Square Enix surprised fans by showcasing some truly impressive Final Fantasy XVI gameplay during yesterday’s State of Play.
Following the showcase, Sunil Godhania, senior social media manager at Square Enix, detailed a number of things in an expansive blog post.
In just over two months, players will finally get their hands on Final Fantasy XVI, the next mainline installment of the Final Fantasy series. The game follows Clive Rosfield as he harnesses powerful Eikons to overcome his tragic destiny.
Today’s State of Play not only explores intricate details of the story and world lore, but also gives a first glimpse into the game’s party combat and colossal battles with new Eikons.
We hope today’s broadcast was exciting for everyone, both for fans keeping up with Final Fantasy XVI updates, and those who are hearing about the game for the first time. Some highlights from today’s show:
Clive’s Hideout
Clive’s Hideout, which serves as his base camp throughout the game, was revealed at State of Play. The footage showcased Clive preparing for upcoming battles by crafting items with gathered materials or tackling training modes.
Players can also complete a variety of side quests as well as Mob Hunts, that allows you to take on stronger enemies. Mob Hunts can be accepted from the Hunt Board where you’ll spot a familiar face from the series – Moogle!
Loresman Harpocrates and Vivian Ninetales
Loresman Harpocrates appears in Clive’s Hideout. He studies the history and customs of Valisthea, researching the local climate, folklore, religion, and traditions.
Harpocrates is very curious about Clive’s stories he takes home from his adventures. As Clive shares his past experiences, Harpocrates gains new knowledge as a researcher. And the Thousand Tomes in which he keeps records of his knowledge, will become more and more complete.
You can read up on everything about Valisthea if you visit Harpocrates and unravel the Thousand Tomes for yourself. Don’t forget to talk to Harpocrates when you stop by the Hideout during your travels.
Vivian the Military Scholar is well versed in the affairs of the countries of Valisthea and gives Clive lectures at various points in the story. You can talk to her in the Hideout as well.
Vivian is very knowledgeable about present day Valisthea, as well as its history. She will be happy to bestow you with knowledge of the past. With her help, you can explore the details of ever-changing character relationships and world affairs during specific time periods. Whenever you want to review the story so far or determine where Clive should go next, her knowledge will surely be of great help.
We hope you take advantage of their extensive knowledge to further immerse yourself in the story of Final Fantasy XVI!
New Combat Showcase
The latter half of the show was focused on combat. The show revealed new footage of Clive’s action gameplay, titanic clashes between the Eikons themselves, and epic Eikonic abilities.
The show also unveiled many other details and characters for the very first time, so keep your eyes peeled!
In the new State of Play, we provided an in-depth look at the combat system, support system, and RPG elements that we have not been able to share with you until now.
PlayStation Blog
If this isn’t enough, Square Enix also teased Final Fantasy XVI’s opening theme, Tsuki Wo Miteita – Moongazing. The song is from popular singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu, who also offered the following comment with the tease.
Words cannot express the impact FINAL FANTASY has had on my life. I never thought or imagined that I would ever receive an opportunity like this. I wrote this song especially for this game. Thank you.
Press Release
Final Fantasy XVI producer, Naoki Yoshida, added the following comment.
When I found out that we’d be able to work with Mr. Yonezu, I was not only surprised, but overjoyed. I’m a big fan of Yonezu’s work, and I know that he has a passion for creating music that resonates across the generations, so I was sure that he’d be able to capture the world, the story, and the themes of FINAL FANTASY XVI. He’s not only an amazing artist, but also an avid gamer and a FINAL FANTASY fan, so please look forward to hearing his theme song!
Press Release
Expect all of this and more when Final Fantasy XVI releases on PlayStation 5 on June 22.
