff6 you would lose all your party members half way thru and then could find them again in mostly any order you wanted. So I think it’s not fair to call every FF ever extremely linear, when there was a lot of non linear exploration on offer.
@@LTNetjak the ff7 map honestly sucks as much as I love that game. The traversal with tiny bronco was so boring and the only thing you could miss is Wutai
@@WolfYama yes, this exactly. It's fine that they went more linear with the level structure (though I would have preferred a little more openness) but it's silly to insist that the other games (at least most of them) weren't more open in their level design
I like how you framed the focus on the people "beneath the Lannisters". Definitely a very interesting way to look at it and an intriguing way for a game to explore.
NGL I was cautious about this one after seeing the trailers. There was stuff in them that had me second guessing if this was going to work out or not. I'm very glad to see so much positive reception. There are still changes that I am not a huge fan of but there is no doubt that it's going to be a good time when I let myself get over those little hiccups.
How'd you feel about the demo?
There are some things I would have liked to be done differently perhaps but damn.. it’s overshadowed by such beautifully crafted scenery, some of the best dialogue in video games, and amazing voice actors… I’m completely hooked.. every scene is amazing, and I haven’t felt like it’s dragging at all
Probably one of my top Final Fantasy games of all time
The demo really got me. That story beat hit me with a gut punch. That was friggin great! 😢
I want to feel the same way as everyone else here, I loved the story too, however the way they didn't show Clive at the end there when that was going on while he was pleading felt disjointed from what was going on. Felt like it didn't line up with what was going on. Like they couldn't think of a way to make it so Clive could see it but couldn't try to run to them, I don't know. It felt like I got all the way to end of the demo for them to flub the most crucial part. Still getting the game mind you, this is a minor complaint but a serious one for me.
@@Grawbad there's a reason it was done that way
@@Grawbad that supposed to be confusion. I’ll put it this way, that is what Clive was experiencing pretty literally, and it’s confusing to him as well
easy to digest and straight to the point review. APPRECIATE YOU
I am looking forward to this game. The music and story had me intrigued when i played the demo. It has a lot to live up to considering all the other greats in the series like FF7 and FF12. Can't wait.
It's not really what I am looking for in an FF game. Feels like a Devil may Cry addition.
Great review as always
I've never really been that much into Final Fantasy except XIV, but this has really caught my attention, it looks awesome
I enjoyed 15 I know a lot of people weren't as big of fans. That being said 16 going a darker theme feeling a bit more mature not to mention the dominant battles at least visually look awesome. Looking forward to this one.
I enjoyed 15 as well!
I enjoyed 15 a lot as well! I also am looking forward to 16. I’m not a purist FF fan, I try them all and I like they try new things, even if I end up not liking the game.
I enjoy 16 but 15 didn't click with me combat wise and I don't know why😅😢
@@bobderbaumeisterthe2589 nah that's understandable that press and hold formula didn't work for a lot of people. But I felt like the more attention you paid to it the better it became. It's combat wasn't JUST hold down this button do this. It was direction and timing and picking the right weapons for the job. Then when they introduced the capability to play as each of the characters as well it opened a completely different experience. That being said I still can understand that the mechanics aren't for everyone. Some just outright disliked the way it controlled. For me it gave it a sense of fluidity
So excited for this review, I've been on the fence with FF titles since 13 and always wait to hear reviews ahead of time or hear how my friends enjoy the title. Thank you for getting this out ahead of time before release.
I didn't know the new game plus would have the new experience you mentioned. I was planning on doing the new game plus AFTER all the DLC was released so I can get the full experience without a third play through soon after the second just to go through the DLC.
My big complaint about this game was, while I didn't mind it not being open world, I didn't like how there was barely much reason to explore. Like they didn't even put cool items on the map for players to find. It's just potions, high potions, and ethers you find in the world which doesn't matter much when you get a free refill when you die. I wish there was cool equipment, weapons, and crafting material to find in this world.
I’d love a modern turn based final fantasy, but damn this does look pretty good. Great review.
