The recent success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a turn-based RPG, has reignited discussions surrounding the future of combat systems in modern role-playing games. Expedition 33’s critical and commercial reception has challenged the widespread belief that action combat is essential to engage today’s gaming audience. With its refined execution and strong narrative, the game proves that traditional turn-based mechanics can still resonate with players when done right.
This success has naturally brought attention back to one of the genre’s most influential franchises — Final Fantasy. For its past two mainline entries, Final Fantasy XV and Final Fantasy XVI, Square Enix has leaned heavily into the action RPG formula. This shift has prompted long-time fans to wonder: Will Final Fantasy XVII mark a return to the series’ turn-based origins?
This very question was posed to Final Fantasy XVI producer Naoki Yoshida AKA Yoshi-P by Anime News Network. In response, Yoshida made it clear that there is currently no definitive direction set for the combat system. While acknowledging the success of Expedition 33, he cautioned against assuming it would directly influence the franchise’s next instalment.
Final Fantasy Will Walk Its Own Path
Yoshida elaborated that debates around turn-based versus action combat often oversimplify game design by isolating gameplay solely to battle mechanics. He emphasised that elements like visual fidelity, narrative depth, and emotional impact are all deeply tied to the choice of combat system and game design. These elements, he noted, should align with the vision the creators intend to deliver, whether through turn-based or action gameplay.
Interestingly, Yoshida also revealed that he may not even be involved in the development of the next entry, stating that Square Enix has not confirmed any staffing decisions for the project. He expressed a desire not to influence or constrain the vision of whichever director ends up leading the next title.
As of now, Square Enix has not officially revealed any concrete plans or concepts for Final Fantasy XVII, leaving fans to speculate on whether the series will continue down its action-oriented path or revisit its classic turn-based heritage.
