Final Fantasy 16 is taking accessibility seriously, showing off features in new trailer

techradar.com:

Square Enix has unveiled a new trailer for Final Fantasy 16, showing off accessibility-friendly Story-Focused Mode. 

Releasing for the PS5 on June 22, Final Fantasy 16is just around the corner, and fans all over the world are getting ready to enjoy Square Enix’s latest offering. However, unlike the majority of previous titles in the series, Final Fantasy 16 has moved away from the traditional turn-based combat formula. Like Final Fantasy 15before it, the developers have opted for a real-time combat system with an emphasis on cinematic action. 

However, Square Enix has not left fans in the cold and is offering a gentler Story-Focused Mode for those less familiar or less comfortable with real-time battles. The mode slows down the pace of combat, slowing down time so players can dodge and attack more easily, while also offering an auto-evade option. The trailer also hints that “multiple accessibility options can be tailored this way, allowing players of all skill levels to experience [protagonist] Clive’s story without sacrificing the fun.” 

Looking at the trailer(opens in new tab), the new mode seems to replace more challenging mechanics with Quick Time challenges, a welcome change for those looking for an easier ride.  

Accessibility remains a crucial part of modern game design and, while it is impossible to design a gameplay system that can mean all things to all people, it is excellent to see more developers taking accessibility seriously. 

Difficulty modes have existed in video games since the medium's beginning, accommodating players of different skill levels. However, Final Fantasy 16 is going one step further with its accessibility options by allowing players to customize the combat experience to fit their needs. 

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