Noctis’ Arsenal: Choosing the Ultimate Weapon in Final Fantasy XV

Alright, Kingsglaive, let’s talk Noctis and his penchant for shiny, stabby things. You’re wandering Eos, facing down daemons, and frankly, Noctis deserves the best blade (or spear, or firearm) to get the job done. Figuring out which weapon reigns supreme can feel like sifting through a Chocobo farm – lots to see, but what’s *really* worth the effort? Fear not, fellow gamer, because we’re diving deep into Noctis’ arsenal and uncovering the top contenders for ultimate weapon status in Final Fantasy XV.

Unlocking Noctis’ Potential: Finding the Perfect Weapon

Noctis Lucis Caelum, our brooding prince and future king, isn’t just about looking good; he’s about delivering devastating blows. His arsenal is vast and varied, each weapon type boasting unique stats, combos, and strategic advantages. From the swift strikes of swords to the bone-crushing power of greatswords, finding the right tool for the right job is crucial. Think of it like assembling the Avengers – each hero is powerful, but they truly shine when working together, utilizing their individual strengths. Finding the right weapon is like finding the right Avenger for the mission.

The Contenders: Examining the Best Weapon Types for Noctis

Before we dive into specific weapons, let’s break down the different weapon types available to Noctis. Swords are your bread and butter, offering a balance of speed, power, and versatility. Greatswords pack a serious punch, sacrificing speed for raw damage. Spears provide excellent reach and crowd control. Daggers are all about speed and critical hits. Firearms are excellent for ranged attacks, while Royal Arms offer unique abilities tied to the Lucian bloodline. Each type caters to a different playstyle, so experiment to discover what feels right.

Swords

Swords are often the first weapon type players gravitate towards, and for good reason. They’re reliable, versatile, and offer a good balance between attack power and speed. The Balmung is a great choice later in the game, offering excellent stats and a passive bonus to magic. Think of swords as the Swiss Army knife of Noctis’ arsenal – they can handle almost any situation.

Greatswords

For players who prefer a more impactful approach, greatswords are the way to go. These behemoths of blades deliver massive damage with each swing, capable of staggering enemies and quickly depleting health bars. The War Sword is a particularly good choice. However, be mindful of their slower attack speed, as you’ll need to time your strikes carefully. Greatswords are the heavy hitters, perfect for taking down formidable foes quickly.

Spears

Spears excel at crowd control, allowing Noctis to keep enemies at bay with their long reach and wide sweeping attacks. They are also effective against airborne enemies. The Javelin is a decent option that becomes available fairly early on. For those who enjoy a more tactical approach, spears offer excellent versatility and control over the battlefield. Imagine using a spear to keep hordes of goblins at bay while your teammates unleash devastating magic – efficient and stylish!

Daggers

Daggers are all about speed, allowing Noctis to unleash a flurry of quick attacks and rack up critical hits. While they may not boast the raw power of greatswords, their speed and agility make them deadly in the right hands. The Zwill Crossblades, obtained later in the game, provide excellent speed and damage. Think of daggers as the ninja’s weapon of choice – quick, precise, and deadly.

Firearms

Firearms offer a unique ranged attack option, allowing Noctis to engage enemies from a safe distance. While their damage output may not be as high as melee weapons, they’re invaluable for taking down flying enemies or softening up tougher opponents before engaging in close combat. The Hyperion, obtained via upgrading, is a solid choice with decent range and attack power. Firearms provide a tactical advantage, especially when facing enemies with specific weaknesses.

Royal Arms

Royal Arms are powerful weapons tied to the Lucian bloodline, each offering unique abilities and stat boosts. However, wielding them drains Noctis’ HP, making them a double-edged sword. The Sword of the Wise grants increased damage when phasing, the Axe of the Conqueror has high attack power, and the Star of the Rogue enhances critical hit rate. Experiment with the Royal Arms to find the ones that best suit your playstyle, but always be mindful of their HP drain. They’re powerful, but use them wisely!

