Old page wikitext, before the edit (old_wikitext ) | '{{Infobox video game
|image=[[File:Final Fantasy Versus XIII.png|250px]]
|developer=[[Square Enix#Production teams|Square Enix 1st Production Department]]<ref name="4gamer1st"/>
|publisher=[[Square Enix]]
|director=[[Tetsuya Nomura]]<ref name="Trailer1" />
|producer=[[Shinji Hashimoto]]<ref name="Trailer1" /><br />[[Yoshinori Kitase]]<ref name="Trailer1" />
|designer=Tetsuya Nomura<ref name="Trailer1" />
|artist=Tetsuya Nomura<ref name="Trailer1" /><br />Tomohiro Hasegawa<ref name="Trailer1" /><br />Takayuki Odachi<ref name="Trailer1" />
|writer=[[Kazushige Nojima]]<ref name="Trailer1" /><br />Tetsuya Nomura<ref name="Trailer1" />
|composer=[[Yoko Shimomura]]<ref name="Trailer1" />
|engine=Crystal Tools<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.psu.com/GDC--Square-Enix-announces-Crystal-Tools-News--a2847-p0.php |title=GDC: Square-Enix announces Crystal Tools|last=Jackson|first=Tyrell |date=February 22, 2008|publisher=PlayStation Universe|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref><br />Luminous Studio (lighting)
|platforms=<!-- Only PlayStation 3 has been confirmed so far. Do Not Add Any Other platforms until announcement makes it official -->[[PlayStation 3]]
|released=[[TBA]]<!-- Do not add a date without an official non-retail source -->
|series=''[[Final Fantasy]]''<br />''[[Fabula Nova Crystallis Final Fantasy]]''
|genre=[[Action role-playing game|Action RPG]]
|modes=[[Single-player video game|Single-player]]
|ratings=
}}
{{nihongo|'''''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'''''|ファイナルファンタジー ヴェルサスXIII|Fainaru Fantajī Verusasu Sātīn}} is an upcoming [[action role-playing game]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/objects/826/826846.html|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-12-12}}</ref> published by [[Square Enix]] for the [[PlayStation 3]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.square-enix.com/na/company/press/2006/0508_1/|title=Square Enix unveils the next generation of Final Fantasy|date=May 8, 2006|publisher=[[Square Enix]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/5025156/no-changes-on-final-fantasy-versus-xiii-being-ps3-exclusive|title=No Changes On Final Fantasy Versus XIII Being PS3 "Exclusive"|last=McWhertor|first=Michael|date=July 14, 2008|publisher=[[Kotaku]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref> and currently being developed by the company's 1st Production Department.<ref name="4gamer1st">{{cite web |url=http://www.4gamer.net/games/120/G012012/20110118006/ |archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5vr0zwlBW |archivedate=2011-01-19 |title=「Final Fantasy XIII-2」が2011年発売予定,「Agito」は「Final Fantasy 零式」と名称変更して2011年夏発売。「Square Enix 1st Production Department Premiere」をTwitterで実況 |date=2011-01-18 |language=[[Japanese language|Japanese]] |work=4Gamer.net |publisher=Aetas, Inc. |accessdate=2011-01-19}}</ref> Alongside ''[[Final Fantasy XIII]]'', ''[[Final Fantasy XIII-2]]'', and ''[[Final Fantasy Type-0]]'', the game is a part of the ''[[Fabula Nova Crystallis Final Fantasy]]'' series. Unveiled at [[E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo)|E3]] 2006,<ref name="e32006">{{cite web |title=SQUARE ENIX UNVEILS THE NEXT GENERATION OF FINAL FANTASY |publisher=[[Square Enix]] |date=May 8, 2006 |accessdate=February 18, 2011 |url=http://www.square-enix.com/na/company/press/2006/0508_1/}}</ref> the game focuses on a mysterious protagonist, Noctis Lucis Caelum, who is the last heir of a dynasty ruling over the only remaining city to control crystals. Under unforeseen circumstances, he makes a stand against marauders seeking to take the crystal as their own.<ref name="E32006Dengeki">{{cite web |author= Dengenki |url=http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/fabula-nova-crystallis/interviews/dengeki-e3-2006-english.php |title=Dengeki E3 2006 Interview |accessdate=2009-03-08 |publisher=Final Fantasy-XIII.net |year=2006}} {{Dead link|date=October 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>
''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' is, according to its developers, a wholly independent story unfolding with different characters and a different visual design. Although it is set within the same ''Final Fantasy XIII'' universe, it is unrelated to any other entry within the series and is thus neither a sequel nor a prequel to any other entries in the ''Fabula Nova Crystallis: Final Fantasy'' series.<ref name="note4">{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/705/705978p1.html|title=Final Fantasy XIII Preview|last=Brudvig|first=Erik|date=May 8, 2006|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref>
==Gameplay==
[[File:Ffvxiii2.jpg|left|thumb|The main character, Noctis, with eleven floating weapons surrounding him.]]
Director Tetsuya Nomura has stated that the gameplay will be a realistic derivation of ''[[Kingdom Hearts]]'''s battle system with some elements of a [[third-person shooter]]. Nomura has also stated that the game will depart from the light and magical aesthetic of his previous directorial games (i.e. ''Kingdom Hearts'') and opt for a world based on reality.<ref name="DengekiAug08" /> According to Nomura, the world of ''Versus XIII'' is based on the real world and will have actual real world global crisis situations happening in it.<ref>{{cite web|title=INTERVIEW: Tetsuya Nomura|url=http://www.next-gen.biz/features/interview-tetsuya-nomura|publisher=[[Edge Online]]|accessdate=27 August 2011|author=Edge Staff|date=25 June 2007}}</ref> In further pursuit of this theme, Nomura has stated that he wants the characters to be "believable as real people" and thus realistic in body movement and facial expressions. As a testament towards his desire for realistic characters, he appointed Jun Akiyama to be the event director due to his experience directing [[Cutscene|cutscenes]] with characters that felt like real people in ''[[Final Fantasy XII]]''.
Nomura stated in July 2011 that most of the cutscenes in the game will be in real-time, and the player will still be in control of the main character while the cutscene is happening.<ref name=real-time>{{cite web|last=Gifford|first=Kevin|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Still Chugging Along|url=http://www.1up.com/news/final-fantasy-xiii-chugging|publisher=[[1UP.com]]|accessdate=27 August 2011|date=13 July 2011}}</ref> The player will be able to run around and perform various actions during the cutscenes. Nomura has called these new types of cutscenes "Real-Time Events" and they will make up all the cutscenes in the game.<ref name=real-time/> However, he has also stated that the game will also have some pre-rendered CGI scenes.<ref name=real-time/> The realtime events will be triggered by the player unexpectedly and with no forewarning unlike ''[[Final Fantasy XIII]]''. Players should expect to suddenly be attacked or trigger certain Real-Time Events while just walking around. For example, when Noctis reaches a pedestrian bridge, a behemoth suddenly appears and attacks him. Another example is a plane crashing into the road in front of Noctis while he is running down it. Nomura states that implementing these kinds of real-time events, which transition seamlessly into the flow of gameplay, takes a long time in terms of development.<ref name="DengekiJan25"/> There will also be a new real-time lighting system in place for a day/night cycle. The player also has the ability to take photos whenever they want with Noctis' cell phone.
Battles will take place in [[Real-time game|real-time]] environments using all regions of the field, from the tops of buildings down to street level. Nomura said that the game will feature battles that take place in areas with great differences in height, as shown in the trailer, and the players will have to fight using the full environment. This means fighting what's in front, as well as above and below (vertical battles).<ref name="Battles">{{cite web|url=http://www.ff-versusxiii.net/index.php?page=content&name_id=versus_battle|title=FXN FF Versus XIII Battle System Info|author=FXN|date=December 7, 2010|accessdate=2010-12-07|publisher=FinalFantasyVersusXIII.net}}</ref> The battle interface consists of several aspects, mainly Magic, Item, Summons and EX-ARTS. In addition, there are highly animated character portraits on the lower right corner of the screen. The portrait will change according to the character's feelings and current movement, similar to ''[[Star Ocean: The Last Hope]]'' (albeit in a wider variety).
