"Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Sparks Debate on Turn-Based Gaming"

The debate over turn-based versus action-oriented gameplay in RPGs has been reignited with the release of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. This highly acclaimed RPG, launched last week, proudly showcases its turn-based roots while drawing inspiration from classics like Final Fantasy VIII, IX, and X. It also incorporates elements from Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Mario & Luigi, blending quick-time events and parrying/dodging mechanics into its turn-based framework. This unique hybrid approach has sparked discussions about the future direction of genre giants, particularly the Final Fantasy series.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33's success has been leveraged by some fans as evidence against the shift away from turn-based systems in major franchises. Naoki Yoshida, during the media tour for Final Fantasy XVI, highlighted the growing preference among younger audiences for action-based mechanics over traditional turn-based systems. He noted, "I’ve seen quite a number of opinions saying 'I don’t understand the attraction of selecting commands in video games,'" suggesting a shift that's reflected in recent Final Fantasy titles like XV, XVI, and the VII remake series.

Despite these changes, Square Enix has not abandoned turn-based RPGs entirely. Recent releases like Octopath Traveler 2 and upcoming titles such as SaGa Emerald Beyond and the Bravely Default remaster for Switch 2 demonstrate their continued support for the genre. While Final Fantasy has embraced more action-oriented gameplay, it's clear that turn-based RPGs still have a place in the market.

The question of whether Final Fantasy should follow Clair Obscur's example is complex. While Clair Obscur's success is a testament to the viability of turn-based systems, it's important to recognize the unique aesthetic and iconographic elements that define Final Fantasy. Simply replacing one system with another doesn't account for the series' established identity. Moreover, the success of turn-based games like Baldur's Gate 3 and Metaphor: ReFantazio indicates that there is still a strong market for these types of RPGs.

Clair Obscur's impressive sales, reaching 1 million units in just three days, underscore the potential for mid-budget RPGs to thrive. However, Square Enix's expectations for Final Fantasy are typically higher, and broader industry shifts and production costs play significant roles in their decision-making process.

Ultimately, the lesson from Clair Obscur's success is the importance of authenticity and innovation. As Larian CEO Swen Vincke emphasized, creating a game that the development team is passionate about can lead to significant success, regardless of the gameplay style. This approach encourages developers to stay true to their vision rather than simply following trends, ensuring a more vibrant and diverse gaming landscape.