Following the rise in popularity of turn-based RPGs like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, fans of the Final Fantasy franchise have speculated whether the upcoming Final Fantasy 17 would return to its roots. During Anime Expo 2025, longtime producer Naoki Yoshida addressed these rumors head-on.
Clair Obscur’s Influence on the Genre
The recently showcased Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has taken the gaming world by storm with its painterly visuals and a turn-based battle system reminiscent of classic Final Fantasy titles. Its success has reignited interest in traditional JRPG combat mechanics, especially among fans nostalgic for the Final Fantasy IV–IX era.
With Square Enix acknowledging Clair Obscur’s impact, many began to wonder if Final Fantasy 17 might adopt a similar design.
Yoshida: “It’s Not My Call”
In an interview with Anime News Network at Anime Expo 2025, Final Fantasy XIV and XVI producer Naoki Yoshida clarified his involvement:
“I’m not involved in the next mainline Final Fantasy,” Yoshida stated, “so I can’t say for certain what the battle system will look like. That decision is up to the director leading the project.”
He further emphasized that the gameplay style for each Final Fantasy entry depends on the creative vision of its developers, rather than a fixed formula:
“Whether it’s turn-based or action, what matters is how gameplay, story, and visuals align to deliver the best experience.”
A History of Changing Combat Systems
The Final Fantasy franchise has never stayed static. From the Active Time Battle (ATB) system seen in FFIV through FFIX to the menu-free action combat of FFXVI, each installment has taken bold risks. While FFXVI shifted toward a full action-RPG approach, some fans voiced their desire for a more strategic, turn-based experience going forward.
Will Final Fantasy 17 Go Turn-Based?
With no official director or gameplay reveal announced for Final Fantasy 17, the door remains open. Yoshida’s remarks confirm that nothing is set in stone, but Square Enix is paying attention to current trends and player feedback. Whether or not Clair Obscur truly influences FF17 will depend on the team behind it—and their creative vision.
Until then, fans can only speculate, but one thing’s certain: Final Fantasy is a franchise that evolves with each generation.