One of the biggest complaints about modern Final Fantasy games is how linear they often are, particularly when compared to some of their 2D predecessors. Final Fantasy 16 isn't too different in this regard, as although players can take a break from the main story to tackle the occasional side quest or Notorious Mark hunt, it always feels as though they're being nudged toward continuing the main story.
Those who do take the time to engage with the game's side content will find that there are actually a few side quests that offer players a choice, though these decisions typically end up having little to no consequence on the story or even the quests themselves. There are even a couple of mandatory subquests that force players to make a decision, the first of which is called "Letting Off Steam I".
Should You Choose Otto or Gav in Letting Off Steam 1? (No Spoilers)
After speaking with Blackthorne at the beginning of the quest, Final Fantasy 16 players will be asked to choose who will accompany them to collect the Stardust: Otto or Gav? Though some may be worried about the consequences of their decision, they can rest easy knowing that it doesn't really matter whether players choose Gav or Otto in "Letting Off Steam I", as the quest will end the same way regardless. It could perhaps be argued that choosing Gav makes the most sense, but save for a few unique lines of dialogue, players won't miss out on much if they opt for Otto instead.
What Happens if You Choose Gav? (Spoilers)
The first part of the subquest is the same regardless of whether players choose Gav or Otto. They'll need to make their way to the river in the south of the Velkroy and then gather five handfuls of Stardust. After that is where things start to differ slightly, as returning to Gav will trigger a touching moment between him and Clive in which the two men reflect on how things between them have changed in the years since the previous Cid's death.
What Happens if You Choose Otto? (Spoilers)
Things play out more or less the same if players choose Otto, only this time, once players have finished collecting the Stardust, Otto will thank Clive for everything that he's done for the people of the hideaway. Players will also learn that it was Otto who first backed Clive's decision to take on Cid's name, which may be of interest to some. Ultimately, though, once players turn in the mission, whether they chose Gav or Otto will be of no further consequence.
Final Fantasy 16 is available now exclusively for the PlayStation 5.
