Final Fantasy 17 May Encounter a Pivotal Decision After FF15 and FF16

Throughout its history, Square Enix’s Final Fantasy series has transported players to an array of captivating worlds, each unique yet still echoing the familiar elements that define the franchise. While the earliest games were deeply rooted in traditional medieval settings, the series has evolved, blending various genres. For instance, Final Fantasy 7 introduced a dystopian steampunk aesthetic, and Final Fantasy 8 leaned heavily into science fiction and post-apocalyptic themes.

More recent entries have continued this trend of genre-bending. In 2016, Final Fantasy 15 presented a modern, contemporary world, combining everyday elements with the series' hallmark magic and swordplay. Then, in stark contrast, Final Fantasy 16, released last year, returned to a more traditional fantasy environment inspired by medieval Europe, set in the world of Valisthea. This alternating approach raises the question of what direction Square Enix will take with Final Fantasy 17. With the anticipation of the next installment growing, the developers are at a crucial juncture regarding the setting and style of the game.

Fans eagerly await the arrival of Final Fantasy 16 on PC, with its release scheduled for September 17, 2024.

FF15 and FF16: Two Opposite but Equally Captivating Worlds

The contrast between the last two main Final Fantasy entries highlights the series' versatility in world-building. Final Fantasy 15’s Eos felt reminiscent of our own world, infused with semi-futuristic technology. Notably, the game's protagonist, Prince Noctis Caelum, and his friends traverse the world in a sleek Regalia convertible, reminiscent of a luxury car from our own reality. This blend of modernity and magic gave FF15 a distinctive identity, making it one of the most memorable settings in the franchise.

On the other hand, Final Fantasy 16 shifted back to a high fantasy setting, incorporating a mature, gritty narrative that echoed the tones of Game of Thrones. This shift provided a fresh take on the fantasy genre, demonstrating the series' ability to reinvent itself while still delivering engaging and immersive worlds. As Square Enix contemplates the direction for Final Fantasy 17, the company must decide whether to revisit these established styles or explore a completely new path.

Creating a Unique Setting for Final Fantasy 17

With Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth revisiting and modernizing the steampunk world of Gaia, the recent releases (FF15, FF16, and FF7 Rebirth) have covered a broad spectrum of settings, from modern to medieval to steampunk. This diversity in worlds raises the question of what fresh direction Final Fantasy 17 might take, especially if Square Enix wants to differentiate it from its predecessors.

There are still several unexplored possibilities for Final Fantasy 17. The series could draw inspiration from Final Fantasy 8, which embraced a hard science-fiction approach, offering a futuristic and technologically advanced world. Alternatively, the next installment might take cues from Final Fantasy 6, which balanced magic and technology to create a richly textured world. This blend of past influences with new innovations could help FF17 carve out its own distinct identity.

Ultimately, Square Enix faces the challenge of crafting a setting for Final Fantasy 17 that feels fresh and original while maintaining the essence that fans love. Whether by revisiting past themes or venturing into uncharted territory, FF17 must strike the right balance to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers to the series.