The latest Granblue Fantasy Relink showcase was an exhilarating affair, unveiling a string of updates that stunned and enthralled me. Of those, the introduction of Seofon and Tweyen as playable characters stood out, marking a big milestone within the sport’s evolution. Furthermore, the anticipation surrounding Sandalphon’s imminent arrival solely provides to the thrill for the sport’s future.
Nevertheless, amidst the euphoria of those bulletins, a way of unease started to creep in—a nagging doubt about Relink’s final destiny. Engaged in discussions concerning the sport’s trajectory, a troubling realization steadily dawned on me: this might probably sign the tip of Granblue Fantasy Relink.
Console Success and Past
Relink aimed to deliver the essence of Grand Blue from its origins in browser gaming to a broader stage. I had the unbelievable alternative to evaluate the sport and spend time with it earlier than it reached the palms of many. It shortly grew to become the standout new sport of 2024 for me, the primary motion RPG I accomplished on all difficulties. Its Western launch was met with exceptional gross sales and enthusiastic participant engagement, indicating a shiny future. Nevertheless, amidst this success, delicate hints throughout the livestream hinted at a unique path—a path shrouded in uncertainty, which stirred apprehension inside me.
Once I first performed Relink, I used to be thrilled it wasn’t a reside service sport. The content material was fulfilling, offering over 200 hours of pleasure. Nevertheless, after defeating the ultimate boss on Proud mode, the very best issue, I discovered myself craving extra. Surprisingly, I wanted for Relink to undertake a reside service mannequin for its post-game life. This is able to imply growing difficulties, further bosses to struggle, extra characters to unlock, and the flexibility to revisit the sport over time. Basically, it might resemble the sport’s cell counterpart however for consoles, with out the gacha components.
Whereas I might technically delve into the cell sport, which boasts a couple of decade’s price of fight, narrative expansions, and serves as the sport’s major hub, I discover myself hesitant to take action. Taking part in on a cell machine lacks the cinematic immersion I crave. As a substitute, I desire the expertise of sitting on my sofa, enveloped in darkness, with the extreme glow of the display and the bombastic soundtrack washing over me. The familiarity of the Sony controller format provides a nostalgic allure to the expertise. It is a sentiment shared by many who, like me, fell in love with Relink.
But, I am unable to shake the sensation that this profitable ardour mission was designed to attract us towards the cell sport. Nevertheless, for me, Relink stays the point of interest. So the place does that depart gamers like me and the sport itself?
A Map With An Finish
My considerations about Relink’s future arose from an announcement within the latest replace video that appeared to counsel the sport was nearing completion:
This information saddened me, as Relink has been one of many standout RPGs within the present console library, and I had hoped for ongoing updates to maintain the expertise recent. There was a particular pleasure in returning to the sport, particularly after unlocking Tweyen.
Upon her acquisition, I eagerly resumed taking part in with associates, specializing in leveling her up, mastering her skills, and tackling challenges just like the formidable Lucilious raid. Though there have been different notable RPG releases this yr, corresponding to Closing Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Persona 3 Reload, my anticipation to return to Relink remained unmatched.
The multiplayer side of Relink has been rewarding, providing the most effective cooperative experiences I’ve had in latest reminiscence. Regardless of occasional random merchandise drop charges, the sport by no means felt unfairly grindy; gamers might choose to degree up all characters or focus on favorites. Even when associates weren’t out there, the AI companions proved competent and responsive, enhancing the general expertise.
Now, with the prospect of 1.3.0 probably marking the ultimate replace, I am unable to assist however really feel I am nearing the bounds of accessible content material within the sport, leaving me with a way of disappointment.
The Sky Past
If 1.3.0 certainly marks the conclusion, then I can reluctantly come to phrases with it, reflecting on my journey with a mixture of pleasure and achievement. Nevertheless, I implore Cygames to not let this be the only real console enterprise for the collection.
Ought to we bid farewell to Relink, I envision the subsequent installment increasing upon the groundwork laid out by its predecessor. Whereas the story supplied satisfaction, it may gain advantage from better depth and size. Though the character backstories by means of Fates have been appreciated, integrating extra interactive components into their narratives would improve the expertise. Concerning fight, I consider few main changes are obligatory; slightly, an inflow of characters from the cell video games could be welcome, unveiling untold aspects of the universe.
Cygames possesses a novel formulation that has left me craving extra. As I eagerly anticipate the unfolding chapters of this saga, I maintain agency in my perception that there are additional adventures on the horizon. “Doubtlessly. Presumably.”
