Final Fantasy 16 was the true next generational FF experience in a multitude of ways. By switching up the design and core mechanics, while setting it in a darker and gritter medieval-styled world versus the more sci-fi and steampunk-inspired ones seen in some of the preceding entries in the long-running RPG series, Square Enix veered away from prior and expected conventions. Despite the risk involved in this and some initial fan uncertainty, Final Fantasy 16 remained true to its spirit and provided players with an epic, emotional, and enjoyable experience.