ChronoBound
Smash Hero
- Joined
- Sep 20, 2006
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In this topic I will be listing descriptions, the arguments for, the arguments against, and the probabilities of certain Square-Enix characters appearing in Super Smash Bros. Brawl. This topic is being made to educate and inform people of Square's game library on Nintendo consoles, and to stop or slow the stupidity of some character choices.
*there are some spoilers in this topic*
Chocobo:
First appearance: Final Fantasy II (NES)
Also appeared in: Pretty much every Final Fantasy since then.
Profile:
A Chocobo is a large normally flightless bird that is usually used as a means of transportation. They are basically the horses of the Final Fantasy series. They are usually bright yellow in color. Chocobos have also appeared in other Square-Enix series such as the Mana series, Kingdom Hearts, Parasite Eve, and Tobal 2. The Chocobos have also have had many spinoff games and series of their own such as Hataruko Chocobo, Chocobo Land: A Game of Dice, Chocobo Racing, the Chocobo’s Mystery Dungeon series (with the latest installment being made for Nintendo Wii), and latest spinoff Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo Tales.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Chocobo is probably the best representative of the overall Final Fantasy series for Brawl. Chocobo has starred in many games on Nintendo consoles, some of them are even are exclusive to them. Also, Chocobo would make the perfect rival for Yoshi.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
I highly doubt Chocobo is as popular among Nintendo or Square fans as the likes of Cloud, Crono, Geno, or Sora. If a Chocobo were selected as Square’s representative for Brawl, I can foresee a lot of Smash fans whining at how he was a lousy or foolish choice.
What Are His Chances:
Chocobo is probably one of the most likely Final Fantasy characters to appear in Brawl. Chocobo has appeared in many of Square’s series outside of Final Fantasy, so it shouldn’t be so odd for the character to appear in a game not made by Square-Enix. Also, Square may decide to place in Chocobo to promote Chocobo’s Mystery Dungeon 3 for the Nintendo Wii. Finally, Chocobo is unlikely to be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy, which will only be featuring ten heroes and ten villains from the main series. Overall, if Square decides to go with a Final Fantasy character as their representative, Chocobo is pretty high on the list.
Moogle:
First appearance: Final Fantasy III (NES)
Also appeared in: Pretty much every Final Fantasy since then, Mario Basket 3-on-3 (DS)
Profile:
Moogles are smalls creatures that appear in nearly every Final Fantasy. They have small eyes, and wings that are bat-like and red, pink, or purple in color. A single black antenna sticks from their heads, with a small colorful ball at the end of it. Their ears are typically shaped like those of a cat, and their fur is usually white or light pink. Moogles typically end their sentences with the word “kupo”. Some Moogles have even joined Final Fantasy heroes on their adventure like Mog from Final Fasntasy VI. Moogles have also appeared in the Mana and Kingdom Hearts series.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
A Moogle would be a good representative of the entire Final Fantasy series. He has appeared in a lot of games on Nintendo consoles, and his light-hearted nature makes him a perfect fit in with most of Brawl’s cast. Moogle has also starred in a game with Nintendo characters, which is Mario Hoops 3-on-3. Finally, Moogle would have a very interesting moveset in Brawl to say the least (if Final Fantasy VI is anything to go by).
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Many fans may not want a generic character to be Square’s choice. Also, to many people a Chocobo may be a slightly better representative of the entire Final Fantasy series than a Moogle.
What Are His Chances:
Moogle has very good chances if a Final Fantasy character is chosen as representative because he instantly recognizable to most people who have ever played a Final Fantasy game. Moogle would be good in the eyes of Square to promoting future Final Fantasy games on Nintendo platforms, including a potential spinoff just starring a Moogle. Finally, like with Chocobo, it is unlikely that a Moogle will be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy, which improves his chances to be in Brawl.
Cactuar:
First appearance: Final Fantasy VI (SNES)
Other appearances (just on Nintendo consoles): Final Fantasy VI Advance (GBA), Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo Tales (DS), Mario Hoops 3-on-3 (DS)
Profile:
Cactuar are a race of creatures that physically resemble cacti and are typically depicted in a distinct running pose with stiff arms and legs, three blacks dots on their faces (which represent two eyes and a mouth) and three yellow quills on the top of their heads. They are infamous for their “1,000 Needles” attack, which bypass their opponent’s defense stats and deal exactly 1,000 points of damage. Interestingly enough, Cactuar was based on a doodle that Nomura (the character designer for most post-FFVI Final Fantasys, and the creator and character designer of the Kingdom Hearts series) drew on a notebook when he was in highschool.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Cactuar should be in Brawl because he would probably be totally unexpected, and quite humourous to play as. Also, Cactuar has already starred in a game alongside other Nintendo character which was Mario Hoops 3-on-3.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Cactuar is not as popular as other reoccurring Final Fantasy characters such as Chocobo and Moogle. Also, besides his 1,000 Needles, it would be quite difficult to come up with a movesert for him.
What Are His Chances:
Cactuar would only be getting in Brawl if Nintendo and Square-Enix wanted to go for a WTF character surprise, and since I highly doubt that they would want to do that, Cactuar’s overall chances are low. Also, other generic characters like a Chocobo or a Moogle would get in over him.
Black Mage:
First appearance: Final Fantasy (NES)
Also appeared in: Final Fantasy I&II: Dawn of Souls (GBA), Final Fantasy III (NES, DS), Final Fantasy V (SNES, GBA), Mario Hoops 3-on-3 (DS), Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo Tales (DS)
Profile:
A Black Mage is a magic user specializing in attack magic. They are usually depicted wearing distinctive costumes consisting of a blue or black robe and large conical, wide-brimmed hat which obscures their face, with two yellow eyes shining within the shadow. The Black Mage (outside of the first Final Fantasy) is not really a character, but a job class. For example, the playable characters from Final Fantasy III and Final Fantasy V can become Black Mages, but they themselves were not real Black Mages to begin with.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
The Black Mage is probably the most famous retro Final Fantasy character. The Black Mage also had his first game on a Nintendo console (the NES) and starred in the first Final Fantasy. He has also starred in a game alongside Nintendo characters (Mario Hoops 3-on-3). Finally, the Black Mage would have a very interesting moveset since most of his attacks are magic based.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Outside of really retro Final Fantasy fans, the Black Mage has a small fanbase. Also, I doubt the Black Mage would be worth the time and effort it would cost to get him in Brawl. I feel that the Black Mage is not the best representative of the entire Final Fantasy series (a Chocobo or Moogle would be better representatives of the overall series).
What Are His Chances:
Since the Black Mage actually starred in many games on Nintendo consoles (and even starred in a game with Nintendo characters), I believe that he is more likely than other characters such as Cloud.His main setback is his overall popularity compared to other contenders. However, the Black Mage is also unlikely to be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy, which boosts his chances considerably for Brawl.
Warrior of Light:
First appearance: Final Fantasy (NES)
Also appeared in: Final Fantasy I & II: Dawn of Souls (GBA)
Profile:
The Warrior of Light isn’t actually a character but rather he is one of four Warriors of Light (which consist of a Fighter and a Black Mage, among other classes). The Warriors of Light were the first protagonists of the Final Fantasy series.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Since the Warriors of Light were the first Final Fantasy protagonists, it would be fitting if one was used to represent Square in Brawl. Also, many of the Warrior of Light classes, such as Black Mage, White Mage, Fighter, and Ninja, were playable characters in Mario Hoops 3-on-3.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
I don’t think the Warriors of Light has as big a fanbase as the protagonists of other numbered Final Fantasys. Also, it would be difficult to choose which Warrior of Light should be in Brawl.
What Are His Chances:
His chances are not that high. For one, Warrior of Light (the one in the screenshot I provided) is a confirmed character for Dissidia Final Fantasy. Also, the Warriors of Light are not as popular as other Square-Enix contenders.
Firion:
Profile:
Firion is the primary protagonist of Final Fantasy II. He was orphaned at a young age, and adopted by the parents of Maria and Leon, and considers himself to be a part of their family. Firion assumes the role of leader of the party made up of Maria and Guy after the Empire’s attack on Fynn. Firion and his companions assist the Wild Rose rebellion against the Empire, and search for Maria’s brother, Leon. He is assumed to be in the Fighter or Warrior character class based off of his swordsmanship skills.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Firion is the first real protagonist of a Final Fantasy game (generic, nameless “Heroes of Light” were the protagonists of the first Final Fantasy). He also made his first appearance on a Nintendo console (NES). Firion would be very appealing to old-school RPGs fans.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Final Fantasy II is one of the least popular Final Fantasys, both in Japan and the rest of the world. Consequentially, Firion is not popular either. There are much more popular and deserving Final Fantasy and Square-Enix characters in general than Firion. Also, his character and possible moveset would do little to add to the game.
