What's Happening?
The developers of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a turn-based role-playing game, visited Square Enix's headquarters in Japan for a creative exchange. The visit included discussions with Naoki Hamaguchi, director of Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth, and Yoshinori Kitase, a veteran producer of the Final Fantasy series. Clair Obscur has gained popularity for its traditional mechanics reminiscent of classic JRPGs, contrasting with the modern open-world and action-based approach of recent Final Fantasy games. The developers have openly expressed their admiration for older Square Enix titles, incorporating elements from games like Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy VIII into their own work.
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Why It's Important?
This meeting highlights the ongoing dialogue between developers of different gaming philosophies. Clair Obscur's success has sparked discussions among fans and industry insiders about the potential direction of future Final Fantasy games. Square Enix's willingness to engage with the developers of Clair Obscur suggests an openness to exploring traditional gaming mechanics, which could influence the company's development strategies. The exchange of ideas may lead to innovations in game design, benefiting both companies and potentially revitalizing interest in turn-based RPGs.
What's Next?
While Square Enix has not publicly committed to adopting turn-based mechanics for future Final Fantasy titles, the meeting indicates a potential shift in creative direction. Fans and industry observers will be watching closely to see if Square Enix incorporates elements from Clair Obscur into its upcoming projects. The collaboration may also inspire other developers to revisit traditional gaming mechanics, potentially leading to a resurgence of interest in classic RPG styles.
