The first paid-for story add-on for Final Fantasy XV has arrived and as the name suggests, this story episode is focused around Gladiolus.
Without spoiling too much of the main story for those still yet to play it, Episode Gladiolus fit’s in at that point midway through the main game where Gladiolus disappears without much warning. He re-appears soon after but no-one is none the wiser why. The DLC will fill in those gaps.
The story of the DLC has Gladiolus teaming up with Cor to take on a trial that was discovered in ruins 30 years ago, in an attempt to become stronger and protect Noctis better. At the end of the trials is a boss synonymous to the Final Fantasy franchise, Gilgamesh. Playing as Gladiolus will be completely different to playing as Noctis and as a result, new battle mechanics are added, called the ‘Valor’ and ‘Rage’ systems. Gladiolus was always considered the main muscle of the group so it’s here we will understand where that raw power comes from.
The price of the DLC is $4.99 or part of the season pass at $24.99 and should be available for you to purchase very soon. Due for release today, if you’re not already seeing it available on your favourite digital store (Xbox Games Store or Playstation Store), then it’s only a matter of time before it arrives. This includes new achievements and the ability to carry over some items back into the main game once the DLC has been completed.
Episode features include:
- A new story told from Gladiolus’ perspective uncovering the events that transpired when the character left the party in FINAL FANTASY XV’s main storyline
- An exhilarating combat system that capitalizes on Gladiolus’ blocking and counterattacking play style through the new “Valor” and “Rage” system
- Previously inaccessible parts of Eos that are now open for exploration
- Special items that can be carried over the main game and exclusive to those who complete Episode Gladiolus
- Two brand-new gameplay modes, “Score Attack” and “Final Trial” made available upon completing Episode Gladiolus
But that’s not all! Launched today and free for all owners of Final Fantasy XV is an update being referred to as ‘Chapter 13, Verse 2’. Available to download now versions 1.06 and 1.07 add a new route to the divisive Chapter 13 allowing you to play through it as Gladiolus himself. For those that still prefer Noctis, his spells have been buffed for Chapter 13, meaning the battles should be far less monotonous now.
Also included in the free update is the music from Episode Gladiolus available for the in-game music player and various bug fixes.
With more free updates planned for Xbox One and PS4 alongside further story episodes for Ignis and Prompto and a slice of co-op gameplay, Final Fantasy XV looks set to remain of hard drives for a long time. If you haven’t yet checked it out, grab a read of our review and enjoy.
