With Final Fantasy 16 taking things in a bold new direction with its combat and storytelling, not everyone who has been a fan of the long-running JRPG series will be able to jump into the groove of things straightaway. After all, when there is swordplay, companion skills, Eikonic Abilities, and much, much more thrown into the mix, it will certainly take some time before the combat experience become second nature.
As such, it is always great to practice one's moves before jumping into the fray against the tough enemies of Final Fantasy 16. For those who would prefer to hone their skills safely without the fear of defeat and fatal injuries, Square Enix has made it possible thanks to the Arete Stone and the Hall of Virtue.
The Arete Stone in Final Fantasy 16
After visiting the hideaway of Cid and the rest of the Cursebreakers, Clive will eventually get the instructions from Charon to pick up some emergency supplies. These bags can be found just next to the Arete Stone, which lights up when Clive is near. From then on, players can access the options available at the Arete Stone for their own benefit throughout the game.
Hall of Virtue
Players hoping to master the skills in combat like Eikonic Abilities, combos, and the right windows to dodge will be very happy in the Hall of Virtue, which is essentially the training mode for Final Fantasy 16. In this construct, players are free to tweak all sorts of options to help set them up for any given scenario, down to enemy choice and even the presence of companions like Torgal.
Ability synergy can be refined here, while enemy patterns are more easily discerned for defensive moves when there are no other distractions around. As such, it is highly advisable for all to check out the Hall of Virtue if there is a particular enemy that is too much of a threat.
Arcade Mode
Another option at the Arete Stone is Arcade Mode, where players can take on previously completed stages and be assessed for a chance to set a high score. Limiting players to certain gear and levels, this is a great way to put into practice those battle techniques refined in the Hall of Virtue, and getting those S ranks will make players feel good about their chances.
The stages are broken into different legs as well, so trying to get a great score throughout an entire stage is going to be a challenge not for the fainthearted.
Stage Replay
The Arete Stone also allows players to jump into stage replay, which comes with no restrictions on gear or level. Stage Replay makes it possible for a powerful Clive with all sorts of abilities to revisit older haunts and see how things play out.
Beyond just a power trip, this is a reliable way for players to revisit pivotal cutscenes, collect forgotten items, earn XP and Ability Points (albeit at a reduced rate), or retry any missed feats. Enemy loot drops may also vary, so it can be considered a good move to try things out for a favorite stage or two.
Ultimaniac Mode
Only available in Final Fantasy Mode in New Game+, the final option at the Arete Stone is a variation on the standard arcade mode. While the premise is the same, players can expect to face different enemy placements, more challenging foes, and generally a harder but hopefully more rewarding time in combat. This is definitely made for those that want more and feel like the normal game just doesn't cut it in terms of difficulty.
With so many options, the Arete Stone provides even more ways for players to enjoy Final Fantasy 16. Once every facet of combat has been mastered, then there is even more reason to enjoy the free-flowing combat of this new entry.
Final Fantasy 16 is available now exclusively for the PlayStation 5.
