The Spectacular Journey of Granblue Fantasy: Relink - A Game that Rises Above FF16's Shadow

Highlights

The highly anticipated release date for Granblue Fantasy: Relink has officially been announced as February 2024. This exciting adaptation of the action-RPG genre not only features a captivating single-player storyline, but also includes a robust multiplayer component for players to enjoy together.

The game strives to establish a strong presence in the global market, taking into account its broad appeal and the fact that the franchise's primary mobile game has not yet been released internationally. However, there is a concern that FF16 may overshadow Granblue's success.

Fortunately, Granblue Fantasy: Relink differentiates itself by not only sharing structural and gameplay similarities with Final Fantasy 16, but also by offering an immersive multiplayer experience and a wide range of customizable characters.

Granblue Fantasy: Relink, the long-awaited action-RPG adaptation of Granblue Fantasy, will finally be released in early February 2024. This marks the first traditional Granblue RPG adventure to be available in the West and is highly anticipated by fans. The game features a full-length singleplayer narrative, showcasing familiar characters from Granblue Fantasy, along with an extensive multiplayer component.

Despite the franchise's main mobile game not yet being available globally, Granblue Fantasy: Relink is expected to have broad appeal and gain a strong following. Cygames has dedicated considerable time and effort to refine the game, ensuring its quality. However, it faces competition from another major fantasy RPG franchise, Final Fantasy. Not only is Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth also scheduled for release in early 2024, but the recent launch of Final Fantasy 16 poses a significant challenge as well.

The Hot New Action-RPG Is Undoubtedly Final Fantasy 16

Final Fantasy 16 is set to dominate the world of action-RPGs with its captivating gameplay and impressive visuals. The game takes a refreshing step back from the futuristic themes of the series and embraces a medieval fantasy aesthetic, which has been received positively by fans. Unlike previous attempts such as Final Fantasy Type-0 and Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin, FF16's character action gameplay has been met with much praise. Despite some RPG mechanics being sacrificed for the new genre, the game still delivers an epic storyline with breathtaking presentation. The Eikon battles in FF16 surpass the epic bosses found in other contemporary action titles, adding to the game's appeal.

One notable similarity between Final Fantasy 16 and Granblue Fantasy: Relink is their structure. Both games offer classic hack-and-slash levels, interspersed with town exploration and cutscenes. They also share flashy super moves that can stagger enemies for massive damage, as well as featuring the iconic Bahamut summon. However, FF16's immensely popular franchise name and its commitment to delivering high-octane climaxes with maximum spectacle have cast a long shadow over the fantasy action-RPG genre.

How Granblue Fantasy: Relink Can Stand Apart From Final Fantasy 16

Fortunately, Granblue Fantasy: Relink is well-prepared to establish itself as a prominent game. While initially a singleplayer experience, it seamlessly incorporates multiplayer options that resemble those seen in Monster Hunter titles. The game's enduring appeal stems from its extensive customization, allowing players to enhance their own abilities or support a larger group. Currently, there is uncertainty regarding how the narrative and multiplayer elements will coexist, but the world of Granblue actively encourages players to involve their friends.

This description can also be applied to the singleplayer aspect of the game. Despite Final Fantasy 16 largely focusing on a small party, Clive is the central figure in terms of gameplay. In contrast, Granblue Fantasy: Relink introduces a vast array of beloved Granblue characters, each with their own distinct playstyle that can be further honed through skill trees and equipment upgrades. While Final Fantasy 16 offers limited progression for Clive, with additional Eikons providing only a few extra abilities regardless of loadout, Granblue Fantasy: Relink has the potential to satisfy players in ways that Final Fantasy 16 cannot. However, to surpass the Final Fantasy franchise, it must deliver a truly exceptional experience.

Granblue Fantasy: Relink will be released on February 1, 2024, for PC, PS4, and PS5.