LOS ANGELES (December 20, 2021) – In celebration of the anniversary of the original FINAL FANTASY’s release, SQUARE ENIX® showcased new gameplay and cutscenes for STRANGER OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN™, highlighting the connection between the upcoming action RPG and the first title in the FINAL FANTASY series.
Tiamat from the Original FINAL FANTASY will Present a Challenge to Players
The latest gameplay footage was headlined by the iconic northern bridge scene from the original FINAL FANTASY recreated for FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN—the game offers and alternate retelling of the beloved classic, shedding light on the dark origins of Garland through the journey of protagonist Jack and his comrades. Legendary FINAL FANTASY developers Hironobu Sakaguchi (Mistwalker Corporation CEO) and Akitoshi Kawazu shared their thoughts on the links between these two titles:
“Garland, who is defeated at the beginning of the story, is reborn 2000 years in the past as Chaos where he continues to rule over darkness, but is once again bested by the Warriors of Light… I created this endless cycle in the story because it was the first game in the series, and even though it is a pixel art RPG, I thought that by giving the story such layers, it wouldn't just be viewed as some kind of "toy," and we could elevate it to an authentic form of entertainment. That was the reason behind this decision. I think the same can be said for the scene when the player crosses the northern bridge, and the title and opening story text are shown on screen.”
Hironobu Sakaguchi (Mistwalker Corporation CEO)
“The story of FF Origin is told through the eyes of Garland. It's quite exciting to see this story depicted through the villain's perspective. I'm interested to see what kind of emotional impact
that the story of this game might have on players this time around.
“As far as what happens to Garland… People who played the original FINAL FANTASY
already know his fate, but I hope people will find appreciation in how this title portrays him.
"So that's what happened!?" "I'm almost in tears!"
“These are the kinds of emotions I look forward to seeing from our players.”
Akitoshi Kawazu (Square Enix)
The latest cutscene can be viewed here.
The livestream also showcased STRANGERS OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN gameplay, which has seen new adjustments and additions based on player feedback following the release of the second TRIAL VERSION. Numerous gameplay elements, including basic and advanced jobs, abilities, equipment, and multiplayer were highlighted through a number of new gameplay videos.
Astos from the Western Keep Awaits the Coming of Jack and his Allies
STRANGER OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN will be available on PS5™, PS4™ Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and PC via the Epic Games Store on 18th March 2022. The title is currently available for pre-order—more details can be found here: https://www.square-enix-games.com/sopffo
Related Links:
Official Website: https://na.finalfantasy.com/
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About FINAL FANTASY
Since the release of FINAL FANTASY in 1987, this unique RPG series continues to showcase the spectacular visuals, highly imaginative worlds and rich stories leading the industry and earning the highest accolades from users around the world. Titles of the series have so far achieved a cumulative shipment of over 130 million units worldwide.
About STRANGER OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN™
STRANGER OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN™ is a new action RPG by Square Enix Ltd. in collaboration with Team NINJA from KOEI TECMO GAMES, that brings a bold, new vision to the FINAL FANTASY® series. Jack and his allies, Ash and Jed, burn with the resolve to defeat Chaos as they throw open the gates to the Chaos Shrine. Yet doubts remain – are they truly the Warriors of Light the prophecy foretold? Step into a world of dark fantasy and revel in the exhilarating action – packed battles.
About KOEI TECMO GAMES
KOEI TECMO GAMES CO., LTD. is a subsidiary of KOEI TECMO HOLDINGS CO., LTD., headquartered in Yokohama, Japan. KOEI TECMO GAMES consists of six development brands creating innovative and iconic game series extending across a wide range of genres: KOU SHIBUSAWA, ω-Force, Team NINJA, Gust, Ruby Party, and midas. Signature series include ROMANCE OF THE THREE KINGDOMS, NOBUNAGA’S AMBITION, Winning Post, DYNASTY WARRIORS, SAMURAI WARRIORS, Toukiden, Nioh, NINJA GAIDEN, DEAD OR ALIVE, Atelier Ryza, BLUE REFLECTION, Angelique, and La Corda d'Oro.
For more information: www.koeitecmo.co.jp/e/
About Team NINJA
Team NINJA is one of KOEI TECMO GAMES' six brands, with development teams specializing in creating hardcore action games. Their most famous series include: NINJA GAIDEN, DEAD OR ALIVE and Nioh, and the team consistently develops new titles that receive praise from all around the world.
About Square Enix, Inc.
Square Enix, Inc. develops, publishes, distributes and licenses SQUARE ENIX®, EIDOS® and TAITO® branded entertainment content throughout the Americas as part of the Square Enix group of companies. Square Enix, Inc. is affiliated with a global network of leading development studios such as Crystal Dynamics® and Eidos Montréal™. The Square Enix group of companies boasts a valuable portfolio of intellectual property including: FINAL FANTASY®, which has sold over 164 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 83 million units worldwide; TOMB RAIDER®, which has sold over 85 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS®. Square Enix, Inc. is a U.S.-based, wholly owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.
More information on Square Enix, Inc. can be found at https://square-enix-games.com
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