Final Fantasy XV‘s first piece of post-launch story DLC is out next week for Xbox One and PlayStation 4, and in order to get you primed for the big day, Square Enix has released a bunch of new details for what to expect come March 28.
Taking place during the period in which Noctis’ sworn protector leaves the group in order to undertake a personal quest, Episode Gladiolus sees the musclebound bodyguard meet up with his mentor Cor in order improve his abilities, following his defeat at the hands of high commander Ravus. “In the ancient ruins that were found in the Kingdom of Lucis 30 years ago, the spirits of heroes that once served the king await the next generation of warriors,” reads the fact sheet (via Gematsu), which further adds that players will need to visit the ruins in order to confront the challenges that await, including a confrontation with classic series ‘villain’ Gilgamesh.
Unlike the flow of combat players will be used to in the main game with Noctis’ warp abilities, Square says Episode Gladiolus will instead feature a new Valor and Rage system that accentuates Gladiolus’ fighting style of blocking and counterattacking his enemies assaults. A brand new area not previously accessible will take center stage in the add-on, with players able to carry over special items obtained from completing the standalone story into the main game. Square doesn’t touch upon what function the special items serve, so you’ll probably just have to wait until next week to find out.
Other notable features include a Score Attack and Final Trial mode, which will be unlocked upon completion of the episode and offer an “added challenge and high replay value” for the player.
If you’re not concerned about spoilers, see above for the first 15 minutes of Final Fantasy XV‘s Episode Gladiolus, released at PAX East. Two more episodes, one each for Ignis and Prompto, are planned to launch before the end of 2017, with a multiplayer-focused update to follow. See here for more details.
