Final Fantasy XVI
We're entering the age of next-generation consoles, and with Sony set to take the field with PlayStation 5, there's a good chance that any future Final Fantasy game goes exclusive to the new hardware. With that said, will the current generation get any version of the RPG?
We've been discussing the possibility of Final Fantasy XVI coming to PS4 for some time, but with a next-gen game on the horizon, we wanted to revisit the topic and see what the future holds for one of the best JRPGs. The next Final Fantasy game promises to be one of the biggest games of the decade, and as a next-gen game, most fans I've spoken to assume that it'll be an exclusive to the PlayStation 5. However, with a massive install base of PS4 users, and Sony's own strategy that heavily features the current generation console, wouldn't a simultaneous PS4 release make sense?
So far, we haven't seen any official word on Final Fantasy XVI coming to PS4, but we can look to the stars and find any hopeful constellations regarding the RPG's platform availability. Don't get me wrong, I fully expect the game to come to PS5 and be a smash hit, but wouldn't it naturally reach a larger install base by releasing on both current and next-generation consoles?
Final Fantasy XVI hints and clues
While Square Enix hasn't officially confirmed or denied a PS4 release for Final Fantasy XVI, enthusiasts are excited to find any hints and clues from the development team. In interviews, the game's director, Naoki Yoshida, mentions the team's focus on taking full advantage of the next-gen hardware, but hasn't explicitly ruled out a PS4 version.
Of course, there's always a chance that Square Enix will release a game solely on the PS5 and boost its visual power, but it also wouldn't be that surprising if the team also launches a PS4 version. In the past, entries like Final Fantasy XV have been released on both PS4 and Xbox One, showcasing Square Enix's willingness to cater to a wider player base.
However, again, plans can always change and ultimately rest with the development team and publisher. They may prioritize the abilities of the new hardware over compatibility with older consoles. Also, Sony's own marketing strategy for the PS5 heavily emphasizes the power and features of the next-gen console, which could suggest that Sony wants to showcase Final Fantasy XVI exclusively on their new system.
However, releasing on both PS4 and PS5 could get more players invested and increase sales to a larger audience. Of course, again, it all depends on what the development team wants to do and ultimately what serves the game best.
While we wait for more official news, all we can do is speculate. Personally, I'm hopeful that we see a release on the PS4, but even a PS5 exclusive would be okay with me if the game lives up to expectations. After all, one thing's for certain: Final Fantasy XVI is set to deliver an epic RPG experience that'll captivate you for hours on end.
