Much has been said about how Final Fantasy 16 (and the more recent Final Fantasy entries, in general) doesn’t live up to the core of the franchise. But, if there’s anyone who can tell you what a Final Fantasy game should be, it’s the individual who created it, specifically, Hironobu Sakaguchi.
Sakaguchi’s words on Twitter referenced FF XVI as the “ultimate fantasy Final Fantasy.” However, interpreting his words demands a nuance. As clarified by a fellow Final Fantasy enthusiast, this might not necessarily denote FF16 as the series’ pinnacle. Instead, it’s a play on words related to the Japanese term “Last Illusion/Ultimate Illusion,” which is intrinsically connected to the FF saga, even having a presence in the narrative of FF XVI itself. Thus, Sakaguchi’s comment can be seen more as an affirmation of the game’s authenticity within the franchise, rather than a direct comparison to its predecessors.
This subtle nod from Sakaguchi prompted various reflections among fans. Notably, the community is split about the franchise’s departure from traditional turn-based gameplay. Many lament the evolution, with comments underscoring the series’ deep-rooted history in turn-based mechanics. Interestingly, others argue against such purist views, saying that Final Fantasy has always been about immersive storytelling, compelling characters, and rich world-building – aspects they believe FF16 perfectly captures.
FF16 最後まで。
究極の幻想「FINAL FANTASY」でした。#FF16 pic.twitter.com/rSLabmIO0t
— 坂口博信 (@auuo) August 14, 2023
Not to mention, the production quality of FF16 is unparalleled in the series and universally acclaimed. Considered as a top-notch effort, the VA work undoubtedly elevates the narrative experience.
If nothing else, FF16 elevates the standards for the franchise going forward.
Yet, like all forms of art, no game can evade criticism. While some regard FF16 as a win, others offer a more moderate view, citing issues ranging from repetitive combat to the perceived shallowness of certain characters. The comparison to Final Fantasy 7 Remake is inevitable. For many, the modern re-release of the franchise’s most iconic entry represents the zenith of the franchise in terms of gameplay depth, character development, and overall world-building. In this light, FF16, though celebrated, might still reside in the shadow of its illustrious predecessor.
Then again, is that such a bad thing? As it stands, FF16 is one of the best-selling Final Fantasy games ever, beaten only by Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Final Fantasy 15. As it stands, Square Enix doesn’t need to defend itself anymore – FF16 is a commercially successful product, one that should make more of if it wants to stay afloat financially.
With a PC port and DLC for FF16 still in development, the narrative surrounding the latest Final Fantasy entry can still change if not improve.
The developer’s own journey with the franchise is equally fascinating. Sakaguchi, after directing the seminal original in 1989, remained an integral force in the series till 2003’s Final Fantasy X-2. He later founded his own studio, Mistwalker, introducing the acclaimed title Fantasian on Apple Arcade. The potential of this gem migrating to the PC is a tantalizing prospect for fans.
So, what does the future hold for the Final Fantasy series? With Final Fantasy VII Rebirth slated for an early 2024 release and Square Enix’s fluctuating sentiments regarding FF XVI’s commercial performance, the narrative of the series remains as unpredictable and enchanting as its in-game sagas.
Ultimately, Sakaguchi’s recent comments are a mere chapter in this still-ongoing dialogue, proof of the series’ impactful presence in the gaming world.
Speaking of Final Fantasy, Square Enix and Microsoft recently agreed to bring Final Fantasy 14 to the Xbox Series S/X, with others also on the way. Unfortunately, FF7R isn’t part of this plan yet.
