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 companion