Renowned game designer Yuji Horii, the creator of the iconic Dragon Quest series, has expressed his admiration for Final Fantasy 10, calling it “the ultimate perfection of Final Fantasy.” In a recent interview with Game Informer, Horii shared his insights on the long-standing rivalry between the Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy franchises, which have both left an indelible mark on the role-playing game (RPG) genre.
The first Dragon Quest game was released in 1986, making it the longest-running JRPG series by just a year compared to Final Fantasy. Horii noted that he closely followed the emergence of Final Fantasy, given that both franchises were published by the same company. “When Final Fantasy originally came out, I was definitely paying attention to it because it was something we needed to look out for,” he stated.
Horii pointed out a significant distinction between the two series. He emphasized that the protagonists in Final Fantasy are often well-developed characters who engage in extensive dialogue. In contrast, Dragon Quest aims to provide players with a protagonist who serves as an insert, allowing for a more immersive experience. This difference in character development highlights the unique narrative approaches of both series.
Reflecting on his observations over the years, Horii revealed his fondness for Final Fantasy, specifically praising the tenth installment. “I do like Final Fantasy, though,” he said. “When I first saw Final Fantasy 10, I recall feeling this was the ultimate perfection of Final Fantasy.” His endorsement of the game is likely to resonate with the passionate fanbase that often engages in spirited debates about their favorite entries in the series.
As the conversation around the two franchises continues, fans are encouraged to embrace their opinions while respecting the perspectives of others. Horii, a veteran in the gaming industry, has witnessed the evolution of both series from their inception and offers a unique viewpoint that many fans may find valuable.
In discussing the success of Dragon Quest, Horii attributed its longevity to the qualities of “warmth” and “accessibility.” These elements have allowed the series to maintain its popularity for nearly four decades, appealing to both new players and those who have been with the franchise since the beginning.
As the gaming community reflects on Horii’s comments, it is clear that both Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy have carved out their own places in the hearts of gamers around the world. The ongoing dialogue between fans of these two beloved series showcases the enduring impact of their legacy in the realm of video games.