Unveiling the Epic Dynamic: Unraveling the Perfect Synchrony of Final Fantasy 16's Bahamut and Odin Fights

Final Fantasy 16 features an abundance of epic boss battles, surpassing any previous game in the series. In this installment, the focus lies more on impressive spectacle and cinematic presentation rather than traditional RPG mechanics. However, the game remains true to its roots, positioning the story as the driving force behind the gameplay. The thematic core of the narrative unfolds through the gameplay and level design, with Clive's encounters against Bahamut and Odin epitomizing this synergy.

Bahamut and Odin, alongside their respective dominants, play a significant role in the game's third act. The battle against Bahamut marks a pivotal moment where Clive is reunited with his long-lost brother, Joshua. Clive has carried the burden of his brother's absence, holding himself responsible for it. While Joshua's return transpires mostly within this final act, the impact of his comeback reverberates not only in Clive's actions but also in the dynamics of the fight against Odin. Consequently, the battles against Bahamut and Odin in Final Fantasy 16 symbolize Clive's transformative perspective towards himself.

The Battle Against Bahamut Is Ifrit's Biggest Moment

The battle against Bahamut, the Eikon of light, takes place solely in Eikon form. Clive assumes the form of Ifrit, and eventually combines with the phoenix to become Ifrit Risen for the first time. Throughout his journey, Clive has sought strength from Ifrit and the Eikons he has absorbed. He has prioritized the control of these powerful entities over his own well-being. This makes it thematically significant that Ifrit and Clive can only attain enough strength to triumph in the fight by relying on Joshua and the Phoenix. Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that they aim to rescue rather than kill Bahamut's ruler, Prince Dion, in Final Fantasy 16.

After battling Bahamut, Joshua joins the group in their hideout to aid in their mission to destroy the mother crystals and defeat Ultima. Their next obstacle presents itself in the form of Odin. In their pursuit of Odin, Clive decides to acquire Final Fantasy 16's Shiva and her powers from Jill. Joshua becomes infuriated upon learning of this act of selfishness. He admonishes Clive, repeatedly emphasizing that the battle against Ultima is not Clive's alone. The fight against Bahamut and Clive's reliance on Joshua and the Phoenix reinforce this notion. Joshua's reminder shapes his approach to the imminent battle, ultimately empowering him to triumph over Odin, the Eikon of darkness.

Fighting Odin Pushes Clive To His Limits

During his battle against Odin, Clive is unable to summon Ifrit and must instead confront the Eikon in his human form, contrasting his previous fight against Bahamut. The ensuing fight is a brutal and deadly encounter, with Torgal coming to Clive's rescue on multiple occasions. Clive must rely solely on his own abilities as a person, alongside his lifelong companion. Torgal has served as a powerful connection to Clive's humanity, making his presence in this battle particularly poignant. However, Clive's victory over Odin comes at a bittersweet cost - he absorbs Odin's Eikonic powers, sacrificing another part of his humanity.

These two battles, despite their opposing nature, lay the foundation for Clive's final confrontation against Ultima. Clive must discover strength within himself, Ifrit, and his friends, and these battles serve as stepping stones towards this realization. In Final Fantasy 16's ultimate dungeon, Clive assumes the forms of both himself and Ifrit, utilizing the knowledge gained from each conflict. The battles against Bahamut and Odin complement one another, embodying the internal struggle Clive faces and teaching him the necessary lessons to overcome Ultima and protect Valisthea. The interplay between these boss battles creates a thematically cohesive farewell to Clive as a character in the final act of Final Fantasy 16.

Final Fantasy 16 is available now on PS5.