After watching Zepla’s livestream, where she discussed the issues with Dawntrail, I felt compelled to share my thoughts on the state of FFXIV’s storytelling, particularly regarding Natsuko Ishikawa's contributions. While the discussion happened in a live format, it’s closely tied to the topics she’s explored in her content before.
I’ve been playing FFXIV for about a year, so I wasn’t around for the launch of expansions like Shadowbringers. However, going through those parts of the game, I experienced the emotional depth and quality of its storytelling. That’s why Dawntrail felt like such a letdown. Despite its tropical setting and promise of adventure, the story fell flat. The pacing was inconsistent, the stakes felt low, and character arcs lacked the emotional weight we’ve come to expect.
It makes me wonder if this is due to Natsuko Ishikawa’s absence from a lead writing role. She first gained recognition with the Dark Knight Role Quest in Heavensward and later led the team for Shadowbringers, crafting one of the most acclaimed stories in FFXIV history. Her work on Endwalker also delivered impactful moments and satisfying conclusions. However, after Endwalker, Ishikawa transitioned to a more managerial role, overseeing the writing team rather than crafting the MSQ directly.
This absence has left a void. Dawntrail lacked the cohesion and depth that defined earlier expansions. It makes me think the game could benefit from treating its writing team with the same consistency as it does its music. For example, Masayoshi Soken, the principal composer, has worked on every expansion since A Realm Reborn, ensuring a coherent and recognizable identity for FFXIV’s soundtrack. Writers like Ishikawa, who have proven their talent, should have the same continuity to maintain the story's strength.
FFXIV is the golden goose of Square Enix. Maintaining a strong, consistent writing team is crucial to keeping players invested. While Dawntrail didn’t meet expectations, there’s still time to course-correct and return to the storytelling heights of Shadowbringers and Endwalker.
Lastly, I want to give a shoutout to Zepla. Her livestream provided a clear example of constructive and well-founded criticism. Her analysis and passion for FFXIV have influenced how I see the game and its story.
Continue reading...
I’ve been playing FFXIV for about a year, so I wasn’t around for the launch of expansions like Shadowbringers. However, going through those parts of the game, I experienced the emotional depth and quality of its storytelling. That’s why Dawntrail felt like such a letdown. Despite its tropical setting and promise of adventure, the story fell flat. The pacing was inconsistent, the stakes felt low, and character arcs lacked the emotional weight we’ve come to expect.
It makes me wonder if this is due to Natsuko Ishikawa’s absence from a lead writing role. She first gained recognition with the Dark Knight Role Quest in Heavensward and later led the team for Shadowbringers, crafting one of the most acclaimed stories in FFXIV history. Her work on Endwalker also delivered impactful moments and satisfying conclusions. However, after Endwalker, Ishikawa transitioned to a more managerial role, overseeing the writing team rather than crafting the MSQ directly.
This absence has left a void. Dawntrail lacked the cohesion and depth that defined earlier expansions. It makes me think the game could benefit from treating its writing team with the same consistency as it does its music. For example, Masayoshi Soken, the principal composer, has worked on every expansion since A Realm Reborn, ensuring a coherent and recognizable identity for FFXIV’s soundtrack. Writers like Ishikawa, who have proven their talent, should have the same continuity to maintain the story's strength.
FFXIV is the golden goose of Square Enix. Maintaining a strong, consistent writing team is crucial to keeping players invested. While Dawntrail didn’t meet expectations, there’s still time to course-correct and return to the storytelling heights of Shadowbringers and Endwalker.
Lastly, I want to give a shoutout to Zepla. Her livestream provided a clear example of constructive and well-founded criticism. Her analysis and passion for FFXIV have influenced how I see the game and its story.
Continue reading...