When Did Final Fantasy Go Downhill?
The Final Fantasy series, created by Square Enix, has a rich history spanning over three decades. The series has seen its ups and downs, with some games being critically acclaimed and others receiving lukewarm receptions. One of the most debated questions among fans is when did the series start to decline?
The Rise of Action RPGs
One significant factor that contributed to the decline of Final Fantasy was the shift from traditional turn-based combat to action role-playing games (RPGs). The first game in the series, Final Fantasy I, was released in 1987 and had a traditional turn-based battle system. This system became a staple of the series, with subsequent games retaining the same mechanic.
Final Fantasy XII: A Turning Point
However, with the release of Final Fantasy XII (2006), the series took a different turn. This game introduced an action RPG combat system, which polarized fans. While some appreciated the new direction, others felt it strayed too far from the classic formula.
Final Fantasy XIII: The Experiment Continues
Final Fantasy XIII (2009) further cemented this shift towards action RPG combat. The game’s protagonist, Lightning, was given more freedom in combat, and the series’ once- iconic battle system was replaced with a more real-time action-based system. While the game received criticism for its linear gameplay, it still had its dedicated fan base.
A Divided Fan Base
The introduction of action RPG elements created a divide within the fan base. Long-time fans who grew up with the series’ traditional turn-based combat felt nostalgic for the classic formula. On the other hand, new fans who were drawn to the series’ revamped combat system saw it as a refreshing change.
The Impact on Sales and Critical Reception
The transition to action RPGs seemed to affect the series’ sales and critical reception. Final Fantasy XIII, while still a commercial success, received a more lukewarm response from fans and critics compared to earlier games in the series. Final Fantasy XV, released in 2016, attempted to balance traditional elements with modern action RPG combat, but received criticism for its convoluted storyline and poorly designed protagonist.
Final Fantasy’s Current State
Today, the series seems to be struggling to find its balance between tradition and innovation. Final Fantasy XVI (2022) took a different approach, with a more focused narrative and a return to the classic turn-based combat system. However, this shift came at the cost of removing some of the action RPG elements that had become staple to the series.
Conclusion
When did Final Fantasy go downhill? For some, it was when the series abandoned its traditional turn-based combat system, while for others, it was when the series shifted towards more linear gameplay and less emphasis on exploration.
Timeline of Final Fantasy’s Evolution
| Year | Game | Combat System | Critical Reception |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1987 | Final Fantasy I | Traditional Turn-Based | 80%+ |
| 2006 | Final Fantasy XII | Action RPG | 70%-80% |
| 2009 | Final Fantasy XIII | Action RPG | 60%-70% |
| 2016 | Final Fantasy XV | Action RPG | 60%-70% |
| 2022 | Final Fantasy XVI | Traditional Turn-Based | 70%-80% |
Sources:
- When did Final Fantasy stop being turn-based?
- Why is Final Fantasy 7 so big?
- [Hardest fight in FF7](https://www.reddit.com/r/FinalFantasy VII/comments/eq7b1c/the_hardest_fight_in_ff7/)
- Ruby Weapon fight in FF7
Note: The sources mentioned are from online forums and websites, and the figures mentioned in the timeline are approximate and based on average critical reception.