I do think they could morph today's graphics with a turn based approach to a rpg with a 3 or 4 unit team. It would be hard to get a perfect balance of fight speed and strategy but things these days seem to have to cater to newer players and those who would otherwise not buy a turn based system. It cost so much to make these games these days to not try and get a larger piece of sales. I grew up with strictly turn based rpgs which I'm guessing you did too but I don't think a bunch of newer players have the patience for.
@@jasonsmarr3621I grew up with them and played many including obscure ones and I still don't have the patience for them. Aside from very specific examples such as SMT, it's painfully clear there's almost no benefit in turn based battles from a player engagement standpoint, where action based gameplay can have all the elements of most turn based games without losing depth, and adds the challenge of timing and reflex skill, while being far more stimulating to control.
Turn based gameplay was not a well refined gameplay choice, it was a cleverly devised WORKAROUND for the hardware and engine limitations of old software, it's not the right choice in most scenarios and offers very little in the way of innovation or engagement aside from a few cases, and Final Fantasy was as typical TBS JRPG as they came.
People acting like this is some betrayal of Final Fantasy's philosophy when it's clear from the start this is the system they really wanted is laughable.
What do people think ATB was made for? Or FF12s system? It was ALWAYS the goal for them to go full high speed combat spectacle and slowly bridging that gap with these in-transition systems, and now they finally had the talent they needed to execute it proper.
@@jasonsmarr3621 yakuza like a dragon is a 100 hour traditional turn based jRPG and it fucking rules
@@johnwrath3612 I've actually played it for a few hours. I did really enjoy what they did.
@@johnwrath3612 yea yakuza like a dragon became my favorite yakuza game i loved it so much it became part of the few games i actually platinum in my lifetime
Pre ordered the game a month ago and got the steel book. The demo was amazing and can’t wait til Friday. Thanks for the Review ACG. Great as always
Hope you enjoy it!
Fool
Finally finished this game what an emotional ride. The major issue I had with the game was that exploration felt unrewarding and at times nonexistent in dungeons or what the developers call stages.
Definitely doesn’t hit as high for me as FFXIV but the presentation is of course quite better than that. The spectacle and emotional scenes were great.
The most times I have cried during a Final Fantasy game, and yes that includes FFXIV
And yes I like it so much that I started new game+ though I had to step away from it because it was causing me to shun other things such as sleeping on time and gym XD
The music alone in this entry is sure to blow people out of the water. I also love the more mature tone we've seen with diologue. The demo alone throws in more profanity than any FF game I can recall
The music was the best part of 15
They need to bring Nobuo back for one last Final Fantasy. I know he likely doesn’t want to, but no one made video game music like he.
VIII is the best soundtrack, followed by VII, IX, VI, and V in my opinion. But heck, any soundtrack from I-X could be considered one of the greatest video game soundtracks ever.
@@Phantom-kc9lyYoko did a fantastic job (like she usually does). She’s no Nobuo, but she’s still great.
@@D71219ONE i need to pop in my FFXV Soundtrack Blu Ray now lol
I loved ,loved this review as always Karak has a way with words explaining intricate gaming details and letting you focus on specific words ‘fun factor’, ‘for everyone everyone’ and more this is why when I look for reviews ACG is my first to check definitely saving up to pre order game . Keep it up bro you got a forever fan !
Thanks jeff
Another exceptional review @acgreviews !
One of the most trust worthy content creators on the platform!
As testament to this particular game, I haven’t been in to this IP for a few years and really wasn’t looking forward to it, but the demo was so striking, gorgeous, well written, and epic in scale, that it absolutely hooked me and I can’t wait to play it; the full game.
Ff15 did NOT gel with me at all. The combat, the constant soldier drops, the boyband-on-tour feel.
That made me cautious for ff16... until I played the demo and saw other takes on the game.
Great review :)
Admittedly, I was under the impression we were getting something closer to Tales of Arise in terms of gameplay, didn't expect it to be 100% All Clive All the Time. The voice work from the demo gave me FF12 vibes, and the music was aces. So regardless of the shift in gameplay and focus, it looks like my gritty, rasberry jam.
Who talks like this?
FF12 is criminally underrated in all ways
@tooru872 You don't talk like this? Wowza, you're sure missing out, bud! It's the bee's knees!
