FE18: Fire Emblem Engage's Protagonist Promotes a Different Strategy

Fire Emblem Engage, the 17th entry in Nintendo’s long-running tactical RPG series, followed the success of Fire Emblem: Three Houses. The latter has become a cornerstone of the franchise, praised for its intricate character development, worldbuilding, and gameplay mechanics. Three Houses has left a lasting impression, influencing subsequent games and even inspiring spin-offs.

Naturally, Engage and Three Houses share certain gameplay elements, reflecting Nintendo's talent for refining successful ideas in new and innovative ways. This trend extends to their protagonists as well, who both play crucial roles in shaping the narrative.

In Three Houses, Byleth is not just an ordinary character but houses the spirit of Sothis, a god thought to be long dead. This divine connection is central to the plot, and the Garreg Mach Monastery, the player’s hub, is tied to this revelation. In essence, Byleth wields the power of a god.

Similarly, in Fire Emblem Engage, the protagonist Alear is themselves a divine being. They reside in the Somniel, a floating monastery that functions much like Garreg Mach. The parallels between these two lead characters hint at Nintendo’s preference for incorporating divine elements in their storytelling.

Exploring New Paths for Fire Emblem Protagonists

Despite their similarities, Byleth and Alear navigate their godlike roles in distinct ways. Byleth remains unaware of their divine connection, while Alear is revered by everyone but remains oblivious to their status. This dynamic sparks the question of what fresh direction Fire Emblem could take with its next protagonist, offering an opportunity for the series to explore new narrative possibilities.

While both characters command respect by birthright, Fire Emblem could venture into different storytelling terrain. Characters with humble beginnings or complex motivations, both within and outside of the franchise, have often driven some of the most emotionally engaging stories. The next game could explore a character from a less exalted background, perhaps an underdog rising to prominence or someone driven by revenge, only to discover deeper truths as their journey unfolds.

Nintendo has a proven track record of creating memorable characters with compelling arcs. Drawing inspiration from this legacy, the series could benefit from introducing a protagonist who contrasts with the recent divine leads.

A Protagonist Who Earns Their Legacy

A protagonist who builds their reputation through hard work and perseverance, rather than divine inheritance, would be a refreshing change for Fire Emblem. Alternatively, a story where the lead character must regain lost honor or respect could offer a more grounded, human perspective, steering the series away from the current focus on divinity.

One common critique of Engage is that many of its characters felt one-dimensional, adding little depth to the overall story. In contrast, Three Houses delivered a cast of complex, multifaceted characters, each with their own personal struggles and relationships that enriched the narrative. The next Fire Emblem entry would do well to return to this focus on deeper character development.

Some standout characters from Three Houses who became fan favorites due to their compelling backstories include:

- Claude – a master strategist with a secret past

- Edelgard – a conflicted leader torn between duty and morality

- Dorothea – a commoner-turned-opera singer with dreams of a better life

- Sylvain – a charming noble with deep-seated insecurities

- Dedue – a loyal knight seeking to redeem his homeland

Reinventing the Future of Fire Emblem

While Byleth and Alear were successful protagonists, the next Fire Emblem game calls for a hero who can redefine the tone of the series. It’s time for a protagonist who doesn’t need godlike powers or divine guidance to become legendary. By focusing on more human characters and grounded storytelling, Fire Emblem can continue to captivate players with engaging narratives and dynamic character arcs.

In the end, the future of Fire Emblem holds endless potential, and the next protagonist could be the one to set a new standard for the series.