In Final Fantasy 16, Square Enix has taken a bold step by abandoning its traditional turn-based system in favor of a more action-packed approach. This change has been well received by gaming enthusiasts, as combat now unfolds in real time, eliminating the need to wait for turns. The developers have put great effort into ensuring that the game offers a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
As an action game, combat takes center stage in Final Fantasy 16. The main protagonist, Clive, encounters numerous formidable adversaries throughout his quests, and defeating them proves to be a challenging endeavor. To succeed, players must ensure that Clive's gear and abilities are of the highest caliber. While various gear items can be found scattered across the game world, unlocking abilities requires the acquisition of ability points, which are earned by vanquishing enemies. This comprehensive guide will provide a detailed overview of all the abilities available in Final Fantasy 16, as well as tips on how to master them effectively.
Players can access and view all the abilities in Final Fantasy 16 by simply pausing the game and navigating to the Abilities tab. These abilities are conveniently displayed in a wheel format, allowing players to easily review each one using either the analog stick or the D-pad.
Melee Attack
Players can easily utilize this innate skill which is readily available from the start of the game. By simply pressing the Square button, they can effortlessly execute a series of four consecutive strikes. This essential ability plays a crucial role in effectively countering and deflecting incoming attacks.
Dodge
Mastering the skill of dodging is vital in Final Fantasy 16 as it plays a crucial role. This ability, similar to Melee Attack, becomes available right from the start of the game. By simply pressing the R1 button, players can effectively evade incoming attacks.
Precision Dodge
It cannot be emphasized enough how crucial a precision dodge is in gameplay. To execute a precision dodge, players must press the R1 button right before the enemy launches their attack. Subsequently, they have the option to follow it up with a precision counter, activated by pressing the Square button, or a precision counter shot, triggered by pressing the Triangle button.
Jump
Jump is a basic but useful ability that allows Clive to reach new places. It is also used in conjunction with other abilities to attack big enemies.
Aerial Attack
Players have the ability to execute aerial attacks by utilizing the X button to initiate a jump into the air. While airborne, the Square button must be pressed to strike the enemy. It is possible for players to string together a sequence of three strikes, resulting in an impressive combo.
Magic
Magic can be utilized right from the start of the game, allowing players to cast spells by pressing the Triangle button. A notable advantage of magic is its ability to be used even while evading an enemy's attack, unlike melee attacks.
Magic Burst
Magic Burst is an offensive maneuver that specifically focuses on depleting the Will Gauge of adversaries. To execute this technique, gamers must press the Square button first, followed by the Triangle button.
Lunge
To unlock Lunge, players must spend 25 Ability Points. Its affordable cost allows players to quickly acquire this skill. Lunge can be executed by simultaneously pressing the X and Square buttons.
Downthrust
Downthrust can be obtained for a mere 30 Ability Points. To execute this move, players must first make Clive leap into the air. Afterwards, they need to simultaneously press the X and Square buttons to successfully perform the maneuver.
Burning Blade
Burning Blade, a captivating ability in Final Fantasy 16, adds an exciting element to gameplay. Once unlocked, players can activate this ability by pressing and holding the Square button, causing Clive's blade to be enveloped in flames. With the blade infused with fire, players can then unleash a powerful attack by pressing the Square button again, effectively shattering the defenses of their adversaries.
Taunt
Taunt serves as a strategic tool to entice adversaries towards Clive's whereabouts. Although it may appear as a mediocre ability, it can effectively generate a chance for skillful evasion. To activate Taunt, players can press and hold the R2 button, followed by a single push on the touchpad of their controllers.
Swift Recovery
Players can utilize Swift Recovery to quickly regain their footing after being forcefully pushed back. By pressing the R1 button in response to an enemy's attack, Clive can execute a successful maneuver that allows him to strike nearby enemies with a powerful melee attack.
Stomp
Players are only able to utilize the stomp ability while Clive is in mid-air. Once he takes to the sky, players must press the X button, which subsequently boosts both the height and duration of the jump.
Charged Magic
Charged Magic is a formidable skill that becomes accessible once players have invested 20 Ability Points. This skill significantly enhances the potency of standard magic attacks. To activate it, players must press and hold the Triangle button to charge their magic power, and then simply release the button to unleash a devastating assault.
How to Master Them
Not all abilities in Final Fantasy 16 can be mastered. Those that can be mastered cost a significant amount of points. Only the following abilities can be upgraded:
Ability | Points Required | Mastery Effect |
Precision Dodge | 500 | Extends trigger window. |
Lunge | 200 | Increases lunge distance. Ability potency increases with distance. |
Downthrust | 150 | Imbues blade with fire, increasing ability potency and range. |
Burning Blade | 180 | Reduces time required to imbue the blade with fire. |
Stomp | 170 | Increases maximum kicks to two. |
Charged Magic | 250 | Reduces charge time. |
Magic Burst | 300 | Extends trigger window. |
Each mastery in Final Fantasy 16 offers an additional effect, making it crucial to carefully read the descriptions before making a decision. To maximize your gameplay experience, it is highly advisable to unlock the Precision Dodge and Magic Burst abilities. Additionally, it is worth noting that Final Fantasy 16 is exclusively available on the PlayStation 5 platform.