Final Fantasy Resonance is the first game in the iconic RPG series to use a visual style known as "HD-2D," which combines high-definition graphics with a hand-drawn, two-dimensional aesthetic. After playing through an hour of the game, it's clear that it could be an exciting new direction for fans of the classic Final Fantasy titles. In early gameplay, players see the spirit forms of beloved characters like The Warrior of Light, Terra, Zidane, and Cloud floating behind their party members during battle. When faced with a group of enemies, players can choose to unleash a powerful ability from one of these characters, and in one example, selecting Cloud triggers a dramatic cutscene where he destroys everything on screen. This flashy moment stands out against the more subdued HD-2D style of the rest of the game. Final Fantasy Resonance is based on parts of an older mobile game called Final Fantasy Brave Exvius, but it has been reimagined into a traditional turn-based format that harkens back to the classic NES and SNES eras of the franchise. For fans who grew up playing those older games and miss the deep, strategic turn-based combat, this new entry is a welcome addition. Even in just a short play session, the game's combat and visual style are immediately engaging, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience. The story, while not fully explored in the limited time spent with the game, feels familiar to classic Final Fantasy narratives. It features warring factions, a group of adventurers, and a world filled with crystals to protect in temples. Though there's not much exposition, the game immediately draws players in with its characters and the complexity of its combat system. In addition to the four main characters, the game hints at the inclusion of many more iconic figures from the Final Fantasy series. These characters appear as "Visions," which can be equipped to party members to grant them special abilities. These abilities can be combined to create unique character builds. For example, The Warrior of Light can be turned into a strong frontline fighter or a defensive tank through specific Visions. As players collect more Visions, they can further customize their characters' abilities. The gameplay emphasizes strategy, with players enjoying the process of balancing different roles in their party — such as the tank, the damage dealer, the mage, and the healer — to create effective combat teams. As players progress, they can exploit enemy weaknesses to stagger them, gaining bonus turns and ultimately unleashing powerful special attacks. While the battle system isn't entirely new, it adds a fresh layer of depth and variety to the classic turn-based formula. Final Fantasy Resonance is set to release on October 22 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Series S, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Fans of classic Final Fantasy games will likely find much to appreciate in this new entry, from its nostalgic gameplay to its impressive roster of familiar characters. A demo is available for players to try before the official release.