Square Enix believes in turn-based RPGs again: the success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 may bring Final Fantasy back to its roots

The success of the RPG Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 by Sandfall Interactive has forced Square Enix to rethink its priorities. The company seems to have realised once again that the market for turn-based RPGs not only exists, but is thriving, especially for their iconic Final Fantasy franchise. This change of heart could have huge implications for the future of the series.

Here's What We Know

As noted by Twitter user Genki_JPN, Square Enix President Takashi Kiryu answered questions about the future of the Final Fantasy franchise, especially as the latest main entry in the series has moved away from turn-based combat in favour of action-oriented gameplay.

Kiryu has reportedly acknowledged the popularity of turn-based RPGs and seems to be planning for Square Enix to develop and release more of them in the future. This could be great news for those fans who miss the classic battle system of Final Fantasy and other traditional RPGs.

However, it's worth noting that there have been no announcements or confirmations regarding the possible return of Final Fantasy to its turn-based roots in Final Fantasy 17. In fact, the company is probably busy with the franchise due to several upcoming games.

Among them is the third part of the Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy, which is one of the most anticipated sequels. As well as the remaster of the landmark Final Fantasy Tactics - The Ivalice Chronicles, released for the original PlayStation earlier this month.

The latter, Final Fantasy Tactics - The Ivalice Chronicles, promises to bring back the classic tactical experience in a modern wrapper. The game is scheduled for release on 30 September and will be available on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and Nintendo Switch 2.

Source: @Genki_JPN