Decoding the Darkness: Why Noctis Lucis Caelum Favors Black Attire

Noctis Lucis Caelum, the brooding protagonist of Final Fantasy XV, is instantly recognizable for his signature all-black attire. This isn’t simply a fashion statement or a reflection of his sometimes melancholy personality; it’s deeply intertwined with the lore of Lucis and his royal lineage. In the Kingdom of Lucis, black is a color of significance, historically associated with the royal family and those in positions of close service to them. Noctis, as the crown prince and future king, adheres to this tradition, signaling his status and responsibility through his clothing. This choice also symbolizes the burden he carries and the somber fate that awaits him.

The Royal Connection: Black as a Symbol of Authority

A History Rooted in Tradition

The article excerpt clearly states that in Lucis, black holds a special historical importance. This isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a deeply ingrained cultural practice. The choice to clothe the royal family and their closest retainers in black serves multiple purposes:

• Visual Identifier: It immediately distinguishes members of the royal court from the general populace. In a world of fantasy and varying social classes, this visual cue is crucial for maintaining order and respect.
• Symbol of Responsibility: Black, often associated with solemnity and duty, reflects the heavy burden of leadership and the sacrifices required of the royal family. Noctis, acutely aware of his destiny, embodies this sense of responsibility.
• Sign of Mourning: Given the tumultuous history of Lucis and the constant threat of war, black can also be seen as a perpetual sign of mourning for past losses and a premonition of future hardships.

More Than Just Clothes: A Visual Narrative

Noctis’s attire isn’t just about adhering to royal protocol. It’s a visual shorthand that communicates his character arc throughout the game. As he matures and confronts his destiny, his black clothing becomes a constant reminder of the weight he carries. He is not just a young man; he is a king in waiting, a protector of the realm, and ultimately, a sacrifice.

Noctis’s Character and the Color Black

A Reflection of Inner Turmoil

While the cultural significance is paramount, it’s impossible to ignore the psychological impact of constantly wearing black, especially for a character like Noctis. He grapples with the expectations placed upon him, the loss of his father, and the impending doom foreshadowed by the game’s narrative. Black, often associated with introspection and melancholy, mirrors his inner turmoil.

The Weight of Expectation

Noctis’s initial reluctance to embrace his role as king is evident throughout the early stages of the game. He often comes across as aloof and detached, perhaps as a defense mechanism against the overwhelming responsibility he faces. The black clothing serves as a constant reminder of this inescapable fate, contributing to his burdened demeanor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the color black significant in other Final Fantasy games?

While some Final Fantasy characters wear black, it doesn’t always carry the same specific cultural weight as it does in Final Fantasy XV. Typically, black attire in other games is more indicative of a character’s personal style, class (e.g., Black Mage), or alignment (e.g., a villainous character).

2. Does Noctis ever wear other colors besides black?

While black is his primary color, Noctis’s wardrobe expands slightly throughout the game, particularly in alternative outfits. However, black remains a constant element in his visual design.

3. Why was Noctis in a wheelchair as a child?

As explained in supplementary materials like Brotherhood and the Kingsglaive movie, Noctis was attacked by a daemon named Marilith at a young age, resulting in severe injuries to his legs (or possibly spine). He used a wheelchair during his recovery.

4. How old is Noctis when the main events of Final Fantasy XV take place?

Noctis is 20 years old at the start of his journey. He then sleeps for ten years inside the Crystal, emerging as a 30-year-old man ready to fulfill his destiny.

5. Does Noctis die at the end of Final Fantasy XV?

Yes, Noctis sacrifices himself to destroy Ardyn and the Starscourge, fulfilling an ancient prophecy and restoring light to the world. He dies in the process.

6. What is the Ring of the Lucii?

The Ring of the Lucii is a powerful artifact passed down through the Lucian royal family. It grants its wearer immense power, but it also comes with a heavy price. Ignis uses it in an alternate timeline and becomes blind, sacrificing his vision for Noctis’s sake.

7. Is Noctis depressed in Final Fantasy XV?

Many players interpret Noctis’s behavior as indicative of depression. He displays symptoms such as low energy, sleeping for long periods, and a generally subdued demeanor, suggesting he’s struggling with his responsibilities and the impending doom.

8. Who was Noctis modeled after?

Noctis’s persona was inspired by Kurt Cobain, the lead singer of Nirvana. This influence is evident in Noctis’s laid-back attitude and somewhat melancholic disposition.

9. How much older is Ignis than Noctis?

Ignis is two years older than Noctis. Ignis is 22 and Noctis is 20.

10. What is Yozora’s connection to Noctis?

Yozora, a character from Kingdom Hearts III, has sparked much debate regarding his connection to Noctis. Some theories suggest he might be the Nobody of Noctis from the original Final Fantasy Versus XIII concept.

11. What exactly is the Starscourge?

The Starscourge is a plague of daemons that threatens to engulf the world of Eos in eternal darkness. Noctis’s ultimate mission is to eliminate the Starscourge and save the world.

12. Why was some of the Final Fantasy XV DLC cancelled?

Square Enix made the decision to restructure their DLC plans, leading to the cancellation of several planned episodes. This decision was based on a number of factors, including shifting development priorities and the departure of key staff members.

13. Who is the true villain of Final Fantasy XV?

While Ardyn Izunia is the primary antagonist, some argue that Bahamut, one of the Astrals, is the overarching villain, manipulating events to ensure the fulfillment of the prophecy.

14. How long does Noctis sleep inside the Crystal?

Noctis sleeps inside the Crystal for ten years, absorbing the power necessary to fulfill the prophecy and banish the Starscourge.

15. What is the true ending of Final Fantasy XV?

The “true ending” is generally considered to be the one where Noctis sacrifices himself to destroy Ardyn and the Starscourge. There are also alternative and bad endings. This sacrifice ensures the world’s safety, but it comes at the ultimate cost.

Understanding the significance of Noctis’s black attire requires delving into the rich lore of Final Fantasy XV. It’s a visual representation of his royal heritage, his heavy responsibilities, and his personal struggles. The choice of color is not arbitrary; it’s deeply interwoven with the narrative and contributes to the overall emotional impact of the game. The study of the games and all the elements that constitute it such as characters, stories, and the player experience is part of what is studied in the Games Learning Society. You can learn more about this at GamesLearningSociety.org.