What Are His Chances:
Firion has little chance to be in Brawl for two major reasons. One is that he and Final Fantasy II are not popular. The second reason is for Dissidia Final Fantasy, which is fighting game for the PSP containing ten heroes and ten villains from the Final Fantasy series. It is likely that Firion will be a playable character in this game, and I doubt Square would want to draw attention away from it by placing a character from a numbered Final Fantasy into Brawl.
Luneth:
First appearance: Final Fantasy III (the remake) (DS)
Profile:
Luneth is an orphan raised in the village of Ur who is curious and adventurous by nature. He is very kind-hearted and courageous, and always tries to be positive. Note: Luneth (and the other three heroes in FFIIIDS), did not appear in the game’ss original version, as that in the original FFIII, the heroes were only four generic nameless Heroes of Light.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Few people know this, but the remake of Final Fantasy III was originally in development for the PlayStation 2. It was not until the Nintendo DS really took off (and Nintendo’s own request) that the title was moved to the Nintendo DS. This marked a defining moment in the relationship between Nintendo Square-Enix that had not been seen since the SNES/Super Famicom days. Luneth is also the only hero from a main Final Fantasy to not have appeared on a Sony or non-Nintendo console. Final Fantasy III for the DS has also sold over a million copies in Japan alone, and is nearing half a million sales in the US. Also, Final Fantasy III is the most popular of the NES/Famicom Final Fantasys in Japan.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Many consider Luneth to have had a rather bland character. Also, Final Fantasy III does not have many fans in the West. Finally, Luneth has very few fans.
What Are His Chances:
Since the Final Fantasy III remake was very successful, that bolsters his chances. However, since I very much doubt that there’s anyone from either side who would want a character from Final Fantasy III, I very much doubt that if Square had to choose a representative for Final Fantasy in Brawl they would choose him. Finally, it is likely that Luneth will be playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy, and since Square-Enix would not want to take away any hype from that game, it is likely that any playable character from that game will not be appearing in Brawl.
Cecil:
First appearance: Final Fantasy IV (SNES)
Also appeared in: Final Fantasy IV Advance (GBA), Final Fantasy IV (remake) (DS)
Profile:
Cecil is the primary protagonist of Final Fantasy IV. He was orphaned at a young age and taken in by the King of Baron and raised to become a Dark Knight. Although Cecil was very much reluctant to master the Dark Sword, he became a very skilled Dark Knight. He is eventually promoted to the command Baron’s airship fleet, the “Red Wings”. However, Cecil begins to question the morality of the king when he orders Cecil to rob the town of Mysidia of its Water Crystal. Cecil eventually rebels against the king and forms an alliance of warriors to oppose Baron after he unwittingly bombed the village of Mist under the king’s orders. During the quest, he becomes a paladin by climbing Mount Ordeals (the picture above is of his paladin form).
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Final Fantasy IV is the third most popular Final Fantasy in Japan (behind only Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy X). Also, Final Fantasy IV is being remade in 3-D for the Nintendo DS, and what better way to get people interested in it than to place the main hero of the game into what is likely to be one of the Wii’s highest selling titles.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Cecil (and Final Fantasy IV) don’t seem to be very much popular in the West (as a matter of fact, the only 2-D Final Fantasy that has a large following is the US is Final Fantasy VI). Also, it may be difficult to come up with a moveset for Cecil, and his designs for both his Dark Knight and Paladin may be unattractive to Nintendo’s younger demographic.
What Are His Chances:
Cecil, in my opinion, is by far the most likely hero from a main Final Fantasy on a Nintendo console to appear in Brawl. Also, Cecil appearing in Brawl would be very beneficial financially to Square-Enix for promoting the upcoming remake of Final Fantasy IV (especially outside Japan). However, there is one major flaw in this, and that is Dissidia Final Fantasy . Dissidia Final Fantasy is basically Square-Enix’s answer to Super Smash Bros. It is being made by Nomura (the creator of Kingdom Hearts) and it is in development for the PSP. There are going to be ten heroes and ten villains from the Final Fantasy series in this game. It is very likely that Cecil will be a playable character in this game. Nomura and his team, would not want a major character from his game (such as Cecil) stealing the spotlight from his title, if Cecil is announced as a playable character in Brawl.
Bartz:
First appearance: Final Fantasy V (SNES)
Also appeared in: Final Fantasy V Advance (GBA)
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Bartz is the primary protagonist of Final Fantasy V. He is 20 years old and has a phobia of heights. He is mostly a wanderer, and is connected to the Wind element. His quest to protect the Crystals begins when he helps Princess Lenna and Galuf escape a goblin-filled area on their way to the Wind Shrine.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Bartz would be a very interesting character as far as movesets are concerned because he can be a character who can shift between different “Jobs” (like Black Mage, Fighter, Thief) much like how Zelda can transform into Sheik. In this manner, Bartz would be many characters in one. Also, Final Fantasy V is the third-most popular Final Fantasy on a Nintendo console in Japan.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Final Fantasy V lacks the popularity of FFIV in Japan and the popularity of FFVI in North America. As a matter of fact, Final Fantasy V is the least popular of the SNES Final Fantasys in North America (this is most likely due to the fact that the original SNES version was never released outside of Japan and that the Anthology version for the PS1 had a bad translation and was filled with bugs. The only competent version of the game to be released in North America was Final Fantasy V Advance, which was released when the Game Boy Advance was on its last legs). Also, Bartz does not have as many fans as characters from the other SNES Final Fantasys such as Cecil, Kefka, Terra, and Locke.
What Are His Chances:
Like I mentioned earlier, Final Fantasy V is not the most popular SNES Final Fantasy in any of the two major markets. This means that if a character is chosen from a SNES Final Fantasy, he or she will likely be from either IV or VI. Also, the SNES Final Fantasy characters also have to compete heavily with some of the more popular generic characters such as a Chocobo or a Moogle. Finally, Bartz is likely to be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy. It is for these reasons that Bartz’s chance of appearing in Brawl remain low.
Gilgamesh:
First appearance: Final Fantasy V (SNES)
Other appearances (on Nintendo consoles): Final Fantasy I&II: Dawn of Souls (GBA), Final Fantasy V Advance (GBA), Final Fantasy VI Advance (GBA)
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Gilgamesh is a reoccurring enemy boss of the Final Fantasy series. He is usually characterized as having a grayish complexion, colorful flamboyant battle armor, and many arms wielding many weapons at once. He tries to make himself look fierce, but this just masks his childlike personality. In Final Fantasy V, Gilgamesh is one of Exdeath’s generals, and a reoccurring boss in the game (as a matter of fact you fight him five times). Although he is highly determined to stop Final Fantasy V’s protagonists, he tends to be short on courage and incompetent.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Gilgamesh is one of the most popular characters in Final Fantasy V. Also, he is a reoccurring villain of the Final Fantasy series. In this way, he would be better than other Final Fantasy villain choices. Finally, his multi-weapon fighting style could be quite interesting if used in the game (quite similar to Pit’s).
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Gilgamesh is not that popular compared to the likes of Kefka or especially Sephiroth. Also, a villain should never get in over a hero, especially a comic-relief one (in the case of his incarnation in Final Fantasy V). Final Fantasy V (the only Final Fantasy on a Nintendo console, in which Gilgamesh played a large role), is not as popular as Final Fantasy IV in Japan, and is one of the least popular Final Fantasys in North America.
What Are His Chances:
If Kefka’s chances are low, Gilgamesh’s chances are even lower. Let me reiterate, there is no way any villain from any game in the Final Fantasy series is getting in over a hero from one of the Final Fantasy series, a generic character from the Final Fantasy series, or a hero from one of Square-Enix’s other series. Also, there is a chance that Gilgamesh might be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy.
Terra:
First appearance: Final Fantasy VI (SNES)
Also appeared in: Final Fantasy VI Advance (GBA)
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Terra is one of Final Fantasy VI’s many protagonists (its really hard to label one specific character as the true protagonist of FFVI). Terra is a girl of mysterious origins who is gifted with the power of magic. She is the first character you play as, and she is very essential to the plot to the first half of the game. Her job class in the game is “Magic Fighter.”
Why She Should Be In Brawl:
Final Fantasy VI is probably the second most popular Final Fantasy (only Final Fantasy VII is more popular) among fans of the series in the US. Since Terra is generally looked at as the protagonist of the game (though its extremely debatable), she should be the Final Fantasy VI character that gets in. Also, she would have an interesting moveset switching from her human and esper forms.
