Final Fantasy XVI on Linux: A Cross-Platform Performance Analysis

Square Enix’s Final Fantasy XVI has finally made its way to the desktop PC realm, a year following its console debut. However, the experience has been mixed, particularly when evaluated on Linux platforms. In this article, we will take a detailed look at how FF16 performs on various configurations, including desktop setups using Arch Linux and the portable Steam Deck.

Exploring new worlds in Final Fantasy XVI

Testing Framework

For our benchmarks, we utilized a configuration that has been reliable in previous tests with various Linux titles. The primary setup features an AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT, and to assess performance across different platforms, we supplemented our tests with Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 Ti and Intel Arc A380 graphics cards. The tests were conducted on a standard Steam Deck running SteamOS 3.5.19, equipped with the latest kernel and drivers appropriate for gaming.

Test Configuration

• CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
• RAM: 32 GB DDR5-6000 CL30
• Motherboard: Asus Prime X679E-Pro WiFi
• GPU Options: AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 Ti, Intel Arc A380
• Linux Distribution: Arch Linux
• Kernel: 6.10.10
• Drivers: Mesa 24.2.2 for AMD and Intel, Nvidia 560.53.03
• Desktop Environment: KDE Plasma 6.1.5
• Proton Version: Proton Experimental

Our primary focus for benchmarking was a picturesque village setting called Kielbrügge, which showcases demanding graphical elements, including dense vegetation transitioning into architecturally intricate structures illuminated by numerous light sources.

Benchmarking Results

Initial impressions of FF16’s performance on Linux echo concerning trends previously recognized in benchmarks across Windows platforms. Even under optimal conditions, issues continue to manifest, underscoring the challenges developers face when porting games.

Performance Metrics on Linux Desktop

The AMD RX 7800 XT yielded the following average frame rates (FPS) at a resolution of 2560x1440:

• Ultra Preset; FSR 3 Dynamic Resolution: 59.7 FPS
• Ultra Preset; FSR 3 Performance: 57.8 FPS
• Ultra Preset; FSR 3 Balanced: 57.1 FPS
• Low Preset; FSR 3 Native AA: 56.5 FPS
• Ultra Preset; FSR 3 Quality: 56.1 FPS

Analyzing performance metrics in real-time

The initial hours of gameplay offer a solid experience, maintaining consistent FPS above 60 during various parts of the game. The quality of graphics is striking; however, as players delve deeper into the game world, performance issues begin to arise.

Key Challenges

Without the FSR-3 Frame Generation feature activated, frame rates drop below playable levels, making the game nearly unmanageable. Stuttering and noticeable frame time discrepancies become evident, leading to frustrating gameplay experiences. When utilizing the frame generation feature, there is an observable improvement; FPS can stabilize above 60 during less complex scenes but falters significantly under heavier graphical loads. Trend analyses indicate that lowering the graphics settings provides minimal performance increases compared to using dynamic resolution scaling with FSR 3 enabled.

Transitioning to Nvidia and Intel hardware yielded less than satisfactory results. The testing indicated that, while FF16 can technically run on these platforms, it does so at unplayable FPS levels, requiring players using these hardware options to significantly lower graphical expectations.

Benchmarking on the Steam Deck

Despite Square Enix’s lack of official performance metrics for the Steam Deck, the community quickly discovered that the device struggles with FF16’s demanding visuals.

Testing the game at the lowest settings in a similar benchmark scene yielded a dismal average of 12.3 FPS, with 1% low frames barely registering at 7.0 FPS. This figure starkly contrasts what gamers expect from even the most demanding titles.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the realm of FF16 on Linux has been a rollercoaster of expectations versus reality. The title showcases the potential of gaming on alternative platforms; however, substantial hurdles remain. The technical shortcomings observed particularly stem from the challenges faced during its port from consoles to PC environments.

Despite the allure of experiencing Final Fantasy XVI on Linux, current graphical performance issues heavily detract from gameplay enjoyment, especially for those using Intel or Nvidia GPUs. Players looking for smooth, consistent experiences may find better luck embracing different hardware options while waiting for future patches.

For the time being, those entrenched in the AMD ecosystem may find indulging in this vibrant RPG worthwhile, as the game, despite its flaws, offers an immersive experience for those who dare dive deep.