Square Enix has revealed the return of the Dissidia Final Fantasy series, albeit not in the way many fans anticipated. Initially launched as a series of fighting games on the PSP, Dissidia Final Fantasy allowed characters from various Final Fantasy titles to engage in combat. However, Square Enix has since broadened the use of the Dissidia title to encompass nearly any game featuring its iconic JRPG characters, with the latest entry being Dissidia Final Fantasy Opera Omnia in 2017, which was delivered on mobile platforms.
Fast forward to eight years later, and Square Enix has opted for the same approach once more. A fresh website has been launched, announcing that the “next evolution” in the series will soon be available on mobile devices. Additionally, a livestream scheduled for October 14th is set to unveil further details regarding this upcoming title.
Exciting Developments Await
The new project seems to draw from concepts and gameplay mechanics of previous mobile entries, including the recent Octopath Traveler 0, which aims to provide both nostalgic elements and a unique experience for newcomers and veterans alike.
Character Silhouettes Emerge
Currently, there are only shadowy outlines of 10 characters, with notable figures emerging among them. The silhouettes suggest appearances by Final Fantasy XIII‘s Lightning, Final Fantasy VII‘s Cloud, and Final Fantasy XV‘s Prompto. Additionally, Final Fantasy X‘s Auron, Final Fantasy IX‘s Zidane, and Final Fantasy VIII‘s Rinoa also appear to be included, despite their more indistinct shapes.
Fan Reactions
As expected, the announcement hasn’t stirred much excitement among enthusiasts of the original fighting games, particularly considering Square Enix’s somewhat tumultuous track record with its mobile offerings. Earlier this year, the publisher discontinued the mobile installment of Kingdom Hearts, having previously done the same with a lesser-known entry from the Nier franchise.
Comments from fans on social media reflect this skepticism. One Reddit user expressed, “I know people hate mobile and gachas, but Opera Omnia was so fantastic. I don’t have high hopes for this new title, but I can dream.” Another user added, “Square, please, at least remaster Duodecim.” A third echoed the sentiment with, “I’d be more enthusiastic if SE didn’t have a history of ending services so quickly.”
For the time being, fans can look back fondly on the most celebrated entries in the Final Fantasy franchise.