Games

The Argument for Final Fantasy 17 to Bring Back One Forgotten Job

Published

2 weeks ago

November 9, 2024

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Since its inception, Final Fantasy has continually reshaped the RPG landscape, especially with its iconic job system. Each game introduced fresh roles that emphasized unique gameplay mechanics and storytelling. Among these jobs, a fan-favorite has slowly faded from the spotlight: the Blue Mage. Historically, Blue Mages have been some of the most unique characters in Final Fantasy, learning powerful monster abilities through direct exposure to enemy attacks. This creative mechanic set Blue Mages apart from other job classes.

Yet, recent titles have overlooked the Blue Mage entirely in favor of more streamlined or action-based combat, with Final Fantasy 14 being the only modern exception. There, the Blue Mage operates outside the traditional party setup and faces significant restrictions in endgame content. This has left a void for fans who miss the Blue Mage’s unpredictable abilities and adaptable style. With Final Fantasy 17 on the horizon, Square Enix has an opportunity to bring this classic job back and reimagine it in a way that fits modern gameplay.

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Why Final Fantasy 17 Should Honor the Blue Mage

Blue Mage’s Unique Mechanics Encourage Strategy

One of the Blue Mage’s defining features is its method of learning abilities. Unlike other classes that gain spells through level progression or item use, the Blue Mage must face enemies and learn their skills through experience. This mechanic introduced an extra layer of strategic planning as players sought specific enemies to expand their repertoire. In Final Fantasy 5, the Blue Mage’s debut, this job quickly stood out for allowing players to turn their enemies’ own strengths against them.

Reviving the Blue Mage in Final Fantasy 17 could reintroduce this layer of strategy, providing a unique break from standard RPG combat. Players would need to hunt specific monsters and endure specific attacks, capturing that thrill of discovery. Backing up such a gameplay style with a narrative that surrounds it would be very enticing.

Blue Mages Enhance Final Fantasy’s Lore and Character Diversity

Over the years, Blue Mages have been more than just spellcasters—they’ve embodied unique narratives and personalities. Characters like Kimahri from Final Fantasy 10 and Quina from Final Fantasy 9 have taken on the Blue Mage role while adding depth to their stories as outsiders or seekers of self-discovery. It’s arguably one of the reasons why some players within the community will passionately defend the “outcast” of their respective video game.

By reintroducing the Blue Mage in Final Fantasy 17, Square Enix could leverage this job to build on character depth and lore. A Blue Mage protagonist or key ally could carry the weight of learning and adapting from their experiences, reflecting a journey of personal growth tied to their role. With a main character who learns from the monsters of their world, the game could explore complex themes like understanding differences, learning from adversity, or embracing diversity in power.

A Modern Blue Mage Adaptation in a New Final Fantasy Story

Final Fantasy 16 brought players one of the darkest stories in series history, while focusing heavily on real-time action combat. It also continued the recent tradition of photorealism in the game’s aesthetic. For Final Fantasy 17, Square Enix could consider an aesthetic shift similar to what Final Fantasy 9 did after the modern nature of FF 7 and FF 8. A Blue Mage character could serve as a fitting protagonist or support role with its traditional masked, pseudo-super hero look, perhaps even wielding a cane.

In ideal modern gameplay terms, the Blue Mage’s learning mechanics could be expanded to reward experimentation. Rather than simply copying enemy abilities, perhaps players could customize or enhance these abilities based on frequency of use or the enemies defeated.

Why Final Fantasy 17 Needs the Blue Mage

The Blue Mage represents a forgotten yet iconic aspect of Final Fantasy history. This job embodies elements of surprise, strategy, and adaptability, creating a memorable playstyle that many fans have missed. By bringing this role back in Final Fantasy 17, Square Enix could satisfy long-time fans while capturing the curiosity of new players.

Not only would the Blue Mage offer a gameplay experience distinct from the more straightforward classes seen in recent games, but it would also allow for deeper character development and party dynamics. As Final Fantasy continues to evolve, it has a chance to honor its roots and bring back a job that reminds players of the series’ foundational charm—where learning from experiences and battles can shape a hero’s journey.

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Will you play as a healing mage or an offensive black mage? Perhaps you want to be a warrior and smash enemies in the face. The famed Final Fantasy job system lets you experiment!

Systems

Released: August 27, 2013
Multiplayer: Online Co-Op , Online Multiplayer
Engine: Originally the Crystal Tools engine, but currently it’s a custom engine using parts of the Luminous Engine.
ESRB: T for Teen – Language, Mild Blood, Sexual Themes, Use of Alcohol, Violence
How Long To Beat: 99½ Hours
How Long To Beat (Completionist Runs): 3347 Hours
Steam Deck Compatibility: Playable
PC Release Date: August 27, 2013
PS5 Release Date: May 25, 2021
Xbox Series X|S Release Date: March 21, 2024