Final Fantasy Resonance Proves Turn-Based Combat Belongs in Mainstream JRPGs

Fast-paced breaks and deep strategy make Final Fantasy Resonance the turn-based return we needed.

A colorful fantasy scene depicting characters casting spells with bright magical energy in a vibrant landscape.

Published: Sep 08, 2026, 11:28 am Updated: Sep 08, 2026, 11:28 am

Primary Subject: Final Fantasy Resonance (Playable Demo / Launch Version)
Key Update: An opinion piece praises the Final Fantasy Resonance demo for its intuitive turn-based battle system and HD-2D visuals, arguing it could spark a turn-based JRPG revival.
Status: Confirmed / Opinion
Last Verified: September 8, 2026
Quick Answer: Releasing October 22, 2026, Final Fantasy Resonance features HD-2D graphics and strategic turn-based battles utilizing Break gauges and Vision summons.

For long-time fans, we all know Final Fantasy initially started with turn-based combat. However, over the years, it has shifted to active combat to match other modern AAA games.

That changes with Final Fantasy Resonance, which comes out on October 22, 2026. Finally, after over two decades, we're getting a major Final Fantasy release with turn-based combat and HD-2D graphics.

The demo is out, and it's so good that it can hook you for an entire day. If the release version is as enjoyable as the demo, I am praying that Resonance sparks a turn-based JRPG renaissance.

Final Fantasy Resonance Could Bring Back Turn-Based Combat to the Mainstream

Playing through the demo of Final Fantasy Resonance, the thing that immediately charmed me was the combat. It was snappy and intuitive - it didn't feel taxing to select commands and execute turns.

A turn-based battle scene from a video game, featuring multiple characters and monsters on a rocky terrain near water, with a user interface showing options for attack, defense, and items.

I also didn't feel like I was bogged down in menus as I broke enemy defenses and pulled off attacks. It completely shatters the myth that turn-based combat is slow or outdated, and should signal to Square Enix and other studios to bring it back to more titles.

The combat was bordering on addictive. I loved how I wasn't just spamming my strongest attacks; I had to think two steps ahead. I had to watch enemy Break gauges and line up elemental weaknesses to trigger a Full Break. It was a thrill that active combat rarely delivers, and I hope that Resonance inspires other studios to take this combat route. If Resonance and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 can do it, why can't other studios?

Resonance builds on things we love about Final Fantasy, like how we can equip Visions onto party members. It's a great way to evolve the iconic system while still prioritizing deep strategy. As a JRPG stan who feels starved for this system, I am so glad we're getting it back.

A screen displaying the text "SWEEPING STAGGER" with visual effects, likely from a video game battle scene.

Beyond the combat, Resonance stands out since you actually care about the party members. The core members are endearing, and the demo's narrative actually takes a deep turn that had me on the brink of tears. When a game combines an intelligent turn-based system with a story that pulls at your heartstrings, then you know Square Enix has hit gold and could inspire other developers, too.

I'm aware that triple-A games prioritize hybrid or active combat, but Final Fantasy Resonance has proven that turn-based RPGs can still reign supreme. I hope this game serves as a spark that reignites a renaissance.

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