The game's combat will be party-based, with each party consisting of a maximum of three characters at a time with players being able to switch between the controlled characters. At the start of the game, the party line-up will be predetermined, though players will get the ability to freely switch out members as the story progresses, similar to ''[[Final Fantasy XIII]]''. Each character will have his or her own unique special attack capabilities, and all characters will be able to use magic, although the effect of the magic differs from character to character. For example, when Noctis casts magic, it emerges from his weapon, while for another party member, it may light his surroundings with fire. Noctis is the only character capable of equipping all weapon types in the game; other characters each have their own unique specialties. For example, one of the characters is a gun specialist who can switch to a third-person view for precise aiming at the enemy's weak points, buildings, and other objects.<ref name="DengekiJan25">{{cite web | url =http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2011/01/25/ff_versus_xiii_update/ | title =Final Fantasy Versus XIII Update | author =Anoop Gantayat | date =January 25, 2011 | work = | publisher =[[Andriasang]] | accessdate = 2011-01-25}}</ref>
Nomura has also stated in ''[[Dengeki PlayStation]]'' that he aims to create previously unseen "tricky" battle sequences, reminiscent of the [[Computer generated imagery|CGI]] [[film]], ''[[Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children]]''.<ref name="E32006Dengeki" /> He has also stated that the development team have been implementing a traversable world map, used in the main ''Final Fantasy'' series up until its removal in ''[[Final Fantasy X]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ff-xiii.net/index.php?page=article&article=195|title=Kitase and Nomura interview (updated)|date=November 20, 2007 |publisher=FF-XIII.net|accessdate=2010-01-05}}</ref> Nomura later commented, in an interview conducted via Twitter, that players will be able to control an airship around the world map.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/yep-theres-a-world-map-in-final-fantasy-versus-xiii |title=Yep, there's a world map in Final Fantasy Versus XIII|last=Yoon|first=Andrew|date=March 17, 2010|publisher=Joystiq|accessdate=2010-03-18}}</ref>
Like some of the previous games in the Final Fantasy series the game will feature large open fields in the world map which allow players to walk through almost anything on the field apart from the mountains. Nomura has also mentioned that the fields are truly vast and that it was very far to traverse from one end to another;<ref name="FamJune"/> thus, to facilitate easy navigation, the game will feature the return of vehicles such as an airship along with a form of fast travel between specific locations on the world map<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/03/18/tetsuya_nomura_twitter_interview|title=Tetsuya Nomura Interviewed at Twitter|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=March 18, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|accessdate=2010-03-18}}</ref> as well as a car, allowing players to easily traverse the large fields.<ref name="FamJune">{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/06/23/nomura_on_ff_versus_xiii/|title=Tetsuya Nomura on Final Fantasy Versus XIII|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=June 23, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|accessdate=2010-06-23}}</ref> Players can ride cars, aircraft and [[Chocobo]]s; they can also steal tanks.<ref name="DengekiJan25"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/06/23/flying_get/ |title=This Week's Flying Get |author=Anoop Gantayat |date=June 23, 2010 |work= |publisher=Andriasang |accessdate=2010-06-23}}</ref>
One of the trailers shows Noctis selecting from a number of different weapons to defeat the enemy soldiers in front of him. The various weapons in the game will have different methods of attack, and some will even be usable as shields to go along with Noctis's crystal powers. Weapons will have some sort of customization such as elemental attacks as well. The trailer also showed Noctis warping around killing enemies. Nomura explained that players won't be able to warp freely to every spot, but will be able to warp to the location where the sword is placed, thought it is limited to an attack gauge. This is one area that is being tested on, so it's a matter of time to see if this all makes it into the final product. Summon beasts are in the game and will have to be defeated to be used. Nomura has also said that the game may have Sixaxis support.<ref name="Battles"/>
== Setting ==
''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' involves Noctis Lucis Caelum, the last heir to an isolated nation, which holds the last Crystal protected by kings. Its isolation is due to the city's resistance; to protect itself against invading heretics.<ref name="E32006IGN">{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/705/705990p1.html|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Preview|last=Haynes|first=Jeff|date=May 8, 2006|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref> The game has been said to initiate at the "clearing" of a long cold war between warring nations that revolved around the crystals.<ref name="FFUpdate">{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/754/754310p1.html|title=Final Fantasy XIII Update|author=IGN Staff|date=January 10, 2007|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref>
The official trailer starts with the words, "This is a fantasy based on reality." The trailer shows modern technology such as [[cars]], [[freeways]], [[skyscrapers]], [[gas stations]], and automatic weapons and bears a striking resemblance to the real world today.
Very little information regarding the plot of the game has been revealed since [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3]] [[History of E3#2006|2006]]; however, Square Enix representatives have commented that ''Versus'' may be the darkest ''Final Fantasy'' game yet.<ref name="E32006Dengeki" /><ref name="LEVEL">{{cite web |author= LEVEL magazine |url=http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/fabula-nova-crystallis/interviews/level-may-2007-transcript.php |title=LEVEL May 2007 Interview Transcript |accessdate=2009-03-08 |publisher=Final Fantasy-XIII.net |year=2007 | month=May}} {{Dead link|date=October 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>
Screenshots from Japanese gaming magazine, ''[[Famitsu]]'', have revealed a large city reminiscent of [[Tokyo]] which showcases a recreation of the real-life [[Shinjuku]], surrounding Square Enix's office, in game.<ref name="FamJune"/> The lead character is seen battling a Behemoth in the dead of night with cars and flames in the distance.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2010/06/24/full-final-fantasy-versus-xiii-famitsu-scans-and-interview.html|title=Full Final Fantasy Versus XIII Famitsu Scans and Interview|date=June 24, 2010|publisher=Final Fantasy-XIII.net|accessdate=2010-07-04}}</ref>
==Characters==
===Main characters===
[[File:Final Fantasy XIII Versus.jpg|right|thumb|200px|A close-up of Noctis' face as he draws his weapon in battle.]]
*{{Nihongo | '''Noctis Lucis Caelum''' |ノクティス・ルシス・チェラム|Nokutisu Rushisu Cheramu}}<br />Voiced by: [[Tatsuhisa Suzuki]]
:The main protagonist of ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'', Noctis is the prince of the royal family, and the last heir to the Caelum Dynasty, which rules over the only remaining [[city-state]] that controls the Crystals. Noctis attempts to protect his city-state against those who seek to conquer it and take the Crystals by force. Nomura has compared Noctis's family to the modern-day [[Yakuza|Japanese mafia]].<ref name="IGN2008">{{cite web | last=Gantayat | first= Anoop | title = Tetsuya Nomura on FF Versus XIII | publisher = [[IGN]] | date = 2007-03-02 | url= http://ps3.ign.com/articles/769/769776p1.html|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref><ref name="1UP">{{cite news | last =Gifford | first = Kevin | title =Tetsuya Nomura Discusses FF Versus XIII Characters | publisher = [[1UP.com|1UP]] | date =2008-10-22 | url = http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory%3FcId%3D3170824|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref> The color of his eyes have been shown to change from blue to crimson during battle; according to Nomura, the color changes are both intentional and significant.<ref name="FFUpdate"/> Noctis's full name translates to "Light of the Night Sky," <ref name="gamekyoxiii">{{cite news|url=http://gamekyo.com/newsen29267_final-fantasy-xiii-his-name-is-snow.html |title=Final Fantasy XIII: His name is Snow |publisher=GameKyo |date= |accessdate=2009-03-03}}</ref><ref name="FamitsuTGS08">{{cite web|url=http://www.famitsu.com/event/tgs/2008/1218808_1829.html |title=スクウェア・エニックスのクローズドメガシアター、注目の最新情報をまとめてお伝え! |publisher=Famitsu |date=October 9, 2008 |language=Japanese |accessdate=2009-03-03}}</ref> and his nickname is "Noct".<ref name="FamitsuTGS08"/>
:Noctis wields many weapons, ranging from swords, spears, and lances to guns. He controls them with [[telekinesis]] (through the power of the Crystal), using them for both attack and defense. Nomura has stated that each weapon has a different usage and is not directly limited by normal standards of attack; for instance, some weapons are also usable as shields.<ref name="articles2007">{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/756/756757p1.html|title=Final Fantasy XIII Update|last=Gantayat |first=Anoop|date=January 19, 2007 |publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref> Noctis also has the ability to teleport or to suddenly move at a high speed, Noctis can also do this in game play according to the trailer posted by Square Enix in 2011.
