Square Enix’s recent E3 2021 conference concluded with a surprising look at a brand new Final Fantasy spin-off title, Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin, releasing in 2022. Interestingly, the developer is Team Ninja, the Japanese studio responsible for the Ninja Gaiden series.
Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin will mark a departure from the traditional JRPG mechanics and gameplay features present in the mainline series, and seems to be steering in a more action-oriented direction. This is Team Ninja’s speciality when it comes to explosive, stylish combat that made the Ninja Gaiden series what it is today. From what we know of the talent behind the project, Final Fantasy regular series director Tetsuya Nomura, who helmed Final Fantasy XV, Kingdom Hearts III and Final Fantasy VII Remake, will serve as the character designer, concept and creative producer.
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Players will journey through familiar dungeons, decrepit ruins and darker environments than anything we’ve seen before in the Final Fantasy series, with gameplay primarily focusing on more fluid action combat as opposed to the tactical turn-based systems used in the past for the franchise. Of course, this includes a variety of weapon types and abilities, from large swords to magical spells and more. It also seems to have a darker edge to it than what we’re used to, which may indicate that it will cater to die-hard fans while also bringing in newcomers who want to experience a more mature take on the beloved JRPG franchise.
Unlike Nioh, another action-RPG franchise developed by Team Ninja, Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin will not be exclusive to PlayStation, and will instead launch on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S and PC. However, PS5 players will get an early treat as a trial version has been announced to arrive today on Sony’s current-gen console and will be available until 24 June 2021. Check out the announcement teaser trailer below.
