I Hope The Granblue Fantasy Series Continues To Venture Into Console Territory

The recent Granblue Fantasy Relink showcase was an exhilarating affair, unveiling a string of updates that surprised and enthralled me. Of these, the introduction of Seofon and Tweyen as playable characters stood out, marking a significant milestone in the game’s evolution. Moreover, the anticipation surrounding Sandalphon’s imminent arrival only adds to the excitement for the game’s future.

However, amidst the euphoria of these announcements, a sense of unease began to creep in—a nagging doubt about Relink’s ultimate fate. Engaged in discussions about the game’s trajectory, a troubling realization gradually dawned on me: this could potentially signal the end of Granblue Fantasy Relink.

Console Success and Beyond

Relink aimed to bring the essence of Grand Blue from its origins in browser gaming to a broader stage. I had the incredible opportunity to review the game and spend time with it before it reached the hands of many. It quickly became the standout new game of 2024 for me, the first action RPG I completed on all difficulties. Its Western launch was met with remarkable sales and enthusiastic player engagement, indicating a bright future. However, amidst this success, subtle hints during the livestream hinted at a different path—a path shrouded in uncertainty, which stirred apprehension within me.

Related

I Love Horizon Zero Dawn, But Does It Really Need A Remake?

A remake or remaster hasn’t been confirmed for Horizon Zero Dawn, but the rumors surrounding it make me wonder if it’s even necessary.

When I first played Relink, I was thrilled it wasn’t a live service game. The content was fulfilling, providing over 200 hours of joy. However, after defeating the final boss on Proud mode, the highest difficulty, I found myself craving more. Surprisingly, I wished for Relink to adopt a live service model for its post-game life. This would mean increasing difficulties, additional bosses to fight, more characters to unlock, and the ability to revisit the game over time. Essentially, it would resemble the game’s mobile counterpart but for consoles, without the gacha elements.

While I could technically delve into the mobile game, which boasts about a decade’s worth of combat, narrative expansions, and serves as the game’s primary hub, I find myself hesitant to do so. Playing on a mobile device lacks the cinematic immersion I crave. Instead, I prefer the experience of sitting on my couch, enveloped in darkness, with the intense glow of the screen and the bombastic soundtrack washing over me. The familiarity of the Sony controller layout adds a nostalgic charm to the experience. It’s a sentiment shared by many who, like me, fell in love with Relink.

Yet, I can’t shake the feeling that this successful passion project was designed to draw us toward the mobile game. However, for me, Relink remains the focal point. So where does that leave players like me and the game itself?

A Map With An End

My concerns about Relink’s future arose from a statement in the recent update video that seemed to suggest the game was nearing completion:

This news saddened me, as Relink has been one of the standout RPGs in the current console library, and I had hoped for ongoing updates to keep the experience fresh. There was a special excitement in returning to the game, especially after unlocking Tweyen.

Upon her acquisition, I eagerly resumed playing with friends, focusing on leveling her up, mastering her abilities, and tackling challenges like the formidable Lucilious raid. Although there have been other notable RPG releases this year, such as Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Persona 3 Reload, my anticipation to return to Relink remained unmatched.

The multiplayer aspect of Relink has been rewarding, offering one of the best cooperative experiences I’ve had in recent memory. Despite occasional random item drop rates, the game never felt unfairly grindy; players could opt to level up all characters or concentrate on favorites. Even when friends weren’t available, the AI companions proved competent and responsive, enhancing the overall experience.

Related

Future Yoshi-P Final Fantasy Projects May See “Lighter Days” And I’m Here For It

You can only subvert the narrative so many times before it becomes predictable.

Now, with the prospect of 1.3.0 possibly marking the final update, I can’t help but feel I’m nearing the limits of available content in the game, leaving me with a sense of disappointment.

The Sky Beyond

If 1.3.0 indeed marks the conclusion, then I can reluctantly come to terms with it, reflecting on my journey with a mix of pride and fulfillment. However, I implore Cygames not to let this be the sole console venture for the series.

Should we bid farewell to Relink, I envision the next installment expanding upon the groundwork laid out by its predecessor. While the story provided satisfaction, it could benefit from greater depth and length. Although the character backstories through Fates were appreciated, integrating more interactive elements into their narratives would enhance the experience. Regarding combat, I believe few major adjustments are necessary; rather, an influx of characters from the mobile games would be welcome, unveiling untold facets of the universe.

Cygames possesses a unique formula that has left me craving more. As I eagerly anticipate the unfolding chapters of this saga, I hold firm in my belief that there are further adventures on the horizon. “Potentially. Possibly.”

Next

ALZARA Radiant Echoes Is A Love Letter To JRPG Fans, By JRPG Fans

ALZARA Radiant Echoes is a new Mediterranean-inspired JRPG in the vein of Golden Sun.