Why She Should Not Be In Brawl:
Like I mentioned earlier, there is a a lot of debate over who is the real true protagonist of Final Fantasy VI. Its for this reason that it would be very difficult to choose somebody to represent Final Fantasy VI. Also, Final Fantasy VI is the least popular of the SNES Final Fantasys in Japan, and Japanese fans would most likely want somebody from FFIV instead of VI.
What Are Her Chances:
Her chances are barely higher than Kefka’s (which are very low to begin with). Final Fantasy VI, in the eyes of Japanese fans, would not be the Final Fantasy game to represent the Final Fantasy series in Brawl. Also, it is likely that she will be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy.
Kefka:
First appearance: Final Fantasy VI (SNES)
Also appeared in: Final Fantasy VI Advance (GBA)
Profile:
Kefka is the main antagonist of Final Fantasy VI. Kefka dresses as a jester/clown, and is extremely power-hungry. He also loves to kill, and has a very warped sense of humor. Unlike other villains, Kefka actually does succeed in his plans to rule the world and become a god-like being, and he manages to torture the entire world for several years before being finally defeated by Final Fantasy VI’s heroes. He is also famous for his humorous/entertaining lines such as “I HATE HATE HATE HATE HATE YOU”, “Son of a submariner”, “Run, run run, or you’ll be well done”, and “This is pathetic, you all sound like chapters out of a self-help book.”
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Kefka’s is the second most popular antagonist of the entire Final Fantasy series (behind only Sephiroth). He is also arguably the most popular character of Final Fantasy VI. Did I also mention that he also has a cult following?
Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_c6Ek...elated&search=
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
I don’t think a villain from one Final Fantasy should represent the entire series, no matter how awesome he is. Also, Final Fantasy VI is the least popular of the SNES Final Fantasys in Japan.
What are his chances:
His chances of being in Brawl even if a Final Fantasy character is chosen as the company’s representative are very low, a hero will always be chosen over a villain (ie. Would you want Eggman to get in over Sonic as Sega’s representative for Brawl). Also, he will very likely be a playable character in Dissidia: Final Fantasy, and I doubt Square will want to take away some of the hype to their game.
Cloud:
First appearance: Final Fantasy VII (PS1)
Appearance on a Nintendo console: Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories (GBA)
Profile:
Cloud is the protagonist of Final Fantasy VII. He is a self-proclaimed ex-member of SOLDIER, and is mercenary employed by AVALANCHE. Cloud is usually depicted as a conflicted and confused individual who is sometimes arrogant.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Cloud is by far Square-Enix’s most popular character. Final Fantasy VII is also one of the most popular games ever. Cloud is the one of the few character that can actually attract more people to buy Brawl. Who wouldn’t want to see Cloud fight Link? Cloud being announced for Brawl would cause a much bigger commotion and media attention than if even Sonic were announced (in the opinions of many peoples).
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
First off, Cloud has never starred in a game on a Nintendo console. A lousy cameo in a mediocre spinoff does not cut it for Sakurai’s requirement. Also, Cloud is also pretty much equated with Sony consoles, and the face of the PlayStation 1 and Square’s excellent relationship with Sony. Cloud would also need to be properly balanced for Brawl. He carries around a sword that is very powerful and is as long as his body, not to mention he is very fast, not to mention ridiculously overpowered (just watch Advent Children). Any alterations to his design that may make him mid-to-low tier will cause the whining of many FFVII fanboys.
What Are His Chances:
Cloud, like mentioned earlier, is by far the most popular character that Square owns. However, I highly doubt that Kitase (the director and producer for FFVII) and Nomura (director and producer for the FFVII spinoffs) would want to do a port, remake, or spinoff of FFVII on a Nintendo console. First both men are very much biased toward Sony consoles. Both also said they will only work on consoles with powerful hardware (which excludes Wii and DS). Also, Cloud would be basically advertising a potential FFVII remake for PS3, something Nintendo would not want. Finally, Cloud will likely be the coverboy for Dissidia Final Fantasy (along with his boyfriend err nemesis, Sephiroth). Putting Cloud in Brawl would take away a lot of interest from Dissidia, since its very likely that Brawl is going to be the superior game. Nomura would not want one of his pet projects to bomb or underperform, so even if Nintendo were to go Square to ask for Cloud, it is likely for internal political reasons at the company that Cloud will be denied. If a port, remake, or spinoff (starring Cloud) is announced for the DS or Wii, it would be basically guaranteed that Cloud would get into Brawl. However, since this has not happened, Cloud’s chances are extremely low.
Vaan:
First appearance: Final Fantasy XII (PS2)
Appearance on a Nintendo console: Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings (DS)
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Vaan is the primary protagonist of Final Fantasy XII (though it is very debatable) and Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings. And uh, he dresses very interestingly....
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Vaan is the only character from a post-FFVI Final Fantasy, to have their sequel or spinoff made for a Nintendo platform. Also, Vaan might appeal heavily to casual Final Fantasy players. If Vaan is made a playable character it is highly likely that more FFXII spinoffs (and Ivalice Alliance games in general, such as Final Fantasy Tactics and Vagrant Story) will be made for Nintendo consoles.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Final Fantasy XII is the most unpopular of the PlayStation-based Final Fantasys in Japan. In America, Vaan is pretty much hated for being a useless pretty boy (basically he was only made the main character to attract female fans in Japan). Vaan has very few fans in general, and there are definitely much more deserving Final Fantasy and Square characters than him.
What Are His Chances:
He is by far the most likely Sony Final Fantasy character to appear in Brawl. Square would benefit a lot by putting Vaan in Brawl because it would promote Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings which is being released during Q4 2007 for NA which is the same time period in which Super Smash Bros. Brawl is being released. He can also be used to promote future FFXII spinoffs on Nintendo consoles. However, since Vaan isn’t well-liked anywhere, his chances remain low. Finally, Vaan is likely to be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy.
Hero from Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers:
Video: http://www.gamevideos.com/video/id/11814
First appearance: Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers (Wii)
Profile:
This boy is the protagonist of Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers. Unlike most games, the protagonist in this game starts out as a hero and is very powerful from the start of the game. He has blonde-hair, usually wears goggles, and wears a leather jacket. Square-Enix describes this as being “rugged”. He has the ability to fly, and appears to have some telekinetic powers.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
He is the star of a Wii-exclusive game by Square-Enix. He also appears to have some very interesting abilities, especially compared to those of modern Final Fantasy characters. He would also be helping to promote his game, and if sales are great, Square-Enix will likely make more games for the Wii.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Many Smash Bros. fans would be pretty upset if this character gets in over more popular Square characters like Geno, Crono, or Cecil. Also, this character may pull a “Roy”, which means that the character was placed into the game for promotional reasons, and that like Roy, the game and the characters itself end up being mediocre or bland. A character that Square fans already know should take the spot, especially one from a game of proven quality.
What Are His Chances:
If Square-Enix decides to use a character that will promote an upcoming game of their’s, then the hero from Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers will be pretty high up on the list to be in Brawl. He would also not interfere with Dissidia Final Fantasy, since he is not from a numbered Final Fantasy and will likely not be in the game. However, the game is still early in development, and I could also see Square-Enix choosing a generic Final Fantasy character (like a Chocobo, Moogle, or Black Mage) over one with a name. His chances depend mostly on if Square-Enix is going for promotion (placing in a character from an upcoming game) over history (a popular character from a famous and well-received game).
