Final Fantasy 16 Final Boss & Ending Explained, Post-Credits Scene
by Mathelene
Updated Jun 23, 2023
Final Fantasy 16
Final Fantasy XVI is an action role-playing game developed and published by Square Enix. It is the sixteenth main installment in the Final Fantasy series and was released on June 22, 2023, exclusively for the PlayStation 5, at least for a limited time. The game introduces segmented open environments and features an action-based combat system that combines melee and magic-based attacks.
Familiar elements from the series, such as Chocobos and summoned monsters called Eikons, make a return, serving as both bosses and sources of power in combat. The setting of Final Fantasy XVI is the fictional world of Valisthea, which is divided into six nations.
Each nation possesses magical Crystals and Dominants, humans who act as hosts for powerful beings known as Eikons. As a mysterious affliction known as the Blight threatens the land, tensions between the nations escalate. The protagonist, Clive Rosfield, witnesses the destruction of his kingdom and embarks on a quest for revenge, targeting the dark Eikon known as Ifrit.
Development of Final Fantasy XVI began its conceptual stage in 2015, with a team led by producer Naoki Yoshida and main director Hiroshi Takai. The game features the artistic talents of Hiroshi Minagawa and Kazuya Takahashi, creative direction and writing by Kazutoyo Maehiro, music composed by Masayoshi Soken, and battle design by Ryota Suzuki, a veteran from Capcom. Yoshida aimed to create a dark fantasy storyline that would appeal to a wide audience and revitalize the series.
The game's production and promotion faced challenges due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Journalists have generally praised the game, particularly its story, characters, music, and combat system. However, criticisms have been raised regarding the lack of deeper RPG elements, framerate issues, and side quest design.
Final Fantasy 16 Final Boss & Ending Explained
In the climactic finale of Final Fantasy 16, a stunning revelation unfolds: the Mothercrystals in Valisthea are revealed to be fragments of Ultima, which were separated from its main body to harvest aether from the land. During an intense battle, Ultima tears a piece of itself from Joshua, the brother of the protagonist Clive, resulting in a grave injury.
In a selfless act, Joshua transfers his Phoenix ability to Clive, empowering him with a combination of Ifrit and Phoenix powers. With this newfound strength, Clive defeats Ultima and absorbs its essence. Miraculously, Clive's absorption seemingly heals Joshua, showcasing the bonds of love and sacrifice between the two brothers.
Contemplating the immense power harbored by the Mothercrystals, Clive recognizes the dangers they pose and decides that no individual or nation should wield such power. Utilizing his newfound abilities, he destroys Origin, while his allies Torgal and Jill assist a pregnant woman from Ash.
As they gaze upon the sky, the red star, a recurring symbol throughout the game, gradually diminishes, signaling the end of conflict. Clive later awakens on a beach, appearing at peace with the destruction of the Mothercrystals. However, a foreboding sign of his impending demise manifests as his hand begins to petrify.
The conclusion of Final Fantasy 16 carries a bittersweet tone as Clive, in an act of ultimate sacrifice, gives his life to end the wars fueled by the Mothercrystals. It marks the end of his journey, represented by the fading red star, and signifies the dawning of a new era for the child born to the woman from Ash—a beacon of hope and the potential for a future free from strife.
Final Fantasy 16 post-credits scene
In the post-credits scene of Final Fantasy 16, two boys frolic amidst the tranquil woods, their youthful spirits alive with imagination as they enact the roles of revered Eikons. Their spirited play is interrupted by their loving mother, who gently dismisses their fanciful games as mere fairytales. As the scene unfolds further, a captivating sight comes into view—a book of great significance titled "Final Fantasy," penned by none other than Joshua Rosfield. The scene concludes with a profound black screen bearing the poignant words, "But where one journey ends..."
The interpretation of this mesmerizing post-credits scene is open to endless speculation, offering tantalizing possibilities for fans to ponder. One plausible explanation is that the events witnessed throughout the game may exist as a work of fiction within the realm of Valisthea. The striking resemblance between the two boys and the valiant brothers Clive and Joshua, coupled with Joshua's role as the author of the book, suggest that the entire tale could be a meticulously crafted fabrication, ensuring that these cherished characters are immortalized as legendary figures within Valisthea's rich tapestry.
Alternatively, it is conceivable that another soul has gallantly taken up Joshua's mantle, much like Clive assumed the name of Cid, to weave a narrative that preserves the memory of both brothers. This act of devotion may serve as a poignant reminder that their remarkable story must not be consigned to oblivion but rather enshrined within Valisthea's collective consciousness, becoming an enduring part of its vibrant folklore and cherished history.
The final enigmatic tagline, "But where one journey ends...," leaves the door ajar for countless new narratives to unfold within the breathtaking world of Valisthea. It ignites a spark of hope that, despite Clive's tragic fate within the game, he may yet reemerge in future installments of the beloved Final Fantasy franchise, rekindling the spirit of classic Final Fantasy magic. This tantalizing prospect invites players and enthusiasts alike to embark on further adventures and immerse themselves in the evolving tapestry of characters and enchanting realms that Valisthea holds.
Ultimately, the post-credits scene of Final Fantasy 16 weaves an exquisite tapestry of wonder and contemplation. Its alluring imagery and thought-provoking implications beckon players to delve into the depths of their imagination, crafting their own interpretations and breathing life into the enduring legacy of the characters and the captivating world of Valisthea.
Final Boss Wiki
The final boss, known as the "last boss" or "lasboss," represents the ultimate challenge at the end of a game's main quest. Upon defeating the final boss, players are treated to an ending cutscene and credits. However, certain games allow players to continue playing and explore post-ending optional content by loading a completed game save file.
A prevalent theme among final bosses is their desire to bring about the destruction of all existence and return the world to a state of nothingness. Often, these bosses possess ambitions of attaining god-like power or becoming divine beings themselves. As the climactic encounter approaches, final bosses commonly undergo dramatic transformations, confronting the player in multiple formidable forms.
Final boss battles are renowned for their elaborate and cinematic nature. They are accompanied by a distinct final boss theme, a specially composed piece of battle music that frequently becomes an iconic and memorable component of the overall Final Fantasy musical repertoire. These intense battles serve as a culmination of the player's journey and provide a fitting climax to the game's narrative.
Final Fantasy 16 Trailer
Final Fantasy 16 Final Boss & Ending Explained - FAQs
Final Fantasy XVI is currently exclusive to the PlayStation 5.
Final Fantasy XVI features an action-based combat system that incorporates both melee and magic-based attacks.
Yes, Eikons play a significant role in the game.
The development team includes notable individuals such as producer Naoki Yoshida, main director Hiroshi Takai, artists Hiroshi Minagawa and Kazuya Takahashi, creative director and lead writer Kazutoyo Maehiro, composer Masayoshi Soken, and battle designer Ryota Suzuki.