There’s good reason to wonder whether Final Fantasy 16 is open-world or linear. The series has seen both types of games during its 35-year run, with recent entries tending toward an open-world approach. However, previews of FFXVI and the demo showed that it would be a more linear experience than we saw with FFXV. Now that the game has been released, we finally know the answer.
Is Final Fantasy 16 an open-world game?
While Final Fantasy 16 isn’t strictly linear, it’s hard to call it open world either. It often propels you down one route, especially during the first half of the game, making it feel much more linear than its predecessor. However, it does open up at times and allows you to adventure at your leisure. There are side quests, hunts, and optional exploration that you can pursue as the opportunities arise.
So, it’s more of a linear open world. Even when you get the chance to pursue side activities, only a few unlock at a time. After completing them, it’s time to return to the main story. You’re often free to explore previous areas, but you’re not going to find a plethora of activities waiting to be discovered like in a Grand Theft Auto game.
So, if you were hoping for the wide-open vistas and tons of side content that were found in Final Fantasy 15, you’re in for a disappointment. FFXVI is a much leaner experience that keeps you on task and the story moving.
Yet, the balance struck in Final Fantasy 16 between linear storytelling and limited open-world exploration results in a uniquely paced narrative, where the plot progresses without meandering while still providing pockets of freedom for player-driven exploration. Despite the reduced scale of side activities, each one adds depth to the game’s rich world and character development.
