Blog 11: The Fortune

Name: Final Fantasy XIII
Type: Video Game
System: Xbox 360/PS3
Developer: Square Enix

Final Fantasy XIII is another installment in the world famous RPG series, Final Fantasy.

One of the most debated and argued games of the year, Square-Enix's entry onto "next-gen" platforms has resulted in their current decline.

The debate surrounding Final Fantasy XIII was not just to do with the game itself, but the direction that Square-Enix is pushing the series in. Striving to make the series more "Western" SE have angered and stirred up fans all over the world. The debacle that was the online game Final Fantasy XIV (that did so poorly, Square Enix were forced to make the game free to play) has further contributed to their "downfall"

Now this trend does not just apply to SE, Capcom are another example (the new Devil May Cry) that raises the issue of Japanese developers striving to become "Western." Western meaning, appealing and aiming their game towards the average American gamer.

Does making a game western equal to success? clearly not, but its the thought of being able to access a much larger market that drives major japanese publishers such as Square Enix and Capcom to become more Western. This thought process is not wrong, but its also possible to innovate and reach out to audiences without changing your development practices/styles.Catherine is one example of a different type of game that generates interest in all markets.

Its this divide that has displeased the western community. If they wished to play more Western games, they would simply buy games developed in or near their respective countries. Its the fact that the fans like the types of games Japanese developers make that have created such large fanbases for them. (Nintendo is a special case, Nintendo has evolved to become something much more in gaming culture) Nintendo and Konami (Metal Gear Solid) have successfully integrated their games to become part of mainstream gaming. Something Final Fantasy will be hard pressed to do.

The confusion surrounding the direction, supposed "decline" and uncertaintity around JRPG's is what impacts the niche community.However, 2011 looks to be an excellent year for JRPG's, so even with the future of the genre in doubt, it remains very much alive and well.