As a millennial who grew up on classic turn-based JRPGs, I feel a sense of loss. It seems as though Square Enix, the creators of one of my favorite series - Final Fantasy, has turned its back on its original supporters in an attempt to attract a new audience. The unique charm and distinctiveness that once set Final Fantasy apart from other games appear to be fading away. Today's Final Fantasy is morphing into something indistinguishable from any other modern open-world action game.

The shift from turn-based combat style, which was the hallmark of early Final Fantasy games, has been gradual but noticeable. This change has led many long-time fans like me feeling alienated and disappointed. The strategic depth and pacing that came with turn-based combat provided an experience that was both challenging and rewarding.

It's worth noting that in 2020 alone, over 5 million copies were sold globally of Persona 5 Royal (source: Famitsu), another popular JRPG which retained its traditional turn-based combat system - demonstrating there is still significant demand for this style of gameplay.

We are not asking Square Enix to abandon their new fans or their innovative ideas; we simply request they remember what made them so beloved in the first place. We urge them to return to a turn-based combat style for the main series of Final Fantasy games.

Please sign this petition if you too wish for the return of what made us fall in love with these games initially – strategic battles where every decision counts!