One of the most common questions we see around the 'net regarding Final Fantasy XV is 'how does combat actually work?' Well, thanks to the game's PAX East panel, which occurred over the weekend, we finally have a detailed look at the systems and mechanics behind the title's battles.
As if it wasn't already obvious, we're dealing with something that's very different to the combat found in other mainline Final Fantasy games. Things are far more hack-and-slash, but some of the basics stay the same, in that you must keep an eye on your HP, MP, and equipment.
Essentially, your melee attacks are based on how you use the attack button. Mashing it may give you a quick combo, while holding it down might make Noctis whip out a bigger sword for a stronger blow, and these techniques can be altered by equipping different weapons into different attack slots.
When it comes to defence, however, things are perhaps a little more complex. Contrary to what many thought after witnessing recent combat videos, you can't simply hold down L1 and become invincible, dodging every enemy's incoming blows. Going on the defensive drains your MP, and when it's all gone, you'll be left vulnerable. Fortunately, both HP and MP regenerate over time, so if you're in a tough spot, you can find some cover to hide behind, or zip off to the nearest out-of-reach place via Noctis' sword-based teleportation.
That's enough out of us, anyway. Take a look at the tutorial video that we've embedded, and tell us what you think of the battle system in the comments section below.
[source youtube.com, via vg247.com]
Comments 9
Before all the hate, PEOPLE KNEW it would be reminiscent of Kingdom Hearts battle system, which I enjoyed greatly. This looks great anyways, very flashy, and smooth and more importantly... FUN! Can't wait to try the demo when I get Type 0 HD in a couple of weeks!
I prefer the old school turn based combat so naturally I'm a bit gutted. I'll try this out for myself at some point but I don't particularly like what i've seen of it so far.
I'm not hating, i'm just not liking.
Looks cool. I give full kudos to Square Enix for trying something different.
Unfortunately, the reality is that turn-based combat would look incredibly weird (and archaic) when combined with such incredibly realistic visuals. Not to mention, Final Fantasy has always been Square's big, defining franchise and (for better or worse) it needs to compare favourably to other blockbuster games - and to do that, things simply need to evolve. It almost feels dirty saying it, but Square needs to appeal to the mass-market if they want FF to stay relevant (and recoup the massive development costs). It's simply the reality of the business.
I think old fashioned JRPG fans need to get their kicks from games like Bravely Default, Dragon Quest and (yes) Final Fantasy spin-offs, like that new smartphone game. I think SE is aware that fans of these classic types of games still exist - which is why they continue making games like these (even if they are smaller scale). Oh, there's also Mistwalker, too - and many indies with titles like Citizens of Earth and Pier Solar.
I'll still get this game since I enjoy the series, but turn based RPGs are still my personal favorite. Bummer that square thinks they need to change a system that worked so well.
I'm edging closer and closer to a day one buy of type 0 for this. I watched some story trailers of type 0 and it might be putting me on the edge to splurging.
I'm as hyped as ever about playing this game....might be getting a PS4 sooner than I originally thought.
@ApostateMage This is where I sit as well. I love the strategy behind turn based, and will absolutely miss it while playing this game. If I want rhythmic hack n slash, I'll play an Arkham game.
I think it's about time for a change. Can't expect to innovate without breaking a few old traditions. Even if it is FF.
Looks cool, but ive yet to see footage that makes me go crazy :/ saving stuff its good, not showing ANYTHING... sucks
And i would get Type 0 to try this, but i think that $60 dollars for a game that its good but looks like it was directly converted from the PSP to the PS4 while just upping the resolution to 1080p seems stupidly lazy and not worth it, especially at that price
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