Sunday, May 05, 2019

"Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age" Xbox One Review


In many ways, "Final Fantasy XII" was the culmination of the franchise's golden age when it released on the PS2 in 2006. Remade for the PS4 in 2017 with "The Zodiac Age" subtitle, the RPG once again flourished -- even clipsing the spectacular "Final Fantasy XV" in key aspects.

The arrival of "The Zodiac Age" on Xbox One and Switch helps Square Enix's franchise come full circle in its reign over all of gamedom. Finally, the full contingent of gamers can experience the seminal saga despite whatever company loyalties have held them in check.

And this version of "Final Fantasy XII" is well worth the wait.

With spellbinding visuals, fine-tuned sound design and a massive and sprawling story bolstered by an airtight party-building system, the game stands as the ultimate triumph for a generation that grew up playing the early NES releases and came of age when the dynamic trio of the seventh through 10th numbered entries continued to push the franchise forward.

The story is set in a kingdom brought to its knees by nefarious forces, with a cunning resistance seeking to restore glory -- as well as the rightful heir -- to the throne. The story unfurls in cinematic majesty, peppered with thrilling, often trying battles and numerous twists and revelations awaiting you.

"The Zodiac Age" is well worth a look for lifelong "Final Fantasy" fans who had lapsed over the years, and especially those who played the original "Final Fantasy XII" and want to re-experience it with the graces of modern technology making it far more user-friendly and better looking than it was in its original form.

Although "Final Fantasy XV" seemed to right the franchise's ship after the uncharacteristic mediocrity of the three "Final Fantasy XIII" games, it remains to be seen which direction the series continues to evolve. "Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age" stands as a monument for what the franchise once was, as well as what it could be again.

Publisher provided review code.

No comments: