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Final Fantasy 16's protagonist Clive is a formidable fighter, but his skills can be enhanced even further by unlocking and mastering new abilities. After gaining enough AP, it's possible for players to unlock and master all of Clive's abilities, but new players may be wondering which ones they should focus on unlocking first. There are definitely some abilities that are better than others, and there are a few things that players should keep in mind when spending AP early on in the game that will make their experience more enjoyable.
Final Fantasy 16 gives players complete control over which abilities they choose to unlock, and most of Clive's basic abilities are available to acquire at the start of the game. Eikonic Abilities from Eikons other than Phoenix can't be obtained until later, but most of the options from Clive's main skill tree can be learned right away.
Final Fantasy 16: Most Important Abilities to Learn Early On
It's worth noting that learning Clive's basic abilities is actually relatively cheap compared to mastering them, so players should eventually learn all of the abilities. Players will start the game with some abilities like Magic Burst and Precision Dodge already learned, but the rest of his abilities must be acquired by AP. The following options are particularly nice to have early on.
- Swift Recovery - Swift Recovery should be the first ability that players purchase with AP. It only costs 10 AP and allows Clive to get back into the fight immediately after being knocked down by pressing R1.
- Burning Blade - Burning Blade allows players to hold square and charge up a powerful fire attack for Clive. Although this move takes too long to use effectively in combat, it can be charged up before combat starts and works as a great opener.
- Charged Magic - For players that prefer to keep their distance, Charged Magic is a good alternative to Burning Blade. Simply hold Triangle, and players will be able to shoot a powerful magic blast. The element of this attack changed based on the attuned Eikon as well.
- Stomp - Stomp allows players to jump off of enemies, providing them with just a little bit of extra air. This is useful for setting up aerial combos and gives players new options in combat.
Final Fantasy 16: Most Important Abilities to Master Early On
Mastering abilities is expensive, but it can make them much more useful. The following abilities should be mastered as soon as possible.
- Precision Dodge - Clive starts with this ability, but mastering it extends the time frame to perform a precision dodge. This is incredibly important in the combat of Final Fantasy 16.
- Burning Blade - As mentioned earlier, Burning Blade normally takes too long to make it worth using in the midst of battle. Mastering this ability makes it charge rather quickly.
- Downthrust - Once mastered, Downthrust will imbue Clive's blade with fire, causing a small explosion around the area of impact. This turns aerial attacks into a devastating option.
Final Fantasy 16 releases on April 22nd for PS5.
