As a long-time fan of the Final Fantasy series and someone who missed out on the 2021 release of Fantasian, I must say that my recent hands-on experience with Fantasian Neo Dimension at PAX West has left me utterly spellbound! This enhanced version of the original game promises to deliver a traditional Final Fantasy-style RPG formula reimagined in a way that feels fresh and innovative.
In 2021, Hironobu Sakaguchi, the creator of the original Final Fantasy series, led a unique role-playing game (RPG) experience for Apple Arcade. This game, called Fantasian, developed by Sakaguchi’s studio Mistwalker, was one of the service’s top titles. Now, more than three years later, Mistwalker and publisher Square Enix have teamed up to bring Fantasian to new platforms under the name Fantasian Neo Dimension. Shacknews recently had a chance to check out this updated version of the original game at PAX West and were left in awe by the classic Final Fantasy-style RPG formula being reinvented
If you haven’t experienced it yet in 2021, Fantasian Neo Dimension follows the tale of Leo, a valiant hero suffering from amnesia, trying to recover his forgotten past. Along his journey, he discovers a world dominated by machinery. Not only does Leo have to uncover his identity, but also fight off the threatening machines
One captivating aspect of Fantasian Neo Dimension lies in its unique combat system. At first glance, it appears to follow the traditional turn-based formula of Final Fantasy, where characters alternate turns to fight monsters during battles. However, an intriguing twist emerges when players traverse the overworld – instead of random encounters with monsters, they can avoid them by pressing a button. These creatures are then sent into a special realm called the Dimengeon, which acts as a temporary holding area for these foes. Players can utilize this time to gather items, heal in nearby towns, or prepare for the upcoming battle in any way they see fit. However, the Dimengeon has limited capacity, so once it’s full, combat ensues. Often, I found myself battling groups of up to 30 monsters at a time
In Dimengeon battles, the action seems more creative compared to typical turn-based combat. Instead of just relying on traditional RPG mechanics for attacks, these moves travel along a specific path and can hit multiple monsters concurrently if aimed correctly by players. During battle, items called Dimengeon Gimmicks will pop up randomly, offering temporary boosts when struck by an ally’s attack. This gameplay style has a strong connection to Final Fantasy, yet it also represents an innovative progression of the formula
Square Enix aims to add an extra layer of enjoyment for players during their battles in Fantasian. This game features a delightful soundtrack brimming with new compositions by the talented Nobuo Uematsu. Notably, players can opt to change the music to tracks from renowned Final Fantasy series like Final Fantasy 14: Endwalker and Final Fantasy 7 Remake, among others, at any point during combat
In simpler terms, most elements found in Fantasian (Apple Arcade version) are also present in Neo Dimension (newer version), but Enix wants to refine this game into the ultimate version with some modifications. Throughout my playtime with the game, I encountered multiple figures who communicated using new English and Japanese voiceovers. These new voiceovers’ dialogues are being incorporated for this update, enhancing the narrative slightly
An interesting aspect to consider about Fantasian is that it offers a distinct visual perspective. Initially, the size relationship between Leo and the environment might seem a bit disconcerting, as if he’s excessively large for his surroundings. Nevertheless, the world’s design is an impressive feat, built from over 150 intricately crafted dioramas. This lends Fantasldimre in Dimension presents Fantas some RPGS and Fantas this unique construction sets Fantasian Neo Dimension apart from most Role-Playing Games (RPGs) in the gaming industry
Square Enix is known for housing some of the globe’s most prominent and exceptional RPG (Role-Playing Game) series, making it challenging to make a significant impact. However, Fantasian Neo Dimension aims to break through with its distinct style and overhauled combat system. Apple Arcade subscribers can experience the original Fantasian right now, but for everyone else, Fantasian Neo Dimension will launch on PC, PlayStation, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch this coming winter season
This information originates from a preliminary PlayStation 5 prototype demonstrated privately during PAX West 2024. The ultimate version may undergo modifications
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2024-09-04 16:29