When it comes to video games based on DC Comics characters, what immediately comes to mind is Rocksteady’s outstanding work on theBatman Arkham Franchise. However, as engaging of a protagonist as Batman is, there are numerous otherDC superheroesready for triple A gaming releases, something Monolith Productions aims to remedy with its upcomingWonder Womanproject.
First announced in 2021 with a brief teaser trailer, little is known aboutWonder Womanaside from the fact that it will star the titular character and is currently in active development. Due to the nature of the character, it would be easy to assume that the title will take the form of an action title in its finished form. Monolith Productions has plenty of experience with creating innovative combat systems, however it should look to what Square Enix has accomplished withFinal Fantasy 16as a source of inspiration.
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Final Fantasy 16’s Real-Time Combat Mechanics
As mentioned, Monolith Productions has plenty of experience with deep combat systems. After all, the studio was behind bothMiddle Earth: Shadow of Mordorand its sequel,Shadow of War, two open world action games praised for the sword play mechanics. Playing off thefree-flow system introduced in theBatman Arkhamfranchise, it made fighting legions of orcs a thrill. Although extremely solid in its own way, the character of Wonder Woman will certainly need something more grandiose and flashy.
Enter what Square Enix has implemented withFinal Fantasy 16’s robust combat system. In a huge shift from the more turn based strategy from older installments, it instead builds upon the faster paced fighting ofFinal Fantasy 15but with far more finesse and flair. Playing closer to something like theDevil May CryorBayonettaseries, this emphasis on hack n' slash with just enough RPG concepts tossed into the mix would be a perfect fit for Wonder Woman.
Using Wonder Woman’s Powers In Final Fantasy 16’s Combat Style
Wonder Woman has a wide assortment of powers and equipment that she uses to overcome her foes. She has superhuman strength and agility, as well as the ability to fly. As if that’s not enough, she also possesses wrist gauntlets capable of deflecting enemy attacks, a tiara that can be thrown as a projectile and her infamous lasso of truth. With so manytools and skills at Wonder Woman’s disposal, it wouldn’t be that difficult to find ideas for a deep combat system.
Returning toFinal Fantasy 16’s combat, while it does greatly emphasize melee attacks, it still features the magic spell casting roots of the franchise. Many of Wonder Woman’s powers are rooted in the same sort of fantasy and mysticism, so what was pulled off inFinal Fantasy 16strikes a good balance which would fit well with the popular DC hero.Final Fantasy 16specifically has no set block button, and instead encourages nimble maneuvers to dodge enemy attacks and then parry them. Wonder Woman often faces off against giant mythological beasts, something which could benefit from relying on graceful speed over brute force.
Final Fantasy 16also makes great use of asystem known as Eikonic Abilities. These are moves that the protagonist Clive can pull off mid-battle, both offensive and defensive, that can turn the tide of battle in his favor. Wonder Woman has access to numerous ancient artifacts and weapons considering her upbringing and connections to the pantheon of Greek gods. As such, she could summon Zeus’s thunderbolt or Hermes speed to dash around enemies. There are endless opportunities for what Monolith Productions can do with this character in an action game, and whatever it comes up with will hopefully feel as good asFinal Fantasy 16.