Sora:
First appearance: Kingdom Hearts (PS2)
Appearance on a Nintendo console: Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories (GBA)
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Sora is the protagonist of the Kingdom Hearts series. Sora has a lot of worries, but tries to keep an upbeat attitude. He sometimes seems simple-minded, but he has a strong sense of justice. He mostly lives life for simple pleasures, like eating ice cream or watching a sunset. He is also very open with his emotions to say the least. He loves his friends very much. He was the one chosen by the Keyblade to battle the Heartless.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Sora is extremely popular with kids and younger Square-Enix fans. The Kingdoms Hearts games are some of the best-selling titles on the PS2. In the eyes of some people, he would be a perfect fit for the game because of the Disney theme his series has. Also, some people argue that if he is in Brawl, that will make it very likely for Kingdom Hearts III to be made for the Nintendo Wii. Finally, Yoko Shimomura, the composer of Kingdom Hearts, is also composing for Super Smash Bros. Brawl.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Much of Kingdom Hearts’s appeal lies within the fact that there are Disney and Final Fantasy characters in it. Also, Sora is pretty much identified with Sony consoles, and it is highly likely that future installments with be exclusive to Sony platforms. Nomura, the creator of Kingdom Hearts and the designer of Sora, is a big fan of Sony and prefers their platforms over Nintendo’s. He has said that if a future portable Kingdom Hearts is made, he would make it for PSP. Nomura’s own team at the moment, is making two games for the PSP and one game for the PS3. Nomura also has said he goes for graphics and presentations the most in his games (which pretty much leaves out Wii and DS). For example, Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories was eventually ported to the PS2 with PS2-quality 3-D and extras. Sora in Smash Bros. Brawl would push the Kingdom Hearts series to a new audience (a lot of people who will be buying Brawl will be kids), and these new interested fans would likely want to purchase the games Sora is from, which will most likely be on Sony platforms, and may to lead to the purchase of said platforms, something Nintendo would not want. Also, there is a large amount of Nintendo fans and older Square fans who would not to see Sora in Smash Bros. because to Nintendo fans he represents Sony platforms too much, and to older Square fans he represents Square-Enix’s decline as a company. Also, Disney owns the rights to Kingdom Hearts as well as Square. Nintendo would have to arrange a meeting with both Square and Disney if they want to see Sora in Brawl, something that may be very expensive and time-consuming (the reason why Snake and Sonic did not make it in Melee was because it would have taken too much time to make the arrangements to legally allow both characters in Melee, and would have ended up delaying the game).
What Are His Chances:
Sora has the best chances out of all the Square character who were created on a PlayStation platform. However, there is a sharp divide in opinion over the older Square fans and younger Square fans over Sora. Older fans despise him, and younger fans like him. Older fans argue that Square had a rich history with Nintendo in the past and that a character from that epoch should be chosen rather than one in which has most of their history and influence with the Sony era (especially during the PS2). Also, Square alone can’t decide for Sora to be in Brawl, if Square says yes and Disney says no, then Sora won’t get in, it has to be an agreement between both parties, and both parties may have different prerequisites (such as money) and contracts in order for him to be added. Despite this, Sora has better chances than Cloud to be in the game.
Crono:
First appearance: Chrono Trigger (SNES)
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Crono is the hero of Chrono Trigger. He is a silent protagonist (much like Link). Being a silent protagonist, he often communicates his thoughts through reactions and gestures. He lives in the town of Truce with his mother, in the kingdom of Guardia.. His quest begins when he meets Marle at the Millennial Fair. He meets up with six other fighters throughout time in order to save the world from apocalyptic ruin by the hands of planet devouring entity named Lavos. His weapon of choice is a katana, and his magic-type is lightning or electricity. Crono is respected and looked up upon by his fellow party members. Crono is kind and selfless, and loves his friends very much and is very protective of them to the point where he even sacrifices himself in order to save them (fortunately, he is later revived by his fellow party members).
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Crono is by far the most popular character from an RPG during the 16-bit era. Crono is massively popular among older Square fans and Nintendo fans. Chrono Trigger also sold over two million copies in Japan and is the most popular RPG for the SNES in Japan that is not titled “Final Fantasy” or “Dragon Quest”. Chrono Trigger is also extremely popular in North America. Chrono Trigger ranked among readers at IGN as the second-best game ever (behind only The Legend of Zelda: The Ocarina of Time) and third-best game ever among GameFAQs members in a similar Top 100 poll (behind only the Legend of Zelda: The Ocarina of Time and Final Fantasy VII). Chrono Trigger is so popular that fans have attempted to remake the game at least twice (Square-Enix shut down both projects). Also, Crono would fit in very well into Smash Bros. A moveset for Crono would not be very difficult to come up with, as that he had many moves in his original game. Finally, Yasunori Mitsuda, the composer for Chrono Trigger, is composing for Super Smash Bros. Brawl, and who wouldn’t want to listen to a fully orchestrated version of Chrono Trigger’s main theme.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Younger Nintendo and Square fans do not know who he is, and have not even played his game (it was released in late 1995). Also, Crono only starred in one game. The last Chrono game, Chrono Cross, was released in 2000, and Square has not bothered to do anything with the series since then, and it is unlikely that a new installment will be made. Younger Square fans feel that a character from an old game and dead series should not represent Square, and instead one that is more well-known by casual game players should be instead.
What Are His Chances:
Like mentioned earlier, in North America, Crono is the most popular character from an RPG from the 16-bit era. (I’m unsure about Crono’s popularity in Japan). Many older Nintendo fans and Square fans definitely want to see him return in full 3-D glory. However, the question beckons whether Nintendo would bother to ask for a character from a RPG that is over a decade old. However, bringing Crono into Smash Bros., may prove to be a financial success if they decide to re-release or remake Chrono Trigger (as a matter of fact, a top Square-Enix executive said that there was a 50/50 chance of Chrono Trigger being brought to the Wii’s Virtual Console) or even make a new installment by acquainting the younger generation of gamers with him. Also, Crono does not disrupt Dissidia Final Fantasy, since he is not a Final Fantasy character. However, Crono’s overall chances are a mystery, since I am unsure how aware Square is of his popularity in North America.
Geno:
First appearance: Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars (SNES)
Also appeared in: Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga (GBA)
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Geno is one of Mario’s allies and fellow party members in Super Mario RPG. He is actually a star agent sent by a higher authority who has come to Mario’s world from Star Road to find the seven Star Pieces. Geno borrows the form of a doll belonging to a kid named Gaz in Rose Town, and brings it life via a beam of light, and once he assumes this form, he promptly searches for the Star Pieces. Since his real name is so hard to pronounce, he tells his friends to call him Geno, which is the name of the doll. Geno offers advice to the party as a mystical sage-like being throughout the adventure. Geno’s attacks are part magic and part projectile. His regular attacks shoot bullets and he even has rocket-powered fists. His special attacks involve beams of light being shot from his hands or a cannon. Geno, the doll, also made a cameo appearance in Mario & Luigi in an arcade in Little Fungitown. Geno is definitely owned by Square-Enix because at the end of the credits in Mario & Luigi, it says that the character Geno is a registered trademark of Square-Enix.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Geno, among Nintendo fans, is by far the most popular Square character for Brawl. He is also quite popular among older Square fans. Also, Geno has starred in a game with Nintendo characters (Super Mario RPG), and was in a game in which Nintendo and Square cooperated together to bring a great RPG experience. Super Mario RPG is being brought to the Virtual Console later this year, and many younger gamers may become new fans of this RPG classic and may request to see Geno in full 3-D. Geno would have a very interesting and unique moveset if he were brought into Brawl. Finally, Yoko Shimomura, one of the composers for Super Mario RPG, is composing for Super Smash Bros. Brawl.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Geno, like Crono, is pretty much unknown to younger Nintendo and Square fans, and many have not played his game (it was released in 1996). Some of these young Square fans are even put off by his design (“Eeeeeeeeeew, ugly naked doll!”). Besides his cameo in Mario & Luigi, he has not starred in any more games. Young Square fans argue that a more mainstream choice should be made instead of Geno , who they say who is only a pet favorite in the eyes of older Nintendo and Square fans, and that casual gamers should be more looked at when making this choice regarding Square-Enix’s representative for Brawl.
What Are His Chances:
Geno has the best chances out of all the Square-Enix character I have listed. Sakurai knows that Geno is wanted among fans, because he was asked at least four times in his e-mail bag. Also, Square probably won’t ask for anything in return if they do request Geno for Brawl, as shown by his cameo in Mario & Luigi. All it basically boils down to is if Sakurai’s team will even ask Square for Geno. If they do, he is basically guaranteed to appear.
Mallow:
First appearance: Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars (SNES)
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Mallow is one of Mario’s allies and fellow party members in Super Mario RPG. He is a cloud-like creature with the ability to control the weather. Mario first meets Mallow when he was being harassed by the notorious thief, Croco. Mario decides to aid Mallow in getting his stolen special coin back from Croco after he sees him sobbing. Mallow is the first character to join Mario’s party in the game. Mario and Mallow manage to defeat the thief and get back the coin. When they return to the Mushroom Kingdom, they find it under the control of one of Mack, one of Smithy’s generals. After defeating Mack, they venture through the Kero Sewers, and make their way to Tadpole Pond, the home of Mallow’s grandfather, Frogfucius. During this meeting with Frogfucius, he learns that he is not a frog, and that one stormy night, Frofucius found Mallow drifting down a river. He then decided to raise Mallow as his own. After this revelation, Mallow decides to journey with Mario, hoping to discover his real parent and home.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Mallow is quite popular among Nintendo fans, and a lot of people want to see him in Brawl. Also, Mallow has starred in a game with Nintendo characters (Super Mario RPG), and was in game in which Nintendo and Square cooperated together to bring a great RPG experience. Also, Super Mario RPG is being brought to the Virtual Console later this year, and many younger gamers may become new fans of this RPG classic and request to see Mallow in full 3-D. Mallow would have a very interesting and unique moveset if he were brought into Brawl just judging by all his weather-based attacks in Super Mario RPG. Finally, Yoko Shimomura, one of the composers for Super Mario RPG, is composing for Super Smash Bros. Brawl.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Mallow is nowhere near as popular as Geno is among fans of Super Mario RPG. Mallow is pretty much unknown to younger Nintendo and Square fans, and many have not played his game (it was released in 1996). Some of these young Square fans are even put off by his design. Young Square fans argue that a more mainstream choice should be made instead of Mallow, and that casual gamers should be more looked at when making this choice.
