The Final Fantasy series has long been a cornerstone of the RPG genre, known for its intricate storytelling, memorable characters, and strategic turn-based combat. However, with the release of Final Fantasy XVI, the franchise has taken a bold step into the realm of action RPGs, marking a significant shift in gameplay that has been years in the making. That said, it wasn't the first.

The Turn-Based Era

The early Final Fantasy games were defined by their turn-based combat systems. Players would take turns selecting actions for their characters, carefully planning their moves to outwit their opponents. This methodical approach to combat was a hallmark of the series, allowing for deep strategic gameplay and a focus on character development.

The Rise of Action RPGs

As the gaming landscape evolved, so too did players' tastes. Action RPGs, which blend the narrative depth of traditional RPGs with real-time combat, began to gain popularity. Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Dark Souls, and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt captivated audiences with their dynamic combat systems and immersive worlds. These games demonstrated that players were eager for more immediate and visceral gameplay experiences.

Clues from the Past

The evolution in Final Fantasy gameplay didn't happen overnight. Several titles in the series changed the game.

Final Fantasy IV introduced the Active Time Battle (ATB) system, adding a real-time element to the turn-based combat, making battles more dynamic and strategic. PC Versions here.

Final Fantasy VII was groundbreaking with its 3D graphics and pre-rendered backgrounds, setting a new standard for visual presentation in RPGs. The Materia system allowed players to customize their characters' abilities and magic. There are many gamers who don't even acknowledge the franchise prior to Final Fantasy VII.

Final Fantasy X brought voice acting to the series for the first time, adding a new layer of immersion to the storytelling. The Sphere Grid system allowed for highly customizable character progression. Final Fantasy X-2 was the first direct sequel in the Final Fantasy series, and the all-female cast was a hit and praised along with the return of the job system.

PC Version here.

Final Fantasy XII introduced a more fluid combat system, allowing players to move freely during battles and set up automated actions through the Gambit system. It also featured a more open-world design, allowing for greater exploration and a more immersive experience. PC Version here.

Final Fantasy XV took this a step further with its real-time combat, where players could control Noctis directly and engage in fast-paced battles. The game also featured a vast open world with numerous side quests, offering a more expansive and engaging experience. Total boy band vibes! There is also a Final Fantasy XV: Pocket Edition that was the first of it's kind that opened the door to the an abridged version on mobile devices. PC Version here.

Final Fantasy XVI: A New Era

Final Fantasy XVI represents the culmination of this gradual shift. The game features a fully-fledged action RPG combat system, where players can execute combos, dodge attacks, and unleash powerful abilities in real-time. This change has been met with excitement and anticipation, as it delivers a fresh and exhilarating experience while retaining the rich storytelling and character development that fans love.

The journey from turn-based battles to action-packed combat in Final Fantasy reflects the broader trends in the gaming industry. By embracing the popularity of action RPGs and incorporating elements from previous titles, Final Fantasy XVI stands as a testament to the series' ability to innovate and adapt. As the franchise continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: Final Fantasy will always be at the forefront of RPG excellence. Will it ever return to strategic JRPG battles? Maybe, but perhaps that will come in the form of a spin-off. Anyway, Final Fantasy XVI is available now on PC and the PS5. I'll leave you with a dose of the first 30 minutes, and until next time, game on!

Shatterline, the intense first-person shooter (FPS) with roguelike co-op PVE and PVP modes, has recently made a significant move to the Epic Games platform. This transition opens up a world of possibilities for the game and its developers, FragLab. With Epic Games' reputation for offering attractive incentives to developers, this shift could mean enhanced support, better revenue shares, and increased visibility for Shatterline.

Epic Games is known for its developer-friendly revenue split, 100% going to the devs for first run exclusives on the platform. This financial incentive alone could be a game-changer for Shatterline, allowing FragLab to reinvest more into the game's development and community engagement. Additionally, Epic's robust support system and marketing reach could help Shatterline attract a larger player base and foster a more vibrant community.

The move to Epic Games also raises the question: Will this entice other developers to shift platforms? With the promise of better financial returns and support, it's a possibility that more developers might consider making the switch, especially those looking to maximize their game's potential if things aren't going so hot or... they don't plan to go multi-plat (just yet).

Many developers are hesitant to adapt due to the risks involved. However, some have successfully adapted with the right changes that included improving their games. For instance, Cyberpunk 2077 underwent significant updates and tweaks post-launch, which resulted in improved gameplay and better reception from players.

Shatterline's transition from Steam to Epic Games is a bold move that demonstrates FragLab's adaptability and willingness to take risks for the betterment of their game. I commend the flexibility.

We wish Shatterline's development team the best as they embark on this new journey with Epic Games. This $5 affordable shooter has the potential to shine bright, but only time will tell.