Square Enix’s foray into the Monster Hunter-inspired genre with Final Fantasy Explorers seemed like a promising endeavor, offering fans of both franchises a fusion of captivating gameplay elements. The game boasted a plethora of Job classes to explore and master, as well as a wide range of weapons to wield. Additionally, multiplayer functionality allowed players to embark on adventures with friends, adding a social aspect to the experience.
However, despite its commendable efforts, Final Fantasy Explorers failed to garner the attention and recognition it deserved, particularly in comparison to the behemoth that is Monster Hunter. The game struggled to rival the popularity and impact of its inspiration, ultimately falling short in capturing the interest of even the niche crowd of players it aimed to engage.
While Final Fantasy Explorers offered enticing features and attempted to blend the best aspects of two beloved franchises, it ultimately lacked the allure and depth that made Monster Hunter a standout success. The game failed to carve its own distinct identity and failed to resonate with a wider audience, ultimately resulting in its underwhelming reception.
Square Enix’s ambitious attempt with Final Fantasy Explorers serves as a reminder that capturing the magic of a renowned franchise and standing out in a competitive gaming landscape is no easy task. While it may have provided some enjoyment for dedicated fans, it ultimately fell short of rivaling the juggernaut that is Monster Hunter and failed to achieve the attention and recognition it could have potentially attained.
Number 5. Dungeon Siege 3
Dungeon Siege 3 marked Square Enix’s first and only venture into the franchise after acquiring the license. The game’s ad campaign, emphasizing the return of couch co-op, generated excitement and anticipation among players. While Dungeon Siege 3 faced its fair share of criticisms, it was generally well-received by the gaming community.
Although it didn’t offer a groundbreaking experience in the looter RPG genre, Dungeon Siege 3 still managed to provide an enjoyable time, particularly when played with friends. The game showcased solid gameplay mechanics and immersive co-op features that made it a worthwhile experience for many players.
However, despite its potential, Dungeon Siege 3 didn’t achieve the level of popularity necessary to garner ongoing support from Square Enix. This unfortunate reality led to a disappointing outcome for this once-promising PC franchise.
It is disheartening to witness the demise of a franchise that once held promise, especially when its revival showed potential. Dungeon Siege 3 was a shining example of what could have been, but it ultimately fell short in gaining the necessary traction to sustain continued development and support within Square Enix.