:Noctis's personality is different from other characters in the ''[[Final Fantasy]]'' franchise and is one that Nomura had wanted to try out for a long time.<ref name="famitsu1001">{{cite web|url=http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2008/02/07/versus-guy-s-name-coming-soon-and-you-might-not-like-him.html|title=Versus guy's name coming soon and you might not like him|date=February 7, 2008|publisher=Final Fantasy-XIII.net|accessdate=2009-04-01}} {{Dead link|date=October 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> In the past, protagonists were not given strong personalities while distinctive ones were delegated to the supporting cast, but Nomura states that Noctis's [[idiosyncrasies]] mark a departure from this tradition.<ref name="famitsu1001" /> Although his character is said to be hard to define given his complexities,<ref name="FamitsuTGS08" /><ref name="TGS08famitsu.com">{{cite web | author=Famitsu | title = TGS08: Nomura Interview: What you should know about Noctis | publisher = Final Fantasy-XIII.net | date = October 11, 2008| url = http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2008/10/11/nomura-interview-what-you-should-know-about-noctis.html}}</ref> a good measure of his personality can be sensed from his first meeting with Stella.<ref name="TGS08IGN.com">{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/922/922527p1.html|title=New Final Fantasy Versus XIII Details|author=IGN Staff|date=October 22, 2008|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref> Noctis hides his shyness underneath a façade of coolness in front of her, which creates a cold and unsociable impression.<ref name="TGS08IGN.com" /> However, he smiles and acts more openly around his friends,<ref name="FamitsuTGS08" /><ref name="TGS08famitsu.com" /> a testament to Nomura's statement that "[Noctis] is not the least bit a silent, gloomy little boy."<ref name="famitsu1001" />
[[File:Final-Fantasy-Versus-XIII 2009 01-29-09 02.jpg 500.jpg|right|thumb|200px|A close-up of Stella summoning her weapon.]]
*'''{{Nihongo|Stella Nox Fleuret|ステラ・ノックス・フルーレ|Sutera Nokkusu Furūre}}'''
:A young woman with golden-blonde hair, Stella is said to be the daughter of the Fleuret family of the country Tenebrae (Latin for "darkness")<ref name="1UP" /><ref name="TGS08IGN.com" /> and an enemy to Noctis, though her allegiances are under suspicion as she talked to him during a social gathering, where she spoke about the goddess Etro and her relation to their abilities.{{Citation needed|date=March 2009}} ''Fleuret'' is the French name of the fencing [[foil (fencing)|foil]], a direct reference to Stella's weapon of choice: a [[rapier]]. Like Noctis, she is able to materialize weapons from thin air, as she is shown summoning her rapier from a [[runic magic|rune]] similar to one used by Noctis to summon his sword; though Stella's rune is golden, while Noctis' is blue.
:Like that of Noctis, a good measure of Stella's personality can be sensed during her first meeting with Noctis.<ref name="TGS08IGN.com" /> For instance, in their discussion about the power they share and its connection to an old legend,<ref name="1UP" /> Stella is very open about the matter while Noctis seems reluctant to talk about it, suggesting that they keep it a secret.<ref name="TGS08IGN.com" /> Stella is described to be ladylike and extremely polite<ref name="DengekiAug08">{{cite web | title = Dengeki Final Fantasy Versus XIII Interview Translated | publisher = Final Fantasy-XIII.net | date = August 31, 2008 | url = http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2008/08/31/dengeki-final-fantasy-versus-xiii-interview-translated.html|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref> but direct in her manner — a reflection of her proper but strong upbringing.<ref name="1UP" /><ref name="TGS08IGN.com" /> She acts according to her beliefs, believing the powers she and Noctis have are part of a greater purpose, and doesn't shy away from problems.<ref name="DengekiAug08" /><ref name="1UP" /> Nomura states that she will be the first to stand out from other female characters in the ''Final Fantasy'' franchise,<ref name="DengekiAug08" /> although it is not specified how.
===Other characters===
[[File:Final-Fantasy-Versus-XIII 2009 01-29-09 01.jpg 500.jpg|thumb|right|250px|From left to right: Prompto, Gladiolus, Noctis, and Ignis.]]
Noctis has three companions who have been revealed in the video game magazine ''[[Famitsu]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2008/10/22/famitsu-final-fantasy-xiii-versus-agito-scans.html|title=Famitsu: Final Fantasy XIII, Versus & Agito scans|date=October 22, 2008|publisher=Final Fantasy-XIII.net|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref> The first is Ignis (voiced by [[Mamoru Miyano]]), a man with light brown hair and glasses who is seen wearing a suit and driving Noctis's car. He uses throwing cards in battle. The second is a bulkier man with long dark brown hair and a scar on the left side of his face, named Gladiolus (voiced by [[Hiroki Yasumoto]]). In the January 2011 trailer, he's seen wielding a long two-hand sword. The third is a younger, blond-haired man named Prompto (voiced by [[Tetsuya Kakihara]]), who is seen carrying a shotgun and teasing Noctis. Unlike other characters, he can target weak spots on enemies with his precise aiming. These three people are Noctis's friends; they speak casually and amicably with him, and they also accompany him during his travels.<ref name="OfficialTrailer">{{cite web|url=http://www.square-enix.co.jp/fabula/versus13/|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Trailer|publisher=[[Square Enix]]|accessdate=2011-01-27}}</ref>
Another character, shown in a white robe, is seen facing off with Noctis. Noctis approaches the character with intent, implying that they are enemies.<ref name="Trailer1">{{cite web|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/dks3713-trailer-final-fantasy/43746|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII DKS3713 Trailer|date=December 16, 2008|publisher=[[GameTrailers]]|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref>
Soldiers have been seen in the trailers as well. These unknown warriors wear medieval-styled armor but carry [[assault rifle]]s and [[shotgun]]s that resemble modern automatic weapons.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/dengeki-special-final-fantasy/29006|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Dengeki Special Edition Trailer|date=December 15, 2007|publisher=[[GameTrailers]]|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref> Another man, dressed in a business suit and shown leading a meeting with several other men in a cathedral-style chamber, is Noctis's father and the ruler of their city. He possesses the same weapon-manipulating powers as Noctis, and is shown fighting another man, thought to be Stella's father or grandfather, the king of Tenebrae.<ref name="Trailer1"/>
==Development==
Directed by [[Tetsuya Nomura]], ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' is being developed by the teams responsible for ''[[Kingdom Hearts (video game)|Kingdom Hearts]]'', ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]'', and ''[[Final Fantasy VII Advent Children]]'', which are currently part of [[Square Enix]]'s 1st Production Department.<ref name="4gamer1st" /> The scenario is being written by [[Kazushige Nojima]] based on the story idea by Nomura. The real-time events will be directed by Jun Akiyama who was the event director of ''[[Final Fantasy XII]]''. The music is being composed by [[Yoko Shimomura]],<ref name="Trailer1" /> with a theme song, "Somnus", performed by American singer Andrea Hopkins.<ref>{{cite web|title=Drammatica -The Very Best of Yoko Shimomura|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/albums/d/drammatica.shtml|publisher=Square Enix Music|accessdate=2011-09-28}}</ref>
Nomura stated in May 2006 that absolutely nothing had been done on the actual scenario and that the team had yet to start actual work on the game's story. However, he also said that he had the plot worked out for some time in his mind and he was in the process of discussing the plot and concept with his staff.<ref name="gaimaga">{{cite news |first=Anoop |last=Gantayat |title=Gaimaga Blows Out Final Fantasy XIII | pages =1 |url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/710/710761p1.html |publisher=IGN |date=2007-05-31|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref> Both Tetsuya Nomura and [[Yoshinori Kitase]] believe ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' is unsuitable as an iteration of the main ''Final Fantasy'' series due to the concept and thinking behind the game's plot and structure.<ref name="gaimaga2">{{cite news |first=Anoop |last=Gantayat |title=Gaimaga Blows Out Final Fantasy XIII | pages =2 |url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/710/710761p2.html |publisher=IGN |date=2007-05-31|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref>
Along with ''Final Fantasy XIII'', the game utilizes the [[Crystal Tools]] engine—an engine specifically designed by Square Enix for the [[History of video game consoles (seventh generation)|seventh generation]] of video game consoles. However, in early 2007, [[Square Enix]] had announced they had licensed [[Epic Games]]' [[Unreal Engine 3]] for use in their future next generation titles, like ''[[The Last Remnant]]''. Some speculated that ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' would be developed using the Unreal Engine 3, however, Square Enix has stressed the White Engine—later renamed Crystal Tools—would be used in ''Final Fantasy XIII'' and ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' in the ''Fabula Nova Crystallis'' series.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=12531|title= Square Enix Licenses Unreal Engine 3 |last=Jenkins|first=David|date=January 25, 2007 |publisher=Gamasutra|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://au.xbox360.ign.com/articles/758/758363p1.html |title=Final Fantasy Meets Gears of War|last=Goldstein|first=Hilary|date=January 25, 2007 |publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref> It was announced that the game would use the PlayStation 3's motion-sensitive [[PlayStation 3 accessories#Sixaxis|SIXAXIS]] controller.<ref name="articles2007"/>
