Final Fantasy Resonance Reviews
A fantastic example of how to rewrite battle mechanics to suit a full-fat RPG - it's just a shame about all the actual writing.
In retooling Brave Exvius for the classic RPG format, Final Fantasy Resonance sets a new benchmark for HD-2D visuals alongside solid turn-based combat and incredible music, which carry an underwhelming story.
But for Resonance’s faults, the game otherwise delivered exactly what I wanted–a way for everyone to experience the story, characters, and world of Brave Exvius once again.
Resonance is a popcorn game — best experienced on a handheld with a snack and something playing on the TV.
Final Fantasy Resonance is a strong return to an older style of Final Fantasy, building a thrilling adventure around a classic JRPG design structure that's bolstered by decades of modern game design lessons. A flexible job system, thrilling overworld exploration, and gorgeous implementation of HD-2D all come together to make this one an easy recommendation to any fans of JRPGS new or old.Hopefully this isn't the last time that Square Enix experiments with traditional design for its flagship franchise; Final Fantasy Resonance proves the developers haven't lost the ability to connect with what made it great back in the day.
Hayes Madsen
However, the themes of heroism, honor, and brotherhood struck true, nonetheless, and made the whole thing worth experiencing.
Throughout this analysis I have been critical of several aspects because it is my job and the objective of any video game analysis, but let it be clear that I have enjoyed Final Fantasy Resonance like I haven't enjoyed a Final Fantasy game for a long time .
Review in Spanish | Read full review
If you're left cold by the modern Final Fantasy games, Final Fantasy Resonance returns you to a simpler time, offering old-school action and a decent narrative, while wrapping it in a delightful visual wrapper.
The brilliant turn-based battle system on display keeps Final Fantasy Resonance engaging from start to finish.
Final Fantasy Resonance delivers thrilling turn-based combat, gorgeous HD-2D visuals, and a heartfelt tribute to the series.
Final Fantasy Resonance is a fun JRPG releasing just when I personally needed a classic turn-based experience, but in a world with HD-2D releases of classic Square Enix games and Pixel Remasters of the first six Final Fantasy games, Resonance just isn’t an essential experience. Final Fantasy Resonance doesn’t have to do anything new to be a good game, but something fresh could’ve made it a great one.
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Review in Italian | Read full review
The game is a much-needed and much-desired back-to-basics, made by the giant company that created the genre. Final Fantasy: Resonance is my game of the year right now and is a must-play for all JRPG and Final Fantasy fans.
Final Fantasy Resonance feels like a great jumping on point for players new to the series.
There is a lot to love about Final Fantasy Resonance. Its charm is undeniable. Its great cast of characters, fantastic combat, and in depth customization help it stand out in a crowded field.
Square Enix has hit on something surprisingly special with Final Fantasy Resonance. While its story and characters struggle to break away from being all too predictable at times, its old-school, turn-based gameplay is fantastic.
Final Fantasy Resonance is a full-fledged RPG in its own right, with a solid story and a charming cast.
With this brilliant episode, the saga demonstrates that it can simultaneously manage its two souls: that of continuous experimentation that distances itself from the genre in an attempt to capture a new audience, and that which wants to proudly and consciously respect the origins of the brand and the fans who have made the Japanese company's flagship franchise great around the world.
Review in Italian | Read full review
Despite its exhilarating gameplay, FF Resonance is far from perfect. At times, it plays things too safe, holds your hand a little too tightly, and feels far too easy before finally showing its teeth. You could pick apart its flaws and draw up a lengthy list of grievances, but then a single battle, a familiar melody, or a beautifully staged cutscene comes along and makes it all seem rather trivial. Not because nostalgia blinds us to its shortcomings, but because the game reminds us, with Bahamut's might and Shiva's grace, what Final Fantasy is all about.
Review in French | Read full review