Specific Weapon Recommendations and Where to Find Them

Now that we’ve covered the weapon types, let’s dive into some specific recommendations and where to find them. Remember, the “best” weapon is subjective and depends on your playstyle and the specific challenges you’re facing. However, these are some solid choices that will serve you well throughout your journey.

Balmung

As mentioned earlier, the Balmung is an excellent sword option, offering a great balance of attack power and magic. It’s particularly useful for players who enjoy incorporating magic into their combat style. It has a strength of 223 and a magic of 110. It’s not found until much later in the game.

Durandal

The Durandal is a greatsword that is best used for those in the endgame. The strength of the greatsword is 377. The critical hit rate is also very high. This can be found in the Balouve Mines (after completing the dungeon the first time), but it requires a key.

Zwill Crossblades

The Zwill Crossblades are considered by many to be the best daggers in the game, offering unmatched speed and a high critical hit rate. They’re perfect for players who enjoy a fast-paced, aggressive playstyle. You can obtain the Zwill Crossblades by completing the “A Better Engine Blade III” questline for Cid.

Hyperion

The Hyperion is a reliable firearm that can be obtained by upgrading a weaker firearm and is a decent option. The total attack is 288. Use this weapon at a distance to keep Noctis safe.

Aegis Shield

A shield can be a weapon! The Aegis Shield has 238 defense and 100 vitality. The magic resistance is also 30 percent. The Aegis Shield provides a strong defensive option for Noctis, absorbing incoming damage and allowing him to counterattack effectively. It’s a must-have for players who prefer a more cautious and strategic approach to combat. It is located in the Costlemark Tower dungeon.

Adapting Your Weapon Choice to Different Combat Scenarios

The beauty of Final Fantasy XV’s combat system is its fluidity and adaptability. No single weapon is perfect for every situation, so it’s important to learn how to switch between weapons on the fly to exploit enemy weaknesses and maximize your effectiveness. For example, you might use a greatsword to stagger a large enemy, then switch to daggers for quick follow-up attacks, or use a firearm to take down a flying enemy before engaging in melee combat. Practice switching weapons frequently to become a true master of combat.

Beyond Weapons: Equipping Accessories and Utilizing Ascension Points

While your weapon is important, it’s not the only factor that determines Noctis’ combat effectiveness. Accessories can provide valuable stat boosts and passive abilities, further enhancing your chosen weapon. Additionally, investing Ascension Points into the right skills can unlock powerful new combos, abilities, and stat bonuses. Don’t neglect these aspects of character development, as they can significantly impact your performance in battle. Think of it as customizing your car – the engine (weapon) is important, but the tires, paint job, and performance upgrades (accessories and Ascension Points) can make all the difference.

Experimentation is Key: Finding What Works Best for You

Ultimately, the best weapon for Noctis is the one that best suits your playstyle and preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different weapon types, accessories, and Ascension Point builds to discover what works best for you. Read item descriptions, watch videos of other players, and most importantly, spend time in the game experimenting. The joy of Final Fantasy XV lies in its freedom and customization, so embrace it and find your own unique path to victory.

FAQ

Which Royal Arm is the best for general use?

The Sword of the Wise is often considered the best Royal Arm for general use due to its balanced stats and damage output. Its ability to enhance phasing damage makes it a versatile and effective weapon for various combat scenarios. Plus, the HP drain is manageable compared to some of the more potent Royal Arms.

How do I effectively use firearms in combat?

Firearms are most effective when used strategically from a safe distance. Aim for enemy weak points to maximize damage, and use them to target flying enemies or soften up tougher opponents before engaging in melee combat. Don’t forget to reload regularly, and consider equipping accessories that boost firearm damage.

Is it worth using Royal Arms despite the HP drain?

Royal Arms can be incredibly powerful, but the HP drain is a significant drawback. Whether or not they’re worth using depends on your playstyle and your ability to manage your health. If you’re skilled at dodging and using potions, the Royal Arms can provide a significant advantage. However, if you struggle to stay alive, it’s best to stick to more conventional weapons.