It’s almost a given that FF16 is going to review very well. The extensive previews have been universally glowing. I can’t recall any time a game previewed this well and then did not review well. The FF16 team is extremely confident in their product and they’ve been traveling around the world trying to get the game in the hands of as many journalists and influencers as they can.
That doesn’t mean it will be everybody’s cup of tea, of course. Diablo 4 will likely also review quite well, but I only needed to play a few hours of the last free weekend to know that game is not for me. As much as I enjoyed D2 back in the day, my tastes are dramatically different from what they were when that released.
I initially was down on the lack of a playable party in 16, but watching the trailers and following developer interviews has really won me over. FF7, 8, 9, and 10 are some of my favorite games of all time. I like 12 despite its flaws, but I can’t stand 13 and 15. 16 looks like a significant return to form, and I couldn’t be more excited for it. Plus, FF7Rebirth will come out only a few months later with a fully playable party, so I’m set.
And then there is the Metal Gear Solid remaster collection coming out, so now all of my favorite childhood game series:
Final Fantasy Legend of Zelda Metal Gear Solid Baldur’s Gate Armored Core
Are getting some sort of release in 2023. As somebody who normally only buys 1 or 2 games a year, this is crazy.
All they need to do is announce a Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver reboot and I’m done.