What Are His Chances:
Like I mentioned earlier, Mallow is nowhere near as popular as Geno. If a Super Mario RPG character is chosen as Square’s representative, it will be Geno, not Mallow. However, Mallow is far more likely to be in Brawl than most of the characters in this analysis topic. The only way Mallow is getting in over Geno would be if they find making a moveset for Mallow easier and more unique than Geno.
Magnus Gallant:
First appearance: Ogre Battle 64: Person of Lordly Caliber (N64)
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Magnus Gallant is the main protagonist of Ogre Battle 64. He is the only son of Ankiseth and a childhood friend of Prince Yumil. Because of conflict with his father, he joins the military academy at the age of twelve. He graduates at the age of 18, and he then goes to the Southern Division to enroll in the army with his friends. Magnus is soon appointed to commander, with Hugo as his advisor and Diomedes as his second in command. His decisions in dialogue and in battle (mainly liberating or capturing a town) affect the story progression, which characters join or leave your battalion, and which ending you will see. If Magnus’s health drops below zero during a mission, its game over for the player.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Ogre Battle 64 was one of the best games on the Nintendo 64, and one of its two good RPGs (the other being Paper Mario). Nintendo also helped develop the game, and even published it in Japan. However, Magnus is owned by Square-Enix, since they bought Quest (the developer of the Ogre Battle series) and the rights to the series. Since, Magnus’s game was helped developed and published by Nintendo, he should get in over most Square-Enix characters. Magnus also has many fans among hardcore Nintendo fans, and by placing him in, it would help revive interest in the Ogre Battle series.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Although Ogre Battle 64 was critically acclaimed and praised by reviewers and fans, the game did not have good sales. Also, the Ogre Battle series is rather niche, and a character from a more mainstream and popular game should get in over any character from that series. Finally, Magnus is quite similar to most lords in the Fire Emblem series, hence his moveset would not be as unique as other character choices.
What Are His Chances:
Magnus was once requested in Sakurai’s poll on the Japanese Brawl site. However, I would say that his chances for Brawl are low. His series is basically dead (the last game to be released in the series was in 2002), and the Ogre Battle series does not have as much fans as Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, Chrono Trigger, Kingdom Hearts, or Super Mario RPG. Although Magnus is more deserving than most of the characters in this topic, his chances remain low solely because his limited fanbase and the lack of popularity of his series compared to that of the other series mentioned in this topic.
To Be Continued.
*there are some spoilers in this topic*
Chocobo:
First appearance: Final Fantasy II (NES)
Also appeared in: Pretty much every Final Fantasy since then.
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A Chocobo is a large normally flightless bird that is usually used as a means of transportation. They are basically the horses of the Final Fantasy series. They are usually bright yellow in color. Chocobos have also appeared in other Square-Enix series such as the Mana series, Kingdom Hearts, Parasite Eve, and Tobal 2. The Chocobos have also have had many spinoff games and series of their own such as Hataruko Chocobo, Chocobo Land: A Game of Dice, Chocobo Racing, the Chocobo’s Mystery Dungeon series (with the latest installment being made for Nintendo Wii), and latest spinoff Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo Tales.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Chocobo is probably the best representative of the overall Final Fantasy series for Brawl. Chocobo has starred in many games on Nintendo consoles, some of them are even are exclusive to them. Also, Chocobo would make the perfect rival for Yoshi.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
I highly doubt Chocobo is as popular among Nintendo or Square fans as the likes of Cloud, Crono, Geno, or Sora. If a Chocobo were selected as Square’s representative for Brawl, I can foresee a lot of Smash fans whining at how he was a lousy or foolish choice.
What Are His Chances:
Chocobo is probably one of the most likely Final Fantasy characters to appear in Brawl. Chocobo has appeared in many of Square’s series outside of Final Fantasy, so it shouldn’t be so odd for the character to appear in a game not made by Square-Enix. Also, Square may decide to place in Chocobo to promote Chocobo’s Mystery Dungeon 3 for the Nintendo Wii. Finally, Chocobo is unlikely to be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy, which will only be featuring ten heroes and ten villains from the main series. Overall, if Square decides to go with a Final Fantasy character as their representative, Chocobo is pretty high on the list.
Moogle:
First appearance: Final Fantasy III (NES)
Also appeared in: Pretty much every Final Fantasy since then, Mario Basket 3-on-3 (DS)
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Moogles are smalls creatures that appear in nearly every Final Fantasy. They have small eyes, and wings that are bat-like and red, pink, or purple in color. A single black antenna sticks from their heads, with a small colorful ball at the end of it. Their ears are typically shaped like those of a cat, and their fur is usually white or light pink. Moogles typically end their sentences with the word “kupo”. Some Moogles have even joined Final Fantasy heroes on their adventure like Mog from Final Fasntasy VI. Moogles have also appeared in the Mana and Kingdom Hearts series.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
A Moogle would be a good representative of the entire Final Fantasy series. He has appeared in a lot of games on Nintendo consoles, and his light-hearted nature makes him a perfect fit in with most of Brawl’s cast. Moogle has also starred in a game with Nintendo characters, which is Mario Hoops 3-on-3. Finally, Moogle would have a very interesting moveset in Brawl to say the least (if Final Fantasy VI is anything to go by).
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Many fans may not want a generic character to be Square’s choice. Also, to many people a Chocobo may be a slightly better representative of the entire Final Fantasy series than a Moogle.
What Are His Chances:
Moogle has very good chances if a Final Fantasy character is chosen as representative because he instantly recognizable to most people who have ever played a Final Fantasy game. Moogle would be good in the eyes of Square to promoting future Final Fantasy games on Nintendo platforms, including a potential spinoff just starring a Moogle. Finally, like with Chocobo, it is unlikely that a Moogle will be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy, which improves his chances to be in Brawl.
Cactuar:
First appearance: Final Fantasy VI (SNES)
Other appearances (just on Nintendo consoles): Final Fantasy VI Advance (GBA), Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo Tales (DS), Mario Hoops 3-on-3 (DS)
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Cactuar are a race of creatures that physically resemble cacti and are typically depicted in a distinct running pose with stiff arms and legs, three blacks dots on their faces (which represent two eyes and a mouth) and three yellow quills on the top of their heads. They are infamous for their “1,000 Needles” attack, which bypass their opponent’s defense stats and deal exactly 1,000 points of damage. Interestingly enough, Cactuar was based on a doodle that Nomura (the character designer for most post-FFVI Final Fantasys, and the creator and character designer of the Kingdom Hearts series) drew on a notebook when he was in highschool.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Cactuar should be in Brawl because he would probably be totally unexpected, and quite humourous to play as. Also, Cactuar has already starred in a game alongside other Nintendo character which was Mario Hoops 3-on-3.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Cactuar is not as popular as other reoccurring Final Fantasy characters such as Chocobo and Moogle. Also, besides his 1,000 Needles, it would be quite difficult to come up with a movesert for him.
What Are His Chances:
Cactuar would only be getting in Brawl if Nintendo and Square-Enix wanted to go for a WTF character surprise, and since I highly doubt that they would want to do that, Cactuar’s overall chances are low. Also, other generic characters like a Chocobo or a Moogle would get in over him.
