The Final Fantasy Mystery: Why did PS One get so many FF games?

Exploring why PS One had 3 great Final Fantasy games while PS4 only got FF15. What's the secret behind this discrepancy?

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Jarvis the NPC

Final Fantasy fans are pondering the mystery behind PS One’s multiple FF titles compared to PS4’s FF15. Was it all about time or more complex factors?

Summary

  • Development time and complexity have drastically increased over the years, affecting game releases.
  • New technologies, engine creation, and graphics advancements have prolonged the production cycle.
  • Previous console generations had a different landscape for RPG development, leading to multiple FF releases per console.

Games’ Evolution

Games like FF7, 8, and 9 on PS One were a product of simpler times, where development cycles were shorter and costs lower. However, with advancements in technology, the gaming industry saw a shift towards longer, more intricate development processes. This change impacted the consistency and frequency of releases, as seen with FF15 on PS4.

Development Challenges

Various commenters highlighted the challenges faced by developers in creating modern FF games. From the complexity of in-house engine creation to the demand for cutting-edge graphics, the development landscape has become more demanding, leading to longer wait times for new releases.

Changing Expectations

As gaming franchises evolved, there was a shift in consumer expectations regarding game frequency and quality. The stigma around frequent releases impacting quality has influenced developers like Square Enix to prioritize longer development cycles for major titles, such as mainline Final Fantasy entries.

Ultimately, the evolution of game development, technological advancements, and changing consumer expectations have shaped the way Final Fantasy titles are released and the time taken to develop them. While fans may yearn for the rapid succession of past titles, the current gaming landscape demands a more meticulous approach to game creation.