Reports of June 2008 that ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' had been put on hold so that the ''Versus'' team could assist work on the main title, ''Final Fantasy XIII'', were later debunked by Square Enix, stating that this was a mistranslation of an interview from ''[[Famitsu]]''<ref>{{cite web|author=Kitmitsu|date=June 18, 2008|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Development Temporarily Suspended|url=http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2008/06/18/final-fantasy-versus-xiii-development-suspended.html|publisher=FinalFantasy-XIII.net| accessdate=2008-06-18 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20080619112826/http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2008/06/18/final-fantasy-versus-xiii-development-suspended.html <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archivedate = 2008-06-19}}</ref> and misinterpretation of the article, and that both games are moving along at their original schedules; occasionally, ''Versus'' developers would assist with ''Final Fantasy XIII'' development.<ref name="EurogamerJune08">{{cite web|last=Bramwell | first=Tom | date=June 19, 2008|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Development Temporarily is Not Suspended|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=155677|publisher=Eurogamer.net| accessdate=2008-06-19}}</ref> Square Enix announced at its DKΣ3713 party in August 2008 that the demo of ''Final Fantasy XIII'', as well as new trailers of ''Versus XIII'' and ''Agito XIII'', would be released in the highly-anticipated ''Final Fantasy VII Advent Children Complete'' Blu-ray Disc.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/896/896066p1.html|title=DKΣ3713 Private Party Impressions|last=Haynes|first=Jeff|date=August 2, 2008|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-30}}</ref> Square Enix announced the release date of the new ''Advent Children'' Blu-ray release to be some time during March 2009 (later changed to April 16) and asked fans to disregard previous release dates.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/ffxiii-demo-special-edition-160gb-ps3-coming-april-16-to-japan/|title=FFXIII demo, special edition 160GB PS3 coming April 16 to Japan|last=Miller|first=Ross|date=January 19, 2009|publisher=Joystiq|accessdate=2009-04-30}}</ref> Famitsu released a 50-minute DVD entitled "Re: Riplai" on December 13, 2008, including trailers from the Fabula Nova Crystallis series and other Square Enix titles.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.game518.com/tvgame/PS3/200811/25-2848.shtml|title=Square Enix将发售DKΣ3713影象合集|date=November 25, 2008|publisher=Game518|language=Chinese|accessdate=2009-04-30}}</ref>
On December 19, 2009, gameplay footage of ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' was shown as part of a trailer shown at [[Jump Festa]] 2010 in Japan.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://gematsu.com/2009/12/final-fantasy-versus-xiii-gameplay-trailer-shown-at-jump-festa-10 |title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII real-time trailer shown at Jump Festa ‘10 |author=Sal Romano |date=December 19, 2009 |work= |publisher=Gematsu |accessdate=2009-12-19}}</ref>
When asked by a Square Enix investor at a shareholders meeting about a possible Xbox 360 port, president [[Yoichi Wada]] stated "We'll be looking into it internally until right before the formal announcement."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/05/18/ff_versus_xiii_multiplatform|title=Xbox 360 Final Fantasy Versus XIII Under Consideration|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=May 18, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|accessdate=2010-06-19}}</ref> After some backlash, he later clarified his original statement by saying on [[Twitter]] "It looks like the [inter]net is heating up. Versus on Xbox? What I said at the earnings press conference was just that until a formal announcement is made at the announcement time; all points about all titles are not finalized."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/05/19/wada_clarifies_versus_xiii_statement|title=Wada Clarifies Final Fantasy Versus XIII Xbox 360 Statement|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=May 19, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|accessdate=2010-06-19}}</ref>
In regards to the announcement of [[Final Fantasy XIII|''Final Fantasy XIII Ultimate Hits International'']] for the Xbox 360, Nomura was asked by fans on Twitter regarding the fate of ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'''s exclusivity and his response was "Multiplatform is when you start development on a game with the assumption of optimizing for multiple platforms. Porting is something that's done after you've developed a game specifically for a particular platforms[sic]. The debate over porting is decided by the management based on the current market and the costs. All I can say right now as a developer is that Versus is being developed specifically for the PlayStation 3."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/09/08/nomura_versus_xiii_tweet|title=Nomura Makes a Curious Tweet About Final Fantasy Versus XIII|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=September 8, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|accessdate=2010-09-24}}</ref>
In late August 2010, producer Yoshinori Kitase cast doubt over a release within the next year as he stated that Square Enix would not commit to a 2011 release.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/261808/news/ff-versus-xiii-producer-cant-commit-to-2011-release/|title=FF Versus XIII producer 'can't commit to 2011 release'|date=August 26, 2010|work=[[Computer and Video Games]]|publisher=[[Future plc]]|accessdate=2010-08-24}}</ref> A brief trailer for ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' was shown at the 2010 [[Tokyo Game Show]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://tgs.gamespot.com/story/6276111/final-fantasy-versus-xiii-trailer-impressions|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Trailer Impressions|last=Tong|first=Sophia|date=September 16, 2010|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2010-09-17}}</ref> where Square Enix announced that a press conference regarding the ''Fabula Nova Crystallis'' series will be held on January 11, 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/09/21/nomura_fabula_conference/|title=Tetsuya Nomura Details Fabula Nova Crystallis Conference|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=September 21, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|accessdate=2010-09-21}}</ref> On December 13, 2010, the date for the conference was changed to January 18, 2011, and the conference is now known as the "Square Enix 1st Production Department Premier."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/113/1139970p1.html|author=IGN Staff|title=Square Enix Details Fabula Nova Crystallis Conference|date=December 13, 2010|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2010-12-13}}</ref> The trailer shown at the conference included Noctis being voiced for the first time, gameplay footage featuring [[Hack and slash|swordplay]] and [[Shooter game|shooting]] elements, and Noctis firing from a tank-like machine and operating a robotic biped.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/videos/2011/01/27/final-fantasy-versus-xiii-gameplay-trailer|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII - Gameplay Trailer|date=January 27, 2011|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2011-01-30}}</ref> Nomura has said the game is unlikely to be released in 2011 and that the earliest possible reveal of information about the game would be at E3 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/285277/news/new-final-fantasy-versus-xiii-details/|title=New Final Fantasy Versus XIII details|last=Hussain|first=Tamoor|date=January 25, 2011|publisher=''[[Computer and Video Games]]''|accessdate=2011-01-30}}</ref> However, the game was not present at the show. In August 2011, Nomura stated that the game would not appear at [[Tokyo Game Show]] 2011, but a date was set for the next reveal.<ref>{{cite web|title=No Final Fantasy Versus XIII for Tokyo Game Show|url=http://www.videogamer.com/ps3/final_fantasy_versus_xiii/news/no_final_fantasy_versus_xiii_for_tokyo_game_show.html|publisher=Video Gamer|accessdate=2011-08-11|date=August 8, 2011}}</ref>
On September 11, 2011, it was announced that ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' had entered full production. During a weekend’s fan Q&A session, Yoshinori Kitase said: “''Type-0'' and ''Versus XIII'' have of course advanced to 100% development power.”<ref>{{cite web|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Finally Goes Into Full Production|url=http://www.justpushstart.com/2011/09/11/final-fantasy-versus-xiii-finally-goes-into-full-production/|first=Damian|last=Seeto|publisher=Just Push Start|date=September 11, 2011|accessdate=2011-09-11}}</ref> On September 21, Nomura revealed that the game's lighting will be done using Square Enix's new Luminous Studio engine, while the gameplay mechanics will be done by an engine developed specifically for the game.<ref name="new engine">{{cite web|first=Mike|last=Harradence|title=Square drops new Final Fantasy Versus XIII info|url=http://www.psu.com/Square-drops-new-Final-Fantasy-Versus-XIII-info--a012988-p0.php|publisher=PlayStation Universe|accessdate=2011-09-23|date=2011-09-21}}</ref> On January 2012, director [[Tetsuya Nomura]] has confirmed that there are a mix of real-time rendering and Visual Works pre-rendered CG. The exact ratio is 7:3 (real-time to pre-rendered).<ref name="mixed rendering">{{cite web|first=Mike|last=Harradence|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII to be shown in real-time next time we see it|url=http://www.psu.com/Final-Fantasy-Versus-XIII-to-be-shown-in-real-time-next-time-we-see-it--a014119-p0.php|publisher=PlayStation Universe|accessdate=2012-01-25|date=2012-01-18}}</ref>
