Episode Ignis: I’m Not Crying, Something Got In My Eye
The final chapter in the Final Fantasy XV saga has come to a close. Episode Ignis branches the last glaring “plot-hole” from the main game while also presenting a few surprises along the way. Needless to say, mild spoilers are contained within, to allow fair and accurate discussion of this release.
How does Episode Ignis differentiate itself from the other DLC missions that preceded it? First of all, this segment explains a curious plot-hole from the main games’ campaign. Players get to learn a bit more about what takes place in Altissia, after the fight with Leviathan nocts Noctis out (get it?) ...
Once again, like in the past episodes, the combat set for Ignis far exceeds his capabilities in the base game. A little upsetting, however playing as Ignis is absolutely satisfying. There is a strategy based on what element you infuse the daggers with, and each element has a fluidity and effective area-of-effect that can really sway a battle in your favor. For any players who haven’t beaten the single-player campaign, this episode also introduces the ability to swap between characters; no longer forcing people to play only Noctis.
The narrative tells about Ignis as he pushes to find Noctis who is unconscious on an alter across Altissia. While that main plot-line is relatively straight-forward, the game also takes time to revisit what Ignis’ duty is, and how he has been protecting his King since adolescence. These emotional scenes open up a new layer to the overall experience that culminates in one helluva beautiful ending. In fact, this episode takes the time to give us the “true” ending to Final Fantasy XV. Yes I cried, I’ll admit it.
In summary, while only a couple hours long, Episode Ignis pushes a lot of the right buttons for people who identify with Ignis as a character. His dedication to his first true friend and his job as protector of the King, is visually explained while also tested throughout the narrative. The fluid and exciting combat is refreshingly new and doesn’t get stale at any point. A lot of secrets, some fun easter eggs, and overall the only must play DLC for Final Fantasy XV lore fans.