Final Fantasy 16’s The Rising Tide DLC enriches the game’s narrative by delving into one of its most intriguing mysteries: the disappearance of Leviathan, the Eikon of Water. This expansion provides closure to a storyline that has long fascinated players, shedding light on the secrets surrounding Leviathan’s absence and offering a satisfying resolution.
The DLC takes players on a journey with Clive and his companions to the hidden village of Mysidia, where they uncover the truth behind Leviathan’s disappearance. Through interactions with the inhabitants of the village, particularly the newcomer Shula, players learn of the village’s history and the role it played in the events surrounding Leviathan.
Shula reveals that her tribe, the Motes of Water, were persecuted by the empire of Sanbreque and sought refuge in Mysidia. It is here that they attempted to create their own mothercrystal, seeking to harness its power for their own purposes. However, their plans were thwarted when an infant named Waljas manifested as Leviathan’s Dominant, and the tribe sought to exploit his powers to fuel their creation.
Leviathan, sensing the danger posed to Waljas, unleashed a devastating wave of water in an attempt to protect him. In a desperate move to save the village, the tribe froze Waljas and the wave in time, trapping them both in a state of suspended animation. Shula, with her familial connection to Waljas, takes on the responsibility of guarding him and ensuring his safety.
As Clive and his companions become embroiled in the village’s plight, they confront Leviathan and ultimately manage to calm its rage. Clive absorbs Leviathan’s power, allowing Shula to adopt Waljas into the Motes of Water and promising to protect him from harm. With the storm quelled and the village secure, Clive and his friends continue their quest to thwart Ultima’s schemes.
The Rising Tide DLC seamlessly integrates into Final Fantasy 16’s main storyline, providing valuable insights into the game’s lore and characters. By unraveling the mystery of Leviathan’s disappearance and offering a resolution to this subplot, the DLC enriches the overall narrative experience for players, delivering a compelling and satisfying addition to the game.