Would Cel-Shaded Graphics Work on a FF Game?

[Squigsquasher]

One of the main criticisms of modern Final Fantasy is that too long is spent on the (admittedly brilliant) graphics, and not enough on the gameplay, making a large, explorable world, etc. Now obviously we want big open worlds and developed battle systems, but we don't want a game that looks pants either.

So, I was thinking, maybe cel-shaded graphics, like those in Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Okami, Jet Set Radio and XIII (Not FFXIII, this is a completely different game) would help. Cel-shaded games are much less graphics-intensive and a lot easier to make than photo-realistic games (I assume) due to the more simple textures and less emphasis on being realistic, meaning ol' Squenix could invest less in graphics and spend longer making a great game.

Also, I think the style would suit Final Fantasy really well. It wasn't until FFX that we started down the "realistic" look with the style, and I think an exaggerated, stylized, almost hand-drawn looking aesthetic would both inject some new life into the series and be a nice homage to the older games.

Anyway, what do YOU think?

 

[Karu]

I personally don't feel cel-shading would fit in very well outside of something like a 3D version of Imaginary Range or a game of Final Fantasy Unlimited. That being said, I do recall something about FFX-3 being in this style with some screenshots lingering in places before it was scrapped and turned into FFXIII? Go figure. I suppose it'd work if they picked that project back up?

In particular I'm curious to how it would work as homage to the older games as I perceive they were very much so that unrealistic way (dem FFVII polygons!) due to technological restraints so I just can't quite fit my head around that, especially having now seen the renders in Dissidia and Duodecim.

All things said and done though if given the choice between cel-shaded legacy remakes and none, I'd take it.

 

[L]

I wouldn't like it. Just doesn't fit the art style.

Not unless, like, we're going full on Amano here.