Final Fantasy XIII received criticism(here in the west at least) mostly for its linearity and the simplistic game design. No wonder it was branded as "Final Hallway XIII." There were issues with the combat system as well but for the most part the game's negatives were derived from the corridor simulator aspect that corrodes the entire game.


So when did Square just decide turn-based/ATB was outdated? Why did they start moving towards action in the first place? There was nothing ever wrong with it.


We may see another turn-based/ATB AAA JRPG from Square in the future but it seems like they are making it very clear that they think their fanbase finds the combat outdated or just not relevant for an AAA title.