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Turn-Based RPGs Get Fresh Momentum as Industry Leaders Back Hybrid Combat

Developers say hybrid systems answer younger players’ craving for instant feedback.

Overview

  • Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth director Naoki Hamaguchi says mixes of turn-based and real-time action may be inevitable as younger players expect instant response.
  • Hamaguchi notes that future Final Fantasy games are not tied to the current action model, signaling openness to other combat styles.
  • Atlus producer Kazuhisa Wada argues turn-based RPGs never disappeared and says recent acclaimed releases have simply renewed attention.
  • Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is highlighted as a hit that keeps turn-based strategy while adding timed parries and combo inputs.
  • Designers credit faster, cleaner interfaces for the genre’s appeal, citing Persona 5’s snappy menus, Metaphor: ReFantazio’s one-hit option for weak foes, and Honkai: Star Rail’s ultimates that trigger during enemy turns.