Highlights
Final Fantasy 16 introduced a new combat system while still maintaining the series' tradition of recurring characters, locations, and items.
Future Final Fantasy games are expected to feature popular weapons like Stormcry, Flametongue, Icebrand, Levinbolt, Defender, Enhancer, Onion Sword, Blood Sword, and Ragnarok. Additionally, the Rosarian Oath is likely to make a comeback, paying homage to Clive, the protagonist of FF16.
Square Enix's beloved Final Fantasy series has been a prominent force in the gaming industry for nearly four decades. With its reputation for constant innovation and exploration in both mainline and spin-off titles, the franchise has garnered a dedicated following. The recent release of Final Fantasy 16 further solidified its popularity, and fans can look forward to more exciting entries in the future.
Final Fantasy 16 introduced a significant change, moving away from its traditional turn-based combat system to embrace a third-person action style with real-time battles centered around a single playable character, reminiscent of games like Devil May Cry and Bayonetta. However, the game maintains one beloved tradition of the series: the inclusion of recurring characters, locations, and items that fans have encountered in previous installments. Notably, many of the weapons featured in Final Fantasy 16 have made appearances in earlier games. Square Enix should continue this practice when developing future Final Fantasy titles.
Final Fantasy 16 Weapons That Need to Come Back
In FF16, there was a wide selection of nearly 30 swords available for the protagonist Clive Rosfield to use on his grand journey. With such a diverse range of options, different opinions may arise regarding the superior or most relevant choices. However, the following swords have consistently proven to be popular and advantageous throughout the years.
Stormcry, Flametongue, Icebrand, and Levinbolt: It is appropriate to group these swords together as they embody the elemental magic types commonly found in the FF series, such as fire, lightning, and ice. In FF16, these swords actually develop and evolve as the game progresses. While FF16 did not have specific elemental strength/weakness mechanics, these swords fulfill that role in a general sense and are likely to make a return in some form.
Defender: Frequently appearing in FF games, the Defender is a reliable asset that can be obtained early to midgame through purchase or discovery. Its main benefit lies in enhancing defensive stats. While not the most visually striking blade, its versatility and widespread availability make it a practical and steadfast option.
Enhancer: Another commonly encountered weapon, the Enhancer elevates the magic stat or abilities of the character using it. Like the Defender, it may not possess the same level of allure, but the significant magic enhancement it offers enables party members to operate more efficiently in that aspect. Additionally, it is highly likely to reappear in future FF installments.
Onion Sword: Initially considered a playful weapon in Final Fantasy, the Onion Sword's effectiveness depends on the character's level, making it unpredictable yet potentially overpowering.
Blood Sword: Often associated with a more sinister aspect in Final Fantasy, the Blood Sword's unique ability to drain health can be a lifesaver in battles, particularly against specific adversaries. However, users must be cautious as it can have adverse effects when used against certain foes.
Ragnarok, along with Excalibur and the Ultima Weapon, is renowned for being a formidable endgame weapon in the Final Fantasy series. Its reputation and the effort required to obtain it make it highly coveted by players. Therefore, it is highly probable that Ragnarok will make a return in future Final Fantasy games.
The Rosarian Oath, serving as a family heirloom for Clive, is automatically acquired by players at the beginning of his adventure. Surprisingly, it has not made an appearance in any previous Final Fantasy games. Square now has the opportunity to solidify Clive's and Final Fantasy XVI's legacy by featuring the Rosarian Oath in the next title, perhaps as a hidden weapon. This would add yet another iconic reference to the rich legacy of the Final Fantasy series.
Final Fantasy 16 is available now exclusively for the PlayStation 5, with a PC version confirmed to be in development.