Final Fantasy Resonance Embraces the Series’ Classic Era
Final Fantasy Resonance marks a significant milestone as the first entry in the series to embrace the HD-2D visual style, blending charming 2D pixel art with immersive 3D environments and dynamic lighting. This aesthetic was first showcased in 2018’s Octopath Traveler, and earlier this year, an action RPG innovated on this style in delightful new ways. Now, Resonance is set to elevate that innovation further, presenting a turn-based narrative centered around crystals in a world where Final Fantasy games continued to evolve pixel art aesthetics into the late ’90s and beyond.
Drawing inspiration from the first season of the 2016 mobile game Final Fantasy Brave Exvius—yes, the one featuring pop icons as summons—this enhanced version aims to provide a deeper experience rather than just a straightforward remake. As the game gears up for its October launch, new details have emerged about its world, characters, and how legendary heroes from past Final Fantasy titles will contribute to this fresh adventure.
For fans of the classic SNES era, prepare for the return of beloved elements like chocobos, espers, and airships. Resonance will introduce various nations powered by formidable crystals, including the Zoldaad Empire, a militaristic nation that harnesses the fire crystal. True to Final Fantasy tradition, this Empire has sinister plans: “Rumors suggest Zoldaad intends to use its mass-produced airships and magitek weaponry to invade neighboring lands,” as noted in a recent update. Additionally, the advanced magical city of Mysidia, home to the legendary Ice Crystal, makes an appearance, echoing its role in previous titles.
Zoldaad and Mysidia are also the backdrop for two new protagonists, Jake and Sakura. Jake is described as “the leader of the rebel army fighting against the Zoldaad Empire. While he may seem carefree and easily distracted by women, he harbors a deep passion for his people and is determined to end their suffering. In combat, Jake relies on luck-based abilities like Coin Toss and Gamble Shot.” He seems to channel a blend of FF6’s Edgar and Setzer, which is sure to resonate with fans.
On the other hand, Sakura, with her striking purple pigtails, “appears youthful, but her true age is a mystery. Her ancient-sounding speech leads many to believe she possesses wisdom beyond her years. Sakura wields immense magical power, setting her apart from other mages, though her origins remain shrouded in secrecy.” She seems to embody traits reminiscent of FF6’s Terra and FF4’s Rydia, adding to the allure of the classic JRPG trope of a mysterious mage city.
New insights into Resonance’s turn-based combat reveal exciting mechanics. Players can unleash Limit Bursts, powerful attacks linked to a gauge that fills when enemies are staggered or when characters take damage. As in previous Final Fantasy games, summoning espers like Carbuncle, Odin, Leviathan, and Bahamut will be a key feature. However, the standout element of Resonance’s combat is the introduction of Visions—crystallized essences of legendary heroes that can be equipped to fight alongside the main character, Rain, and his allies. The more Visions are utilized in battle, the stronger they become. Successfully staggering all enemies in a single turn triggers a Resonance with a Vision, unleashing a devastating attack akin to a character-specific Limit Break. To acquire these vision crystals, players must explore the Sanctums of Light scattered throughout the world.
Some Vision characters are unique to this narrative, with each main character having a selection of associated Visions, such as Jake’s gun-wielding maid Amelia and Sakura’s white mage companion, Ayaka. However, many Visions will be familiar to long-time fans, including characters like FF3’s Onion Knight, FF12’s Vaan, FF13’s Lightning, FF15’s Noctis, and FF16’s Clive, among others. There’s no word yet on whether pop icons will make a return in this installment.
For those seeking a challenge, Resonance promises plenty of content to keep players engaged, featuring numerous optional superbosses and secret dungeons. “While these dungeons are separate from the main storyline, they provide an excellent opportunity for players looking to test their skills,” the update hints.
Final Fantasy Resonance is set to launch on October 22 for Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X.
