I’m a long-time Square Enix fan who’s really enjoyed most Final Fantasy games up through XV, with a few exceptions. The MMO-style elements in some recent titles have felt off to me, especially since I prefer the traditional fantastical vibes of the series. I’ve started playing Final Fantasy XVI, and while the intro grabbed me, the gameplay since then feels kinda generic and hasn’t pulled me in. I’ve met some characters like Jill, Torgal, and Martha, but I find it hard to get back into it after a break. Does the gameplay improve or get more interesting later on? Or is it mostly the same throughout? I’m open to hearing if others have felt this way or if I just need to push through!
5 Answers
From what I’ve experienced, the first 10 to 20 hours are actually the strongest part of the game. If the gameplay hasn’t grabbed you by then, it probably won’t get much better as you go along.
I get where you’re coming from. The game feels like it peaked in the demo for me, and I kinda just pushed through the rest to finish it. Some people wish it felt more like a spin-off instead of a mainline entry, especially since it ties into the XIV universe in some ways. If you’re not having fun, don’t feel pressured to keep going just because it’s a main Final Fantasy title.
The big Eikon fights are definitely the highlight for me. They’re super hype and feel really epic, so if you’re into those spectacle moments, that’s where the game shines. But if the core combat loop isn’t clicking, those moments might not be enough to keep you hooked.
Honestly, the gameplay in XVI doesn’t drastically change as you progress. You unlock more attacks and options, especially after you get powers like Garuda, but whether that makes the game more enjoyable depends on your taste. If it hasn’t clicked by then, it probably won’t for you.
As a huge FF fan myself, I felt sixteen had some very high points—especially during the Titan battles—but also some low points. The exploration rewards and item progression felt weak, plus the side quests often had cookie-cutter dialogue that made me zone out. That said, the voice acting was fantastic, and the fresh spin on summons and crystals was fun. I’d say it’s worth sticking with for the main story, but don’t expect the usual depth from side content.