I think you explained the game issues and strengths really well. I'm in the "this is not the FF game I wanted" camp, but still enjoying the main movie... I mean story. This will get only one play through from me. All of the games I play through more then once are because the story and game play were exceptional. Playing through multiple times is so I can experience that over and over. To me this missed the mark in their attempt to make this a game for everyone. "Jack of all trades, and master of none" comes to mind. I very rarely buy a game on release, and after this one I will wait for a second hand copy of any future FF game releases should the game play remain the same. Thank your for the great content.
I’m so excited for final fantasy again after so many years. I really hope this one doesn’t disappoint.
Bro going from zelda to this is like going from one 5 star hotel to another 5 star hotel 😂
Enjoying the game but was let down by the linearity of the level design. Might as well just have a level selection. I knew it wasn’t open world but i do hope it opens up more I’m only about 6 hours in so far. I just love the since of adventure in an big open world game like the witcher 3, horizon, red dead or skyrim. And its crazy how much the graphical quality can change depending on the scene. I still would recommend the game just have some gripes with it.
Your reviews are always amazing 👏🏽
Thank you for this I appreciate all the work you do got us 💗
Considering the history of Devil May Cry, the comparison might be more apt than you realized.
Devil May Cry started out as a Resident Evil game, but the direction veered so far from the series roots that they just decided to make it its own franchise. Final Fantasy XVI looks like it would've benefitted from the same treatment.
After playing the demo, I was fully sold on this game. Loved everything about it and it was a pleasantly different and dark take in Final Fantasy.
I was gonna buy till i played the demo. Edgelord character, spammy combat, and stuttering even in “performance mode” that constantly goes 720p… yikes. Hard pass, thankful for the demo though - saved me 70$
Ive noticed reviews have stopped mentioning qtes. Ive also noticed the game includes them, so is the silence a matter of resignation or acceptance?
Personally, i think games should justify removing control from the player, but if people have generally come around what made them 'click' for you?
I'll never understand people that get offended by the way other people play their games
Probably the first Square Enix game that wowed me as a teen was Kingdom Hearts II, mainly for its combat system (especially on Proud or Critical difficulties) and brilliant optional super-bosses, especially in the Final Mix version. It doesn't sound like Final Fantasy XVI will quite hit those highs I experienced with KHII's gameplay with heavily-automated set piece battles against the summons and pointless and few side quests, but due to my first experience with SE being arguably their best action RPG to this day, I'm sure I'll enjoy Final Fantasy XVI for finally not trying have an awkward combination of real-time and turn-based mechanics and just going full-on action.
More recently, playing the OG Dragon Quest showed me that a story focused on only one character (albeit with fun NPCs all around) could be refreshingly simple and engaging, and I'm actually glad that the game is not open-world for once, might have some actual level design for the first time in a while. Isn't this also directed by the same guy that made Final Fantasy XIV the only really good and consistent thing about modern Square Enix? This might be the game that finally convinces me to get a PS5, especially in the likely event the eventual PC port will suck. Just need to find a more-permanent job in this economy, first.
Great review. I'm really pleasantly surprised that they made such a ballsy move with their departure from party based games. Looking forward to it. My only gripe is that some of the areas feel kind of empty, but I haven't seen a lot of the game so my impression could be wrong.
in the demo there was a long part where you walk/run for 10s between cutscenes over and over - does that continue happening a lot in the game? it might be a deal breaker for me it just annoys me that i keep getting control and its taken away every moment
It may happen a few times but rarely did I feel like I was just walking to and from cutscenes with nothing in between. At worst, some side quests do this but most of the time there’s combat, a boss, or the next piece of dialogue is right around the corner.
@@kkammei thx for the clarification :)
I am excited to try this one out. I have never gotten into Final Fantasy aside from briefly playing FF 10. It was fun, but I probably just mostly didnt enjoy turn based combat. I appreciate all your videos, really enjoy hearing your takes and seeing if I might want to jump into any of these hundreds of games always coming out. Thanks for your content!! 🎉
casual
@user-kl9bi4jt4t because it makes you think and strategize
@@who_hurt_youproductions8826I think Squeenix is really REALLY underestimating how many people like proper turned-based combat. Pokemon sells like hot cakes and it hasnt deviated from turned based combat at all. Not to mention the popularity of card games. I think if Squeenix made a FF game that harkened back to old school turned based combat, they'd be shocked at the amount of people who'd buy in.
@@dukenukem7043 only npcs like trash games like final fantasy
@user-kl9bi4jt4tnot really much thought involved besides the ones that limited the time heavily
I find it quite concerning, or telling, that the comments are full of people saying they've never been an FF fan but think this looks cool, or they've only played 15 ... Let's hope it feels enough like final fantasy for us older fans too ... Tho I ain't sure
Wtf is with this year? I don't have the money or time to play the games I want. TotK, Diablo4, now this one... And then there's still a lot coming. My poor wallet
Bruh imagine buying Diablo 4 lmao.
@@IAMNOTRANA I bought it and have over 500 hours in it. Now I just play 1 month of each season but I definitely got my money worth.
It sounds like a cross between the most recent GoW games and Nier Automata with a dash of Witcher/GoT. That sound right?
Thanks for a great review. I thoroughly enjoyed the FFVII remake and the overall quality of the Final Fantasy games as a whole. However, I'm not an old school die hard fan so I will find less issues in the overall presentation of the FFVI story and can't wait to dive in .
I was so sad about Final Fantasy 15’s DLC is getting canceled but I wasn’t sure and I finally just picked up the game the newest game for like $36 physical instead of spending 70 and I’m happy I did. It’s still great though I still like it it’s just reminds me a little bit of of the harvestella combat and the town and mechanics are similar to harvestalla sans the farming.
Really like seeing Square taking a chance and doing something different. This is the first Final Fantasy title I've been excited for in a while.
@@dannyslag You sound like a fun party guest.
@@dannyslagI'm hype for this one, but I would _really_ like to see a modern turn based FF, and also, I would like to see an FF CRPG - that would be amazing.
@@dannyslag so it's only ff if it's turn based? k then
This game I might grab in the future, but I'm not a fan of paying $70 for ANY game... especially when most games these days are treating it like an entrance fee and the REAL price comes from all the extra features that easily bring the price into the triple digits.
The review is detailed, honest, and unbiased as always, and I really appreciate it. I may have to pick this one up. Thanks, Karak! God bless and stay safe!
Bro going from zelda to this is like going from one 5 star hotel to another 5 star hotel 😂❤
As always, stellar and informative review. Thanks for all you do!
I like most of the changes but the fight system of VII remaster is a better balance with a slight more complexity.
The ending was upsetting for me, I feel they do not had the slight uplift you have felt at the end of XV...
The more I hear, the more I think I'll be missing out if I don't play this. The game sounds like it'll scratch an itch I didn't even know I had. This year is overwhelming with good releases: Diablo 4, Tears of the Kingdom, Armored Core (Presumably), FF16, Hades 2(Hopefully at least in Early Access Form). 2023 is just shaping up to be my year. Got a decent job, graduated college, getting married in October, and best gaming year in a long time. Cheers you grumpy horse-man hybrid, and thank you for all you do for the gaming community!
8:47 have you played previous ff games? 15 was the only one that was open world. Literally only two of the previous games had any open areas of exploration…
Appreciate all the work! I'm glad you were able to approach the game with some critical thoughts in mind, I know it can be easy to get swept up in the momentum of word of mouth so glad there are still some things that could be worked on. This was a day 1 for me but I'm always glad to hear other opinions on it.
Thanks. I always try to give games a chance.
I think it's early to say the combat system lacks the depth of other action games. I don't say this because I think FF16 can compete with Devil May Cry 5 for example (I don't), but because combat depth is directly correlated to hidden/unintended tech, and that is something reviewers 99% of the time don't dig deeper enough to find.
A good example is God of War 18' and Ragnarok, on the surface level the combat is straight in your face, in a "what you see is what you get" kind of way. But then, guys like GameBreakerGod start finding how to cancel mechanics here and there and all of a sudden the difference between a normal player just enjoying the game and someone actively trying to find tech becomes enormous. This happens in almost every game with a combat system, even Ghost of Tsushima, which has a very strict system, you can still do juggle combos people that played the game from start to finish 3 times never saw.
From what I experimented with in the demo and from what I saw from good players on youtube, I think it's very fair to say FF16's combat is right below DMC and Bayonetta, but that's about it.
