It's always intriguing to revisit a game post-completion, especially when it ended on a conclusive note. Expanding on a beloved game with story-centric DLC offers an opportunity to reengage with its world and characters. Final Fantasy XVI: The Rising Tide does just that, allowing fans to dive back into the universe with an added storyline. Here’s a detailed review of this new chapter.

Mysidia: A New Realm

The Rising Tide takes place in a new region called Mysidia, situated in the northern part of the game’s world. This area, shielded by powerful magic, presents a facade of endless blue skies. As Clive, you and your crew explore this secluded society, discovering its unique ways and vibrant charm. Mysidia’s picturesque landscape and distinct societal norms provide a refreshing shift from the darker tones of the base game.

A Brilliantly Concealed Gem

One of the most fascinating aspects of Mysidia is its isolation. This magical concealment creates a hidden gem within the game's expansive world. Though relatively small, each corner of Mysidia is rich with stunning views that highlight Final Fantasy XVI’s technical prowess in world-building and visual storytelling. This area serves not only as a new playground but also as a testament to the game's ability to craft beautiful, immersive environments.

The Story of Leviathan

At the heart of The Rising Tide is the tale of Leviathan, an Eikon with a tumultuous history. Much like other Eikons in Final Fantasy XVI, Leviathan was used unwisely, leading to catastrophic consequences. As players embark on this new questline, they uncover the history and culture of Mysidia and its people’s relationship with Leviathan. The journey reveals their self-sustaining lifestyle and unique approach to magic, guided by their leader, Shula.

New Characters and Dynamics

Shula, while not a standout in the grand narrative, acts as a crucial anchor within this DLC. Her role is pivotal in guiding Clive through the new region, providing a fresh dynamic and twist to the conventional plot structure of Final Fantasy XVI. The storyline introduces softer themes and breaks generational curses, adding a touch of warmth and vibrance often missing in the original game.

Gameplay Enhancements

The Rising Tide elevates the gameplay experience with the introduction of new dungeons and an epic Eikon battle. The dungeon, although brief, culminates in a boss fight that stands out for its inventive mechanics. These new challenges are reminiscent of the strategic battles found in Final Fantasy XIV, offering a blend of intense engagement and gratification upon overcoming them.

Eikon Abilities: Leviathan and Ultima

The ability to control Leviathan is a highlight of this DLC. This Eikon focuses on projectile attacks, transforming Clive's arm into a powerful shotgun capable of unleashing devastating water blasts. The cooldown abilities of Leviathan, including rapid-fire bubbles and wave attacks, make combat engaging and strategically rich.

In addition to Leviathan, players can also wield Ultima, which brings a new set of dynamic powers. Ultima’s abilities, characterized by dramatic displays of force, allow Clive to hover and strike with powerful wing attacks, making combat even more thrilling. The new content, Kairos Gates, further challenges players with run-based combat, enhancing Clive’s abilities through progressively difficult enemy encounters.

Sidequests and Rewards

The sidequests in The Rising Tide expand the narrative of Mysidia and provide additional context. These quests typically involve conversations with NPCs, item fetching, and target eliminations. While they adhere to the familiar quest design of the original game, they offer critical opportunities to hone new Eikon skills and enrich the story.

Combat-Focused Sidequests

These sidequests are more combat-oriented, serving as practical ground for players to master the new Eikon abilities. Once the main storyline of the DLC is complete, new sidequests become available, providing additional closure for Shula and the people of Mysidia. These missions, despite being marked as optional, are pivotal in delivering an emotional payoff and expanding the narrative depth.

Musical Brilliance

The Rising Tide continues to impress with its musical composition. Masayoshi Soken, along with his team, delivers a captivating soundtrack that enhances the DLC’s atmosphere. The music in Mysidia, from the melancholic acoustic tune of Haven to the enchanting overworld theme, encapsulates the emotional journey of the game.

Emotional Resonance Through Music

The dungeon tracks blend light electronic elements with the core leitmotif of Final Fantasy XVI, creating a magical ambiance that ties back to the original game’s journey. The Eikon battle theme, on the other hand, ramps up the intensity, fueling the excitement of combat. The calming tracks, however, stand out, delivering emotional nuances that resonate with the adventure's deeper themes.

Conclusion: A Bittersweet Experience

Playing through The Rising Tide is a bittersweet experience, offering a brief but impactful extension to Final Fantasy XVI. It reintroduces vibrance and warmth, contrasting the base game’s grim ambiance. With its engaging story, inventive gameplay, and enchanting music, The Rising Tide is a delightful return to Valisthea, making it a must-play for those who are fans of the original game. This DLC successfully mixes nostalgia with new content, culminating in a satisfying send-off for Final Fantasy XVI.