Skip to main content

Final Fantasy XV update: goodbye E3, hello Gamescom and updated demo

final fantasy xv e3 gamescom demo update trailer
We were excited by what the Episode Duscae demo for Final Fantasy XV had to offer, but it was merely a glimpse of what the finished game will be. Many were hoping that we’d see more details of the game at E3 in June, but unfortunately, that doesn’t seem to be the case.

In an episode of the Final Fantasy XV Active Time Report released yesterday, the game’s director Hajime Tabata and Square Enix marketing manager Akio Ofuji shared details on what fans will be seeing from the game in the near future. Among other tidbits, the pair discussed plans for upcoming conventions as well as an approaching update to the Final Fantasy XV demo (via Siliconera).

“I think most people are expecting a big reveal around E3,” Tabata said, before adding that those working on the game don’t have enough time to prepare before the event. “So I have been discussing with our marketing teams, and we’ve actually been considering Gamescom in August, instead of E3, as the target for the next major reveal.”

Ofuji added that the game wouldn’t be entirely absent from E3, saying “I think we’ll still prepare a short trailer for E3, but I think it’ll serve as a segue into our Gamescom plans, and make you all excited for what’s ahead.”

The two then moved on to discuss a recent survey sent to fans looking for feedback on the game’s demo. Problems with the camera and lock-on were mentioned, but a major concern for many lies in the demo’s performance issues.

An update to the demo, planned for May, will bring balance adjustments, bug fixes, and adjustments to the camera and targeting. Developers are looking into framerate issues that were raised, but aren’t able to promise that they will be addressed before the release of Episode Duscae 2.0.

“We’ve already made plans for improving certain things, and we’ve begun implementing things that used to be unknowns for us,” Tabata said. “And if possible, instead of presenting a master that will be like the final release, I really want everyone to see and feel how the game is improving toward the final release as we take in all of their feedback.”

For more details, see the archived version of the stream below.

FINAL FANTASY XV Active Time Report – Prelim Feedback Special
Kris Wouk
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Kris Wouk is a tech writer, gadget reviewer, blogger, and whatever it's called when someone makes videos for the web. In his…
All Chronolith locations and rewards in Final Fantasy 16
A chronolith trial pillar glowing in the sunlight.

Every Final Fantasy game changes up the battle system in one way or another. Final Fantasy 16 isn't the first to have real-time, action-focused combat, but is by far the most polished and refined one. The story is by no means secondary, but for the first time players are able to really express themselves through the various combos and abilities you can pull off. Square Enix recognized this and included special combat trails called Chronolith Trials. These are somewhat similar to the special missions you can find in games like Devil May Cry 5 where you are faced with a unique challenge for a reward. As tough as these challenges are to beat, finding them is also a bit of a chore. Hop on your Chocobo and follow our lead to find all the Chronolith locations in Final Fantasy 16. 
What are Chronolith Trials?

Chronolith Trials are unique combat trails that put you into an arena that spawns waves of enemies. There will always be three rooms that each spawn three waves of enemies, plus a boss at the end. You're on a timer, and can only use a designated Eikon with predetermined abilities. By pulling off Battle Techniques, including Precision Dodge and Ability Finishes, you can extend your time. If you're quick enough to beat all the enemies without running out of time, you'll earn a special accessory as a reward. There are seven in total, and completing them all will also unlock the final Wall of Memory item you need to complete that collection.
All Chronolith Trial locations
Phoenix
In Greensheaves in Rosaria, fast travel to Martha's Rest and exit to the north. Follow the path east and you will find it just before the path leading to Rhiannon's Ride.

Read more
Final Fantasy 16 Renown explained: what is Renown and how to earn it
Final Fantasy 16's cover showcasing its protagonist infront of two demon summons.

Every JRPG, and even games with RPG elements, likes to introduce new systems into the mix for you to learn and interact with. Most of the mechanics in Final Fantasy 16 will be familiar, like sidequests, upgrading gear, and unlocking abilities. However, later on, the game will introduce you to the Renown system once you take control of the Cursebreakers. This occurs once you reach the main hub of the game called Cid's Hideaway after going through the main story until you reach A Chance Encounter. While you might be feeling content ignoring this new mechanic and just pushing on with the main story, there are plenty of reasons to learn it. Here's a simple explanation of how the Renown system works in Final Fantasy 16.
What is Renown and how to earn it

Without spoiling much, after Clive takes on a certain mantle and is in charge of Cid's Hideaway, the Renown system will automatically be put into effect. This is meant to represent how much inspiration and support Clive has earned from the people of Valisthea in his cause and fight against the Blight. You can see how much Renown you currently have by visiting the Patron's Whisper and talking to Desiree.

Read more
ESA denies E3 2024 and 2025 have been canceled, despite LA tourism board’s claims
e3 returns full force in 2023 logo

There are conflicting reports over whether or not E3 2024 and E3 2025 will take place. A new document from the Los Angeles City Tourism Commission claims that both E3 2024 and E3 2025 have been canceled, but a spokesperson for the Entertainment Software Association claims no final decision has been made yet.

For over 20 years, the ESA held an event called E3 each June, where companies from around the video game industry would come together and show off their upcoming games. It got canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and the ESA took 2022 off after a rough digital-only show in 2021. The expo was set to return in 2023, but was canceled in March after Nintendo, Sony, Microsoft, Ubisoft, and other game companies pulled out of the event. E3's future was put into question after that, and now it looks like it might not be coming back for the foreseeable future.

Read more