==See also==
{{Wikipedia books|Final Fantasy series}}
*[[Fabula Nova Crystallis Final Fantasy]]
*[[Final Fantasy XIII]]
*[[Final Fantasy XIII-2]]
*[[Final Fantasy Type-0]]
==References==
{{reflist|2}}
==External links==
{{commons}}
{{wikiquote}}
* [http://www.square-enix.co.jp/fabula/versus13/ ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' Official Japanese website]
{{Final Fantasy series|FF=FFXIII}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Final Fantasy Versus 13}}
[[Category:Final Fantasy games]]
[[Category:PlayStation 3-only games]]
[[Category:Upcoming video games]]
[[Category:PlayStation 3 games]]
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[[ja:ファイナルファンタジー ヴェルサスXIII]]
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[[zh:最終幻想 Versus XIII]]' |
New page wikitext, after the edit (new_wikitext ) | '{{Infobox video game
|image=[[File:Final Fantasy Versus XIII.png|250px]]
|developer=[[Square Enix#Production teams|Square Enix 1st Production Department]]<ref name="4gamer1st"/>
|publisher=[[Square Enix]]
|director=[[Tetsuya Nomura]]<ref name="Trailer1" />
|producer=[[Shinji Hashimoto]]<ref name="Trailer1" /><br />[[Yoshinori Kitase]]<ref name="Trailer1" />
|designer=Tetsuya Nomura<ref name="Trailer1" />
|artist=Tetsuya Nomura<ref name="Trailer1" /><br />Tomohiro Hasegawa<ref name="Trailer1" /><br />Takayuki Odachi<ref name="Trailer1" />
|writer=[[Kazushige Nojima]]<ref name="Trailer1" /><br />Tetsuya Nomura<ref name="Trailer1" />
|composer=[[Yoko Shimomura]]<ref name="Trailer1" />
|engine=Crystal Tools<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.psu.com/GDC--Square-Enix-announces-Crystal-Tools-News--a2847-p0.php |title=GDC: Square-Enix announces Crystal Tools|last=Jackson|first=Tyrell |date=February 22, 2008|publisher=PlayStation Universe|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref><br />Luminous Studio (lighting)
|platforms=<!-- Only PlayStation 3 has been confirmed so far. Do Not Add Any Other platforms until announcement makes it official -->[[PlayStation 3]]
|released=[[TBA]]<!-- Do not add a date without an official non-retail source -->
|series=''[[Final Fantasy]]''<br />''[[Fabula Nova Crystallis Final Fantasy]]''
|genre=[[Action role-playing game|Action RPG]]
|modes=[[Single-player video game|Single-player]]
|ratings=
}}
{{nihongo|'''''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'''''|ファイナルファンタジー ヴェルサスXIII|Fainaru Fantajī Verusasu Sātīn}} is an upcoming [[action role-playing game]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/objects/826/826846.html|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-12-12}}</ref> published by [[Square Enix]] for the [[PlayStation 3]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.square-enix.com/na/company/press/2006/0508_1/|title=Square Enix unveils the next generation of Final Fantasy|date=May 8, 2006|publisher=[[Square Enix]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/5025156/no-changes-on-final-fantasy-versus-xiii-being-ps3-exclusive|title=No Changes On Final Fantasy Versus XIII Being PS3 "Exclusive"|last=McWhertor|first=Michael|date=July 14, 2008|publisher=[[Kotaku]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref> and currently being developed by the company's 1st Production Department.<ref name="4gamer1st">{{cite web |url=http://www.4gamer.net/games/120/G012012/20110118006/ |archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5vr0zwlBW |archivedate=2011-01-19 |title=「Final Fantasy XIII-2」が2011年発売予定,「Agito」は「Final Fantasy 零式」と名称変更して2011年夏発売。「Square Enix 1st Production Department Premiere」をTwitterで実況 |date=2011-01-18 |language=[[Japanese language|Japanese]] |work=4Gamer.net |publisher=Aetas, Inc. |accessdate=2011-01-19}}</ref> Alongside ''[[Final Fantasy XIII]]'', ''[[Final Fantasy XIII-2]]'', and ''[[Final Fantasy Type-0]]'', the game is a part of the ''[[Fabula Nova Crystallis Final Fantasy]]'' series. Unveiled at [[E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo)|E3]] 2006,<ref name="e32006">{{cite web |title=SQUARE ENIX UNVEILS THE NEXT GENERATION OF FINAL FANTASY |publisher=[[Square Enix]] |date=May 8, 2006 |accessdate=February 18, 2011 |url=http://www.square-enix.com/na/company/press/2006/0508_1/}}</ref> the game focuses on a mysterious protagonist, Noctis Lucis Caelum, who is the last heir of a dynasty ruling over the only remaining city to control crystals. Under unforeseen circumstances, he makes a stand against marauders seeking to take the crystal as their own.<ref name="E32006Dengeki">{{cite web |author= Dengenki |url=http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/fabula-nova-crystallis/interviews/dengeki-e3-2006-english.php |title=Dengeki E3 2006 Interview |accessdate=2009-03-08 |publisher=Final Fantasy-XIII.net |year=2006}} {{Dead link|date=October 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>
''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' is, according to its developers, a wholly independent story unfolding with different characters and a different visual design. Although it is set within the same ''Final Fantasy XIII'' universe, it is unrelated to any other entry within the series and is thus neither a sequel nor a prequel to any other entries in the ''Fabula Nova Crystallis: Final Fantasy'' series.<ref name="note4">{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/705/705978p1.html|title=Final Fantasy XIII Preview|last=Brudvig|first=Erik|date=May 8, 2006|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref>
==Gameplay==
[[File:Ffvxiii2.jpg|left|thumb|The main character, Noctis, with eleven floating weapons surrounding him.]]
Director Tetsuya Nomura has stated that the gameplay will be a realistic derivation of ''[[Kingdom Hearts]]'''s battle system with some elements of a [[third-person shooter]]. Nomura has also stated that the game will depart from the light and magical aesthetic of his previous directorial games (i.e. ''Kingdom Hearts'') and opt for a world based on reality.<ref name="DengekiAug08" /> According to Nomura, the world of ''Versus XIII'' is based on the real world and will have actual real world global crisis situations happening in it.<ref>{{cite web|title=INTERVIEW: Tetsuya Nomura|url=http://www.next-gen.biz/features/interview-tetsuya-nomura|publisher=[[Edge Online]]|accessdate=27 August 2011|author=Edge Staff|date=25 June 2007}}</ref> In further pursuit of this theme, Nomura has stated that he wants the characters to be "believable as real people" and thus realistic in body movement and facial expressions. As a testament towards his desire for realistic characters, he appointed Jun Akiyama to be the event director due to his experience directing [[Cutscene|cutscenes]] with characters that felt like real people in ''[[Final Fantasy XII]]''.
Nomura stated in July 2011 that most of the cutscenes in the game will be in real-time, and the player will still be in control of the main character while the cutscene is happening.<ref name=real-time>{{cite web|last=Gifford|first=Kevin|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Still Chugging Along|url=http://www.1up.com/news/final-fantasy-xiii-chugging|publisher=[[1UP.com]]|accessdate=27 August 2011|date=13 July 2011}}</ref> The player will be able to run around and perform various actions during the cutscenes. Nomura has called these new types of cutscenes "Real-Time Events" and they will make up all the cutscenes in the game.<ref name=real-time/> However, he has also stated that the game will also have some pre-rendered CGI scenes.<ref name=real-time/> The realtime events will be triggered by the player unexpectedly and with no forewarning unlike ''[[Final Fantasy XIII]]''. Players should expect to suddenly be attacked or trigger certain Real-Time Events while just walking around. For example, when Noctis reaches a pedestrian bridge, a behemoth suddenly appears and attacks him. Another example is a plane crashing into the road in front of Noctis while he is running down it. Nomura states that implementing these kinds of real-time events, which transition seamlessly into the flow of gameplay, takes a long time in terms of development.<ref name="DengekiJan25"/> There will also be a new real-time lighting system in place for a day/night cycle. The player also has the ability to take photos whenever they want with Noctis' cell phone.
Battles will take place in [[Real-time game|real-time]] environments using all regions of the field, from the tops of buildings down to street level. Nomura said that the game will feature battles that take place in areas with great differences in height, as shown in the trailer, and the players will have to fight using the full environment. This means fighting what's in front, as well as above and below (vertical battles).<ref name="Battles">{{cite web|url=http://www.ff-versusxiii.net/index.php?page=content&name_id=versus_battle|title=FXN FF Versus XIII Battle System Info|author=FXN|date=December 7, 2010|accessdate=2010-12-07|publisher=FinalFantasyVersusXIII.net}}</ref> The battle interface consists of several aspects, mainly Magic, Item, Summons and EX-ARTS. In addition, there are highly animated character portraits on the lower right corner of the screen. The portrait will change according to the character's feelings and current movement, similar to ''[[Star Ocean: The Last Hope]]'' (albeit in a wider variety).
