Square Enix's Active Time Reports are often very entertaining if you want more information about Final Fantasy XV, and last night's was no exception. These are some of the most noteworthy titbits from it:
• They clarified that its not an open world game. You'll get to explore new areas further into the story, and you can't climb. Luckily you can return to areas you've previously visited as long as it's before the last boss.
• You can fast travel to camps and such in the game if you don't want to use chocobos, cars and such. Cars are faster than chocobos by the way.
• Speaking of the car, if you fail to land safely in plane mode you'll die. Though chances are you won't lose hours of progress, as you can save at pretty much any time.
• There will also be a wide variety of songs to listen to while driving, but at this time there are no plans of letting players play their own songs.
They also discussed the characters and updated their bios.
Noctis Lucis Caelum
- Age: 20
- Birthday: August 30
- Height: 176 cm
- Favourite activity: Beating a game's high score
As the heir to the Lucian throne, Noctis' trials begins when he sets forth from the crown city in order to wed Lady Lunafreya Nox Fleuret. He wields spectral weapons in combat which he forges from thin air, a power possessed by those of royal heritage.
Ignis Scientia
- Age: 22
- Birthday: February 7
- Height: 183 cm
- Favourite activity: Creating new food recipes
Ignis was raised alongside Noctis as his advisor. A strict education taught him the resourcefulness and composure required for the role. His tactical advice will prove invaluable over the course of the prince's journey.
Gladiolus Amicitia
- Age: 23
- Birthday: April 2
- Height: 198cm
- Favourite activity: Camping
The Amicitia family has long served as the shield protecting the kings of Lucis and their household, and Gladiolus is its eldest son. The bond he shares with Noctis transcends that of a bodyguard and his master. With his incredible strength, he's always ready to keep his companions from harm.
Prompto Argentum
- Age: 20
- Birthday: October 25
- Height: 173cm
- Favourite activity: Taking pictures
Prompto has been friends with Noctis since they met as teenagers, and turned to him when tragedy struck befell Lucis. Therefore he strives to carry more than his own weight by lightening his companions' burdens, as well as their spirits.
• Hajime Tabata's favourite character is Noctis, while Akio Ofuji's is Prompto.
• Prompto's hair and facial designs have been altered because they received negative feedback. No luck for those of you who don't like his voice, though.
Thought this would be the last we'd hear from Final Fantasy XV before E3? Think again. The second episode of Brotherhood: Final Fantasy XV will release around E3, maybe before, and we'll get a "Day 0 Edition" of the Active Time Report on June 13. They finished the stream with this new trailer showcasing some chocobo riding.
Final Fantasy XV is set to launch September 30 on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
