After Final Fantasy XVI gained a mixed reaction from fans, there has been an ongoing debate on what the series should do next. Some fans are okay with the real-time combat, but want more JRPG-like elements instead of the linear spectacle from Clive’s adventure. Others want to see the return of turn-based combat, with some cues taken from recent successes like Persona 5 or Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
This debate is ongoing and will only continue as the years go on, even when the next entry comes out. Many fans are wondering what they want from this series, because they had it all with the PS2 sensation Final Fantasy X.
Despite being a pretty linear adventure, Final Fantasy X was able to capture everything fans wanted from the series. It has a great story, a fun combat system, and plenty of customization. While games like VII and IX are more revered, X almost feels like a perfect entry.
It’s Gorgeous
Even though Final Fantasy X was released back in 2001, the readily available remaster has shown everyone how well it holds up. This game might not compare to something like Final Fantasy XIII or VII Remake visually, but the strong art style is proudly shown throughout.
It doesn’t matter if you emulate the PS2 original or pick up the remaster; this game will still look amazing. Some have even argued that the PS2 version has better faces than the remaster, as this is yet another beloved classic with lost source code. Regardless, we’re glad that this game is still around for anyone to pick up.
A Spectacle That Doesn’t Forget Its Roots
One reason fans are so down on Final Fantasy XVI is that the game tends to go for being a spectacle, rather than offering depth. While it does have a fun combat system and some solid story beats, the focus on giant monster fights and particle effects can make this entry feel empty. This is what the young people will call “farming aura the game,” even though there’s more to it than that.
In comparison, the spectacle of Final Fantasy X doesn’t get in the way of its story or deeper customization. Sure, the opening hours have scripted fights that feel like cutscenes where you just press X to progress, but everything after that keeps the nuance and strategy fans love from the series. With a large party, players can’t just rely on Tidus or Yuna for everything, as each character has particular advantages in battle.
The Sphere Grid Revolutionized Final Fantasy
Even if you don’t like this game, there’s no denying that the Sphere Grid has revolutionized this series. On paper, this is just a level-up system with choices, but those choices can be crucial when it comes to your characters.
Should Tidus learn a new skill or focus on his stats? Does Yuna need a bump in HP right now when learning that one spell could change the tide of battle? This is a level-up system that makes players think.
We’ve since seen variations on this system in Final Fantasy XIII and Final Fantasy VII Remake, showing just how influential Final Fantasy X’s Sphere Grid is. These choices could make or break the game for you, requiring plenty of thought on how your characters progress.
The Next Chapter…
Just to be clear, the next game in this series doesn’t need to be a frame-by-frame imitation of Final Fantasy X. We want the next entry in this series to balance spectacle storytelling and JRPG strategy, which can be done with real-time or turn-based combat. It doesn’t have to be like FFX, just learn from this game's high points.
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