I just wrapped up my first playthrough of the original Final Fantasy VII and I’m looking to dive into Final Fantasy XIII next. I’ve heard they both utilize the Active Time Battle (ATB) system, but I’m wondering if the combat mechanics are significantly different. Will I need to learn a lot of new things for FFXIII, or is it pretty similar to what I experienced in FF7?
4 Answers
There’s really no other Final Fantasy that has a combat system like XIII. You only directly control the main character, but you get to influence the entire party’s strategy based on the roles you assign them. The combat is fast-paced and requires a lot of decision-making, especially as you progress. It’s definitely a fun shift from FF7!
I’d say the similarity is pretty low, like around 10-15%. FF13 is actually more reminiscent of the FF7 Remake, but even then, Remake allows full character control while FF13 restricts you in terms of movement and command options.
Honestly, the combat systems in FF7 and FF13 are quite different. In XIII, you preload commands or can even auto-battle for most of the story, while your ATB meter fills up. You only control one character at a time and switch roles during battle through what’s called paradigms. It can get pretty strategic!
If I had to say, the closest you get to something like the ATB system in FF13 would be from FF X, which is turn-based. But overall, FF13’s system is quite unique and feels different from FF7’s traditional combat.
Exactly! The Remake is more of an action RPG where you have full control, whereas FF13’s system is a lot more constrained. It’s definitely a different experience!