Japanese RPGs are thriving this decade, so why isn't Final Fantasy?

Final Fantasy struggles while other Japanese RPGs like Dragon Quest and Persona thrive with consistency.

: Final Fantasy is facing an identity crisis as it struggles to meet sales expectations, largely due to a lack of clear direction and identity. In contrast, Japanese RPGs like Dragon Quest and Persona are flourishing by maintaining consistent gameplay and clear identities that resonate with players. Nihon Falcom's Trails series and Sega's Like a Dragon have also seen success by reusing assets and providing regular releases. Square Enix must determine a clear direction for Final Fantasy to regain its former stature.

Final Fantasy's recent installments, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Final Fantasy 16, failed to meet sales expectations, signaling a shift in the franchise's cultural relevance. Despite producing visually stunning games, the series has struggled to maintain its once-dominant position in the JRPG genre, largely due to an unclear identity and inconsistent direction.

In contrast, other Japanese RPGs are seeing robust success. Games like Dragon Quest, Persona, and Like a Dragon have grown due to their consistency and a strong understanding of their players' expectations. Nihon Falcom's Trails series has expanded internationally, and Sega's Like a Dragon, after embracing RPG mechanics, has seen increased popularity, showcasing a clear lineage and dedicated fanbases.

These franchises thrive by maintaining strong ties to their original gameplay while incorporating new ideas, which helps attract and retain fans. They succeed through strategies like asset reuse, ensuring frequent game releases without exhausting resources, which Square Enix could consider to redefine and revitalize Final Fantasy. The need for Final Fantasy to establish a clear identity could make the series more appealing and allow room for the experimentation that once defined it.

Japanese RPGconsistencygaming industry