Overview

• At Anime Expo, producer Naoki Yoshida said there is no clear-cut answer on whether future Final Fantasy games will feature turn-based or action combat.
• He acknowledged that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s strong reception has renewed interest in traditional turn-based systems for the franchise.
• He argued that rising graphical fidelity can make turn-based combat feel dissonant, a key factor in Final Fantasy XVI’s action-only design.
• He said battle systems must align with each title’s visual realism, narrative goals and overall gameplay vision and should not constrain future directors.
• He confirmed ongoing development plans for Final Fantasy XIV through version 10.0 and expressed interest in creating a new online IP.