Final Fantasy XV: Episode Gladiolus

Episode Gladiolus is a downloadable extra episode for Final Fantasy XV. It takes place at the same time as chapter 7 of the main game and follows Gladiolus Amicitia as he trains to become a stronger guardian for Noctis.

It will release on March 28, 2017, and will be available via the PlayStation Network store and the Xbox Live marketplace. The episode is also included in the game's Season Pass.

Gameplay
The episode uses the same Active X Battle system as Final Fantasy XV, although it has been adapted to fit Gladiolus's combat style. While Noctis's gameplay was focused on mobility, Gladiolus takes a more defensive approach to battles. By timing precise blocks, Gladio can build up his "Rage" meter which will increase his damage output depending on how high it is. Additionally, he has a "Valor" gauge, which can be built up by chaining regular attacks together. Once it is full, a special Glaive Art attack can be performed. The gauge can be filled multiple times and each full gauge will unlock a more powerful Glaive Art. In certain areas, Gladio can use objects from the environment (such as stone pillars) as weapons to attack his foes.

After completing the episode, players will unlock two additional gameplay modes: Score Attack and Final Trial. Players will also be able to carry over certain items from the DLC to the main game.

Story
After being overpowered by Ravus Nox Fleuret at Aracheole Stronghold, Gladiolus worries that he is not strong enough to protect Prince Noctis. While the rest of the party search for mythril to repair the boat at Cape Caem, he leaves the group to train and prove that he is worthy of protecting the Chosen King.

30 years prior, ancient ruins were discovered in Lucis. In their deepest recesses awaits the Blademaster, Gilgamesh, who once held Gladio's role as Shield of the King. Many attempts had been made to explore the ruins, but every expedition had ended in failure and the deaths of everyone involved except for one man: Cor Leonis. Gladiolus meets with Cor and tells him that he wishes to undertake the trial of Gilgamesh.

Characters

 * Gladiolus Amicitia
 * Cor Leonis
 * Gilgamesh

Music
The main theme of the episode, "Shield of the King", was composed by Keiichi Okabe. Okabe also contributed an arrangement of Gilgamesh's theme "Battle at the Big Bridge".