Final Fantasy XVI Staff Loves Final Fantasy V; They Have Good Taste

IGN recently conducted a video interview with Final Fantasy XVI staff, notably creative director and scenario writer Kazutoyo Maehiro, combat director Ryota Suzuki, and director Hiroshi Takai.

The three staff members of the upcoming action JRPG revealed their top three Final Fantasy games and explained their placements. And Takai’s and Maehiro’s favorite Final Fantasy of all time is Final Fantasy V. On the other hand, it’s Suzuki’s third favorite entry.

This may seem like an odd choice for those unfamiliar with the series or just have a passing general familiarity. After all, V is rarely brought up in most vocal conversations, especially compared to the likes of VII, VI, X, and XIV.

However, V was indescribably influential despite its original release not being localized. The battles were wildly ambitious, featuring a Job system comprising outstanding player choice that was unprecedented for 1992. I’d argue V’s combat system is in its own league entirely, with Final Fantasy X-2 and Stranger of Paradise taking evident inspiration.

In fact, Final Fantasy XVI’s combat system can be seen to be inspired by Final Fantasy V. Clive utilizes the abilities of other Eikons and, while seemingly not as extensive as V, boasts incredible variation.

For the full thoughts of Maehiro, Suzuki, and Takai, check out IGN’s video below:

Final Fantasy XVI is set to be a more action-heavy entry than its predecessors, with a Devil May Cry V designer even taking the helm. Throughout the title, players will control the protagonist, Clive, as he confronts various Dominants, humans who have been cursed with the power to become Eikons.

Clive is the “First Shield of Rosaria,” sworn to protect his younger brother Joshua, who’s the Dominant of Phoenix. However, following a certain tragedy, Clive swears revenge on the Dark Eikon Ifrit.

The producer, Naoki Yoshida, describes this game as akin to his experience with the first Final Fantasy, as “playing the lead in an epic motion picture.” The reasoning for this title’s action-oriented approach and more classical fantasy setting was to “appeal to as wide a range of gamers as possible.” Moreover, “there will be a “comprehensive support system in place for players who aren’t too confident with action games.”

In case you missed it, check out our preview.

You can download the official Final Fantasy XVI demo now.