Summary
Final Fantasy 16took the classic JRPG franchise to new heights and introduced players to the first fully action-oriented game in the series. WhileFinal Fantasy 16was somewhat controversial among longtime fans for seemingly shedding theFinal Fantasyidentity in this process, it still managed to create an engaging narrative and world supported by satisfying gameplay. Fans ofFinal Fantasy 16may be interested in finding other games that capture the same feel, and there are a handful of indie titles that replicate some of the game’s most popular elements.
WhileFinal Fantasy 16doesn’t feature the turn-based JRPG combatof the series' past, its smooth and satisfying action combat creates an equally engaging gameplay loop. On top of its solid action gameplay,Final Fantasy 16is home to a cast of compelling characters, a heartbreaking story, and a beautifully composed soundtrack. Indie developers often try to capture aspects of their favorite games that AAA developers can’t or won’t, but in the case of these titles, there’s clearly a shared love for telling a captivating story wrapped in a detailed and finely crafted love for the genre.
Indie Games Similar to Final Fantasy 16
CrossCode
CrossCodeis a 2D action RPGfrom developer Radical Fish Games, which follows the story of Lea as she finds herself in a fictional MMO called CrossWorlds. Over the course of the game, Lea will join up with other players as she makes her way through the MMO’s quest, uncovering her lost memories and discovering her true identity along the way. WhileCrossCodecan be more puzzle-heavy than a game likeFinal Fantasy 16, it shares a similar satisfying action combat system and large-scale boss battles that will feel familiar to fans of Square Enix’s latest epic.
Sea of Stars
AlthoughSea of Starsfeatures more traditional turn-based combat, many of the game’s thematic elements are similar toFinal Fantasy 16.The game comes from developer Sabotage Studio and follows the journey of Zale and Valere, two solstice warriors who set out to rid the world of the Fleshmancer’s evil machinations called Dwellers. The story ofSea of Starsshares many ofFinal Fantasy 16’s narrative themes regarding betrayal, tragic loss, and heroic triumph that carry the torch for classic JRPGs while still feeling modern, much likeFinal Fantasy 16does, albeit in different ways.
Hades
Hadesis arguably one of the most popular indie titles in recent years, and for good reason; it weaves tight gameplay with compelling characters and a visually stunning world. WhileHadesis more of a rogue-like and less of a true RPG, its top-down action combat will feel very similar to that ofFinal Fantasy 16. IfFinal Fantasy 16players enjoyed the game’s satisfying combat but felt that it lacked depth,Hadesmight be the game they’re looking for, as the numerousweapons and boonsHadesplayers will encounter on their runs through Tartarus, Asphodel, and Elysium combine for a series of complex builds and gameplay styles.
Astlibra Revision
An underrated indie game that fans ofFinal Fantasy 16should not overlook isAstlibra Revision, a 2D side-scrolling action RPG from developer KEIZO that has earned glowing reviews from players. InAstlibra Revision, players will find themselves in a world where all humans have vanished on a quest to track down their childhood friend from whom they were separated during a demonic attack on their hometown. Despite being locked to a 2D plane, the freedom of movement in combat, combined with epic boss battles and various unique skills should satisfy anyFinal Fantasy 16fan’s desire for rewarding action RPG content.