The game's combat will be party-based, with each party consisting of a maximum of three characters at a time with players being able to switch between the controlled characters. At the start of the game, the party line-up will be predetermined, though players will get the ability to freely switch out members as the story progresses, similar to ''[[Final Fantasy XIII]]''. Each character will have his or her own unique special attack capabilities, and all characters will be able to use magic, although the effect of the magic differs from character to character. For example, when Noctis casts magic, it emerges from his weapon, while for another party member, it may light his surroundings with fire. Noctis is the only character capable of equipping all weapon types in the game; other characters each have their own unique specialties. For example, one of the characters is a gun specialist who can switch to a third-person view for precise aiming at the enemy's weak points, buildings, and other objects.<ref name="DengekiJan25">{{cite web | url =http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2011/01/25/ff_versus_xiii_update/ | title =Final Fantasy Versus XIII Update | author =Anoop Gantayat | date =January 25, 2011 | work = | publisher =[[Andriasang]] | accessdate = 2011-01-25}}</ref>
Nomura has also stated in ''[[Dengeki PlayStation]]'' that he aims to create previously unseen "tricky" battle sequences, reminiscent of the [[Computer generated imagery|CGI]] [[film]], ''[[Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children]]''.<ref name="E32006Dengeki" /> He has also stated that the development team have been implementing a traversable world map, used in the main ''Final Fantasy'' series up until its removal in ''[[Final Fantasy X]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ff-xiii.net/index.php?page=article&article=195|title=Kitase and Nomura interview (updated)|date=November 20, 2007 |publisher=FF-XIII.net|accessdate=2010-01-05}}</ref> Nomura later commented, in an interview conducted via Twitter, that players will be able to control an airship around the world map.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://playstation.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/yep-theres-a-world-map-in-final-fantasy-versus-xiii |title=Yep, there's a world map in Final Fantasy Versus XIII|last=Yoon|first=Andrew|date=March 17, 2010|publisher=Joystiq|accessdate=2010-03-18}}</ref>
Like some of the previous games in the Final Fantasy series the game will feature large open fields in the world map which allow players to walk through almost anything on the field apart from the mountains. Nomura has also mentioned that the fields are truly vast and that it was very far to traverse from one end to another;<ref name="FamJune"/> thus, to facilitate easy navigation, the game will feature the return of vehicles such as an airship along with a form of fast travel between specific locations on the world map<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/03/18/tetsuya_nomura_twitter_interview|title=Tetsuya Nomura Interviewed at Twitter|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=March 18, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|accessdate=2010-03-18}}</ref> as well as a car, allowing players to easily traverse the large fields.<ref name="FamJune">{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/06/23/nomura_on_ff_versus_xiii/|title=Tetsuya Nomura on Final Fantasy Versus XIII|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=June 23, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|accessdate=2010-06-23}}</ref> Players can ride cars, aircraft and [[Chocobo]]s; they can also steal tanks.<ref name="DengekiJan25"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/06/23/flying_get/ |title=This Week's Flying Get |author=Anoop Gantayat |date=June 23, 2010 |work= |publisher=Andriasang |accessdate=2010-06-23}}</ref>
One of the trailers shows Noctis selecting from a number of different weapons to defeat the enemy soldiers in front of him. The various weapons in the game will have different methods of attack, and some will even be usable as shields to go along with Noctis's crystal powers. Weapons will have some sort of customization such as elemental attacks as well. The trailer also showed Noctis warping around killing enemies. Nomura explained that players won't be able to warp freely to every spot, but will be able to warp to the location where the sword is placed, thought it is limited to an attack gauge. This is one area that is being tested on, so it's a matter of time to see if this all makes it into the final product. Summon beasts are in the game and will have to be defeated to be used. Nomura has also said that the game may have Sixaxis support.<ref name="Battles"/>
== Setting ==
''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' involves Noctis Lucis Caelum, the last heir to an isolated nation, which holds the last Crystal protected by kings. Its isolation is due to the city's resistance; to protect itself against invading heretics.<ref name="E32006IGN">{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/705/705990p1.html|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Preview|last=Haynes|first=Jeff|date=May 8, 2006|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref> The game has been said to initiate at the "clearing" of a long cold war between warring nations that revolved around the crystals.<ref name="FFUpdate">{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/754/754310p1.html|title=Final Fantasy XIII Update|author=IGN Staff|date=January 10, 2007|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref>
The official trailer starts with the words, "This is a fantasy based on reality." The trailer shows modern technology such as [[cars]], [[freeways]], [[skyscrapers]], [[gas stations]], and automatic weapons and bears a striking resemblance to the real world today.
Very little information regarding the plot of the game has been revealed since [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3]] [[History of E3#2006|2006]]; however, Square Enix representatives have commented that ''Versus'' may be the darkest ''Final Fantasy'' game yet.<ref name="E32006Dengeki" /><ref name="LEVEL">{{cite web |author= LEVEL magazine |url=http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/fabula-nova-crystallis/interviews/level-may-2007-transcript.php |title=LEVEL May 2007 Interview Transcript |accessdate=2009-03-08 |publisher=Final Fantasy-XIII.net |year=2007 | month=May}} {{Dead link|date=October 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>
Screenshots from Japanese gaming magazine, ''[[Famitsu]]'', have revealed a large city reminiscent of [[Tokyo]] which showcases a recreation of the real-life [[Shinjuku]], surrounding Square Enix's office, in game.<ref name="FamJune"/> The lead character is seen battling a Behemoth in the dead of night with cars and flames in the distance.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2010/06/24/full-final-fantasy-versus-xiii-famitsu-scans-and-interview.html|title=Full Final Fantasy Versus XIII Famitsu Scans and Interview|date=June 24, 2010|publisher=Final Fantasy-XIII.net|accessdate=2010-07-04}}</ref>
==Characters==
===Main characters===
[[File:Final Fantasy XIII Versus.jpg|right|thumb|200px|A close-up of Noctis' face as he draws his weapon in battle.]]
*{{Nihongo | '''Noctis Lucis Caelum''' |ノクティス・ルシス・チェラム|Nokutisu Rushisu Cheramu}}<br />Voiced by: [[Tatsuhisa Suzuki]]
:The main protagonist of ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'', Noctis is the prince of the royal family, and the last heir to the Caelum Dynasty, which rules over the only remaining [[city-state]] that controls the Crystals. Noctis attempts to protect his city-state against those who seek to conquer it and take the Crystals by force. Nomura has compared Noctis's family to the modern-day [[Yakuza|Japanese mafia]].<ref name="IGN2008">{{cite web | last=Gantayat | first= Anoop | title = Tetsuya Nomura on FF Versus XIII | publisher = [[IGN]] | date = 2007-03-02 | url= http://ps3.ign.com/articles/769/769776p1.html|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref><ref name="1UP">{{cite news | last =Gifford | first = Kevin | title =Tetsuya Nomura Discusses FF Versus XIII Characters | publisher = [[1UP.com|1UP]] | date =2008-10-22 | url = http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory%3FcId%3D3170824|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref> The color of his eyes have been shown to change from blue to crimson during battle; according to Nomura, the color changes are both intentional and significant.<ref name="FFUpdate"/> Noctis's full name translates to "Light of the Night Sky," <ref name="gamekyoxiii">{{cite news|url=http://gamekyo.com/newsen29267_final-fantasy-xiii-his-name-is-snow.html |title=Final Fantasy XIII: His name is Snow |publisher=GameKyo |date= |accessdate=2009-03-03}}</ref><ref name="FamitsuTGS08">{{cite web|url=http://www.famitsu.com/event/tgs/2008/1218808_1829.html |title=スクウェア・エニックスのクローズドメガシアター、注目の最新情報をまとめてお伝え! |publisher=Famitsu |date=October 9, 2008 |language=Japanese |accessdate=2009-03-03}}</ref> and his nickname is "Noct".<ref name="FamitsuTGS08"/>
:Noctis wields many weapons, ranging from swords, spears, and lances to guns. He controls them with [[telekinesis]] (through the power of the Crystal), using them for both attack and defense. Nomura has stated that each weapon has a different usage and is not directly limited by normal standards of attack; for instance, some weapons are also usable as shields.<ref name="articles2007">{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/756/756757p1.html|title=Final Fantasy XIII Update|last=Gantayat |first=Anoop|date=January 19, 2007 |publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref> Noctis also has the ability to teleport or to suddenly move at a high speed, Noctis can also do this in game play according to the trailer posted by Square Enix in 2011.
