Released back in 1999 for the PlayStation console, Final Fantasy 8 followed the story of a group of young mercenaries, led by the charismatic Squall Leonhart, as they become embroiled in the conflict caused by sorceress Edea Kramer.
Now considered one of the greatest video games of all time, grossing $151 million in its first day of release in Japan, Final Fantasy 8 has welcomed multiple re-releases for the PlayStation 3 and Steam to name but a few. Then, in 2019, a remastered version finally launched on the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Windows, and Xbox One, bringing in a whole new legion of fans.
However, it seems as though Final Fantasy 8′s reign is far from over, as its main character, Squall Leonhart, is returning later this year in one highly anticipated release.
Set to launch on 22 October, Final Fantasy Resonance is a turn-based RPG which aims to return the beloved pixel-art style of classic Final Fantasy entries. Going back to its classic roots, this entry will see you travel alongside companions bound by fate as you call upon Visions to aid you in battle and uncover the truth behind a world-ending force.
What if FINAL FANTASY had continued to push the limits of pixel art? The first FINAL FANTASY to join the HD‑2D lineup, FINAL FANTASY RESONANCE delivers a visually striking experience that feels both nostalgic and new, enhanced by dynamic camera angles and pixelized 3D models that make every moment more dramatic and immersive.
However, what makes Final Fantasy Resonance all the more exciting is the return of some of the franchise’s most beloved characters, including Final Fantasy 8’s Squall Leonhart. Taking on the role of just one of many Visions, you will be able to call him to battle and utilize his skills to see you turn the tide in your favor. He is just one of the seventeen characters set to make a return, according to one user over on r/JRPG. The others include:
- Warrior Of Light, Final Fantasy I
- Firion, Final Fantasy II
- Onion Knight, Final Fantasy III
- Cecil, Final Fantasy IV
- Bartz, FF V
- Terra, Final Fantasy VI
- Cloud, Final Fantasy VII
- Sephiroth, Final Fantasy VII
- Zidane, Final Fantasy IX
- Tidus, Final Fantasy X
- Shantotto, Final Fantasy XI
- Vaan, Final Fantasy XII
- Lightning, Final Fantasy XIII
- Y’shtola, Final Fantasy XIV
- Noctis, Final Fantasy XV
- Clive, Final Fantasy XVI
With Final Fantasy Resonance expected to launch in just two months, the hype is building for this Final Fantasy spin-off, especially as it will see the return of so many iconic and fan-favorite characters.
- Released
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October 22, 2026
- ESRB
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Everyone 10+ / Alcohol Reference, Fantasy Violence, Language, Suggestive Themes
- Developer(s)
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Square Enix, Lancarse
- Publisher(s)
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Square Enix
- Number of Players
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Single-player
- Steam Deck Compatibility
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Unknown
