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!

According to the Solitaired survey completed by over 800 gamers, the following is a ranking of the most evil video game villains:

It's important to note that rankings like these are subjective and can vary based on personal opinions. However, let's discuss a little about these villains based on their reputation and impact within their respective games:

1. Joker from Batman: Arkham - The Joker is known for his sadistic sense of humor, unpredictable nature, and his constant torment of Batman. He is one of the most iconic and enduring villains in comic book history.

2. Pyramid Head from Silent Hill - Pyramid Head is a terrifying and enigmatic figure that represents guilt and punishment in the Silent Hill series. He is associated with some of the most disturbing and psychological moments in the games.

3. Albert Wesker from Resident Evil - Wesker is a recurring villain in the Resident Evil series. He possesses superhuman abilities, manipulative intelligence, and a sinister agenda. Wesker's actions have significantly impacted the Resident Evil storyline.

4. Nemesis from Resident Evil - Nemesis is a relentless and powerful enemy in the Resident Evil series. His pursuit of the protagonists and his ability to mutate make him one of the most feared adversaries in the franchise.

5. Ganon from The Legend of Zelda - Ganon, also known as Ganondorf, is the primary antagonist in the Legend of Zelda series. He is a powerful sorcerer and possesses great physical strength. Ganon's desire for power and dominance drives his villainous actions.

6. Frau Engle from Wolfenstein - Frau Engle is a sadistic and ruthless villain in the Wolfenstein series. She represents the Nazi regime's brutality and cruelty, making her a formidable antagonist.

7. Alien from Alien Isolation - The Alien in Alien Isolation is a relentless and highly intelligent predator. Its presence creates a constant sense of tension and fear, making it one of the most memorable video game villains.

8. Mr. X from Resident Evil - Mr. X, also known as Tyrant, is an imposing and unstoppable creature in the Resident Evil series. His relentless pursuit of the player creates intense moments of terror and survival.

9. Orin The Red from Baldur's Gate - Orin The Red is a powerful and malevolent wizard in the Baldur's Gate series. He is responsible for numerous acts of destruction and poses a significant threat to the player and the game world.

10. Alma from F.E.A.R. - Alma is a psychic entity in the F.E.A.R. series. Her ghostly presence and terrifying abilities make her one of the most memorable and feared villains in the game.

Regarding the discussion on the rankings, personal opinions may differ. The ranking provided is based on the survey results from the group effort. If you would like to dive deeper into the rankings or explore what makes the best video game villain or best villains of all time according to gamers, click here!

There's no question that the Nintendo Switch has been a success. It's sold more than 10 million units, and games in the catalog are among the best-selling titles within its lifespan. But there's no question that it could be even better—and not just because of what we want out of our basic gaming experience.

The Switch's biggest problem is that it falls short on the mobile side: gamers who want to play on the go can't just play online on the go, because it doesn't take advantage of certain tech available in the mobile market. It's too soon to expect a true successor to the Nintendo Switch because there is still great interest in the current system.

Tunic 

Xbox Game Pass | PC

Dude, If this game doesn't scream, Zelda to you then I don't know what will. It's close enough to be like Zelda without being a clone and it has all these little shortcuts. I'm afraid of going inside the windmill, I don't even know what's in there but I'm waiting for someone else to do it and I'll watch them. If I leave a spirit fox in there, it's staying in there because I'm not going back to get it.