Final Fantasy XV Reviews
Often in an attempt to appeal to everyone, you can appeal to no one. However, in the case of Final Fantasy XV, we have a rare exception. It sits comfortably somewhere between a traditional Final Fantasy experience and the Western action-RPGs currently setting new standards. A slightly muddled tone, narrative shortcomings, and a little too restrictive open-world are faults largely forgivable due to the game’s robust combat system. The benefit of ten years of development is evident in the fine tuning of the combat mechanics over the apparent attempts to keep up with the current open-world action-RPG trend. To quote Aristotle, “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts”.
There is no doubt Final Fantasy XV will be divisive, but in not playing it safe, the game earns a bit of my heart back with each errant monster hunt or one-off gameplay section. It's messy, but earnestly so, like that high-school mirror selfie. Recalling all the good and bad, the moments that make you cringe and a warmth that makes you smile, you know not everything was perfect. You can only say you're glad you chose to make the journey.
As an RPG, Final Fantasy XV has everything you'd expect: a compelling, emotional story; a tapestry of complimentary mechanics; a significant lifespan; a cast of relatable and well-written characters and a world that's dense enough to be a character in and of itself. As a Final Fantasy game, it lives up to all the tropes, despite the variations it's taken from the more 'classic' games. Final Fantasy XV is a title that's aimed super high, and although maybe it hasn't quite hit the targets it set for itself, it certainly doesn't disappoint, and is a strong enough RPG experience to stand aside The Witcher as one of the best open-world role-playing games of this generation.
While I may not think of this personally as a true Final Fantasy title, that doesn't make it any less of a good game. Despite all my above quibbles, I still haven't been able to put the controller down for any longer than it takes to visit the bathroom or refuel my needy human body. It's understandable why this was set as a side title to the franchise initially, given how much it plays with the formula, but fresh input is what is needed to keep this franchise alive. Final Fantasy XV welcomes new players with open arms, and challenges long-time fans to try something new. It's worth your time, and worth the wait.
Final Fantasy XV's decade-long maelstrom of doubt, chaos, and suspense has somehow wrought an effective tale from the bonds of brotherhood and an engaging game from coordinated monster obliteration. The embroiled project is not sacrosanct; an incongruous plot, mechanical quest lines, and a haphazard world constitute a jet impacting the ground at dangerous speed. Pieces are everywhere, but Final Fantasy XV ultimately survives its crash landing through an impressive force of will.
With a fresh combat system and a lovable cast, Final Fantasy XV excels at its goal of being a title for both fans and newcomers alike.
Bold and brave, Final Fantasy XV brings back some of what made FF special to begin with. It's rough around the edges, but that's okay: where it counts, it's got heart.
Overall, game live up to the expectations after very long developing time. It isn't perfect but you can't escape from mistakes whane you're making game this big. On the one hand, it's a good game for the fans of the series, and on the other - a perfect introduction for someone who's never played Final Fantasy before.
Review in Polish | Read full review
A wonderful new foundation to build on
It's still messy and there are problems, but Final Fantasy XV is appealing to most, fascinating and, most of all, the new approaches make a great recipe.
Final Fantasy XV exhibits some fun action combat and a few examples of good level design. However, it's lacking in its other RPG elements, especially the pacing of the plot.
Ten years is a long time, but Final Fantasy XV is well worth the wait.
A totally competent entry in the franchise that fans and newcomers will enjoy, even if that means they won't necessarily be floored by it.
Lacklustre side missions and difficulty balance issues can't fully tarnish this beautiful adventure in a grand setting. Final Fantasy XV is a game that fought hard to exist, and does the series proud
Final Fantasy XV is a fantastic new direction for the series that positively creates an interactive and detailed world for players to explore with a fun bromance in the background. As highlighted by the developers, it's both a game for fans and first-timers and although the traditional mechanics have been tweaked, especially when it comes to combat, it still feels like a Final Fantasy game but more importantly a Final Fantasy game for next-gen consoles.
After ten long years of development, Final Fantasy XV ends up being more style than substance.
Final Fantasy XV is a challenge to modern game design and traditional masculine gaming narratives, on top of being a truly phenomenal, enriching experience. Square Enix has reclaimed its throne.
Final Fantasy XV is imperfect, but the high points of this journey outweigh the messy bits. I recommend you learn to go with the flow, spend some time with your bros, and really get lost in the game.
Final Fantasy 15 makes a case for being one of the best, most progressive Final Fantasy games ever released, and a hell of a return to form for the franchise.
The best open-world game of the year. The map is huge and the battle-system is dynamic and engaging, the art directions is satisfying. Despite some minor problems, this XV chapter of Final Fantasy sets a new road for the future of the series.
Review in Italian | Read full review