Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call

Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call
North American cover art, featuring a curtain call with chibi-style Final Fantasy characters holding hands and singing
Developer(s)indieszero
Publisher(s)Square Enix
Director(s)Masanobu Suzui
Producer(s)Ichiro Hazama
Artist(s)Monster Octopus
Series
Platform(s)Nintendo 3DS
Release
  • JP: April 24, 2014
  • NA: September 16, 2014
  • EU: September 19, 2014
Genre(s)Rhythm
Mode(s)Single-player, multiplayer

Theatrhythm Final Fantasy: Curtain Call[a] is a 2014 rhythm video game developed by indieszero and published by Square Enix for the Nintendo 3DS. As a sequel to the Theatrhythm Final Fantasy (2012) and the second title in the Theatrhythm series, Curtain Call retains the core gameplay, where players hit notes in time with music from the Final Fantasy series. Also similar to its predecessor, the game features role-playing elements, allowing players to develop their characters, arrange parties with four-person, and defeat bosses to clear quests.

The 1.5-year development period for Curtain Call began in late 2012, when the additional content for the original Theatrhythm Final Fantasy was nearing completion. Designed as the finale of Theatrhythm Final Fantasy, Curtain Call introduced several improvements over its predecessor. One major update was the addition of a button control scheme, designed to make it easier for players to enjoy the game during their commutes to work or school. The game also introduced two main modes: Versus Battle, which allows for two-player matches, and Quest Medleys, which enhance the role-playing elements. The track library saw a threefold increase, expanding from around 70 to 221, which includes a supplement of tracks from spin-off titles. Furthermore, other Square Enix titles, such as SaGa, were included as downloadable content. Along with the expanded song library, the unlocking mechanics and selection interface were optimized to improve accessibility for players.

Curtain Call was well-received by critics, who applauded its significant improvements over its predecessor. Reviews highlighted how the game successfully evoked nostalgia for Final Fantasy and praised the fusion of rhythm and role-playing elements. The newly introduced design featuring two input schemes was generally applauded. The concept of Quest Medley was well-received, though some commenters felt the role-playing elements lacking impact on the gameplay. Though the competitive idea of the versus mode was considered fine, reviews of interference elements was mixed. The expanded track library, with its extensive additions and its coverage of both title sources and genres, was also highly praised.

A Dragon Quest-based sequel was released in 2015. Although Curtain Call was considered the final Theatrhythm regarding Final Fantasy, two more titles were released: the arcade title All-Star Carnival (2016) and the console game Final Bar Line (2023).
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