Rhythm gameplay can be contentious. When done incorrectly, it takes the form of lackluster mini-games, like the Atlantica world in Kingdom Hearts II. On the other hand, a game centered around rhythm can be an extremely satisfying, tight experience for those who love exciting music and challenging gameplay. Square Enix has found success in this realm in the past with its Theatrhythm Final Fantasy games. Now, it's time for another title in this series.
The original game launched on the Nintendo 3DS in 2012, with an updated sequel releasing two years later on the same platform. This series of rhythm games features a large cast of fan-favorite characters and hundreds of iconic Final Fantasy songs to play through. The staggering amount of content appealed to veteran fans who appreciate the games' fantastic soundtracks, but also served to introduce players to new adventures through those songs. The titles strike an engaging balance between relaxing Field Stages and upbeat Battle Stages, both of which make full use of the repertoire of tracks available.
The series garnered enough success to warrant expansion into other franchises. In 2015, Theatrhythm Dragon Quest was released in Japan and more recently, Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory came out on all modern platforms, which is a Theatrhythm game in all but name. This game took a narrative approach to the rhythm format, introducing yet another twist on the Kingdom Hearts formula. It was received well, lauded by critics and audiences alike for the huge number of crowd-pleasing songs, beautiful graphics and tight gameplay built on the groundwork laid by the 3DS entries.
Since the last core Theatrhythm release, the Final Fantasy franchise has seen the release of three very successful Final Fantasy XIV expansions, Final Fantasy VII Remake and other spinoffs like Final Fantasy Awakening. A new rhythm sequel would allow players to experience these tracks with the uniquely engaging gameplay that the Theatrhythm titles are known for. Fans would also inevitably hope for the game to cover up some gaps that the originals had, like the cheerful tunes of Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and the blood-pumping tracks of Dissidia Final Fantasy NT.
With this in mind, it is striking that the last Theatrhythm game launched so long ago. It has been a whole seven years since the last console release exploring the worlds and musical canon of Final Fantasy. A more recent entry does exist, though. Theatrhythm Final Fantasy All-Star Carnival released in Japanese arcades to great success back in 2016. However, some fans feel left out just as they did when Dissidia Final Fantasy NT came out only in arcades initially. It is promising, however, that Dissidia NT was eventually brought to home systems. So, there is hope yet for those hankering for a new Theatrhythm game on console - ported from arcades or otherwise.
With the franchise's successful history on Nintendo handhelds, it is obvious that a sequel on the Nintendo Switch would be a smart move for Square Enix. It would provide players with a portable rhythm game full of recognizable, beloved tracks that they can play anywhere. In addition, it would provide Square Enix with a robust infrastructure for adding new songs via DLC purchases. Hopefully, it is simply a matter of time.