Final Fantasy XVI features a focus on action and story, and it tried to seamlessly blend them together. It proves that Asura's Wrath needs a sequel.
It is safe to say that Final Fantasy XVI pushes the series in a new direction by putting a heavier emphasis on action. While many modern Final Fantasy games have tried to make the game more action-heavy, Final Fantasy XVI is basically a character action game with a level-up system—but that isn't a bad thing: