Featured in this week’s issue of Famitsu were several interviews based around the titles showcased at last week’s Square Enix event. Today, Famitsu.com has posted up a lengthier version of the first interview, with Final Fantasy XIII-2 producer Yoshinori Kitase and director Motomu Toriyama, expanding on Final Fantasy XIII-2, the Fabula Nova Crystallis mythos, and the slight alteration in its title.
Fabula Nova Crystallis
At last week’s Square Enix 1st Production Department Premier press conference, the publisher opened up with a video detailing the Fabula Nova Crystallis mythos. Kitase told Famitsu that they opened by showing this video because they felt it would help players better understand its meaning. They also felt it was a good time to do it, as Final Fantasy Type-0 is nearing its summer release, and the Fabula Nova Crystallis series was due for a restart.
The trailer (posted above – translation) shows the gods in their true form, rather than their human form. The reason for this, according to Kitase, is because the gods would have a fixed image had they been shown as humans, and wouldn’t rely on their own unique interpretations.
You may have noticed we’ve been referring to the series as Fabula Nova Crystallis Final Fantasy rather than Fabula Nova Crystallis Final Fantasy XIII. Kitase said that the reason for the removal of XIII is because Final Fantasy Type-0, formerly Final Fantasy Agito XIII, is a member of the series, but does not involve the roman numeral, XIII.
Final Fantasy XIII-2
There are two reasons Square Enix decided to make a sequel to Final Fantasy XIII, explained Toryiama. The main reason was that there was fan demand throughout the world. Additionally, the development staff wanted to further portray and develop the Lightning character.
Warning: story spoilers incoming.
In the “Episode 1” after story novella included in the Japanese Xbox 360 release of Final Fantasy XIII, the characters are seen returning to their normal lives, without a care in the world. Famitsu asked if this meant Lightning would be on her own. Or if her new journey would be finding a method to help Vanille and Fang.
To that, Toriyama answered that the sacrifice of the two sisters left a wound in the hearts of many. The story of XIII-2 will not only focus on Lightning, but the other allies who were affected by the loss, as well. Additionally, new characters will enter the mix.
Final Fantasy XIII-2 is not a merry playground of happy. Toriyama told the magazine, who asked whether or not there’d be any Final Fantasy X-2-stlye dancing and singing, that it would be impossible to have such peace in a state where Cocoon had fallen. Final Fantasy XIII-2 boasts a much darker story in comparison to its predecessor.
Story spoilers ended.
The game will take place in a different setting than the first game, although the Final Fantasy XIII world will be in the game in some form.
As for Lightning’s new look, Toryiama noted that her armor has more of a fantasy feel this time around, and that they’re valuing her refined and noble qualities.
In regards to the trailer, there’s a scene where we see Lightning standing in front of what looks like a giant alter (see here). Toriyama said that this is not an alter, but a chair; one of great significance.
The new character, shown towards the end of the trailer, is a powerful character who’s abilities match that of Lightning, said Toriyama. Lightning will meet him on her new mission.
Toriyama closed off the interview on a final note, saying: save your Final Fantasy XIII save data, as the team is investigating the possibility of rewarding players with that data.
Thanks, Andriasang.