A Remastered Classic Takes On Fascism and Division
The 1997 classic Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles has been remastered, and its timely themes are more relevant now than ever. At first glance, the game's medieval-inspired world and hero Ramza may seem like standard fantasy fare, but beneath the surface lies a complex web of politics and power struggles that make it feel eerily prescient.
The story follows Ramza, an idealistic nobleman who finds himself caught up in a rebellion against the ruling elite. As he navigates this treacherous landscape, Ramza's own ideology is tested, and he must confront the harsh realities of class struggle and division. The game's narrative is akin to a Shakespearean drama, with characters spewing venomous insults and scheming against one another.
The gameplay itself is a masterclass in strategy and customization. With a vast array of job classes to choose from, players can create complex party compositions that allow for innovative tactics. Battles are turn-based affairs, but they're also infused with poetic moments that speak to the tragedy and senselessness of war. The game's world is meticulously designed, with levels that feel like dioramas come to life.
One of the most striking aspects of Final Fantasy Tactics is its lack of narrative flexibility. The story unfolds in a straightforward, historical account format, making it clear that events are not bound by the whims of the player. Instead, the game presents a bleak, deterministic view of history, where trauma begets trauma and there are no easy resolutions.
This approach has led some to describe the game as a work of "class struggle," a concept deeply rooted in the writing of Yasumi Matsuno, who drew inspiration from his own studies of foreign policy. As we navigate our own turbulent times – with protests against kingship in the US, erosion of political rights in the UK, and widening wealth disparities – Final Fantasy Tactics feels more relevant than ever.
The game's protagonist, Ramza, is a hero who embodies resistance and principle. He is uncompromising and principled, but also faces the consequences of challenging the powerful institutions of his time. This nuanced portrayal of opposition feels particularly pertinent in today's world, where divisions run deep and the struggle for power is as intense as ever.
In short, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles has been remastered with great effect, bringing its complex themes and engaging gameplay to a new generation of players. If you're looking for a game that speaks to the struggles of our time, look no further than this classic – it's now more timely than ever.
The 1997 classic Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles has been remastered, and its timely themes are more relevant now than ever. At first glance, the game's medieval-inspired world and hero Ramza may seem like standard fantasy fare, but beneath the surface lies a complex web of politics and power struggles that make it feel eerily prescient.
The story follows Ramza, an idealistic nobleman who finds himself caught up in a rebellion against the ruling elite. As he navigates this treacherous landscape, Ramza's own ideology is tested, and he must confront the harsh realities of class struggle and division. The game's narrative is akin to a Shakespearean drama, with characters spewing venomous insults and scheming against one another.
The gameplay itself is a masterclass in strategy and customization. With a vast array of job classes to choose from, players can create complex party compositions that allow for innovative tactics. Battles are turn-based affairs, but they're also infused with poetic moments that speak to the tragedy and senselessness of war. The game's world is meticulously designed, with levels that feel like dioramas come to life.
One of the most striking aspects of Final Fantasy Tactics is its lack of narrative flexibility. The story unfolds in a straightforward, historical account format, making it clear that events are not bound by the whims of the player. Instead, the game presents a bleak, deterministic view of history, where trauma begets trauma and there are no easy resolutions.
This approach has led some to describe the game as a work of "class struggle," a concept deeply rooted in the writing of Yasumi Matsuno, who drew inspiration from his own studies of foreign policy. As we navigate our own turbulent times – with protests against kingship in the US, erosion of political rights in the UK, and widening wealth disparities – Final Fantasy Tactics feels more relevant than ever.
The game's protagonist, Ramza, is a hero who embodies resistance and principle. He is uncompromising and principled, but also faces the consequences of challenging the powerful institutions of his time. This nuanced portrayal of opposition feels particularly pertinent in today's world, where divisions run deep and the struggle for power is as intense as ever.
In short, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles has been remastered with great effect, bringing its complex themes and engaging gameplay to a new generation of players. If you're looking for a game that speaks to the struggles of our time, look no further than this classic – it's now more timely than ever.