Don't Overdo Eikons: Final Fantasy's Summons Work Best in Moderation
Final Fantasy 16's Eikons have fans excited for their return, but overreliance on them could be problematic Balancing their use with character interactions, a hallmark of the series, will be key to a successful installment
The upcoming release of Final Fantasy 16 will coincide with a highly anticipated lineup of AAA games in 2023, including titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Marvel's Spider-Man 2. But even with this competition, the Square Enix-owned IP remains a heavyweight in the industry and is sure to generate significant attention upon its June release. Despite some notable hiccups in its legacy of excellence, Final Fantasy 16 has the potential to continue this tradition, as demonstrated by the latest trailer featuring Valisthea. The medieval setting, warring houses, and central Rosfield family evoke strong Game of Thrones vibes, which could be advantageous in creating a more grounded and compelling story. While the trailer highlights the game's iconic Primals/Summons/Espers/etc., including Phoenix, Ifrit, Shiva, and Bahamut, striking a balance between their importance and the overall plot will be crucial in ensuring the game's success.
Final Fantasy’s Summons Are Effective When Used Sparingly
Final Fantasy 16 must be careful not to overuse its Eikons and risk diluting their impact. It is essential to integrate them into the story in a way that complements the personal journey of the game's protagonists, Clive and Joshua Rosfield. As much as the Eikons bring awe and grandeur to the game, they must not overshadow the human political tensions that drive the narrative. Maintaining the delicate balance between these elements will be crucial to the game's success and ability to captivate fans.
Character Interactions Have Always Been at the Heart of Final Fantasy
The heart of Final Fantasy lies in its character interactions, as seen in iconic moments like the opera house scene in Final Fantasy 6 and the well-executed conflict between Noctis and Gladiolus in Final Fantasy 15. These moments reveal the nuances of each character and their relationships, creating a rich and memorable experience that surpasses flashy spectacle.
With its promising development cycle and nods to Game of Thrones-esque world-building, Final Fantasy 16 has the potential to be a standout entry in the series. However, the focus should remain on its world and characters rather than the Eikons, which could easily become overwhelming and detract from the substance of the story. By keeping the Eikons in the background, Final Fantasy 16 can avoid becoming a convoluted mess and instead deliver a compelling, relatable narrative.
Final Fantasy 16 launches on June 22 for PS5.
