Final Fantasy’s Evolution: How One Game Changed the Face of Gaming
Final Fantasy 14, the most profitable game in the popular franchise, has undergone a remarkable transformation since its disastrous launch in 2010. According to publisher Square Enix, the game’s success has been nothing short of phenomenal, with servers struggling to keep up with demand during the release of its previous expansion, Endwalker, in December 2021.
The industry, and Japan’s place in it, has also undergone significant changes over the last decade. Final Fantasy, a massive cultural export for Japan, has seen a shift in focus towards the global market and its fans worldwide. This change in approach is evident in the latest expansion, Dawntrail, which marks a new era for the game and its director, Naoki Yoshida.
A New Chapter for Final Fantasy 14
Dawntrail brings a decade-long story arc to a close and opens a new saga, complete with a graphical overhaul, new character classes, and other exciting features. The action takes place in the sunny, Latin America-inspired Tural region of FF14’s world, a deliberate departure from the European and East Asian influences of previous games.
Yoshida-san explains that his team wanted to try something different, drawing inspiration from the rich history and culture of Central and South America. This move is significant, given the criticism Square Enix has faced in the past over its representation of other cultures. However, Yoshida-san assures that his team has made a conscious effort to learn about the culture, read the texts that are available, and understand the diverse values, religions, and relationships that exist in the world.
The game’s new expansion, Dawntrail, promises a fresh start for players.
The Power of Community
Yoshida-san attributes the game’s success to the trust and support of its players, who have been instrumental in driving the team to improve and innovate. He acknowledges the risks involved in depicting other cultures, but believes that understanding and learning from them is crucial in creating a game that resonates with players from diverse backgrounds.
The director of Final Fantasy 14, Naoki Yoshida, on the game’s evolution and future.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that Final Fantasy 14 is poised to remain a major player in the global market. With its latest expansion, Dawntrail, the game is set to embark on a new journey, one that promises to be just as exciting as its predecessors.
The game’s new expansion, Dawntrail, offers a fresh start for players.
