Unveiling the Majestic Worlds: Unraveling the Enigmatic Realms of Final Fantasy 16's Valisthea Versus FF10's Spira

The world of Valisthea in Final Fantasy 16 is a complex realm where interconnected countries vie for control of two continents plagued by the encroaching Blight. Although the specific causes of their struggles are unique to Valisthea, the devotion of its people to their distinct cultures bears a resemblance to Final Fantasy 10, setting it apart from other games in the series.

Similar to the emphasis placed on the religion of Yevon in Final Fantasy 10, Final Fantasy 16 explores the significance of the powerful and bountiful Mothercrystals across various cultures. Additionally, parallels can be drawn between the marginalized groups, the Al Bhed and the Bearers, who face unwarranted prejudice and discrimination.

Final Fantasy's Critique on Religion

It should come as no surprise by now that Final Fantasy 16 continues the trend of showcasing cultures that practice devoted worship, while also subtly challenging the very beliefs they hold. This recurring theme is often accompanied by the presence of outcast or rebellious protagonists who defy the established religious, governmental, or corporate authorities. Therefore, the conflict between Cid's group of outlaws hiding in the Hideaway and the nations aligned with their Mothercrystals is typical within the series.

A previous example of this can be seen in Final Fantasy 10, where Tidus and his team ultimately find themselves pitted against the entirety of Yevon, despite undergoing their own pilgrimage. They essentially become outlaws within the state religion. In a way, Final Fantasy 10 consolidates the opposition into a single entity, as most of Spira is united under the banner of Yevon, unknowingly following teachings that offer no true salvation. This suggests that the overall culture of Spira shares similarities with the various cultures of Valisthea, each governed by influential figures who manipulate and withhold the truth to maintain control over their people.

Prejudice Across Final Fantasy Worlds

In the vast world of Final Fantasy 16, power systems manifest in various forms across different countries. These systems range from a corrupt Empire, a tyrannical Monarchy, a money-obsessed Republic, to even a religious cult. Mirroring these diverse nations is the overreaching theocracy of Spira's Yevon, which enforces strict rule through false teachings. This unified thread also extends to how these societies marginalize individuals, including the magic wielders of Final Fantasy 16 known as Bearers.

The central conflict in Final Fantasy 16 revolves around the contentious issue of Bearers – individuals blessed with the rare ability to wield magic freely, without the need for crystals – and their societal standing in the realm of Valisthea. These exceptional beings bear a distinct mark as soon as their magical talents are discovered, and their existence is met with such disdain that mothers go as far as completely disowning their own children upon realizing their Bearer status. Similar sentiments of resentment and animosity can be found among the inhabitants of Spira in Final Fantasy 10, particularly within those who align themselves with Yevon, towards the Al Bhed people who embrace machina technology.

In Final Fantasy 16, the theme of hostility is further explored, delving into the harsh reality of how people can be cruel to Bearers. The game fearlessly portrays instances where regular citizens mercilessly exploit Bearers, subjecting them to grueling work and even allowing them to be hunted and killed by wolves for mere sport. This darker tone surpasses the treatment of the Al Bhed in Final Fantasy 10, despite the devastating destruction of their homeland by Yevon. Final Fantasy 16 can now be enjoyed on the PS5 platform.