Final Fantasy has evolved considerably from its origins. Early entries in the series shared similar visuals and gameplay, yet later installments expanded into epic productions such as Final Fantasy XVI and the expansive Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy, which diverge from traditional roots. Retro RPG fans still seek out classic Final Fantasy experiences, boosted by the HD-2D approach that fuses vibrant pixel art with rich 3D elements. Square Enix has delivered several HD-2D titles, including Dragon Quest remakes, but this week marks the debut of the first HD-2D Final Fantasy entry: Final Fantasy Resonance.

Resonance captures the nostalgic essence of early Final Fantasy games through its HD-2D presentation, and gameplay stays true to old-school conventions in rewarding ways. Players traverse expansive world maps, encounter random battles, and collect items from glowing spots. Towns feature familiar staples like inns, item shops, and weapon vendors. Combat relies on classic turn-based mechanics, requiring menu navigation for strategic planning, with enemies signaling attacks in traditional fashion.

Image: Square Enix

Some sections of Resonance feel basic compared to modern entries. After replaying Final Fantasy VII Remake ahead of its sequel, the action-oriented battles there seem more current. Yet Resonance offers comforting routines, such as leveling up through repeated enemy encounters.

The narrative follows familiar paths in the first 10 hours. Players control Rain, an idealistic blond protagonist who champions the underdog. With his companion Lasswell, he embarks on a quest to safeguard remaining crystals after one is shattered. While the plot includes standard JRPG tropes like amnesia cases, it progresses smoothly without major disruptions.

Resonance incorporates contemporary features alongside its retro base. Battles include health and stagger bars that reward exploiting enemy weaknesses with magic and abilities rather than simple attacks. Combat speed can be increased, and lengthy animations skipped. World map fast travel unlocks visited sites, aiding multi-part side quests, while dungeon teleports allow quick returns to entrances for resupplying before boss encounters.

Image: Square Enix

Players can summon allies from prior Final Fantasy games during fights, a feature carried over from its mobile origins as an adaptation of the initial arc from Final Fantasy Brave Exvius. Recruiting Visions of icons like Terra from Final Fantasy VI or Cloud from Final Fantasy VII lets characters gain new skills. Using these Visions unlocks permanent abilities, creating deep customization options that extend beyond mere nostalgia.

Resonance draws players in with the same pull as classic entries. During an adrenaline-fueled boss encounter on a speeding train, the music and action created total immersion unique to the franchise. Its retro framework paired with fresh updates allows Square Enix to balance timeless design with high-production values seen in titles like Final Fantasy XVI. The series has advanced far from its inspirations, yet Resonance blends elements from both eras effectively.

^{Final Fantasy Resonance launches on October 22nd on Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X / S.}