Final Fantasy 16, the latest release in the iconic series, comes with a series of exciting new features and abilities to explore. Among them, Heatwave stands out as an incredibly powerful tool for offense and defense.
This ability offers unique gameplay dynamics that can significantly enhance your combat experience if used strategically. This guide will help you understand how to unlock, upgrade, and effectively use Heatwave in Final Fantasy 16.
How To Unlock Heatwave In Final Fantasy 16
Heatwave is tied to Phoenix, one of the many Eikons in Final Fantasy 16. To unlock this fiery ability, you need to progress through the game until you complete the quest, Sunrise, Sunset. This quest grants you the power of Phoenix and, subsequently, access to Heatwave. Keep in mind that certain parts of the story might need to be encountered or completed to unlock this ability.
To unlock Heatwave, you’ll need to invest 120 Ability Points (AP). As you continue your journey, you can accumulate AP by defeating enemies and completing Main Quests, Side Quests, or even Hunt Board Quests.
How To Equip Heatwave
Once you’ve unlocked Heatwave, the next step is to equip it. Navigate to the Gear and Eikons section in your menu. You’ll find that each Eikon offers two slots for abilities, three if you include the default one. Place Heatwave into one of these slots, and you’ll be ready to unleash fiery fury on your foes.
How to Use Heatwave in Combat
Heatwave isn’t just an offensive move; it’s also a fantastic defensive tool if you utilize it correctly. When activated, it summons a wall of liquid flame capable of dispelling enemy projectiles.
Following this, several potent shockwaves are launched towards your enemies. The force of these shockwaves is amplified if you’ve managed to dispel magic with your fiery wall.
The best time to use Heatwave is when an enemy launches a magic attack at you. If you time your activation well, you can dispel the incoming attack while simultaneously launching a counter offensive. This not only prevents you from taking damage but also allows you to deal additional damage to your foes.
To activate Heatwave, press and hold the R2 button, then hit the button that corresponds to the slot you’ve equipped Heatwave in. Proper timing can significantly enhance the effect of this ability, so stay alert to your enemies’ actions.
Upgrading and Mastering Heatwave
To further enhance the power of Heatwave, you can upgrade it using AP. The first upgrade costs 620 AP and increases the number of shockwaves generated by Heatwave. The Mastery level, costing 1000 AP, allows you to assign Heatwave to any Eikon, providing more versatility in your combat approach.
Executing Heatwave right before an enemy projectile hits you results in a Heatwave Counter, which further empowers the wave force. The incoming projectile is dispelled, and Clive, your character, gains temporary immunity to damage.
Packing Heat Trophy
For trophy enthusiasts, using Heatwave effectively can earn you the “Packing Heat” bronze trophy. To win this trophy, you must execute and land 2 Heatwave Counters in a single battle. Keep a safe distance from your enemies, wait for their projectile attack, and counter with Heatwave to bag this achievement.
Heatwave, with its combined offensive and defensive capabilities, adds a dynamic layer to the combat in Final Fantasy 16. Mastering its use not only boosts your battle prowess but also offers a satisfying and strategic gaming experience. So, equip the Heatwave, hone your timing, and set the battlefield ablaze!
