Square Enix has just unveiled a gripping trailer for “The Rising Tide”, the eagerly anticipated paid DLC for Final Fantasy XVI. This addition is set to enrich the PS5 gaming experience starting on April 18. For those eager to enhance their adventure, the DLC will be accessible as a standalone purchase or as part of the US$24.99 Final Fantasy XVI PlayStation Store Expansion Pass. “The Rising Tide” isn't just any update; it introduces the mighty eikon Leviathan into the game's lore, alongside an array of new game modes, weapons, and abilities to discover.
Unleashing the Leviathan: New powers and challenges await
It's been a while since many of us dived into the fantastical realms of Final Fantasy. Still, the consensus among fans, including Ash Parrish, suggests the absence of Leviathan was a misstep now gloriously rectified. According to a recent post on PlayStation's blog, the DLC doesn't just add Leviathan to the show. Players controlling Clive will gain access to Leviathan Eikonic abilities, enabling them to summon a mighty sea serpent. This serpent isn't just for show; it can launch precision strikes from afar, ensuring your enemies always stay on their toes. Additionally, Clive can unleash the “terrible might of the Eikon of Water”, flooding adversaries near and far with unstoppable force.
The excitement doesn't stop there. “The Rising Tide” introduces Kairos Gate, a daunting new 20-stage battle mode promising escalating challenges that will test even the most seasoned players. Completing this mode, the main game and the DLC itself are prerequisites for unlocking this feature, which rewards players with new materials and weapons. The battle results will also be shared on a global leaderboard, adding a competitive edge to your accomplishments.
A realm reimagined: Swords, tunes, and threats anew
Nostalgia and novelty blend seamlessly in this update. Fans will be delighted to discover a reimagined version of the Curtana sword, a classic element from previous Final Fantasy games, now ready to wield in new battles. The DLC also introduces two new background tunes for hideaways, “Torn from the Heavens” and “Through the Maelstrom”, adding an auditory layer to the immersive experience. Moreover, a new stage, the Aire of Hours, offers explorers the ruins of a former civilization brimming with new threats, including the notorious berries of Final Fantasy XVI fame.
Enhancing your journey: Quality-of-life updates
In tandem with “The Rising Tide”, Square Enix is rolling out a suite of quality-of-life improvements on April 18th to enhance your gaming experience. A “Quick Complete” function allows for swift returns to quest givers, while icon updates help you track important character quests more easily. The new Skill Set feature is particularly noteworthy, offering the ability to save up to five unique Feat and Ability sets. Adjustments to Abilities and Accessories have been made for easier use, and a new “Custom” controller type will enable fully customizable button layouts. The update also brings enhancements to the Photo Mode, including tone correction, new screen effects, and various new orchestrion rolls to discover.
