Square Enix has announced that the highly anticipated PC edition of Final Fantasy XVI will officially launch on September 17, 2024.
Ahead of the full release, a playable demo is now available on both the Epic Games Store and Steam, allowing fans to get an early taste of the game.
Demo Features and Gameplay
Opening Section and Eikonic Challenge
The demo offers over two hours of gameplay, featuring the opening section of the story. Players can carry their progress from the demo into the full game upon purchase.
Additionally, the demo includes a special "Eikonic Challenge" mode, designed to showcase the game's combat mechanics.
Storyline and Setting
Final Fantasy XVI introduces an original standalone story set in the realm of Valisthea, a land blessed by the Mothercrystals.
The narrative follows Clive Rosfield, a warrior tasked with protecting his younger brother Joshua, the Dominant of the Phoenix, Eikon of Fire. 
The story takes a dark turn as Clive seeks revenge against the Dark Eikon, Ifrit, following a tragic event.
Pre-Purchase and Special Editions
Available for Pre-Purchase
The game is now available for pre-purchase on both Steam and the Epic Games Store, pricing at $49.99.
Special editions that include two DLC chapters, "Echoes of the Fallen" and "The Rising Tide," are also available for pre-order.
Exclusive In-Game Items
Pre-purchasing the game grants players access to exclusive items, such as the Onion Sword, which becomes available after reaching the main scenario quest "A Chance Encounter."
PC Version Development
Expanding to a Wider Audience
Initially released as a PlayStation 5 exclusive in June 2023, the decision to develop a PC version was driven by strong fan demand. Producer Naoki Yoshida announced the PC port last September, promising that more information would be shared before the end of the year.
Updates and Quality-of-Life Features
Since its initial release, Square Enix has introduced several updates to improve the game, including bug fixes and quality-of-life enhancements like a "quick complete" function for faster quest completion.
Editor's Comments
The release of Final Fantasy XVI on PC is a significant milestone for Square Enix, expanding the game's reach to a broader audience.
The inclusion of a demo with transferable progress is a strategic move to entice new players.
As the game continues to receive updates and new content, it is poised to maintain its popularity in the RPG community.
Fans can look forward to an immersive experience enriched by the game's dark fantasy setting and compelling storyline.



