The standalone anime short Final Fantasy XV: Episode Ardyn – Prologue has arrived on Crunchyroll, complete with English dub and subtitle options. This short film delves into the backstory of Ardyn Izunia, a key antagonist from the Final Fantasy XV universe, exploring his tragic past and descent into darkness.

Produced by Satelight, the same studio behind Aquarion Logos, the 15-minute episode focuses on the origins of Ardyn's immense power and his conflict with the gods and the Caelum royal family in the ancient world of Eos. It sets the stage for his eventual return centuries later, as depicted in the Final Fantasy XV game and its related media.

This OVA serves as a direct prequel to the events of Final Fantasy XV: Episode Ardyn, a DLC expansion for the game. For fans invested in the lore of Eos, this offers a concentrated look at one of its most compelling figures, explaining the roots of the world's ongoing struggle against daemons and the Caelum lineage.