Turn-based gameplay has been a staple in the RPG genre for decades, but its relevance in modern gaming has sparked discussions and debates among developers. Katsura Hashino, the director of Atlus’ acclaimed Persona series, recently shared his thoughts on the subject, shedding light on how turn-based battles can remain engaging and immersive in the current gaming landscape.

Embracing Turn-Based Battles as Part of a Cutscene’s Composition

Hashino emphasizes that turn-based battles can be an integral part of the storytelling experience. By incorporating the concept of cinematic cuts and shifts in the flow of time, RPGs can create moments of heightened tension and strategic decision-making. Hashino’s approach, as exemplified in Persona 5, involves setting up convincing pre-battle scenarios, incorporating character dialogue, and building a narrative context around the turn-based encounters. This not only maintains the immersion but also adds layers of depth to the overall gameplay experience.

Addressing the Tempo and Immersion Challenges

Hashino acknowledges that turn-based battles have the potential to disrupt the tempo of gameplay. To overcome this challenge, the Persona series introduces mechanics that allow for seamless and streamlined combat. Quick and intuitive button presses enable immediate attacks and persona summoning, minimizing downtime and keeping the action flowing. This attention to maintaining a sense of immersion while balancing the tactical aspects of turn-based combat has been instrumental in the success of the Persona games.

A Divergence in Approaches: Eastern and Western Games

While Hashino’s insights shed light on the Japanese perspective, it is important to recognize that different regions and developers approach turn-based gameplay differently. Square Enix, for example, made a bold decision to transition Final Fantasy XVI into a full action RPG, abandoning the long-established Active Time Battle system. Meanwhile, Western game studios have also found success with their own unique implementations of turn-based mechanics, as seen in titles like Company of Heroes 3, Homeworld 3, and Baldur’s Gate 3.

The Future Evolution of Turn-Based RPGs

The ongoing debate surrounding turn-based gameplay suggests that it will continue to evolve rather than becoming obsolete. Hashino’s belief in integrating turn-based battles effectively into the game’s storytelling and utilizing cinematic techniques highlights one possible direction for future RPGs. As developers experiment with new approaches and technologies, we can anticipate further innovations that strike a balance between tactical depth and player immersion, ensuring that turn-based battles remain a vital and captivating aspect of role-playing games.

In conclusion, Hashino’s insights into turn-based gameplay provide valuable perspectives for the RPG genre. By harnessing the power of storytelling, creating immersive experiences, and addressing the challenges of tempo and immersion, developers can continue to evolve turn-based battles, ensuring their relevance and enjoyment for players in the years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is Katsura Hashino?

  Katsura Hashino is a Japanese video game director known for his work on the Persona series, including Persona 3, Persona 4, and Persona 5. He has been instrumental in the development and success of these popular Japanese RPGs.

• What are some of the successful games developed by Atlus?

  Atlus, the game development studio, has created several successful games. Some notable titles include the Persona series (Persona 3, Persona 4, Persona 5), Shin Megami Tensei series, Catherine, and Etrian Odyssey.

• What is Final Fantasy XVI and who is Naoki Yoshida?

  Final Fantasy XVI is an upcoming game developed by Square Enix, a renowned video game company. Naoki Yoshida is the director of Final Fantasy XVI, responsible for overseeing its development. He is known for his previous work on the popular MMORPG, Final Fantasy XIV.

• What are some other successful Western games that feature turn-based gameplay?

  There are several successful Western games that utilize turn-based gameplay mechanics. Some notable examples include Company of Heroes 3, a real-time strategy game; Homeworld 3, a space-based strategy game; and Baldur’s Gate 3, a role-playing game. Each of these games offers its own unique approach to turn-based gameplay.