I hope this doesn't come out as offensive as it may sound but I don't think ACG would know the extent of the depth of this combat system by the time of this review, not because of him as a player but because nobody skilled enough (and that's not me either, it's the 2% that will grind this game to find stuff) would have. Not even Ryota Suzuki himself, hell.. what made Devil May Cry make the jump (no pun intended) to the next level and modern DMC gameplay was a mechanic that wasn't intended in the first place. FF16's system seems "free form" enough to almost guarantee we'll see unintended mechanics surface, sooner or later.
We need blue mage with this level of combat!
I guess I'm just getting older but I grew up playing final fantasy 7,8,9, and 10. This game looks good but I'm not trying to play devil may fantasy.
stay clear
This review helped me tailor my expectations! I've sort of felt like the cinematic hand-holding (sometimes easy mode) gameplay on crucial moments has watered down some of the narrative stakes in the series. Why am I spending countless hours on honing characters when the game will just give me a pass at certain points? I am interested in trying out how deep this combat system goes, though.
What really frustrates me about these newer Final Fantasy games is not that they aren't good, it's that they are good, great even, and I love them... but I can't help but still feel the loss of the traditional Final Fantasy game, and the success of these games makes me feel like we will never go back to that. So, I am caught in a place where I am frustrated that the games they are making are so good, but are still not quite what I am wanting them to be. I would really love to see them take the franchise and split it. One branch making these new, more linear, action games. The other, a turn-based, super open world, more exploration-heavy game... with AIRSHIPS in it again. God, I miss the excitement of getting your first airship mid-game. The flying mod to the car in XV just didn't quite pull that off. I do like the more mature approach though for both game types. Sadly, I know I am wishing for something not likely to ever happen.
You will just have to Git Gud I guess.
I'm not a fan of this "anyone can play" ambition games want these days. We just need good games.
It’s making games mind numbingly boring to play.
@fenbops I agree and the challenges are less meaningful.
@@SOLO_4_LIFE agree with you both. thanks for reminding me im not getting old, games are just not interesting or fun
Respect for all the work on the reviews man. Been watching you for years. Honestly the only reviewer I actually trust
I’m on my way to platinuming the game, just need to do new game plus, and it’s biggest issue for me is that the gear is useless UNTIL new game plus. The stat bonuses are minute and the power difference is barely noticeable between upgrades. It’s only noticeable if you don’t upgrade for awhile but resources are so plentiful that there’s no reason not to.
The party system is also non existent. I barely notice when my party is doing something and if they are, I mistake them for an enemy and dodge their attacks. Banter is barely there either.
Looking forward to this, especially the new combat system. The fact that it isn't a massive open world game doesn't bother me as sometimes it is nice to just have a more focussed experience.
I just don't know what to think of this,. It's been so long since a final fantasy and myself clicked.... I just cannot get myself hyped for any of these games anymore. Even final fantasy 7 remake let me down a bit and I love the original
Great review as always! Can’t wait to dive into this world!
The first "Buy" review that convinced me that it isn't a buy, for me specifically. Great review, honest takes are few and far between.
This game looks so amazing that I'm very tempted to buy a PS5. Having always been a FF and Dragon Quest fan, it would be nice to see a FF game back on top. The pre-launch event was amazing, and you felt like they really put their heart and soul into it.
Hello Karak,
Long time watcher of your channel first time commenter. You're my favorite reviewer. I laugh every time I watch a video and often watch a review for a title that I know I will not buy just to hear your review. Please keep it up. I love your work. I am hopeful for a ps5 copy. I have played FF when I was first out in the states. DMC and FF sounds like a perfect match, thanks.
I’m always cautious to preorder games since cyberpunk but that’s why I love reviews like these that come out quickly and just hit the nail on the head! Thank you for the review!
Edit: Nail not Mail goddamnit
ACG sure knows how to hit that mail!
You know that people trust this channel. It has the most views than all major gaming channels. Thanks again ACG.
I am really happy to see how the Japanese Developers are no longer constrained under their original/previous game structures in the recent years.
Like Yakuza series departure from their beat them up, Zelda and now Final Fantasy.
