The release of Final Fantasy 16 is quickly approaching, and the marketing leading up to it has been appropriately amplified. Previews and trailers have been released in the months leading up to the launch, providing fans with insight into various aspects of the game. While the game promises to deliver political intrigue and magical action, the main characters have already been introduced. Additionally, a significant amount of gameplay has been showcased, featuring the heaviest action slant yet seen in the franchise.
Despite its divergence from the norm, FF16 aims to impress with enjoyable and accessible combat, as well as a robust core roster. Players will accompany protagonist Clive Rosfield as he navigates the war-torn country of Valisthea, aided by a group of close friends throughout his journey. Many of Clive's allies and foes are Dominants, summoners who can harness the magical powers of their Eikon beasts. These Eikons are central to Final Fantasy 16 and have been prominently featured in the game's marketing. Apart from Clive's loyal wolf Torgal, these mythical creatures are among the main attractions of the game.
Ifrit
At the heart of Final Fantasy 16 lies Ifrit, the foreboding Eikon of Fire that represents Clive's own metamorphosis. Unlike its previous appearances in other FF games, where it was merely an early spell or a boss fight, Ifrit plays a prominent role in the latest installment of the series, where summons have greater significance. Interestingly, it seems that there are two distinct Ifrits, one that belongs to Clive and another that belongs to an enigmatic character. Clive's quest to uncover the identity of this individual is expected to be a major driving force behind FF16's narrative.
Phoenix
The trailers have hinted that the chase for Ifrit, the alleged perpetrator of a tragedy involving Clive's brother, will begin early. Joshua Rosfield was originally the only Eikon of Fire publicly known, representing the iconic Phoenix of the Grand Duchy of Rosaria. Clive's first set of Eikon powers were actually bestowed upon him by Phoenix's blessing, which raises suspicions about the existence of three Eikons of Fire at the same time.
Shiva
Fortunately, even without Joshua's presence, Clive finds solace in his adopted sister Jill Warrick. However, their bond is put to the test when Jill is revealed as the Dominant of the frigid Eikon Shiva and is forced to join the enemy army. Clive manages to rescue her, and her assistance proves invaluable in his upcoming missions.
Ramuh
Final Fantasy 16's Cidolfus Telamon, known as the Dominant of the lightning Eikon Ramuh, is a popular character among fans who have been requesting his inclusion in the game. Cid serves as a grounding force for Clive's journey of revenge by providing a home base with game-changing quality-of-life features. While not much is known about his personal life, it is known that he has a strong understanding of his Eikon and has a history with an enemy Dominant, likely due to his past service in the Royal Waloeder Army.
Garuda
Benedikta Harman, the Dominant of Garuda and Warden of the Wind, is the adversary our heroes must face. Her appearances in Final Fantasy 14 suggest that she will be a formidable opponent, especially for Cid, who seems to bear the brunt of her aggravation. While Benedikta works as an elite intelligencer for the Kingdom of Waloed, her true intentions and loyalties remain unclear.
Titan
Hugo Kupka, the Dominant of the Eikon Titan and advisor to the Dhalmekian Republic, is known for his unwavering loyalty to his nation. Despite being promoted to a comfortable political position, he remains ready to serve in the field whenever duty calls. While his goals may be simple, his ability to make critical decisions under pressure should not be underestimated, a testament to the strength of the Titan he represents.
Odin
Barnabas Tharmr, the king of Waloed, is a formidable opponent who cannot be underestimated. Despite arriving in Valisthea as a mere wanderer, he managed to unite his kingdom through sheer force and became the Dominant of Odin, as well as the Warden of Darkness. While he fights on horseback like Odin, both characters are reminiscent of Final Fantasy's Dark Knights, evoking memories of the grim warrior Clive. The clash between these two powerful figures is sure to be a spectacle worth witnessing.
Bahamut
Dion Lesage, the crown prince of the Holy Empire of Sanbreque, is another Final Fantasy Job turned character. He leads the dragoons and is the Dominant of the draconic Bahamut, making him a formidable presence on the battlefield. Unlike Bahamut's past portrayals as either good or evil, Dion appears to have a noble and honorable disposition. However, his father, the tyrannical Emperor, may complicate matters. Clive possesses the powers of the last Eikon, the King of Dragons, but there have been reports of other Eikons emerging.
Typhon
Titan Lost
A new character was revealed during the 2023 Final Fantasy 16 State of Play, known as Typhon. While the name may be familiar to retro Final Fantasy fans as the comical Mr. Typhon from Final Fantasy 6, this version is vastly different. With its resemblance to Death Stranding's Beached Things and lack of legs, it is speculated to potentially be a crucial Eikon in the game's plot. However, little information is currently available about this enigmatic character and its role in Clive's journey.
The upcoming Final Fantasy 16 game has revealed a second Titan, referred to as Titan Lost, which has been featured in various trailers without any context. Titan Lost shares a similar rocky texture with the Eikon of Earth, but the similarities end there. It is even larger than Ifrit and its human features have been absorbed into its massive bulk, making it an imposing figure. Fans can expect an epic and climactic boss fight with Titan Lost in Final Fantasy 16.
Final Fantasy 16 will release on June 22 for PS5.