Final Fantasy Needs to Return to Turn-Based Gameplay

Final Fantasy battle systems varied over the years. Square Enix experimented with player experiences ranging from turn-based rpgs to ones that might feel a little more like Devil May Cry. In recent years, with entries like Final Fantasy XVI, we’ve seen the series become more of an action-RPG. This is a far cry from the traditional mechanics, and returning to the Active Time Battle (ATB) system of the past couldn’t hurt.

Some may believe that turn-based rpg systems are a relic of past console limitations. With Final Fantasy first launching on the Famicom in December 1987, once could see how someone could come to that line of thinking. However, just as consoles have evolved over years, developers are tuning the turn-based rpg experience to fit modern audiences. As Square Enix runs away from the idea of a turn-based Final Fantasy, other developers are embracing this combat style. A great example of this would be recent Yakuza installments like Yakuza: Like a Dragon and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth.

RGG Studios transformed the Yakuza franchise from an action brawler to a turn-based RPG. It happened in a natural way as well. Ichiban Kasuga liked RPGs, so the battle systems in games where he is the lead use it. This team applied their expertise with a more active style of gameplay to create a new, refreshing experience. I believe that developer found a solution that Square Enix could apply to possible turn-based Final Fantasy entries.

A lot of the complaints with turn-based combat is that someone has to let the opponents attack them. It is frustrating to get decimated by a powerful enemy’s assault as your character stands there, unable to defend against it. Developers have added defensive buffs, evasion skills, and stronger armor to help players. However, in most games, including Final Fantasy, this consumes a turn. The Like a Dragon franchise has these beneficial features as well.

To alleviate the vulnerability issue, RGG Studios makes defending in newer Like a Dragon games interactive. While an enemy is taking their turn, the player can guard against the attack by performing a perfect guard. Perfect guarding not only reduces the amount of damage taken, it makes the turn-based combat more dynamic. We’ve seen Nintendo’s Mario & Luigi and Paper Mario series do similar things as well. Square Enix implementing something to this effect would greatly benefit a future turn-based Final Fantasy game.

To make offense more interactive, taking inspiration from P-Studio’s One More system from the Persona franchise and applying it to Final Fantasy could help. Turn-based Final Fantasy, games may allow only one attack per turn for each character. If Square Enix were to implement a system similar to the One More system, it could alleviate that issue and offer a potential solution. The One More mechanic in Persona allows players to attack again if they hit the opponent with the correct elemental effect.

A new turn-based Final Fantasy game could also be an opportunity for Square Enix to include an improved elemental system in a modern installment. When playing Final Fantasy XV and XVI, elemental effects are present, but they can take a back seat to basic attacks. Sometimes I felt like the other system mechanics were just add-ons to make the combos look unique. However, allowing someone to strategize around the opponent’s elemental weakness further for additional offensive or defensive focuses could really be built upon in a new entry in a way that doesn’t sometimes happen in more active installments.

With Atlus’ Persona and RGG Studio’s Like A Dragon entries in the Yakuza series, we’re seeing a turn-based revitalization. I think Square Enix could return Final Fantasy to the ATB system with ease by taking inspiration from these types of mechanics. Seeing what others are doing, I’m confident Square Enix could further evolve Final Fantasy‘s turn-based combat.

Final Fantasy XVI is available on PlayStation 5, with a PC release coming on September 17, 2024.