Naoki Yoshida, the director/producer of Final Fantasy 14 and producer of Final Fantasy 16, recently discussed the future of the Final Fantasy series in light of the success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a classic turn-based RPG. In an interview, he stated that it's not clear whether future Final Fantasy games will return to a fully turn-based format, emphasizing that gameplay decisions encompass more than just the battle system. The direction of the series will depend on the overall experience the creators wish to deliver, including graphical quality and narrative depth. He noted that the franchise evolves with each installment and that decisions for future games must be left open for upcoming directors and producers.

The possibility remains uncertain as Naoki Yoshida mentioned that future installments will focus on delivering a complete experience rather than adhering strictly to a specific battle system.

Final Fantasy is a legendary franchise, well-known for its evolution through diverse gameplay mechanics across its many titles. The shift from turn-based systems in earlier games like Final Fantasy 7 and 10 to the action-oriented approach of Final Fantasy 15 and 16 showcases this adaptability. This ongoing transformation is partly what keeps the franchise fresh and engaging for players around the world.