Final Fantasy XV - Day One Edition (PS4)

Status:

• Complete in Box
• Play Tested

Final Fantasy XV: Day One Edition (PS4) Review

Genre: Action RPG
Developer: Square Enix
Publisher: Square Enix
Release Date: November 29, 2016

Overview:
Final Fantasy XV is a bold departure from traditional Final Fantasy games, combining open-world exploration, real-time combat, and a modern aesthetic with the series hallmark storytelling and fantastical elements. The Day One Edition includes minor bonus content, such as a special weapon (Masamune sword), but the core experience remains the same. Focusing on the journey of Prince Noctis and his loyal companions, FFXV delivers a story of brotherhood, loss, and destiny.

Pros

1. Beautiful Open World:

   • The world of Eos is vast, visually stunning, and filled with diverse environments, from lush forests to sprawling deserts and bustling towns.
   • Day-night cycles and dynamic weather enhance immersion.

2. Engaging Real-Time Combat:

   • A fast-paced, fluid battle system lets players control Noctis while issuing commands to his companions.
   • Weapon-switching and warp strikes add variety and strategy to encounters.

3. Memorable Characters and Relationships:

   • The core groupNoctis, Ignis, Gladiolus, and Promptohas excellent chemistry, with their banter and interactions creating a sense of genuine camaraderie.
   • The bond between the characters is central to the games emotional impact.

4. Spectacular Visuals and Presentation:

   • Stunning graphics, cinematic cutscenes, and a gorgeous soundtrack composed by Yoko Shimomura elevate the games presentation.
   • The mix of modern and fantastical designs gives the world a unique identity.

5. Freedom and Exploration:

   • Players can roam freely, complete side quests, hunt monsters, and uncover hidden secrets.
   • Activities like fishing, camping, and cooking add depth to the experience.

6. Accessible for Newcomers:

   • FFXV is an excellent entry point for players new to the series, with a self-contained story and a modernized combat system.

Cons

1. Inconsistent Storytelling:

   • The main narrative feels rushed in later chapters, with crucial plot points and character motivations underexplored.
   • Important backstory elements are relegated to external media (Kingsglaive movie and Brotherhood anime), leaving gaps for players who havent watched them.

2. Pacing Issues:

   • The open-world exploration in the first half contrasts sharply with the linear progression of the second half, creating a jarring shift in tone and structure.

3. Repetitive Side Quests:

   • Many side quests involve basic fetch or delivery tasks, which can feel monotonous over time.

4. Sparse Open World:

   • While visually stunning, the world can feel empty in some areas, with limited NPCs or meaningful interactions.

5. Combat Depth is Limited:

   • Despite its engaging real-time mechanics, the combat can become repetitive, as enemy encounters often lack complexity or variety.
   • AI companions behavior in battle can be inconsistent.

6. Technical Issues at Launch:

   • Initial versions of the game had long loading times and occasional frame rate drops on PS4, though patches have addressed some of these issues.

Verdict

Final Fantasy XV is an ambitious reinvention of the series, blending a modern, open-world approach with the franchises beloved elements. While the game excels in visuals, atmosphere, and character dynamics, its inconsistent storytelling and pacing prevent it from fully realizing its potential. The Day One Edition is a solid entry for fans and newcomers alike, though players seeking the most complete experience may prefer later editions, like the Royal Edition.

Score:

• Fans of Open-World RPGs: 8.5/10
• Longtime Final Fantasy Fans: 8/10
• Casual RPG Players: 7.5/10

With its heartfelt story of friendship and breathtaking world design, Final Fantasy XV is a flawed yet unforgettable journey.