The ongoing discussion about the future combat style in the Final Fantasy series, specifically concerning a potential return to turn-based mechanics, has been addressed by Final Fantasy XVI producer Naoki Yoshida, known as `Yoshi-P`. He admitted there isn`t a definitive answer.
Final Fantasy XVI represented a significant shift from previous games, adopting a completely real-time action system, unlike the action-focused but menu-driven approach of Final Fantasy XV. During an interview at Anime Expo, Yoshida was questioned about the possibility of the series reverting to a turn-based system, especially given the recent success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a game inspired by earlier Final Fantasy titles and Persona.
Yoshida explained to Anime News Network that viewing the debate purely as `turn-based versus action` oversimplifies the decision by focusing solely on the battle system. He stated, “That doesn`t take into account what kind of game the creators want to deliver to players.” The choice of combat system, along with game design and overall feel, is influenced by factors like desired graphical quality and narrative goals. Therefore, he emphasized, “It`s not a clear-cut answer, whether it will become all turn-based, or if it`s going to become more action-based.”
He also pointed out that numbered mainline Final Fantasy games are typically developed by different teams and feature unique settings, characters, and gameplay systems. Yoshida stressed this point, stating, “I`m not necessarily going to be on Final Fantasy 17, so we also don`t want to obstruct or limit our future director or whomever will be producing the games like 17 or even 18. We don`t want to put them on a rail.”
Final Fantasy 16 recently launched on Xbox Series X|S, following its initial PlayStation 5 release in 2023 and subsequent launch on Steam last year. This aligns with Square Enix`s changing approach to platform exclusivity, exemplified by the upcoming multi-platform release of Final Fantasy Tactics: Ivalice Chronicles in September.