:Noctis's personality is different from other characters in the ''[[Final Fantasy]]'' franchise and is one that Nomura had wanted to try out for a long time.<ref name="famitsu1001">{{cite web|url=http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2008/02/07/versus-guy-s-name-coming-soon-and-you-might-not-like-him.html|title=Versus guy's name coming soon and you might not like him|date=February 7, 2008|publisher=Final Fantasy-XIII.net|accessdate=2009-04-01}} {{Dead link|date=October 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> In the past, protagonists were not given strong personalities while distinctive ones were delegated to the supporting cast, but Nomura states that Noctis's [[idiosyncrasies]] mark a departure from this tradition.<ref name="famitsu1001" /> Although his character is said to be hard to define given his complexities,<ref name="FamitsuTGS08" /><ref name="TGS08famitsu.com">{{cite web | author=Famitsu | title = TGS08: Nomura Interview: What you should know about Noctis | publisher = Final Fantasy-XIII.net | date = October 11, 2008| url = http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2008/10/11/nomura-interview-what-you-should-know-about-noctis.html}}</ref> a good measure of his personality can be sensed from his first meeting with Stella.<ref name="TGS08IGN.com">{{cite web|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/922/922527p1.html|title=New Final Fantasy Versus XIII Details|author=IGN Staff|date=October 22, 2008|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref> Noctis hides his shyness underneath a façade of coolness in front of her, which creates a cold and unsociable impression.<ref name="TGS08IGN.com" /> However, he smiles and acts more openly around his friends,<ref name="FamitsuTGS08" /><ref name="TGS08famitsu.com" /> a testament to Nomura's statement that "[Noctis] is not the least bit a silent, gloomy little boy."<ref name="famitsu1001" />
[[File:Final-Fantasy-Versus-XIII 2009 01-29-09 02.jpg 500.jpg|right|thumb|200px|A close-up of Stella summoning her weapon.]]
*'''{{Nihongo|Stella Nox Fleuret|ステラ・ノックス・フルーレ|Sutera Nokkusu Furūre}}'''
:A young woman with golden-blonde hair, Stella is said to be the daughter of the Fleuret family of the country Tenebrae (Latin for "darkness")<ref name="1UP" /><ref name="TGS08IGN.com" /> and an enemy to Noctis, though her allegiances are under suspicion as she talked to him during a social gathering, where she spoke about the goddess Etro and her relation to their abilities.{{Citation needed|date=March 2009}} ''Fleuret'' is the French name of the fencing [[foil (fencing)|foil]], a direct reference to Stella's weapon of choice: a [[rapier]]. Like Noctis, she is able to materialize weapons from thin air, as she is shown summoning her rapier from a [[runic magic|rune]] similar to one used by Noctis to summon his sword; though Stella's rune is golden, while Noctis' is blue.
:Like that of Noctis, a good measure of Stella's personality can be sensed during her first meeting with Noctis.<ref name="TGS08IGN.com" /> For instance, in their discussion about the power they share and its connection to an old legend,<ref name="1UP" /> Stella is very open about the matter while Noctis seems reluctant to talk about it, suggesting that they keep it a secret.<ref name="TGS08IGN.com" /> Stella is described to be ladylike and extremely polite<ref name="DengekiAug08">{{cite web | title = Dengeki Final Fantasy Versus XIII Interview Translated | publisher = Final Fantasy-XIII.net | date = August 31, 2008 | url = http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2008/08/31/dengeki-final-fantasy-versus-xiii-interview-translated.html|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref> but direct in her manner — a reflection of her proper but strong upbringing.<ref name="1UP" /><ref name="TGS08IGN.com" /> She acts according to her beliefs, believing the powers she and Noctis have are part of a greater purpose, and doesn't shy away from problems.<ref name="DengekiAug08" /><ref name="1UP" /> Nomura states that she will be the first to stand out from other female characters in the ''Final Fantasy'' franchise,<ref name="DengekiAug08" /> although it is not specified how.
===Other characters===
[[File:Final-Fantasy-Versus-XIII 2009 01-29-09 01.jpg 500.jpg|thumb|right|250px|From left to right: Prompto, Gladiolus, Noctis, and Ignis.]]
Noctis has three companions who have been revealed in the video game magazine ''[[Famitsu]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2008/10/22/famitsu-final-fantasy-xiii-versus-agito-scans.html|title=Famitsu: Final Fantasy XIII, Versus & Agito scans|date=October 22, 2008|publisher=Final Fantasy-XIII.net|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref> The first is Ignis (voiced by [[Mamoru Miyano]]), a man with light brown hair and glasses who is seen wearing a suit and driving Noctis's car. He uses throwing cards in battle. The second is a bulkier man with long dark brown hair and a scar on the left side of his face, named Gladiolus (voiced by [[Hiroki Yasumoto]]). In the January 2011 trailer, he's seen wielding a long two-hand sword. The third is a younger, blond-haired man named Prompto (voiced by [[Tetsuya Kakihara]]), who is seen carrying a shotgun and teasing Noctis. Unlike other characters, he can target weak spots on enemies with his precise aiming. These three people are Noctis's friends; they speak casually and amicably with him, and they also accompany him during his travels.<ref name="OfficialTrailer">{{cite web|url=http://www.square-enix.co.jp/fabula/versus13/|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Trailer|publisher=[[Square Enix]]|accessdate=2011-01-27}}</ref>
Another character, shown in a white robe, is seen facing off with Noctis. Noctis approaches the character with intent, implying that they are enemies.<ref name="Trailer1">{{cite web|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/dks3713-trailer-final-fantasy/43746|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII DKS3713 Trailer|date=December 16, 2008|publisher=[[GameTrailers]]|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref>
Soldiers have been seen in the trailers as well. These unknown warriors wear medieval-styled armor but carry [[assault rifle]]s and [[shotgun]]s that resemble modern automatic weapons.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/video/dengeki-special-final-fantasy/29006|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Dengeki Special Edition Trailer|date=December 15, 2007|publisher=[[GameTrailers]]|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref> Another man, dressed in a business suit and shown leading a meeting with several other men in a cathedral-style chamber, is Noctis's father and the ruler of their city. He possesses the same weapon-manipulating powers as Noctis, and is shown fighting another man, thought to be Stella's father or grandfather, the king of Tenebrae.<ref name="Trailer1"/>
==Development==
Directed by [[Tetsuya Nomura]], ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' is being developed by the teams responsible for ''[[Kingdom Hearts (video game)|Kingdom Hearts]]'', ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]'', and ''[[Final Fantasy VII Advent Children]]'', which are currently part of [[Square Enix]]'s 1st Production Department.<ref name="4gamer1st" /> The scenario is being written by [[Kazushige Nojima]] based on the story idea by Nomura. The real-time events will be directed by Jun Akiyama who was the event director of ''[[Final Fantasy XII]]''. The music is being composed by [[Yoko Shimomura]],<ref name="Trailer1" /> with a theme song, "Somnus", performed by American singer Andrea Hopkins.<ref>{{cite web|title=Drammatica -The Very Best of Yoko Shimomura|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/albums/d/drammatica.shtml|publisher=Square Enix Music|accessdate=2011-09-28}}</ref>
Nomura stated in May 2006 that absolutely nothing had been done on the actual scenario and that the team had yet to start actual work on the game's story. However, he also said that he had the plot worked out for some time in his mind and he was in the process of discussing the plot and concept with his staff.<ref name="gaimaga">{{cite news |first=Anoop |last=Gantayat |title=Gaimaga Blows Out Final Fantasy XIII | pages =1 |url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/710/710761p1.html |publisher=IGN |date=2007-05-31|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref> Both Tetsuya Nomura and [[Yoshinori Kitase]] believe ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' is unsuitable as an iteration of the main ''Final Fantasy'' series due to the concept and thinking behind the game's plot and structure.<ref name="gaimaga2">{{cite news |first=Anoop |last=Gantayat |title=Gaimaga Blows Out Final Fantasy XIII | pages =2 |url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/710/710761p2.html |publisher=IGN |date=2007-05-31|accessdate=2010-02-10}}</ref>
Along with ''Final Fantasy XIII'', the game utilizes the [[Crystal Tools]] engine—an engine specifically designed by Square Enix for the [[History of video game consoles (seventh generation)|seventh generation]] of video game consoles. However, in early 2007, [[Square Enix]] had announced they had licensed [[Epic Games]]' [[Unreal Engine 3]] for use in their future next generation titles, like ''[[The Last Remnant]]''. Some speculated that ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' would be developed using the Unreal Engine 3, however, Square Enix has stressed the White Engine—later renamed Crystal Tools—would be used in ''Final Fantasy XIII'' and ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' in the ''Fabula Nova Crystallis'' series.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=12531|title= Square Enix Licenses Unreal Engine 3 |last=Jenkins|first=David|date=January 25, 2007 |publisher=Gamasutra|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://au.xbox360.ign.com/articles/758/758363p1.html |title=Final Fantasy Meets Gears of War|last=Goldstein|first=Hilary|date=January 25, 2007 |publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-01}}</ref> It was announced that the game would use the PlayStation 3's motion-sensitive [[PlayStation 3 accessories#Sixaxis|SIXAXIS]] controller.<ref name="articles2007"/>
