“Final Fantasy XVI” is the latest game in the JRPG (Japanese role-playing game) franchise. Players can journey through a new world in the Final Fantasy universe as Clive Rosfield, a deposed prince-turned-slave-turned-outlaw, as he attempts to rid the continent of Valisthea of its prejudices against people born with the ability to use magic. Clive just so happens to be one of those individuals and is also among a select group known as “Dominants” who can channel the power of Eikons, who are basically just giant monsters (think Godzilla but with mythological influences).

The “Final Fantasy” series is notorious for having broad, complex stories, and “FFXVI” is no different. While this can be overwhelming, a new feature called “active time lore” can provide context about all characters, factions and locations in each cutscene. With dialogue that quickly gets convoluted and cutscenes long enough to eat a meal, such a feature is a welcome addition. 

Most of the gameplay is heading to specific locations on various maps to fight groups of enemies, but the fun combat actually makes this repetitive task tolerable. Upgrading Clive’s flashy and powerful abilities feels like real improvements when equipment upgrades do not. 

Valisthea’s gorgeous scenery and structures are little more than backdrops. The game’s map seems big, but you quickly realize how short the distance is from one end to another. At the same time, movement speed is unbearably slow, and Clive will only sprint under specific circumstances. 

Not every game needs side quests, especially not one as story-focused as “FFXVI.” Almost every side quest is entirely inconsequential, and the rewards typically aren’t worthwhile. There are a handful of exceptions, the most notable of which being a quest that grants a movement upgrade, which I almost missed because the game had taught me from the beginning that I didn’t need the side quests to progress or get more powerful. 

The standout feature of the game is the Eikon battles, when Clive inhabits the body of the giant, Ifrit, and dukes it out with even bigger foes. They are cinematic and viscerally satisfying, and they’re the only moments in the game when the music adds to the experience. 

“Final Fantasy XVI” is an average game with a few moments that work well. For JRPG fans, this will be a top-notch experience. For everyone else, it’s alright.