Final Fantasy XVI introduces a new, action-focused combat scheme, accompanied by a set of tools called accessibility rings. These rings, which are already in the player’s inventory at the start of the game, aim to assist with different aspects of combat. As a long-time fan of the Final Fantasy series, I appreciate this approach to combat. While turn-based combat has been absent since Final Fantasy X, many players, including myself, have struggled to adapt to the fast-paced action-RPG gameplay. The rings, therefore, act as both assistive tools for players with different abilities and a way to ease in newcomers who may find the combat overwhelming.
The game features five accessibility rings that offer unique benefits in combat. For example, the Ring of Timely Strikes simplifies complex attack combos into a single button press, while the Ring of Timely Assistance automatically commands Clive’s pet companion, Torgal. Another ring, the Ring of Timely Focus, slows down time before Clive is hit, providing the player with a wider window to dodge incoming attacks. The Ring of Timely Evasion takes it a step further by automatically executing dodges for the player, and the Ring of Timely Healing automatically uses health potions when Clive’s health is dangerously low.
As a player, the Ring of Timely Focus was particularly useful to me. The fast-paced nature of the combat often made timing dodges challenging. Having time slow down, accompanied by a visible countdown, allowed me to execute dodges more successfully and enjoy the game’s combat system to its fullest. It’s important to note that these rings do not make combat trivial or remove the need for player skill. They simply provide assistance and are optional to use.
However, there is a drawback to relying on the rings. In order to equip them, players must use accessory slots, limiting their ability to equip other helpful accessories that enhance Clive’s power. This trade-off feels counterproductive to the aim of accessibility. Accessible features should not come at the cost of sacrificing potential power. Instead, a true accessibility system would allow players to activate the rings without requiring them to equip them, leaving accessory slots free for other beneficial items. For example, there could be rings that increase attack power or provide additional abilities, allowing players to customize their experience without penalty.
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Unfortunately, the game’s accessibility features are not limited to combat. In terms of other accessibility issues, the game falls short. The settings menu only offers one feature to increase text size, and even then, it only applies to subtitles. The font used in menus and UI is incredibly small, making it difficult to read, especially when playing at a distance from the screen. This lack of accessibility options can be frustrating and undermines the idea that the rings were designed with accessibility in mind. It is essential for developers to consider comprehensive accessibility features, including customizable fonts, text size, and other visual assistance options.
Final Fantasy XIV, another installment in the series, sets a great example with its extensive accessibility features. Considering that many players may be transitioning from Final Fantasy XIV to Final Fantasy XVI, it is surprising that the latter lacks these necessary accessibility options. The fact that Final Fantasy XVI is a PlayStation 5 exclusive further adds to the confusion, as Sony’s other exclusive games have been praised for their inclusive accessibility features.
Despite these limitations, I thoroughly enjoyed Final Fantasy XVI and would recommend it to both avid fans and newcomers to the franchise. The combat’s accessibility features are undoubtedly a step in the right direction, but the developers could have put more effort into ensuring the game is accessible to all players, not just in combat but in all aspects. As the Final Fantasy series celebrates its 35th anniversary, it’s crucial for the developers to prioritize comprehensive accessibility options to make the games truly accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
