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Dissidia Final Fantasy NT, developed by Team Ninja and published by Square Enix, launched on January 31, 2018, bringing a unique 3v3 arena brawler experience to the Final Fantasy universe. This latest installment takes the familiar characters and iconic music of the franchise and throws them into a fast-paced, team-focused battle arena. But how does it stack up against its predecessors, and what can players expect from this new entry?

Dissidia Final Fantasy NT Character Select

A Feast for the Senses

Leveraging the rich history of the Final Fantasy franchise, Dissidia Final Fantasy NT boasts impressive visuals and sound design. Rather than reinventing the wheel with character design, the developers focused their efforts on crafting dynamic and detailed arenas. Character models are beautifully rendered, their movements fluid and impactful within the 3D environments. Summons, a staple of the series, are visually stunning, their immense size and power palpable on screen. Environmental effects, from swirling snow to crackling lightning, further enhance the immersive experience.

The soundtrack, another hallmark of the Final Fantasy series, is equally impressive. Classic battle themes like “Those Who Fight” (Final Fantasy 7), “Don’t Be Afraid” (Final Fantasy 8), and “Otherworld” (Final Fantasy 10) make a triumphant return, adding an extra layer of intensity to every encounter.

Dissidia Final Fantasy NT In-Game Screenshot

Mastering the Mechanics

Whether you’re a veteran of previous Dissidia titles or a newcomer to the series, Dissidia Final Fantasy NT presents a unique learning curve. The in-game tutorial covers the basics, but true mastery requires dedication and practice. Unlike traditional fighting games, Dissidia NT introduces two key concepts: Bravery points and HP (Health Points). Understanding the interplay between these two is crucial for success.

Bravery points, displayed prominently beneath the health bar, represent the potential damage you can inflict with HP attacks. These points are earned by landing Bravery attacks on opponents and lost when receiving them. The core strategy revolves around using Bravery attacks to build up your Bravery, then unleashing powerful HP attacks to deplete your opponent’s health. Bravery attacks are generally quick, while HP attacks require more precise timing and leave you vulnerable.

Dissidia Final Fantasy NT Gameplay

Team-Focused Combat

Battles in Dissidia Final Fantasy NT are fast-paced and dynamic. Arena terrain plays a significant role, influencing positioning and strategy. Players must utilize the environment to their advantage, cornering opponents, supporting allies, and securing strategically important crystals. These crystals, scattered randomly throughout the arena, can be shattered to summon powerful deities capable of turning the tide of battle.

Two primary game modes are available: a 3v3 elimination mode where each team has three lives, and a unique capture-the-flag style mode centered around protecting and destroying crystals. Both modes emphasize teamwork and coordination, making communication and strategy essential for victory.

Dissidia Final Fantasy NT Team Battle

A Shift in Focus

Previous Dissidia titles emphasized character customization and RPG elements, allowing players to craft equipment and tailor skillsets. Dissidia Final Fantasy NT streamlines this aspect, focusing instead on balanced gameplay and strategic team composition. Equipment is primarily cosmetic, and each character has a fixed set of Bravery attacks and a single selectable HP attack. This change, while sacrificing some depth of customization, promotes strategic decision-making and encourages players to adapt their playstyle based on their chosen HP attack and the arena layout. The removal of Bravery-to-HP attack chaining further emphasizes this shift, promoting a more deliberate and tactical approach to combat. A five-second damage immunity period after HP depletion prevents excessive cornering and encourages more dynamic engagements.

Dissidia Final Fantasy NT Summon

Conclusion

Dissidia Final Fantasy NT delivers a unique and engaging 3v3 arena brawler experience. While the streamlined customization might disappoint some fans of the previous games, the emphasis on teamwork, strategic combat, and stunning presentation creates a compelling experience. The fast-paced action, iconic music, and familiar characters make it a worthwhile addition to the Final Fantasy universe.

Game Information

• Developer: Team Ninja
• Publisher: Square Enix
• Genre: Action
• Release Date: January 31, 2018
• Platforms: PS4, PC

Dissidia Final Fantasy NT In-Game Screenshot

(Note: System requirements were not available in the original article and are therefore listed as N/A.)