Final Fantasy Explorers: It’s NOT Monster Hunter

Written by: Will Flores
1/27/2016
Tweet to: @Slickster_Mag

So, today ends day one of the release of Final Fantasy Explorers, the game every review site calls “Monster Hunter: Final Fantasy Edition.” To compare this game to any other game is very unfair because there’s enough unique gameplay elements that warrant a very fair and unbiased reaction. The only comparison this game deserves is to other Square-Enix games and their attempt to do something different with an already popular genre. For instance, this game is like Bravely Default, where it takes a different and interesting approach on a well-established genre of games.

I sat down with FF:Ex and went in after a rousing game of kill the Zinogre in Monster Hunter 4 Ultimate. The two games are similar in the presentation, that’s it. You’ve got your quest hub, your shops, your crafting venue, the whole nine yards. However, pick up a quest and make your way to the world map, you’ll really begin to see the games show their true colors. You’ll start off as a freelancer, which, at face value, feels a lot like what the Onion Knight class is in Final Fantasy Tactics, can use everyone else’s abilities except class specifics, which is unimportant early on, but I’m sure will be a real make-or-break end-game.

The battle system itself feels like the love-child between MMORPG DC: Universe Online and Kingdom Hearts. You are given eight abilities that you map to the face buttons with the help of holding one of the shoulder buttons. Occasionally, if you build up your resonance meter high enough, you can unleash an ability called “Crystal Surge” that provides a party-wide benefit, such as health-drain affixed to all your attacks, Elemental Affinity, or Super Armor. The twist here is that, depending on which surge is active, some of your abilities will mutate, gaining the either a random stat/benefit permanently attached to that ability. For instance, you use a Heal ability while you have Super Armor active, for the duration of the surge, there’s a chance your Heal would mutate with the ability to grant you a defense boost whenever you cast it. Now this ability won’t be available until you’re done with your current quest and back at the hub. The idea that no one player’s abilities are exactly the same as the next grants an entirely huge layer of customization that can make any and every player feel different.

Weapons and armor provide cosmetic individuality as well, but like any other game, it’s to an extent. It’s fine, because where you might eventually wind up looking like most end-game players in Star Knight Armor (My MH4U guildies will know), there’s another level of customization that you can have to let yourself stand out further, your entourage!

Entourage? Whaddya mean? Well, have a seat and I’ll share with you what I know! As you kill monsters on quests, you’ll eventually pick up items that are called an Atmalith. Hold onto these, you can use them to upgrade your armor and weapons – BUT – you can also use them to eventually create monsters to fight alongside you! They even level up beside you as you take them out for their daily walks.

When you’re solo and taking on some of the harder missions early on, they can be a huge lifesaver! Although, make sure you have a healing spell/ability ready, because, sometimes, the AI can be about as smart as half-used chapstick and will take hits regardless of whether or not they can take it. They serve their purpose, and don’t worry about them dying, they’ll eventually revive after some time.

Multiplayer is another story.

It really does take on the traditional approach to MMO party compositions, the ideal party is a tank, a healer, and two damage dealers, because “aggro” is a factor to enemy behavior. That is, whoever generates the most “threat” to monsters, they’ll target them first. You’ll normally want your meatshields to have high aggro. I haven’t played multiplayer long enough to where that kind of approach would matter, but it is something to keep in mind.

Finally, let’s talk about the boss fights! The first one you’ll be pitted against is Ifrit, the almighty eidolon of fire! Even after grinding for good abilities and gear, you still have your work cut out for you. These bosses mean business. Although, if you’re careful, you’ll come out on top. Much like any game, take your time… or else…

So there you have it. First impression of Final Fantasy Explorers. A game that deserves your attention and a fair judgment. It is not Monster Hunter, so stop it…