Reports of June 2008 that ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' had been put on hold so that the ''Versus'' team could assist work on the main title, ''Final Fantasy XIII'', were later debunked by Square Enix, stating that this was a mistranslation of an interview from ''[[Famitsu]]''<ref>{{cite web|author=Kitmitsu|date=June 18, 2008|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Development Temporarily Suspended|url=http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2008/06/18/final-fantasy-versus-xiii-development-suspended.html|publisher=FinalFantasy-XIII.net| accessdate=2008-06-18 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20080619112826/http://finalfantasy-xiii.net/2008/06/18/final-fantasy-versus-xiii-development-suspended.html <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archivedate = 2008-06-19}}</ref> and misinterpretation of the article, and that both games are moving along at their original schedules; occasionally, ''Versus'' developers would assist with ''Final Fantasy XIII'' development.<ref name="EurogamerJune08">{{cite web|last=Bramwell | first=Tom | date=June 19, 2008|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Development Temporarily is Not Suspended|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=155677|publisher=Eurogamer.net| accessdate=2008-06-19}}</ref> Square Enix announced at its DKΣ3713 party in August 2008 that the demo of ''Final Fantasy XIII'', as well as new trailers of ''Versus XIII'' and ''Agito XIII'', would be released in the highly-anticipated ''Final Fantasy VII Advent Children Complete'' Blu-ray Disc.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/896/896066p1.html|title=DKΣ3713 Private Party Impressions|last=Haynes|first=Jeff|date=August 2, 2008|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2009-04-30}}</ref> Square Enix announced the release date of the new ''Advent Children'' Blu-ray release to be some time during March 2009 (later changed to April 16) and asked fans to disregard previous release dates.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/ffxiii-demo-special-edition-160gb-ps3-coming-april-16-to-japan/|title=FFXIII demo, special edition 160GB PS3 coming April 16 to Japan|last=Miller|first=Ross|date=January 19, 2009|publisher=Joystiq|accessdate=2009-04-30}}</ref> Famitsu released a 50-minute DVD entitled "Re: Riplai" on December 13, 2008, including trailers from the Fabula Nova Crystallis series and other Square Enix titles.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.game518.com/tvgame/PS3/200811/25-2848.shtml|title=Square Enix将发售DKΣ3713影象合集|date=November 25, 2008|publisher=Game518|language=Chinese|accessdate=2009-04-30}}</ref>
On December 19, 2009, gameplay footage of ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' was shown as part of a trailer shown at [[Jump Festa]] 2010 in Japan.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://gematsu.com/2009/12/final-fantasy-versus-xiii-gameplay-trailer-shown-at-jump-festa-10 |title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII real-time trailer shown at Jump Festa ‘10 |author=Sal Romano |date=December 19, 2009 |work= |publisher=Gematsu |accessdate=2009-12-19}}</ref>
When asked by a Square Enix investor at a shareholders meeting about a possible Xbox 360 port, president [[Yoichi Wada]] stated "We'll be looking into it internally until right before the formal announcement."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/05/18/ff_versus_xiii_multiplatform|title=Xbox 360 Final Fantasy Versus XIII Under Consideration|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=May 18, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|accessdate=2010-06-19}}</ref> After some backlash, he later clarified his original statement by saying on [[Twitter]] "It looks like the [inter]net is heating up. Versus on Xbox? What I said at the earnings press conference was just that until a formal announcement is made at the announcement time; all points about all titles are not finalized."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/05/19/wada_clarifies_versus_xiii_statement|title=Wada Clarifies Final Fantasy Versus XIII Xbox 360 Statement|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=May 19, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|accessdate=2010-06-19}}</ref>
In regards to the announcement of [[Final Fantasy XIII|''Final Fantasy XIII Ultimate Hits International'']] for the Xbox 360, Nomura was asked by fans on Twitter regarding the fate of ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'''s exclusivity and his response was "Multiplatform is when you start development on a game with the assumption of optimizing for multiple platforms. Porting is something that's done after you've developed a game specifically for a particular platforms[sic]. The debate over porting is decided by the management based on the current market and the costs. All I can say right now as a developer is that Versus is being developed specifically for the PlayStation 3."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/09/08/nomura_versus_xiii_tweet|title=Nomura Makes a Curious Tweet About Final Fantasy Versus XIII|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=September 8, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|accessdate=2010-09-24}}</ref>
In late August 2010, producer Yoshinori Kitase cast doubt over a release within the next year as he stated that Square Enix would not commit to a 2011 release.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/261808/news/ff-versus-xiii-producer-cant-commit-to-2011-release/|title=FF Versus XIII producer 'can't commit to 2011 release'|date=August 26, 2010|work=[[Computer and Video Games]]|publisher=[[Future plc]]|accessdate=2010-08-24}}</ref> A brief trailer for ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' was shown at the 2010 [[Tokyo Game Show]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://tgs.gamespot.com/story/6276111/final-fantasy-versus-xiii-trailer-impressions|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII Trailer Impressions|last=Tong|first=Sophia|date=September 16, 2010|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|accessdate=2010-09-17}}</ref> where Square Enix announced that a press conference regarding the ''Fabula Nova Crystallis'' series will be held on January 11, 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/09/21/nomura_fabula_conference/|title=Tetsuya Nomura Details Fabula Nova Crystallis Conference|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop|date=September 21, 2010|publisher=Andriasang|accessdate=2010-09-21}}</ref> On December 13, 2010, the date for the conference was changed to January 18, 2011, and the conference is now known as the "Square Enix 1st Production Department Premier."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/113/1139970p1.html|author=IGN Staff|title=Square Enix Details Fabula Nova Crystallis Conference|date=December 13, 2010|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2010-12-13}}</ref> The trailer shown at the conference included Noctis being voiced for the first time, gameplay footage featuring [[Hack and slash|swordplay]] and [[Shooter game|shooting]] elements, and Noctis firing from a tank-like machine and operating a robotic biped.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/videos/2011/01/27/final-fantasy-versus-xiii-gameplay-trailer|title=Final Fantasy Versus XIII - Gameplay Trailer|date=January 27, 2011|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2011-01-30}}</ref> Nomura has said the game is unlikely to be released in 2011 and that the earliest possible reveal of information about the game would be at E3 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/285277/news/new-final-fantasy-versus-xiii-details/|title=New Final Fantasy Versus XIII details|last=Hussain|first=Tamoor|date=January 25, 2011|publisher=''[[Computer and Video Games]]''|accessdate=2011-01-30}}</ref> However, the game was not present at the show. In August 2011, Nomura stated that the game would not appear at [[Tokyo Game Show]] 2011, but a date was set for the next reveal.<ref>{{cite web|title=No Final Fantasy Versus XIII for Tokyo Game Show|url=http://www.videogamer.com/ps3/final_fantasy_versus_xiii/news/no_final_fantasy_versus_xiii_for_tokyo_game_show.html|publisher=Video Gamer|accessdate=2011-08-11|date=August 8, 2011}}</ref>
On September 11, 2011, it was announced that ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' had entered full production. However it has become painfully apparent that they will never give a release date even 5 years after the initial announcement. It is the belief of the U.S. government that the developers at Square-Enix are doing this as retribution for Hiroshima. This punishment is not at all a proportional response for the deaths of so many Japanese citizens. For the pain and aggravation that this global cock-tease is causing so many honest and hard-working citizens to go into a deep, deep depression and have thoughts of killing themselves and others with a buster sword. Just the one sword though... It will be shared. It is the opinion of the entire world (excluding Japan) that Square-Enix should finish this game and make a formal apology to the entire world for the pain and emotional trauma they caused in every final fantasy nerd that has waited their entire lives to see this game released.<ref>http://defaultprime.com/2011/07/13/tetsuya-nomura-speaks-on-final-fantasy-versus-xiii/</ref>
==See also==
{{Wikipedia books|Final Fantasy series}}
*[[Fabula Nova Crystallis Final Fantasy]]
*[[Final Fantasy XIII]]
*[[Final Fantasy XIII-2]]
*[[Final Fantasy Type-0]]
==References==
{{reflist|2}}
==External links==
{{commons}}
{{wikiquote}}
* [http://www.square-enix.co.jp/fabula/versus13/ ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' Official Japanese website]
{{Final Fantasy series|FF=FFXIII}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Final Fantasy Versus 13}}
[[Category:Final Fantasy games]]
[[Category:PlayStation 3-only games]]
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