Final Fantasy Resonance Review: A Nostalgic HD-2D JRPG That Shines

Ever felt like Final Fantasy has strayed too far from its turn-based roots? Final Fantasy Resonance might be the antidote you've been waiting for. This HD-2D remake of the discontinued mobile game Final Fantasy Brave Exvius isn't just a nostalgia trip—it's a full-blown overhaul that gives the series' classic formula a modern twist.

Launching October 22, 2026 on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch 2, and Switch, Resonance is developed by Square Enix Creative Studio 5 and Lancarse. It strips away the gacha mechanics of the original and rebuilds the experience as a proper console JRPG. You play as Rain, a knight of Grandshelt, on a quest to find legendary crystals before the Sworn Six—a group of armored warriors—can destroy them. The structure is familiar: visit new regions, solve local problems, recruit party members, and battle through dungeons. But it's executed so well that the formula feels fresh, not tired.

The HD-2D style, first introduced in Octopath Traveler, gets a serious upgrade here. Sprites are bigger and more animated, and the camera isn't locked to a top-down view—it shifts to dynamic angles during boss fights and Limit Bursts, making the aesthetic feel new again. Voice acting and expressive character portraits add extra life. The only misstep? Occasional CG sequences for Esper and Vision summons, which feel out of place and are only voiced in Japanese if you're playing with English audio.

Visions—manifestations of characters from across the series like Cloud, Lightning, and Y'shtola—are a core mechanic. Unlike the mobile gacha, there are just 26 to unlock, either by visiting shrines or completing side quests. They function like jobs, granting abilities and attack options, and mastering them unlocks equippable perks. It's a flexible system that adds depth without overwhelming you.

Classic Final Fantasy hallmarks are everywhere: turn-based battles with a four-person party, an explorable overworld, random encounters, and of course, crystals. The characters are fun to spend time with—even the villains get some pathos. And the Espers have their own personalities as you fight to earn the right to summon them.

If you've been craving a classic yet fresh Final Fantasy adventure, Resonance looks like it'll hit the spot. Will you be picking this up when it launches? Let us know in the comments!