Final Fantasy XV will be getting its first major DLC release soon with the launch of the story expansion called Episode Gladiolus, and now Square Enix has released many more details regarding this new content. We’re given a backstory that sets the scene for the DLC itself, as well as details on new gameplay modes and how Gladiolus controls differently compared to the main game’s Noctis.
We’ll start with the DLC’s backstory, which takes place within the timeline of Final Fantasy XV. After Noctis, Gladiolus, Ignis and Prompto fail to defeat the enemy high commander Ravus, Gladiolus comes to the realization that he is not nearly strong enough to protect King Noctis. Thus, he temporarily leaves the party and teams up with his mentor Cor, and the two of them journey to challenge the Blademaster Gilgamesh to become stronger.
The following is a breakdown of the game’s features:
- Uncover the story told through Gladiolus’s perspective: While FINAL FANTASY XV focuses on the bond between Noctis and his friends, Episode Gladiolus allows players to find out what happened when Gladiolus leaves the party.
- New exhilarating action battle that matches Gladiolus’s character as the King’s Shield: While the main game’s system was designed around Noctis and his mobility to warp and dodge enemy attacks, Gladiolus fights by blocking and counterattacking with the new “Valor” and “Rage” system.
- New environment: Players can access a new area that was previously not accessible in the main game.
- Obtain special items that can be carried over to the main game: By completing the episode, players can obtain special items that cannot be acquired from the main game.
- New gameplay modes: In addition to the main episode, two additional gameplay modes, “Score Attack” and “Final Trial” are available upon completing the episode. These modes offer an added challenge and high replay value for the player.
The Episode Gladiolus DLC for Final Fantasy XV will launch on March 28th for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, and can be purchased individually for $4.99 or as part of the game’s season pass.