Black Mage:
First appearance: Final Fantasy (NES)
Also appeared in: Final Fantasy I&II: Dawn of Souls (GBA), Final Fantasy III (NES, DS), Final Fantasy V (SNES, GBA), Mario Hoops 3-on-3 (DS), Final Fantasy Fables: Chocobo Tales (DS)
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A Black Mage is a magic user specializing in attack magic. They are usually depicted wearing distinctive costumes consisting of a blue or black robe and large conical, wide-brimmed hat which obscures their face, with two yellow eyes shining within the shadow. The Black Mage (outside of the first Final Fantasy) is not really a character, but a job class. For example, the playable characters from Final Fantasy III and Final Fantasy V can become Black Mages, but they themselves were not real Black Mages to begin with.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
The Black Mage is probably the most famous retro Final Fantasy character. The Black Mage also had his first game on a Nintendo console (the NES) and starred in the first Final Fantasy. He has also starred in a game alongside Nintendo characters (Mario Hoops 3-on-3). Finally, the Black Mage would have a very interesting moveset since most of his attacks are magic based.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Outside of really retro Final Fantasy fans, the Black Mage has a small fanbase. Also, I doubt the Black Mage would be worth the time and effort it would cost to get him in Brawl. I feel that the Black Mage is not the best representative of the entire Final Fantasy series (a Chocobo or Moogle would be better representatives of the overall series).
What Are His Chances:
Since the Black Mage actually starred in many games on Nintendo consoles (and even starred in a game with Nintendo characters), I believe that he is more likely than other characters such as Cloud.His main setback is his overall popularity compared to other contenders. However, the Black Mage is also unlikely to be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy, which boosts his chances considerably for Brawl.
Warrior of Light:
First appearance: Final Fantasy (NES)
Also appeared in: Final Fantasy I & II: Dawn of Souls (GBA)
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The Warrior of Light isn’t actually a character but rather he is one of four Warriors of Light (which consist of a Fighter and a Black Mage, among other classes). The Warriors of Light were the first protagonists of the Final Fantasy series.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Since the Warriors of Light were the first Final Fantasy protagonists, it would be fitting if one was used to represent Square in Brawl. Also, many of the Warrior of Light classes, such as Black Mage, White Mage, Fighter, and Ninja, were playable characters in Mario Hoops 3-on-3.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
I don’t think the Warriors of Light has as big a fanbase as the protagonists of other numbered Final Fantasys. Also, it would be difficult to choose which Warrior of Light should be in Brawl.
What Are His Chances:
His chances are not that high. For one, Warrior of Light (the one in the screenshot I provided) is a confirmed character for Dissidia Final Fantasy. Also, the Warriors of Light are not as popular as other Square-Enix contenders.
Firion:
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Firion is the primary protagonist of Final Fantasy II. He was orphaned at a young age, and adopted by the parents of Maria and Leon, and considers himself to be a part of their family. Firion assumes the role of leader of the party made up of Maria and Guy after the Empire’s attack on Fynn. Firion and his companions assist the Wild Rose rebellion against the Empire, and search for Maria’s brother, Leon. He is assumed to be in the Fighter or Warrior character class based off of his swordsmanship skills.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Firion is the first real protagonist of a Final Fantasy game (generic, nameless “Heroes of Light” were the protagonists of the first Final Fantasy). He also made his first appearance on a Nintendo console (NES). Firion would be very appealing to old-school RPGs fans.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Final Fantasy II is one of the least popular Final Fantasys, both in Japan and the rest of the world. Consequentially, Firion is not popular either. There are much more popular and deserving Final Fantasy and Square-Enix characters in general than Firion. Also, his character and possible moveset would do little to add to the game.
What Are His Chances:
Firion has little chance to be in Brawl for two major reasons. One is that he and Final Fantasy II are not popular. The second reason is for Dissidia Final Fantasy, which is fighting game for the PSP containing ten heroes and ten villains from the Final Fantasy series. It is likely that Firion will be a playable character in this game, and I doubt Square would want to draw attention away from it by placing a character from a numbered Final Fantasy into Brawl.
Luneth:
First appearance: Final Fantasy III (the remake) (DS)
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Luneth is an orphan raised in the village of Ur who is curious and adventurous by nature. He is very kind-hearted and courageous, and always tries to be positive. Note: Luneth (and the other three heroes in FFIIIDS), did not appear in the game’ss original version, as that in the original FFIII, the heroes were only four generic nameless Heroes of Light.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Few people know this, but the remake of Final Fantasy III was originally in development for the PlayStation 2. It was not until the Nintendo DS really took off (and Nintendo’s own request) that the title was moved to the Nintendo DS. This marked a defining moment in the relationship between Nintendo Square-Enix that had not been seen since the SNES/Super Famicom days. Luneth is also the only hero from a main Final Fantasy to not have appeared on a Sony or non-Nintendo console. Final Fantasy III for the DS has also sold over a million copies in Japan alone, and is nearing half a million sales in the US. Also, Final Fantasy III is the most popular of the NES/Famicom Final Fantasys in Japan.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Many consider Luneth to have had a rather bland character. Also, Final Fantasy III does not have many fans in the West. Finally, Luneth has very few fans.
What Are His Chances:
Since the Final Fantasy III remake was very successful, that bolsters his chances. However, since I very much doubt that there’s anyone from either side who would want a character from Final Fantasy III, I very much doubt that if Square had to choose a representative for Final Fantasy in Brawl they would choose him. Finally, it is likely that Luneth will be playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy, and since Square-Enix would not want to take away any hype from that game, it is likely that any playable character from that game will not be appearing in Brawl.
Cecil:
First appearance: Final Fantasy IV (SNES)
Also appeared in: Final Fantasy IV Advance (GBA), Final Fantasy IV (remake) (DS)
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Cecil is the primary protagonist of Final Fantasy IV. He was orphaned at a young age and taken in by the King of Baron and raised to become a Dark Knight. Although Cecil was very much reluctant to master the Dark Sword, he became a very skilled Dark Knight. He is eventually promoted to the command Baron’s airship fleet, the “Red Wings”. However, Cecil begins to question the morality of the king when he orders Cecil to rob the town of Mysidia of its Water Crystal. Cecil eventually rebels against the king and forms an alliance of warriors to oppose Baron after he unwittingly bombed the village of Mist under the king’s orders. During the quest, he becomes a paladin by climbing Mount Ordeals (the picture above is of his paladin form).
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Final Fantasy IV is the third most popular Final Fantasy in Japan (behind only Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy X). Also, Final Fantasy IV is being remade in 3-D for the Nintendo DS, and what better way to get people interested in it than to place the main hero of the game into what is likely to be one of the Wii’s highest selling titles.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Cecil (and Final Fantasy IV) don’t seem to be very much popular in the West (as a matter of fact, the only 2-D Final Fantasy that has a large following is the US is Final Fantasy VI). Also, it may be difficult to come up with a moveset for Cecil, and his designs for both his Dark Knight and Paladin may be unattractive to Nintendo’s younger demographic.
What Are His Chances:
Cecil, in my opinion, is by far the most likely hero from a main Final Fantasy on a Nintendo console to appear in Brawl. Also, Cecil appearing in Brawl would be very beneficial financially to Square-Enix for promoting the upcoming remake of Final Fantasy IV (especially outside Japan). However, there is one major flaw in this, and that is Dissidia Final Fantasy . Dissidia Final Fantasy is basically Square-Enix’s answer to Super Smash Bros. It is being made by Nomura (the creator of Kingdom Hearts) and it is in development for the PSP. There are going to be ten heroes and ten villains from the Final Fantasy series in this game. It is very likely that Cecil will be a playable character in this game. Nomura and his team, would not want a major character from his game (such as Cecil) stealing the spotlight from his title, if Cecil is announced as a playable character in Brawl.
Bartz:
First appearance: Final Fantasy V (SNES)
Also appeared in: Final Fantasy V Advance (GBA)
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Bartz is the primary protagonist of Final Fantasy V. He is 20 years old and has a phobia of heights. He is mostly a wanderer, and is connected to the Wind element. His quest to protect the Crystals begins when he helps Princess Lenna and Galuf escape a goblin-filled area on their way to the Wind Shrine.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Bartz would be a very interesting character as far as movesets are concerned because he can be a character who can shift between different “Jobs” (like Black Mage, Fighter, Thief) much like how Zelda can transform into Sheik. In this manner, Bartz would be many characters in one. Also, Final Fantasy V is the third-most popular Final Fantasy on a Nintendo console in Japan.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Final Fantasy V lacks the popularity of FFIV in Japan and the popularity of FFVI in North America. As a matter of fact, Final Fantasy V is the least popular of the SNES Final Fantasys in North America (this is most likely due to the fact that the original SNES version was never released outside of Japan and that the Anthology version for the PS1 had a bad translation and was filled with bugs. The only competent version of the game to be released in North America was Final Fantasy V Advance, which was released when the Game Boy Advance was on its last legs). Also, Bartz does not have as many fans as characters from the other SNES Final Fantasys such as Cecil, Kefka, Terra, and Locke.
