Final Fantasy 16’s PC Release and Future Prospects
Final Fantasy 16 is set to make its highly anticipated debut on PC on September 17, a move that has been met with excitement from the gaming community. Hiroshi Takai, the game’s director, shared insights with GamesRadar+ regarding the staggered release between the PS5 and PC versions. He expressed optimism about the possibility of future installments in the series launching on PC simultaneously with their console counterparts, suggesting that such an occurrence is “possible” and “probably even likely.”
Throughout the year, Square Enix has emphasized a strategic pivot towards a “shift from quantity to quality” during various financial briefings. This approach aligns with the company’s commitment to an aggressive multiplatform strategy, aiming to reach a broader audience while enhancing the gaming experience.
With the significant gap between the PS5 and PC releases of Final Fantasy 16, questions arise about whether this delay might dampen interest among PC gamers. Takai reassured that the development team was keen to deliver an exceptional port, stating, “Naturally, we wanted to get the PC version into players’ hands as quickly as we possibly could.” He further noted that the time invested in optimizing the game for PC was well worth it, indicating confidence in the final product.
Reflecting on Square Enix’s recent history with PC ports, Takai acknowledged the mixed reception of titles like Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade and Forspoken, while also highlighting the positive feedback for Final Fantasy 15’s PC adaptation. He emphasized that the team is attentive to player feedback, saying, “Since we want as many players as possible to enjoy our game, we made sure to address any points that could be perceived negatively.” This commitment to listening extends beyond just Final Fantasy 16, incorporating insights from other titles as well.
As the September 17 launch approaches, players can look forward to not only the main game but also the inclusion of both DLCs. For those eager to dive in early, a demo is currently available on Steam, offering a taste of the adventure that awaits. The upcoming DLC promises to enhance the RPG’s mature themes, introducing intriguing elements such as the audaciously designed Tonberries, which have certainly caught the attention of fans.
