Square Enix Announces 'Final Fantasy XVI'

Along with the volley of announcements on the PlayStation 5 from Sony, Square Enix has now announced the latest installment for its legendary Final Fantasy franchise, simply named Final Fantasy XVI, dropping a reveal trailer at the same time.

The four-minute clip — which you can watch above — gives fans a first look at a wide range of the game’s features, combining cinematic cutscenes with gameplay captures. While the story hasn’t been officially revealed by the Japanese developer, the trailer suggests a medieval fantasy setting with the usual Final Fantasy hallmarks, such as summons and crystals. You’ll also be introduced to a few of the game’s main characters, including a child named Joshua, who is revealed to possess the power of the Phoenix, as well as his protector, which will be the role players will take on.

“The exclusive footage, comprised of both battles and cutscenes running in real-time, represents but a fraction of what our team has accomplished since the start of development on this, an all-new Final Fantasy game,” says the game’s producer  Naoki Yoshida. “In that span, the team’s size has grown from a handful of core members to a full-fledged unit that continues to polish and build upon what they have created so far, all to provide players an experience unmatched in terms of story and gameplay.”

There’s currently no information regarding a release date, with the title’s director Hiroshi Takai saying that “it may still be some time before we can get it into your hands,” so Final Fantasy fans should definitely stay tuned for more updates to come.

Elsewhere in gaming, Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War has released a new trailer showcasing its campaign gameplay.