The Ultimate Guide to Pre-Ordering Final Fantasy 16: Which Edition is Right For You?

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As the 16th installment in the beloved Final Fantasy franchise, Final Fantasy 16 has been generating buzz and excitement among gamers worldwide. Developed and published by Square Enix, this upcoming title is set to take players back to the roots of the franchise while introducing new and innovative gameplay elements. With the release date looming, fans are eagerly anticipating the chance to dive into the game's story and explore its vast world.

What is Final Fantasy 16's Story About?

In Final Fantasy 16, Clive Rosfield takes center stage as the protagonist on a mission to liberate the world of Valisthea from its reliance on the fading Mothercrystals that power the magick of the land. Meanwhile, power-hungry factions vie for control of the remaining crystals as a devastating Blight looms over the world. Clive seeks revenge and sets out to confront the second Eikon of fire, Ifrit, after a personal confrontation involving his brother Joshua, who is an involuntary vessel of the Eikon Phoenix, and the fearsome Dark Ifrit.

When Does Final Fantasy 16 Release?

The highly anticipated Final Fantasy 16 is set to release exclusively on the PlayStation 5 console on June 22, 2023. While there has been no official announcement regarding a release on other platforms, Sony has confirmed its console exclusivity for a minimum of 6 months as advertised for the PS5.

When Can You Preload A Copy Of Final Fantasy 16?

At present, Sony does not offer live preloads for individuals who have bought a digital version of Final Fantasy 16. However, we anticipate an update to be provided as the game approaches its launch date later this month.

How Much Space Do You Need For Final Fantasy 16?

Rumors circulating around the expected download size of Final Fantasy 16 suggest that it will take up a whopping 100GB of space on the PS5's storage. This speculation has been fueled by box art leaks that seem to confirm the massive size of the game. With other games on the PS5 also taking up significant storage space, it might be wise to consider upgrading your internal storage prior to the game's launch. This will ensure that you have enough space for the game installation as well as any subsequent patches.

What Are My Buying Options For Final Fantasy 16?

Final Fantasy 16 Standard Edition PS5

The Standard Edition of Final Fantasy 16 provides everything needed to immerse yourself in the game, including the base game and the option to pre-load digital content. Additionally, players who opt for the digital edition will receive two digital pre-order bonuses, while physical pre-order bonuses are available at select retailers.

access to 2 digital preorder bonuses and the option to choose between a steelbook case or patches as physical preorder bonuses, depending on the retailer. However, as with most newer titles, a large day 1 patch is expected which may cause slight delays in playing the game at launch. Additionally, it should be noted that the standard edition does not include some of the extras that the deluxe edition offers. Despite these cons, the standard edition is still a great option as it allows you to have the game ready for pickup or delivery at launch.

Some retailers are now offering their own extras to make purchasing the standard or deluxe edition of FF XVI more enticing for both new and long-time fans. However, the physical copy of the game does not come with any additional physical items on its own.

Retail Bonuses:

If you're a Final Fantasy 16 fan and looking for a unique addition to your collection, Best Buy has got you covered with their exclusive Steelbook case. This limited edition case is only available with the purchase of the game and is not sold separately. However, if you've already preordered from another retailer, the Deluxe Edition also includes the official steelbook case as an option.

The GameStop Exclusive Patches For Final Fantasy 16

Customers who preorder the Standard or Deluxe editions of Final Fantasy 16 in physical form through GameStop will be treated to a special bonus - limited edition 'The Realms of Valisthea' patches. These patches will be shipped to those who order online, while in-store pickups will receive them upon collection of their game copies. However, those who choose to purchase the digital version of the game through the PlayStation store will receive the Scholar's Spectacles DLC as an alternative bonus.

Final Fantasy 16 Deluxe Edition PS5

The Physical Deluxe Edition of Final Fantasy 16 provides a complete package for the game enthusiasts with all the digital pre-order incentives that come with the standard edition. Additionally, it includes a Special Clive Rosfield SteelBook® Case and a Cloth Map of Valisthea, giving players a more immersive experience. However, it is important to note that it does not include the digital pre-order bonuses offered with the Digital Deluxe edition, such as the digital mini artbook and the digital soundtrack.

The Deluxe Edition of Final Fantasy 16 for the PS5 includes a steelbook case and a cloth map as extras, making it a great choice for collectors. While it is $10 more than the Digital Deluxe Edition, it still qualifies for all standard preorder bonuses and retailer bonus offerings. However, it does not offer the same preorder bonuses as the digital deluxe edition. You can purchase it at Amazon, Walmart, GameStop, or Best Buy for $100. With a base game of 35+ hours and up to 70-80 hours including side missions, this game offers a lot of value for its price.

By combining this with the Best Buy offer, you can acquire two visually appealing steel books, one of which is exclusive to Best Buy. Alternatively, you could opt for GameStop's offering of 'The Realms of Valisthea' patches to complete your purchase. Another option is to purchase the digital deluxe edition, which offers a $10 discount per purchase and includes DLC packs, but does not include the physical Square Enix goods.

One argument could be made for the convenience and savings of the digital preorder edition of Final Fantasy XVI, which offers easier access to the game in one's personal library and a $10 discount that could be put towards another title in the future. However, GameRant's team believes that the physical edition's superior collectible items and potential bonus offers from retailers make it a more worthwhile investment for fans.

Square Enix has already provided details on the material and size of the Clive Rosfield SteelBook® case.

