Final Fantasy XVI is pushing cinematics and gameplay in the series even further with Cinematic Actions. These stylish Quick Time Events offer a fresh blend of gameplay and cutscenes that allow players to revel in highly directed scenes while honing their reflexes.
Prior Final Fantasy games have had similar systems. However, Final Fantasy XVI‘s focus on action makes these an even bigger spectacle. However, how does this mechanic tie into gameplay? How do they benefit or punish the player? Read more to find out!
Cinematic Strike, Cinematic Clash, and Cinematic Evasion
There are three types of Cinematic Actions. Strike, Clash, and Evasion. Each one corresponds with a different button and action. I have listed the default control scheme (‘A’ Controls). However, the button prompts WILL match your selected control scheme. So, if your evade button is ‘Circle’ instead of R1, then the button prompt will show up as ‘Circle’.
- Blue (Cinematic Strike) – Properly time a tap of the ‘Square’ button. Perform the Action before the timer runs out!
- Red (Cinematic Evade) – Properly time a tap of the R1 button. Perform the action before the timer runs out!
- Yellow (Cinematic Clash) – Tap the ‘Square’ button in rapid succession. Mash the button to overpower your foe before they overpower you!
How to Activate Cinematic Actions
Cinematic Actions automatically trigger during certain fights. They are more than likely tied to the health percentage of the enemy’s HP. Although, for some fights, it could be part of the enemy’s attack routines. Be careful. So while you can’t directly control when these will occur, you, as the player, can use skillful play to drain your foe’s HP so fast that they have no choice but to enter this state. Sadly, for them, you’ll be on your game and input the command fast enough. Right?
What’s the Benefit of Succeeding?
Of course, the obvious benefit is getting a cool action scene in the middle of a big fight. What screams Final Fantasy more than a stylish and flashy attack? Or dodge. Or struggle.
The other benefit is that you get some free damage on your opponent. The Cinematic Strikes and Clashes will deal damage and put your foe into their stagger state most of the time. Once your enemy is staggered, go crazy. Unleash your fury and deal as much damage as possible. It’s what they get for thinking they could overpower or outmaneuver you!
Are There Consequences for Failure?
Oh yeah. There certainly are consequences for failing to input the button prompt properly. Sometimes, but not always, Clive will suffer a decent chunk of damage if you fail to succeed the Cinematic Action. It could be quite interesting to see what all the failure states for Cinematic Actions are! Just prepare to take a beating if you decide to do that.
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