Final Fantasy XV has finally been released today, and there was much rejoicing. Final Fantasy is one of the most storied franchises in gaming, but Final Fantasy XV suffered from a notoriously lengthy 10-year development cycle. After a decade and a change of title and game director it’s finally here, proving that maybe 2016 still has a few good things going for it.
The live-action trailer features some plucky young boys getting chased by a giant Final Fantasy monster. They set up a trap but just when the monster is ready to deal the final blow, they’re saved by Prince Noctis and his bodyguards.
Through some clever editing we don’t really see real actors portraying the FF characters, but it’s effectively pulled together with Florence Welch’s version of “Stand by Me,” which has been heavily featured in other promotional videos.
Final Fantasy is one of the biggest franchises in Japan, and combined with the last FF game being an MMO back in 2010, hype for FF15 was at a fever pitch.
The Japanese launch resembled a Hollywood premiere, complete with a decorated Audi R8 Coupe like the one you drive in game. The sleek sporstcar is featured prominently in trailers and is your primary mode of transportation throughout most of the game. When asked why they added a car into a world of giant god-beasts and airships, game director Hajime Tabata said it was to make the game more accessible and “put the real world into Final Fantasy.”
Reviews of Final Fantasy XV have been favorable. It currently stands with an 84 Metascore on Metacritic, with most critics praising the visuals and combat. Look for Pixelkin’s review soon!
