A turn-based HD-2D Final Fantasy is on the horizon, and for many fans, it feels like a dream come true. Having grown up immersed in the classic Final Fantasy titles and JRPGs, the opportunity to experience Final Fantasy Resonance for approximately three hours at Square Enix, as part of an IGN exclusive, was nothing short of exhilarating. The nostalgia of struggling through Final Fantasy IV and VI at the tender age of five to dedicating countless hours to Final Fantasy XIV has shaped my gaming journey. Now, witnessing the series return to its roots in 2026 with turn-based combat and vibrant pixel art is a remarkable moment for fans.
Resonance: A New Chapter in the Final Fantasy Saga
Final Fantasy Resonance is not merely a rehash of the mobile game Brave Exvius, which concluded its decade-long run in 2025. Instead, it serves as a narrative foundation for a completely new RPG experience, complete with a fresh combat system and an expansive overworld. The game draws inspiration from the first season of Brave Exvius, but everything else has been meticulously crafted from the ground up. Players can expect familiar elements such as airships, chocobos, and beloved summons, all presented in a more detailed HD-2D art style.
The protagonist, Rain, is a kind-hearted knight from the Kingdom of Grandshelt, grappling with a complex relationship with his father. Alongside his friends—Lasswell, a steadfast knight; Lid, an aspiring master engineer; and Fina, an amnesiac summoner—Rain embarks on a quest to protect the world’s magic crystals from the ominous Veritas of the Dark. This setup resonates with fans of the franchise, particularly those familiar with Brave Exvius.
During my demo, I explored the overworld, which is divided into multiple continents, and visited the lively town of Dwarves Forge, where a warm “Lali-ho” greeted me. I tackled a full story dungeon culminating in an epic boss fight. The game’s tone appears lighthearted and colorful, reminiscent of recent Dragon Quest remakes, while still hinting at deeper, darker themes lurking beneath the surface.
Combat in Resonance diverges from the traditional ATB system, opting instead for a straightforward turn order displayed prominently on the screen. Enemies possess a stagger meter that increases with each hit, and exploiting their elemental weaknesses amplifies the damage dealt. This system echoes the mechanics seen in Final Fantasy XIII and VII Remake, emphasizing the importance of elemental affinities within party composition.
One of the standout features is the introduction of Visions, akin to personas from the Persona series or JoJo Stands. These Visions can be equipped by characters, each offering unique skills that enhance the party’s capabilities. Notably, iconic characters from previous Final Fantasy entries make appearances as Visions, adding layers of nostalgia and strategy to combat.
In battle, staggering enemies grants additional turns, and if all foes are staggered, players can unleash a powerful Resonance attack using one of the equipped Visions. This dynamic encourages strategic planning and can lead to exhilarating sequences of high damage output.
Combat also features unique summoning mechanics, with Fina being the sole summoner capable of calling upon Espers. Players can unlock new Espers by locating them in optional dungeons and engaging in challenging boss battles, harkening back to the exploration elements of classic RPGs.
Visions are intricately tied to the game’s narrative, with players discovering shrines that prompt them to answer questions related to the character’s backstory before unlocking them. This clever integration of lore serves as a tribute to the franchise’s rich history.
As I reflect on my time with Final Fantasy Resonance, it stands out as one of the most anticipated releases of the year. The combination of turn-based gameplay, stunning HD-2D visuals, and a soundtrack that includes classic series motifs alongside new compositions creates an enticing package. The adaptation of mobile game narratives into a traditional format is a smart move, ensuring that these stories reach a broader audience.
With a gameplay experience projected to last between 30-40 hours, or even 60-80 for completionists, Final Fantasy Resonance is set to launch on October 22 for PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and Nintendo Switch. The excitement surrounding this title is palpable, and it promises to deliver a fresh yet nostalgic journey for both new and veteran players alike.