What Are His Chances:
Like I mentioned earlier, Final Fantasy V is not the most popular SNES Final Fantasy in any of the two major markets. This means that if a character is chosen from a SNES Final Fantasy, he or she will likely be from either IV or VI. Also, the SNES Final Fantasy characters also have to compete heavily with some of the more popular generic characters such as a Chocobo or a Moogle. Finally, Bartz is likely to be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy. It is for these reasons that Bartz’s chance of appearing in Brawl remain low.
Gilgamesh:
First appearance: Final Fantasy V (SNES)
Other appearances (on Nintendo consoles): Final Fantasy I&II: Dawn of Souls (GBA), Final Fantasy V Advance (GBA), Final Fantasy VI Advance (GBA)
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Gilgamesh is a reoccurring enemy boss of the Final Fantasy series. He is usually characterized as having a grayish complexion, colorful flamboyant battle armor, and many arms wielding many weapons at once. He tries to make himself look fierce, but this just masks his childlike personality. In Final Fantasy V, Gilgamesh is one of Exdeath’s generals, and a reoccurring boss in the game (as a matter of fact you fight him five times). Although he is highly determined to stop Final Fantasy V’s protagonists, he tends to be short on courage and incompetent.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Gilgamesh is one of the most popular characters in Final Fantasy V. Also, he is a reoccurring villain of the Final Fantasy series. In this way, he would be better than other Final Fantasy villain choices. Finally, his multi-weapon fighting style could be quite interesting if used in the game (quite similar to Pit’s).
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Gilgamesh is not that popular compared to the likes of Kefka or especially Sephiroth. Also, a villain should never get in over a hero, especially a comic-relief one (in the case of his incarnation in Final Fantasy V). Final Fantasy V (the only Final Fantasy on a Nintendo console, in which Gilgamesh played a large role), is not as popular as Final Fantasy IV in Japan, and is one of the least popular Final Fantasys in North America.
What Are His Chances:
If Kefka’s chances are low, Gilgamesh’s chances are even lower. Let me reiterate, there is no way any villain from any game in the Final Fantasy series is getting in over a hero from one of the Final Fantasy series, a generic character from the Final Fantasy series, or a hero from one of Square-Enix’s other series. Also, there is a chance that Gilgamesh might be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy.
Terra:
First appearance: Final Fantasy VI (SNES)
Also appeared in: Final Fantasy VI Advance (GBA)
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Terra is one of Final Fantasy VI’s many protagonists (its really hard to label one specific character as the true protagonist of FFVI). Terra is a girl of mysterious origins who is gifted with the power of magic. She is the first character you play as, and she is very essential to the plot to the first half of the game. Her job class in the game is “Magic Fighter.”
Why She Should Be In Brawl:
Final Fantasy VI is probably the second most popular Final Fantasy (only Final Fantasy VII is more popular) among fans of the series in the US. Since Terra is generally looked at as the protagonist of the game (though its extremely debatable), she should be the Final Fantasy VI character that gets in. Also, she would have an interesting moveset switching from her human and esper forms.
Why She Should Not Be In Brawl:
Like I mentioned earlier, there is a a lot of debate over who is the real true protagonist of Final Fantasy VI. Its for this reason that it would be very difficult to choose somebody to represent Final Fantasy VI. Also, Final Fantasy VI is the least popular of the SNES Final Fantasys in Japan, and Japanese fans would most likely want somebody from FFIV instead of VI.
What Are Her Chances:
Her chances are barely higher than Kefka’s (which are very low to begin with). Final Fantasy VI, in the eyes of Japanese fans, would not be the Final Fantasy game to represent the Final Fantasy series in Brawl. Also, it is likely that she will be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy.
Kefka:
First appearance: Final Fantasy VI (SNES)
Also appeared in: Final Fantasy VI Advance (GBA)
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Kefka is the main antagonist of Final Fantasy VI. Kefka dresses as a jester/clown, and is extremely power-hungry. He also loves to kill, and has a very warped sense of humor. Unlike other villains, Kefka actually does succeed in his plans to rule the world and become a god-like being, and he manages to torture the entire world for several years before being finally defeated by Final Fantasy VI’s heroes. He is also famous for his humorous/entertaining lines such as “I HATE HATE HATE HATE HATE YOU”, “Son of a submariner”, “Run, run run, or you’ll be well done”, and “This is pathetic, you all sound like chapters out of a self-help book.”
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Kefka’s is the second most popular antagonist of the entire Final Fantasy series (behind only Sephiroth). He is also arguably the most popular character of Final Fantasy VI. Did I also mention that he also has a cult following?
Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_c6Ek...elated&search=
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
I don’t think a villain from one Final Fantasy should represent the entire series, no matter how awesome he is. Also, Final Fantasy VI is the least popular of the SNES Final Fantasys in Japan.
What are his chances:
His chances of being in Brawl even if a Final Fantasy character is chosen as the company’s representative are very low, a hero will always be chosen over a villain (ie. Would you want Eggman to get in over Sonic as Sega’s representative for Brawl). Also, he will very likely be a playable character in Dissidia: Final Fantasy, and I doubt Square will want to take away some of the hype to their game.
Cloud:
First appearance: Final Fantasy VII (PS1)
Appearance on a Nintendo console: Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories (GBA)
Profile:
Cloud is the protagonist of Final Fantasy VII. He is a self-proclaimed ex-member of SOLDIER, and is mercenary employed by AVALANCHE. Cloud is usually depicted as a conflicted and confused individual who is sometimes arrogant.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Cloud is by far Square-Enix’s most popular character. Final Fantasy VII is also one of the most popular games ever. Cloud is the one of the few character that can actually attract more people to buy Brawl. Who wouldn’t want to see Cloud fight Link? Cloud being announced for Brawl would cause a much bigger commotion and media attention than if even Sonic were announced (in the opinions of many peoples).
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
First off, Cloud has never starred in a game on a Nintendo console. A lousy cameo in a mediocre spinoff does not cut it for Sakurai’s requirement. Also, Cloud is also pretty much equated with Sony consoles, and the face of the PlayStation 1 and Square’s excellent relationship with Sony. Cloud would also need to be properly balanced for Brawl. He carries around a sword that is very powerful and is as long as his body, not to mention he is very fast, not to mention ridiculously overpowered (just watch Advent Children). Any alterations to his design that may make him mid-to-low tier will cause the whining of many FFVII fanboys.
What Are His Chances:
Cloud, like mentioned earlier, is by far the most popular character that Square owns. However, I highly doubt that Kitase (the director and producer for FFVII) and Nomura (director and producer for the FFVII spinoffs) would want to do a port, remake, or spinoff of FFVII on a Nintendo console. First both men are very much biased toward Sony consoles. Both also said they will only work on consoles with powerful hardware (which excludes Wii and DS). Also, Cloud would be basically advertising a potential FFVII remake for PS3, something Nintendo would not want. Finally, Cloud will likely be the coverboy for Dissidia Final Fantasy (along with his boyfriend err nemesis, Sephiroth). Putting Cloud in Brawl would take away a lot of interest from Dissidia, since its very likely that Brawl is going to be the superior game. Nomura would not want one of his pet projects to bomb or underperform, so even if Nintendo were to go Square to ask for Cloud, it is likely for internal political reasons at the company that Cloud will be denied. If a port, remake, or spinoff (starring Cloud) is announced for the DS or Wii, it would be basically guaranteed that Cloud would get into Brawl. However, since this has not happened, Cloud’s chances are extremely low.
Vaan:
First appearance: Final Fantasy XII (PS2)
Appearance on a Nintendo console: Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings (DS)
Profile:
Vaan is the primary protagonist of Final Fantasy XII (though it is very debatable) and Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings. And uh, he dresses very interestingly....
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Vaan is the only character from a post-FFVI Final Fantasy, to have their sequel or spinoff made for a Nintendo platform. Also, Vaan might appeal heavily to casual Final Fantasy players. If Vaan is made a playable character it is highly likely that more FFXII spinoffs (and Ivalice Alliance games in general, such as Final Fantasy Tactics and Vagrant Story) will be made for Nintendo consoles.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Final Fantasy XII is the most unpopular of the PlayStation-based Final Fantasys in Japan. In America, Vaan is pretty much hated for being a useless pretty boy (basically he was only made the main character to attract female fans in Japan). Vaan has very few fans in general, and there are definitely much more deserving Final Fantasy and Square characters than him.
What Are His Chances:
He is by far the most likely Sony Final Fantasy character to appear in Brawl. Square would benefit a lot by putting Vaan in Brawl because it would promote Final Fantasy XII: Revenant Wings which is being released during Q4 2007 for NA which is the same time period in which Super Smash Bros. Brawl is being released. He can also be used to promote future FFXII spinoffs on Nintendo consoles. However, since Vaan isn’t well-liked anywhere, his chances remain low. Finally, Vaan is likely to be a playable character in Dissidia Final Fantasy.
