In a surprising but welcome move, Square Enix has acknowledged the breakout success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and reaffirmed its commitment to delivering more turn-based RPGs in the future. Many are hopeful that this could lead to a turn-based combat return for the Final Fantasy series.
The comments came during the company’s recent shareholders meeting, where the indie hit was directly credited with influencing Square Enix’s thinking.
Square Enix reportedly say they are aware of Expedition 33 and that they value turn-based RPGs!
At the Square Enix shareholders meeting one investor said they would like the new Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy games to be turn-based and highlighted Expedition 33’s success as an… https://t.co/VZW6wNwEJJ pic.twitter.com/7w9OVYx2r4
— Genki✨ (@Genki_JPN) June 25, 2025
According to multiple attendees, a shareholder urged the developer to consider returning both the Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest franchises to their turn-based roots. As part of their reasoning, the investor cited the extraordinary popularity and acclaim of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, developed by French indie studio Sandfall Interactive.
A screenshot from the trailer to Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 – YouTube, IGN
“We are aware of Expedition 33 and believe that command-based RPGs are the origin of Square Enix,” the developer said. “We value the genre of command-based RPGs and plan to continue delivering such games in the future.”
This acknowledgment has sparked major speculation across the gaming world. Could this signal a true return to form for the company once known for genre-defining titles like Final Fantasy VI, Chrono Trigger, and Dragon Quest VIII?
Clair Obscur’s Impact on the Industry
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has been a sensation. Selling 3.3 million units in just 33 days, the game has outperformed many AAA titles—both commercially and critically. With a Metacritic user score that ranks among the highest of all time, even surpassing The Witcher 3, Super Mario Galaxy, and Ocarina of Time, the indie RPG has reignited the conversation about turn-based mechanics in modern gaming.
A screenshot from The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt (2015), CD Projekt Red
Fans and developers alike have praised the game’s art style, deep mechanics, and emotional storytelling. CD Projekt Red even went on record applauding Expedition 33 for its relatable characters and innovative gameplay. It’s a rare moment where an indie darling has visibly nudged one of gaming’s oldest titans toward a possible course correction.
Final Fantasy 16 Backlash and the Road Ahead
While Square Enix has defended Final Fantasy 16 as a financial success, its departure from turn-based gameplay drew heavy criticism. Many longtime fans felt that the game leaned too far into action-RPG territory, shedding what once made the series unique. The game uses a straight up action combat system with no ability to control your party members.
A screenshot from Final Fantasy XVI (2023), Square Enix
Although critic reviews have improved since launch, fan reception remains divisive.
Square is currently underway on the third installment of its Final Fantasy VII Remake, which some believe we could see as early as 2027. It’s also rumored that development is well underway on Final Fantasy 17. There’s growing hope that the next mainline entry could see Square Enix return the series to its roots, thanks in no small part to the influence of a small indie game called Clair Obscur.
A Turning Point for Square Enix?
Square Enix’s statement may seem simple on the surface, but to many fans, it feels like a long-overdue recognition of what made the company iconic to begin with. If this signals a broader shift back toward traditional turn-based gameplay—especially for flagship titles—it would mark a seismic change in direction.
A screenshot from the trailer to Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 showing off the game’s combat – YouTube, IGN
As Sandfall Interactive prepares DLC and an entirely new project following Expedition 33’s explosive success, the ripple effect appears to be just beginning.
Turn-based RPGs may be staging a triumphant return—and Square Enix is finally listening.
Do you think Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 may have inspired Square Enix to return Final Fantasy to turn-based combat? Sound off in the comments and let us know!
