The Final Fantasy series has long been a cornerstone of the role-playing game (RPG) genre, renowned for its immersive worlds, compelling narratives, and unforgettable characters. With Final Fantasy 16 delivering a cinematic and action-packed experience, the question now arises: Should Final Fantasy 17 take a bold step forward and experiment with a new storytelling approach?
The Evolution of Storytelling in Final Fantasy
Since its inception in 1987, Final Fantasy has evolved significantly in its storytelling techniques. Early entries followed linear narratives, guiding players through a well-crafted but pre-defined experience. As gaming technology progressed, so did Square Enix’s ambition, introducing branching dialogues, open-world elements, and player-driven choices.
With Final Fantasy 16, the series embraced a highly cinematic approach, akin to an interactive movie, delivering a structured narrative that ensured emotional depth and dramatic intensity. While this direction received praise, some fans long for a return to player agency in shaping the story’s outcome. This opens the door to potential innovations in Final Fantasy 17.
Why Nonlinear Storytelling Could Elevate Final Fantasy 17
One of the most discussed possibilities for Final Fantasy 17 is the introduction of nonlinear storytelling, allowing players to influence the story’s progression and conclusion. This branching narrative design could bring several key benefits:
1. Increased Replayability and Player Engagement
By incorporating multiple story paths, players would feel a greater sense of ownership over their journey. Games like The Witcher 3 and Mass Effect have successfully used choice-driven narratives to encourage multiple playthroughs. In Final Fantasy 17, key decisions could alter alliances, major plot points, and even the fate of the protagonist.
2. Stronger Emotional Investment
When players feel that their choices directly impact the world, they form a deeper emotional connection with the characters and setting. Imagine choosing between conflicting factions, determining the protagonist’s moral alignment, or shaping the destiny of an entire kingdom. Such agency could redefine how players interact with the Final Fantasy universe.
3. A Modernized RPG Experience
The RPG genre has evolved, with many modern titles prioritizing player freedom. While Final Fantasy has experimented with open-world elements in Final Fantasy XV, it has yet to fully embrace a player-driven narrative structure. Final Fantasy 17 could revolutionize the series by allowing players to experience different outcomes based on their strategic choices and moral dilemmas.
Lessons from Other Square Enix Titles
Square Enix has already explored nonlinear storytelling with the Octopath Traveler series, where individual character arcs unfold based on player decisions. The Live A Live remake also experimented with multiple perspectives, reinforcing the idea that branching narratives can work within the JRPG framework.
If Final Fantasy 17 takes inspiration from these successes, it could introduce a hybrid storytelling model, blending structured cinematic sequences with dynamic, choice-driven moments.
Deepening Character Relationships Through Player Choice
Another potential enhancement for Final Fantasy 17 is a more immersive relationship system. While past entries have featured romantic subplots and party dynamics, these interactions have often been scripted rather than player-driven.
A relationship system akin to Persona or Fire Emblem could allow players to build deeper bonds with party members, influencing both gameplay mechanics and narrative outcomes. Strengthening friendships or rivalries could unlock exclusive character arcs, alternate endings, and unique battle strategies.
A Bold Future for Final Fantasy 17
The Final Fantasy series has always thrived on innovation, from the introduction of Active Time Battle (ATB) in Final Fantasy IV to the real-time action combat of Final Fantasy 16. As the franchise moves forward, embracing nonlinear storytelling and player-driven choices could mark a new era for the series.
With advancements in gaming technology and the increasing demand for player agency, Final Fantasy 17 has the potential to redefine JRPG storytelling, offering an experience where every decision matters. By integrating branching narratives, deep character relationships, and meaningful choices, the next installment could not only meet fan expectations but also set a new industry standard.
As we eagerly anticipate Square Enix’s next move, one thing is certain: The future of Final Fantasy is as limitless as the choices that players may soon have the power to make.
