The Case for and Against Final Fantasy 17 Following Its Predecessor’s Path

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Key Takeaways

  • Final Fantasy 16
    drew heavily from
    Game of Thrones
    , showcasing darker plot elements and political intrigue.
  • FF16
    ‘s move towards more mature storylines with a focus on a single character marked a significant change in the series.
  • Final Fantasy 17
    could continue down a similar
    Game of Thrones
    -inspired path, or pursue a new vision to avoid repeating too many of the same elements.

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I’ve seen the evolution of Final Fantasy like the changing seasons. The latest installments, FF16 and FF7: Rebirth, have certainly been a rollercoaster ride!

In a recent streak, Square Enix’s iconic RPG franchise, Final Fantasy, saw two distinctive yet successful additions. Fans of the series were treated to the second installment of the remake of the beloved seventh title, Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth, earlier this year. Prior to that, Final Fantasy 16 was launched in 2023, marking a departure from several traditional aspects and fan expectations. While these changes took many by surprise, and not all were instantly welcomed, FF16 represented one of the most daring new directions for the series, demonstrating Square Enix’s ambition to modernize Final Fantasy.

One noticeable inspiration for “Final Fantasy 16” is the television series “Game of Thrones.” The show’s complex plot filled with political machinations, family betrayals, and looming catastrophes that could destroy the world is reflected in many aspects of “FF16,” including its narrative structure and world development. It is said that producer Naoki Yoshida asked the development team to watch “Game of Thrones” to capture some of its style and atmosphere. As “Final Fantasy” continues to evolve, a question arises as to whether future numbered titles should follow this path or take a different direction.

There’s been talk and hints about a remake of Final Fantasy 9, but nothing’s been officially verified yet.

The Pros and Cons of Final Fantasy 17 Being Heavily Inspired by Game of Thrones Like FF16

Final Fantasy 16 Feeling a Lot Like Game of Thrones Was One of its Best Choices

One standout feature of Final Fantasy 16 was its shift towards grittier and more adult-oriented narratives and character development compared to previous installments. The narrative primarily revolves around Clive Rosfield’s odyssey, and the deep emotional turmoil he experienced adds a profound depth to the game, setting it apart even from titles that delved into similar themes, such as the acclaimed sixth installment.

In contrast to other titles in the series that incorporate steampunk elements, Final Fantasy 17 could distinguish itself by delving deeper into darker, complex, and ethically ambiguous themes, much like Final Fantasy 16 did. To achieve this, it might draw inspiration from Game of Thrones and expand upon its mature and layered narrative to deliver a similarly intense and thought-provoking experience.

Why Final Fantasy 17 Might be Wise to Change Course From FF16’s Vision

Instead of replicating the elements from Final Fantasy 16 that echoed Game of Thrones, it’s essential to consider the potential risks associated with such a move. The Final Fantasy series is known for its tendency to change major tones, themes, and settings significantly between games. If Square Enix decides to closely follow the design of Final Fantasy 16 in the next main installment, there’s a chance it could become repetitive or tiresome, potentially diminishing the uniqueness of FF16 in hindsight. Overly similar content in Final Fantasy 17 might result in an overabundance of familiarity, which could negatively impact both games’ overall quality.

As a die-hard Final Fantasy fan, I’m eagerly anticipating the release of Final Fantasy 17. This upcoming game stands at a critical juncture, deciding how it will build upon the foundations laid by Final Fantasy 16. The question is: should it follow in the narrative and setting footsteps of its predecessor, or venture off into uncharted territory?

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2024-11-17 02:55