Very Positive(80%)
emotional story
Eikon battles
stunning visuals
Ben Starr
action-oriented gameplay
dark story
traditional RPG elements
poor optimization
repetitive quests
shallow combat
long cutscenes
The general sentiment towards Final Fantasy XVI is divided. Many players appreciate the game's emotional story, stunning visuals, and cinematic quality, especially the Eikon battles, which they describe as breathtaking experiences. However, there is significant criticism of the game's performance on PC, which is marred by poor optimization leading to frequent crashes. The combat system, while initially engaging, often becomes repetitive due to its shallow depth. Additionally, the shift from classic RPG elements to a more action-focused approach has left some longtime fans feeling dissatisfied. Despite these issues, the game's strong narrative and character design remain its saving grace for many.
Positive Points
The game offers a gripping and emotional story with mature themes that resonate well with a lot of players.Eikon battles are a cinematic spectacle and provide unforgettable moments in the game.The graphics and visual design are stunning, with high-quality cutscenes and impressive character designs.Voice acting is praised for its quality, particularly the performance of Ben Starr as Clive.Negative Points
The PC version suffers from poor optimization, leading to stuttering and crashes, which detracts from the overall experience.Many side quests are seen as repetitive and uninteresting, feeling more like filler content.Combat, while flashy, is often criticized for being shallow and lacking depth, becoming repetitive over time.The game is heavily cinematic, with long cutscenes that can disrupt the pacing of the game.Mixed Points
The shift from traditional Final Fantasy RPG elements to a more action-oriented gameplay has received mixed reactions, with some appreciating the change and others missing the classic elements.The story is dark and engaging for some, but for others, it feels predictable and lacks depth in certain areas.Common Themes
Comparison to other media like Game of Thrones and Devil May Cry is prevalent, with many noting its influence on the game's design and storytelling.The lack of traditional RPG mechanics is a common point of contention, with many players expressing disappointment in the game's simplification of these elements.The Eikon battles stand out as a major highlight across reviews, seen as epic and memorable events.Despite its flaws, many players found the game engaging enough to finish due to its story and visual presentation.Updated 3/17/2026, 12:02:13 AM UTC