Square Enix has released the second demo of Stranger of Paradise Final Fantasy Origins, which shows us a bit more about what to expect from this action-oriented Final Fantasy spinoff. This demo is...interesting. One cutscene shows Jack, the main character, settling down after a boss fight in a hilarious manner. The cutscene was shared by players on social media in an air of confusion. However, I'm here to say that this is the best moment of Stranger of Paradise.
Fans were surprised when Stranger of Paradise Final Fantasy Origin first became public. The game was being developed by Team Ninja of Dead or Alive fame. Team Ninja also developed the Dynasty Warriors-ification of franchises such as The Legend of Zelda, Fire Emblem, and the controversial Metroid game. The pedigreed developer said that Stranger of Paradise would be unique in any form. That's a good thing. Square Enix continues to innovate with Final Fantasy, a series that has been in existence for nearly 35 years. Square Enix has tried new and strange things with its IP (Chocobo GP anybody? However, I think a spinoff action title hasn't been seen since 2006's Dirge of Cerberus.
This is the feeling I get from Stranger of Paradise, a Square Enixs attempt at relitigating the merits of Dirge of Cerberus. The break gauge functions in a similar way to Sekiros posture gauge. If it is depleted, enemies are more likely to be able to finishers. However, you will also be vulnerable if your break gauge is depleted. Strangers In Paradise is a popular choice in a market that is growing for Souls-like games. Stranger of Paradise is not as difficult as the From Software games. However, it requires more critical thinking. You can't spam attacks like Final Fantasy VII Remake, and expect to be alive. Once you learn how to change combos and switch jobs, combat can be quite fun. Stranger of Paradise also displays the same gloominess as Dirge of Cerberus. Stranger of Paradise, however, is more aware of its edgelordiness than Dirge. This makes it a comedic delight. The gameplay video has gone viral.
This is the rule. Jack is a relatable character. Not Squall, Cloud, or Lighting. But Jack basically throws up deuces while listening to sick music from his earbuds. Jack was the protagonist of Final Fantasy millennial in that one moment. Jack is pissed off and has masked himself. He finds himself outnumbered, outgunned, and on a futile quest to defeat an eternal evil and oppressive force while his teethy assholes block him. You can only progress through a zone by eliminating the pulsing, tooth-ringed butthole monsters.
Or is this a well-crafted meditation about the people who hinder humanity's progress? You can decide. You can decide.
Stranger of Paradise Final Fantasy Origin is available on PlayStation 3, Xbox and PC March 18, 2022.
