Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Breaking the Mold of Final Fantasy 16 Criticism

Despite receiving widespread critical acclaim, there is a vocal group of Final Fantasy 16 players who are dissatisfied with the new direction taken by Creative Business Unit 3 in developing the game. The main point of contention is the shift from traditional turn-based combat to a fully real-time character action combat model. Many fans argue that this new approach does not align with their definition of a "true" Final Fantasy game. However, these fans seem to overlook the fact that recent JRPG series, such as the highly-regarded Xenoblade Chronicles 3 and its predecessors on the Nintendo Switch, have also moved away from purely turn-based combat.

In the Xenoblade Chronicles series, combat relies heavily on automated actions and cooldown timers, similar to an MMORPG. Xenoblade Chronicles 3 takes this combat model to its fullest potential, providing players with a wide range of strategic options and opportunities to synergize with party members. While Final Fantasy 16 may deviate from certain expected RPG mechanics, it is important to note that the series has been gradually transitioning towards a more action-oriented gameplay style since Final Fantasy 13. Other JRPG franchises, such as Xenoblade, have also embraced this shift.

Acceptance Of and Praise For Xenoblade Chronicles' Combat Speaks to a Double Standard

The mixed response to Final Fantasy 16's combat is surprising considering the widespread appreciation for Xenoblade Chronicles' combat. Despite not being purely turn-based, millions of RPG fans have invested countless hours into the world of Xenoblade Chronicles 3, with its combat often being the highlight. It is likely the main activity that consumes players' in-game time. It's notable that some fans who are dissatisfied with Final Fantasy 16 also praise Xenoblade Chronicles 3, suggesting a double standard in how the Final Fantasy franchise is perceived.

Of course, Xenoblade Chronicles is a newer franchise with significantly less legacy than Final Fantasy. It is not one of the two franchises responsible for establishing the genre's conventions. It is unreasonable to expect every game in the Final Fantasy series to adhere strictly to the elements and mechanics of its predecessors and resist evolving with the times. In fact, one of the key focuses of the Xenoblade Chronicles franchise is to offer players a modern JRPG that maintains the timeless essence of beloved games. Ultimately, it seems that many fans of Xenoblade would not take issue with the latest Final Fantasy if it were from a different franchise.

Fans of Turn-Based Combat Didn't Show Up in Big Numbers for Octopath Traveler

For RPG enthusiasts who strictly prefer turn-based combat systems, there are several high-quality newer titles available. Square Enix has reintroduced classic RPG mechanics with games like Bravely Default and Octopath Traveler, which pay homage to the beloved 16 and 32-bit RPGs. However, sales figures indicate that these titles do not come close to matching the popularity of Xenoblade Chronicles and Final Fantasy, suggesting that most players prefer combat systems that evolve beyond turn-based gameplay.

In order for a mainline Final Fantasy game to return to its turn-based roots, Square Enix would require a strong incentive. The success and positive reception of JRPGs that embrace real-time or hybrid combat systems, like the brilliant blend of turn-based and real-time action found in the Final Fantasy 7 Remake, have made purely turn-based games more of a niche offering. Although each new Final Fantasy installment introduces dramatic changes to its mechanics, it is unlikely that Final Fantasy 17 will completely revert to strict turn-based gameplay.

Final Fantasy 16 is out now on PS5.