Final Fantasy XVI producer doubles down on multiplatform strategy for Xbox — comments on popularity ofturn-basedRPGS

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2025’s Anime News Network had a chat on July 8th with Naoki Yoshida, famously known as Yoshi-P, the mastermind behind the production of Final Fantasy XIV and Final Fantasy XIV.

In the interview, Yoshi-P fielded numerous queries, ranging from Square Enix’s upcoming projects for the Final Fantasy series, his personal insights and influences, a potential return of turn-based combat in Final Fantasy, among other topics.

Here’s what he had to say.

The initial query that Naoki Yoshida addressed pertained to Square Enix’s ongoing approach to distributing their games across various platforms, including Xbox and PC.

He affirms that Square Enix intends to prioritize a multi-platform approach in the future, as he puts it, “‘We are committed to pursuing multi-platform releases going forward’.

Excitedly speaking as a tech enthusiast, I’m thrilled about the latest news! The much-anticipated Final Fantasy Tactics: Ivalice Chronicles is now heading to PC gaming platforms. Plus, the long-awaited announcements of Final Fantasy XVI and Final Fantasy VII Remake are finally coming to Xbox too! This trio of iconic role-playing games promises an epic adventure for gamers everywhere!

Consequently, all principal Final Fantasy games can now be played on Xbox. Given this fact, it seems likely that Final Fantasy Tactics: Ivalice Chronicles and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth will also become available on the platform soon.

Anime News Network inquired from Naoki Yoshida if it’s possible that mainline Final Fantasy games might revert to using turn-based combat, pointing out the popularity and success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as evidence that players are eager for this type of gameplay.

Naoki Yoshida responds in detail, stating that focusing solely on whether a game is turn-based or action overlooks the broader vision of the creators regarding the game they aim to provide for players.

For instance, the graphical style and storyline we aim to offer our players influence how we configure the game’s mechanisms. This encompasses aspects like the combat system, overall design, and gameplay sensation. It’s not a straightforward decision whether it will be entirely turn-based or more action-oriented.

He concluded by saying, “I may not be involved in Final Fantasy 17, so let’s avoid restricting our future directors or game producers for titles like 17 and 18. We don’t want to box them in and limit their creative freedom.

To put it simply, Naoki Yoshida might not be in charge of the upcoming primary installment of the Final Fantasy series. The person who takes over as both director and producer has free rein to shape the game according to their unique creative ideas, as long as it adheres to its intended vision.

Whether or not the next game will have real-time or turn-based combat is up to them.

Dawntrail, and expresses no immediate intentions of retirement.

Square Enix wants to make Final Fantasy however they wish, but is that what the fans want?

I find myself having a blend of positive and negative sentiments concerning Naoki Yoshida’s stance on turn-based combat. While I understand and appreciate a developer’s desire to create a game according to their unique creative aspirations, I also can’t help but feel a bit apprehensive when something as integral as gameplay mechanics is altered in such a way.

One significant reason behind Final Fantasy’s rise as a legendary JRPG series lies in its unique approach: each main installment stands apart, constantly introducing fresh ideas and modifications.

Instead, Conversely, one could argue that the key flaw in Final Fantasy lies in its constant evolution and experimentation over the years. This transformation has been so extensive that the series appears to have misplaced its unique character.

Consequently, the action-oriented titles of the Final Fantasy series, specifically Final Fantasy XVI and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, haven’t been living up to financial projections. Meanwhile, competitors such as Persona and Metaphor: ReFantazio, which focus on turn-based combat, are doing well financially.

The financial goals for the action games in the Final Fantasy series, specifically Final Fantasy XVI and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, have not been reached. On the other hand, games like Persona and Metaphor: ReFantazio, which emphasize turn-based combat, are outperforming their targets.

1) Notably, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 demonstrated to Square Enix that it’s possible to craft an emotionally stirring narrative alongside turn-based combat. Intriguingly, when the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster debuted on Xbox in October 2024, it became the most sought-after game on their digital storefront.

It’s obvious to many, including myself, that fans are growing weary of the experimentation with real-time combat in Final Fantasy games, or the blending of real-time combat with turn-based mechanics. Instead, they yearn for this cherished series to return to its origins and rekindle the love for the franchise by adopting the classic turn-based combat that made Final Fantasy so endearing during the 1980s and 1990s.

Some key figures within Square Enix are now recognizing the achievement of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and have pledged to adopt a command-based approach in future Final Fantasy series installments.

Might it be that Final Fantasy XVII could adopt a turn-based style, similar to its predecessors, or could it possibly follow the real-time combat system of Final Fantasy VII Remake/Rebirth, allowing players to control the game flow while also directing AI allies during battles by pausing the game?

Let’s be patient and keep an eye out; we might learn about Square Enix’s plans, possibly unveiled at the Tokyo Game Show in 2025, to give us more information.

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2025-07-11 14:39