The teams are really talented and creative when being unleashed, I just hope more big name developers are approaching this more.
As someone who has played since Nes era, it is really hard to be excited for new game when it's only a fresh coat of new paint.
The demo got me HOOKED. Day one buy for sure for me, and especially with their implementing NG+, I can’t wait.
First day1 in a long time for me
Thanks so much for this review as they're always helpful, detailed, and exactly what we need. Keep up the good work.
Honestly, Karak, I really appreciate your humor and alliteration, as well as you general honesty. It is always a pleasure to hear you talk about something you enjoy! Stay blessed, Friend! 💛
Torgal looks like the best boy!
Can’t wait to hear you guys start talking about this game on the podcast and inevitably spiral on to 15 tangents about other things. It’s what I listen for!
I'm hyped for that Final Fantasy mode. One gripe with the demo was that it felt too easy in some spots.
I've never played a FF game before because turn-based games are just not my thing but the story, the world and the characters always looked super interesting. Now with the change of genre, I'm soo excited to play it later this year when I have a bit more time. 😊
Dude the last 2-3 games are like this . They didn’t switch to action just now , been like this for a couple of years now
It hasnt been turn based since ff10 lol. 13 doesnt count :3
Fantastic review. Not sure how I’m going to fit this in between Totk, Diablo 4, and a backlist of games several miles long, but I’m definitely looking forward to diving into this one eventually.
Seasons in Diablo 4 doesn't come out until end of July that's when the real endgame begins I plan on shelving it until then so FF gets my undevided attention
I held off on Diablo 4 bc the devs keep updating and patching items and mechanics. It makes it feel like the game isn’t finished yet or “the best” it could be.
So What I hearing is a good game, but not a good final fantasy game. Personally I wish companies would stop doing this. If I wanted to play a DMC game I would buy DMC. I buy FF because I want to play FF. And look if a developer wants to branch out and try something different that's great, but call it something different then. Don't tack it on to an existing franchise to try and capitalize on the name. That is a recipe for eroding fan trust and engagement over time. Just imagine if Naughty Dog had called Uncharted, Jak and Daxter 4 instead...
thank you. if you want a fanta buy a fanta. Dont ask cola to change so that you can like it, that makes no sense lol. That's why you have the fanta and the other choices.
Hello ACG, love the idea of the audio only review to really avoid spoilers, keep up the great care you exude when reviewing games! I tried FFXV and while intrigued by the story, the gameplay just couldn't hook me in so I'm excited to try a more combat-focused version of this game.
So glad to see such a huge franchise reinvent itself a bit.
Great review as always. I'm anxious on the changes they've done, but I'll still be picking it up.
I've replayed the demo several times at this point. The combat in this game has great combo potential. Its addicting, labbing the combat system to figure out all the cool stuff you can do.
Can you explain the combat system because all I was doing throughout the whole demo was spamming square and R1 when prompted, what am I missing?
@@golfboy7438did you play the Eikolon challenge? Also did you play without the rings? Doing both can really enhance the perspective of the combat itself also on the regular demo you can just try to master certain skills see how you like them and be able to combo that skills within other skills so no and so forth.
@@frijolitodr yes I played the Eikolon demo but I was just square then the R1 prompt
Is the R1 prompt because I had a ring equipped?
@@golfboy7438 Make sure that when you play the Eikon Challenge after you beat the main demo you go to your equipment and unequip two rings that change how the game is played. If you already did do that then it all becomes about chaining your moves together along with your special moves. Holding the square button will envelop fire around Clive’s sword (after you unlock that skill) if you jump and let go of that button he will launch opponents into the air. You can then press circle to teleport to them and start your air combo. You can switch the teleport ability at any time to (currently) two other abilities. One of them is like a grappling hook that pulls people towards Clive, allowing you to continue your air combo. Make sure to get “stomp” and “master” it in the Eikon challenge so you can jump off an enemy, this lets you stay in the air longer and let’s you continue your combo even more. Then switch your ability one more time and press RT and Triangle, which should send you straight down dealing massive damage.
That’s just one example
@@golfboy7438 yup, you can also try to press triangle right after square for extra magic burst, sometimes it ain't easy doing the whole 4-combo doing so, so give it a try, rings are to make the ge easier if you never play these type of heavy action games before.
