5 Reasons Why Old Fans Always Want Final Fantasy to Return to Turn-Based
Why Longtime Fans Prefer Classic Turn-Based Gameplay Over Modern Action and Open-World
For longtime gamers, Final Fantasy evokes images of Chocobos, summoning magic, airships, crystals, and epic adventures. Yet, in terms of gameplay, the series has evolved so much that it’s hard to define its current identity. From its origins as a turn-based RPG, Final Fantasy now spans Action, Open World, Gacha, and other genres. So why do veteran fans consistently hope for a return to turn-based gameplay? Here are five key reasons.
1. Final Fantasy Started as Turn-Based, and Fans Started That Way
Looking back, Final Fantasy began as a turn-based RPG and maintained this style through Final Fantasy X. While gameplay mechanics evolved with each era, the core remained turn-based. Many longtime fans were introduced to the series through these early entries. Later titles adopted Action, Soulslike, Gacha, and Open World mechanics, leaving those who cherished the original experience without the nostalgic familiarity they once loved.
2. Turn-Based Gameplay Focuses on Story More Than Mechanics
Turn-based games were initially designed to manage limited storage while delivering rich narratives. By reducing the complexity of real-time gameplay, these games could dedicate more space to storytelling. Modern Action-focused Final Fantasy titles, however, struggle to deliver compelling narratives. Final Fantasy XV emphasized an Open World that required multiple DLCs to tell its story, and Final Fantasy XVI offers story content that feels repetitive compared to earlier entries. Overemphasis on gameplay can dilute the emotional impact of the story.
3. Other Final Fantasy Genres Haven’t Always Worked
Besides Action and Open World, Final Fantasy has experimented with Puzzle, Rhythm, Battle Royale, Card Game, and Gacha styles. Most of these experiments did not achieve lasting success. Only Final Fantasy XIV (MMORPG) and some Gacha titles maintained popularity, reinforcing the longing among longtime fans for the traditional turn-based format.
4. Other Turn-Based Games Show How Successful the Format Can Be
Square Enix executives have admitted that “turn-based games are dying,” which partly explains the franchise’s genre shifts. Yet high-quality turn-based RPGs like Persona 5, Metaphor: ReFantazio, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 demonstrate that the genre can still thrive. These games achieved strong sales and critical acclaim, proving that if they can succeed, so can Final Fantasy.
5. Turn-Based Was the Defining Identity of Final Fantasy
A major disappointment for veteran fans is that the series now emphasizes in-game features and items over its signature turn-based systems, story uniqueness, and immersive atmosphere. The sense of adventure, excitement in discovering new worlds, and imaginative gameplay that defined Final Fantasy have largely diminished. Returning to turn-based mechanics could refresh storytelling, reduce the production challenges of large-scale Action games, and allow more focus on narrative. It’s a formula that could deliver an exciting and emotionally engaging experience once again.
Final Thought
For longtime fans, a return to turn-based gameplay in Final Fantasy is a nostalgic yet strategic desire. While new entries may continue to explore Action and Open World formats, remakes of older titles might offer the closest opportunity to relive the classic turn-based experience. A well-executed return could blend modern technology with the series’ original charm, delivering both innovation and nostalgia. Fans remain hopeful that day will come.
