Square Enix has already revealed that Final Fantasy 16 will not have an open world. , revealed that the world of Valisthea consists of zones of varying sizes that offer opportunities for non-linear exploration.
As part of a roundtable discussion with the press, Final Fantasy 16 director Hiroshi Takai explained that the world is built from multiple maps. Some are small, some are large. As for the large ones, Takai said, “I think he has four zones of about two kilometers by two kilometers.”
Producer Naoki Yoshida detailed how players can navigate and explore these zones. “There are areas on the world map that you can move to, and selecting that area will seamlessly jump you to that area. Then follow the main quest there. And when you’re done, return to this hub area. […] called hideout. ”
Takai describes the hideout as a place to start both main missions and optional side quests. The latter includes monster hunts among other activities.Yoshida also states that the Hideaway is where players find an item shop, as well as a blacksmith where weapons can be crafted and upgraded.
Much of this setup will be somewhat familiar to series veterans. Even back in the days when Final Fantasy had an “open world,” the Overworld was home to various zones (or “field maps”) rather than what we would consider an open world today. But unlike many of the series’ beloved classics, Final Fantasy 16 has no hidden dungeons or areas.
“We didn’t create anything [hidden dungeons or maps] We wanted the players to be more focused on the main scenario and not have the feeling that they had to go to this area and clear this area. We wanted to focus our development on more key areas, so we didn’t bother creating maps that we didn’t need to visit.”
“But there are areas that I think players could consider to be dungeons,” he continued. “They’re out in the field and you dig deep, but they’re all connected to the story in some way. And they’re all well-crafted dungeons. We want players to go there, so we show them why they go there.
Despite this, Yoshida wanted to assure players that there was still much to see and do in the world of Final Fantasy 16. “One thing I can say is, with this answer, oh, there aren’t many places to explore,” he said. “There are many areas to explore. So don’t worry.”
Learn more about Final Fantasy 16 in ways only PS5 hardware could create, fresh approaches to accessibility, and hands-on previews. You can also read Yoshida’s comments on Final Fantasy 16’s approach to character and cultural diversity.
Matt Purslow is IGN’s UK News and Features Editor.