A SteelBook® case featuring artwork of Clive Rosfield, the protagonist. Use the case to store the disc-based media of your choice. Material: Tin, Polypropylene

Cloth World Map of Valisthea

A cloth map of Valisthea where the story unfolds. Approx. size: W615mm x D350mm, Thickness 0.3mm Material: 100% Cotton

Final Fantasy 16 Collector's Edition

The Final Fantasy 16 Collectors Edition is the ultimate package for die-hard fans of the game. With a stunning statue featuring Phoenix vs Ifrit, two of the game's iconic Eikons, and an exclusive bonus weapon DLC (the Blood Sword), this edition is a must-have for collectors. While the $350 price tag may seem steep to some, true Final Fantasy enthusiasts know that the value of this complete package cannot be underestimated.

The Final Fantasy 16 Collector's Edition, available exclusively on the Square Enix website, comes with a premium statue of Ifrit and Phoenix engaged in an epic battle. In addition to this impressive centerpiece, the CE also includes an exclusive Metal Eikon Pin Collection and the Blood Sword DLC. Preordering the deluxe edition also gets you access to a host of bundled goodies. However, with a steep price tag of $350, this CE may be out of reach for most collectors on a budget. Despite the high cost, the CE is undeniably a sight to behold and will surely please die-hard Final Fantasy fans.

Square Enix has provided the following details about the CE's contents (including dimensions):

Premium Statue - Phoenix vs Ifrit

A premium statue depicting a battle between two eikons - Phoenix and Ifrit. Approx. size: W230mm x D150mm x H270mm Material: PVC, ABS

Metal Eikon Pin Collection

A premium metal pin collection featuring eight eikons. Approx. size: W33mm x D5mm x H35mm (Ifrit) Material: Zinc Alloy, Brass

Special Clive Rosfield SteelBook® Case

A SteelBook® case featuring artwork of Clive Rosfield, the protagonist. Use the case to store the disc-based media of your choice. Material: Tin, Polypropylene

Cloth World Map of Valisthea

The Valisthea map featured in the collector's edition is made of 100% cotton and measures W615mm x D350mm with a thickness of 0.3mm. Despite some concerns about the price, the collector's edition offers the most comprehensive Final Fantasy experience by combining digital and physical deluxe editions. In addition to the exclusive digital-only DLC, the collector's edition includes everything from the physical deluxe edition, as well as a metal Eikon pin collection and a premium statue of Ifrit and Phoenix engaged in battle. While the cost of $350 may seem steep, the collector's edition is a must-have for fans and could potentially be a contender for Game of the Year in 2023 if it lives up to its promise.

The different Final Fantasy 16 Editions and their bundled contents detailed

The Final Fantasy 16 PlayStation 5 Console Bundle

PlayStation 5 Console: Final Fantasy 16 Bundle The Console BundleEverything You Need To Play FF XVI

The PlayStation 5 Final Fantasy Console Bundle is an all-in-one package that includes the PlayStation 5 Disc edition console and a digital voucher for the Standard PS5 Edition of Final Fantasy XVI. With an MSRP of $10 less than buying both items separately, it provides a great value for gamers. The console boasts 4K capability and is powered by an AC source, with the bundle including everything you need to get started, such as the DualSense Wireless Controller, base, HDMI cable, AC power cord, USB cable, and a full game voucher for FF XVI. The system is equipped with an 825GB SSD storage, an AMD Custom Zen 2-based CPU, and 16GB GDDR6 RAM, with connectivity options including Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6. The console features HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, USB 3.0, and USB-C ports, and weighs 9.9 lbs. While the bundle offers a discount on the standard digital edition copy of FF XVI and delivers at the same time as other editions, it comes with a few drawbacks. For instance, the bundle design doesn't allow for preloading the case, and purchasing this bundle disqualifies you from other retailer preorder bonuses, such as exclusive steelbooks. You can purchase the PlayStation 5 Final Fantasy Console Bundle on Amazon for $560 or at Best Buy.

Final Fantasy 16 is a third-party exclusive to PlayStation 5 at launch, making it the only way to play the game. While purchasing the game and console separately with a $10 discount through a digital voucher may not be the most lucrative deal, it is still the cheapest option to play FF 16 at launch if you do not already own a console. However, availability may be a concern for those who have not yet purchased a PlayStation 5, as some retail stores may not have the console in stock on the release date of June 22nd. Despite this, the bundle release on the same day offers a simple one-click order option to be ready to play the game, provided that your internet speeds are decent.

Are there Any Freebies Available With Final Fantasy 16?

Gamers who preorder Final Fantasy 16 can look forward to receiving two DLC packs: the Cait Sith Charm, also known as the Gil Boost Accessory, and the exclusive weapon, Braveheart. Additionally, major retailers like Best Buy and Gamestop offer their own physical freebies to customers who purchase the game from their storefronts.

The preorder bonuses included with each preorder copy on display above

FAQ

Q: What is the install size of Final Fantasy 16?

The anticipated download and installation size of the title, as revealed by the public box art information, is estimated to be approximately 100 GB. However, it is expected that the day 1 patch may slightly increase this size.

Q: When does Final Fantasy 16 Launch?

Final Fantasy 16 enthusiasts are eagerly waiting for the game's release on the 22nd of June 2023 in major territories, such as the United States, UK, and Canada. The game's gold status, achieved three months before its launch date, indicates that players can expect a smoother launch, unlike some recent game releases that have undergone last-minute changes.

Q: Is Final Fantasy 16 Coming To Xbox Or PC?

Sony has stated that the PS5 will have timed exclusivity over Final Fantasy 16, giving the console exclusive launch access to the game. However, it remains to be seen if this exclusivity will extend beyond 6 months and if other platforms, such as Xbox or PC, will eventually gain access to the title. The publisher has not confirmed or denied this possibility at this time.