Never played really any Final Fantasy, but the amount of changes this one appears to have I may jump in as I don't have any prior history with the earlier entries.
This game so far has actually been one of the most pleasant surprises in gaming history.
The combat feels immense, rewarding and responsive.
Big thanks and congratulations to the team behind the game and always big thanks to lord Karak.
I'm so happy Final Fantasy 16 is a return to form for the series (for the singleplayer mainline titles and excluding remake), it's been so long for SE to go back to medieval fantasy and deliver on that. Great review as always! On your take on side quests, this is pretty much always my gripe with recent final fantasy. Their side quests are mostly forgettable. It is a problem for most modern JRPG but I expected much more from SE, since they're the one who's still leading the genre and it's such a shame that the side quests are still not that good.
The tone change in 16 is actually what excites me the most, more gritty and more grounded is a good fit for FF 16, especially after how 15 really failed on that tone they originally strived for.
Thanks for the review as always. It's good that they are trying new things rather becoming stagnant. The story is a key factor to the final fantasy series and I hope it delivers. Looking forward to it
You bet. Thanks for Watching Lauren. FF loves to switch things up
I respect and was thrilled actually about the new direction the series is taking, I did love the battle system in previous installments, like FFX , but I do appreciate Square Enix taking a bet on evolving into a bold direction and experimenting rather than staying stagnant and complacent. This way the game also lowers the entry barrier to people who are not that hardcore fans of JRPG turn based games, but would want to experience Final Fantasy. I’m a FF fan since SNES, and really don’t mind the action driven FFXVI, Square Enix is adapting and embracing change, and to me that shows character in a development studio. I don’t see people condemning Super Mario for taking bold bets in the past with Mario 64 and going 3D.
Another thing I’m excited about is that the development team of FFXVI knew that there would be fans asking for a challenge after beating the game, and having the New Game Plus right from day-1 is really an amazing decision (versus having to wait for a DLC for years) so those who would rush and finish the game have indeed more to look forward to with the challenges to come. About the story, I’m a Tolkien and GoT fan, so I’m pleased with it and cannot be 100% objective, but I would say it is another creative bet to take the game to “Mature” level with Fantasy more connected to real-life themes, I loved the presentation on the demo, and some might say those were “cliché” moments there comparable with GoT, but for those out there GoT fans, we loved the show for that didn’t we, why can’t we accept the story for FFXVI.
What has happened? The final fantasy franchise has been saved!
@@TheGuiltsOfUs saved from what fun and excitment?
@@kevinbonin6173 nah saved from boring ahh turn based and cringe anime performances lmao
Turn based will always be my preference, but I do prefer the Baldur's Gate 3 or even Yakuza: Like a Dragon style, where the fight moves around an arena rather than just lining up
@prod.b4bnik ...You do realize that this is Final Fantasy, right? The Anime portion of it has kinda ALWAYS been there.
@@mhiization yeah exactly my point, good riddance.
I dont mind the DMC style of exploration where there is a little but not a lot and the combat in this game is... so fluid and cinematic. Im so very excited about finally getting to play!
I was waiting for this review before buying it. I haven’t played a final fantasy game for well over a decade, but the demo got me hooked on this one. I’m glad too see it’s true to the rest of the game!
Love your reviews!! Articulate, informative and exciting, love it !!! 🔥
Release it on PC please 😊
Just discovered your channel, great video and insight! Will recommend you to some friends.
I don't know. Just looks like pixel vomit. Can't tell what is happening in combat. This stuff kinda sucks
I understand we no longer have the turn based. Final Fantasy needs to return to some of its roots. Discovering and recruiting allies each w/ their own backstory. Example FF6snes / FF7/ OCTOPATH 1&2 PS1/ Chrono Trigger. I'm still waiting on SQUARE ENIX to do this down the line for the FF series. FF16 is a lone swordsman.
Never played a final fantasy game before but this one has me really intrigued, been watching your videos for a long time love your thorough reviews keep up the great work!
Even if you play this one, its not a true final fantasy game
@@GeorgeZimmermen I wouldn’t know the difference anyway as long as it’s fun 🤷🏻♂️