Key Takeaways
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- Square Enix is exploring ideas for the next installment in the Final Fantasy series, titled Final Fantasy XVII.
- Naoki Yoshida, a key figure in Final Fantasy XIV and producer of Final Fantasy XVI, emphasized that each Final Fantasy game is unique and should take risks.
- Fans have expressed diverse opinions on what they hope to see in Final Fantasy XVII, including a potential return to turn-based combat, modern world design, or even a cel-shaded art style.
- Square Enix is currently focusing on other major projects such as continued development on Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and expansions for Final Fantasy XIV, with no official timeline announced for the release of Final Fantasy XVII yet.
Final Fantasy XVII Sparks Anticipation and Debate Among Fans
In an interview with VGC, Naoki Yoshida confirmed that Square Enix is exploring concepts for the next installment in the long-running series, Final Fantasy XVII. Yoshida, who produced Final Fantasy XVI and is a prominent figure in Final Fantasy XIV, noted that the company is currently brainstorming internally and considering fan expectations for the upcoming title. Yoshida stated, “We can’t spill any beans yet, but we’ll never back down from this challenge.” He emphasized that while no concrete decisions have been made, Final Fantasy XVII is already a significant topic of discussion following the release of Final Fantasy XVI. He elaborated on the series’ core philosophy, explaining that “each Final Fantasy installment is unique. That’s its strength, but also its burden.” Yoshida highlighted Final Fantasy XV’s open-world design, Final Fantasy XVI’s dark, spectacular action-RPG combat, and Final Fantasy XIV’s sustained success as a global MMO. This inherent diversity often leaves fans uncertain about what to expect from Final Fantasy XVII. Yoshida asserted, “To be a Final Fantasy, one must take risks.”
Final Fantasy XVII Sparks Diverse Opinions and Anticipation Among Players
Even without an official announcement, Final Fantasy XVII has generated widespread discussion among fans. Social media reveals diverse opinions on its potential direction: some players hope for a return to traditional turn-based combat, others anticipate a modern world reminiscent of Final Fantasy VII Remake, and some have even suggested a cel-shaded art style. While Square Enix has not provided a timeline for Final Fantasy XVII’s release, the company remains focused on other major projects. These include continued development on Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and ongoing expansions for Final Fantasy XIV.
In Case You Missed It
If you’re a fan of the ever-evolving Final Fantasy series and are curious about the future direction of turn-based combat, be sure to check out Marcus Thompson’s insightful piece from July 11th. Naoki Yoshida shares his thoughts on how narrative and aesthetic considerations influence gameplay mechanics, leaving the door open for both turn-based and action-oriented experiences in upcoming titles like Final Fantasy XVII (though his direct involvement remains unconfirmed). Dive into the discussion at Turn-based Combat Remains Uncertain for Final Fantasy XVII and join the conversation!