Final Fantasy is a Japanese role-playing game (JRPG) series that has been around since 1987. It is one of the most successful franchises in the video game industry and has gained a cult following due to its engaging storytelling, complex characters, and immersive gameplay. The latest addition to the franchise, Final Fantasy XV, was released in 2016 after ten years of development. The game was a massive success and received positive reviews from both critics and fans.
Final Fantasy XV is set in the world of Eos and follows the journey of Noctis Lucis Caelum, the Prince of Lucis, and his friends as they embark on a road trip to wed his fiancée Lunafreya, while also trying to stop the empire of Niflheim from conquering their homeland. The game is open-world, allowing players to explore the vast and beautiful landscapes of Eos, which are inspired by real-world locations such as Las Vegas and Venice.
The combat system in Final Fantasy XV is action-based and provides players with a fast-paced and exciting experience. The game features four main characters, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. Noctis is a versatile fighter who uses a magical sword called the Engine Blade to deliver powerful attacks, while Ignis is a tactical genius who uses his cooking skills to boost the party’s stats. Prompto is a sharpshooter who can take out enemies from afar, and Gladiolus is a bruiser who excels in close combat.
One of the defining features of Final Fantasy XV is its emphasis on the relationship between the main characters. The game’s story is primarily driven by the interactions between Noctis and his friends, who are more than just party members. They have their own personalities, backstories, and goals that are explored in the game’s side quests and cutscenes. The game’s main objective is not just to save the world but to strengthen the bond between these characters.
The game also utilizes a day and night cycle, with the time of day affecting various aspects of gameplay. At night, the land is overrun by deadly monsters known as daemons, making it challenging to travel and survive. This adds an extra layer of strategy to the game as players must plan their journey according to the time of day.
Final Fantasy XV’s music is composed by Yoko Shimomura, who is known for her work on the Kingdom Hearts series. The game’s soundtrack features a mix of orchestral and contemporary music, with songs such as “Stand by Me” by Florence and the Machine and “I Will Be” by Alyssa Milano.
One of the game’s criticisms was the disjointed storytelling, which left some players confused about certain plot points. However, this issue was addressed in subsequent updates and DLC, which helped to fill in the gaps and provide a more coherent narrative. The game’s developers also released an animated series and a feature film to expand upon the game’s story and characters.
In conclusion, Final Fantasy XV is a game that boasts incredible visuals, immersive gameplay, lovable characters, and an engaging story. It is a game that is worth playing, even if you are not a fan of the JRPG genre. The game has something for everyone, from thrilling combat to touching moments of friendship, and is a testament to the creativity and talent of the game’s developers. If you are looking for a game that will keep you entertained for hours on end, then Final Fantasy XV is definitely worth checking out.