Hero from Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers:
Video: http://www.gamevideos.com/video/id/11814
First appearance: Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers (Wii)
Profile:
This boy is the protagonist of Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers. Unlike most games, the protagonist in this game starts out as a hero and is very powerful from the start of the game. He has blonde-hair, usually wears goggles, and wears a leather jacket. Square-Enix describes this as being “rugged”. He has the ability to fly, and appears to have some telekinetic powers.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
He is the star of a Wii-exclusive game by Square-Enix. He also appears to have some very interesting abilities, especially compared to those of modern Final Fantasy characters. He would also be helping to promote his game, and if sales are great, Square-Enix will likely make more games for the Wii.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Many Smash Bros. fans would be pretty upset if this character gets in over more popular Square characters like Geno, Crono, or Cecil. Also, this character may pull a “Roy”, which means that the character was placed into the game for promotional reasons, and that like Roy, the game and the characters itself end up being mediocre or bland. A character that Square fans already know should take the spot, especially one from a game of proven quality.
What Are His Chances:
If Square-Enix decides to use a character that will promote an upcoming game of their’s, then the hero from Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: The Crystal Bearers will be pretty high up on the list to be in Brawl. He would also not interfere with Dissidia Final Fantasy, since he is not from a numbered Final Fantasy and will likely not be in the game. However, the game is still early in development, and I could also see Square-Enix choosing a generic Final Fantasy character (like a Chocobo, Moogle, or Black Mage) over one with a name. His chances depend mostly on if Square-Enix is going for promotion (placing in a character from an upcoming game) over history (a popular character from a famous and well-received game).
Sora:
First appearance: Kingdom Hearts (PS2)
Appearance on a Nintendo console: Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories (GBA)
Profile:
Sora is the protagonist of the Kingdom Hearts series. Sora has a lot of worries, but tries to keep an upbeat attitude. He sometimes seems simple-minded, but he has a strong sense of justice. He mostly lives life for simple pleasures, like eating ice cream or watching a sunset. He is also very open with his emotions to say the least. He loves his friends very much. He was the one chosen by the Keyblade to battle the Heartless.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Sora is extremely popular with kids and younger Square-Enix fans. The Kingdoms Hearts games are some of the best-selling titles on the PS2. In the eyes of some people, he would be a perfect fit for the game because of the Disney theme his series has. Also, some people argue that if he is in Brawl, that will make it very likely for Kingdom Hearts III to be made for the Nintendo Wii. Finally, Yoko Shimomura, the composer of Kingdom Hearts, is also composing for Super Smash Bros. Brawl.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Much of Kingdom Hearts’s appeal lies within the fact that there are Disney and Final Fantasy characters in it. Also, Sora is pretty much identified with Sony consoles, and it is highly likely that future installments with be exclusive to Sony platforms. Nomura, the creator of Kingdom Hearts and the designer of Sora, is a big fan of Sony and prefers their platforms over Nintendo’s. He has said that if a future portable Kingdom Hearts is made, he would make it for PSP. Nomura’s own team at the moment, is making two games for the PSP and one game for the PS3. Nomura also has said he goes for graphics and presentations the most in his games (which pretty much leaves out Wii and DS). For example, Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories was eventually ported to the PS2 with PS2-quality 3-D and extras. Sora in Smash Bros. Brawl would push the Kingdom Hearts series to a new audience (a lot of people who will be buying Brawl will be kids), and these new interested fans would likely want to purchase the games Sora is from, which will most likely be on Sony platforms, and may to lead to the purchase of said platforms, something Nintendo would not want. Also, there is a large amount of Nintendo fans and older Square fans who would not to see Sora in Smash Bros. because to Nintendo fans he represents Sony platforms too much, and to older Square fans he represents Square-Enix’s decline as a company. Also, Disney owns the rights to Kingdom Hearts as well as Square. Nintendo would have to arrange a meeting with both Square and Disney if they want to see Sora in Brawl, something that may be very expensive and time-consuming (the reason why Snake and Sonic did not make it in Melee was because it would have taken too much time to make the arrangements to legally allow both characters in Melee, and would have ended up delaying the game).
What Are His Chances:
Sora has the best chances out of all the Square character who were created on a PlayStation platform. However, there is a sharp divide in opinion over the older Square fans and younger Square fans over Sora. Older fans despise him, and younger fans like him. Older fans argue that Square had a rich history with Nintendo in the past and that a character from that epoch should be chosen rather than one in which has most of their history and influence with the Sony era (especially during the PS2). Also, Square alone can’t decide for Sora to be in Brawl, if Square says yes and Disney says no, then Sora won’t get in, it has to be an agreement between both parties, and both parties may have different prerequisites (such as money) and contracts in order for him to be added. Despite this, Sora has better chances than Cloud to be in the game.
Crono:
First appearance: Chrono Trigger (SNES)
Profile:
Crono is the hero of Chrono Trigger. He is a silent protagonist (much like Link). Being a silent protagonist, he often communicates his thoughts through reactions and gestures. He lives in the town of Truce with his mother, in the kingdom of Guardia.. His quest begins when he meets Marle at the Millennial Fair. He meets up with six other fighters throughout time in order to save the world from apocalyptic ruin by the hands of planet devouring entity named Lavos. His weapon of choice is a katana, and his magic-type is lightning or electricity. Crono is respected and looked up upon by his fellow party members. Crono is kind and selfless, and loves his friends very much and is very protective of them to the point where he even sacrifices himself in order to save them (fortunately, he is later revived by his fellow party members).
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Crono is by far the most popular character from an RPG during the 16-bit era. Crono is massively popular among older Square fans and Nintendo fans. Chrono Trigger also sold over two million copies in Japan and is the most popular RPG for the SNES in Japan that is not titled “Final Fantasy” or “Dragon Quest”. Chrono Trigger is also extremely popular in North America. Chrono Trigger ranked among readers at IGN as the second-best game ever (behind only The Legend of Zelda: The Ocarina of Time) and third-best game ever among GameFAQs members in a similar Top 100 poll (behind only the Legend of Zelda: The Ocarina of Time and Final Fantasy VII). Chrono Trigger is so popular that fans have attempted to remake the game at least twice (Square-Enix shut down both projects). Also, Crono would fit in very well into Smash Bros. A moveset for Crono would not be very difficult to come up with, as that he had many moves in his original game. Finally, Yasunori Mitsuda, the composer for Chrono Trigger, is composing for Super Smash Bros. Brawl, and who wouldn’t want to listen to a fully orchestrated version of Chrono Trigger’s main theme.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Younger Nintendo and Square fans do not know who he is, and have not even played his game (it was released in late 1995). Also, Crono only starred in one game. The last Chrono game, Chrono Cross, was released in 2000, and Square has not bothered to do anything with the series since then, and it is unlikely that a new installment will be made. Younger Square fans feel that a character from an old game and dead series should not represent Square, and instead one that is more well-known by casual game players should be instead.
What Are His Chances:
Like mentioned earlier, in North America, Crono is the most popular character from an RPG from the 16-bit era. (I’m unsure about Crono’s popularity in Japan). Many older Nintendo fans and Square fans definitely want to see him return in full 3-D glory. However, the question beckons whether Nintendo would bother to ask for a character from a RPG that is over a decade old. However, bringing Crono into Smash Bros., may prove to be a financial success if they decide to re-release or remake Chrono Trigger (as a matter of fact, a top Square-Enix executive said that there was a 50/50 chance of Chrono Trigger being brought to the Wii’s Virtual Console) or even make a new installment by acquainting the younger generation of gamers with him. Also, Crono does not disrupt Dissidia Final Fantasy, since he is not a Final Fantasy character. However, Crono’s overall chances are a mystery, since I am unsure how aware Square is of his popularity in North America.
Geno:
First appearance: Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars (SNES)
Also appeared in: Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga (GBA)
Profile:
Geno is one of Mario’s allies and fellow party members in Super Mario RPG. He is actually a star agent sent by a higher authority who has come to Mario’s world from Star Road to find the seven Star Pieces. Geno borrows the form of a doll belonging to a kid named Gaz in Rose Town, and brings it life via a beam of light, and once he assumes this form, he promptly searches for the Star Pieces. Since his real name is so hard to pronounce, he tells his friends to call him Geno, which is the name of the doll. Geno offers advice to the party as a mystical sage-like being throughout the adventure. Geno’s attacks are part magic and part projectile. His regular attacks shoot bullets and he even has rocket-powered fists. His special attacks involve beams of light being shot from his hands or a cannon. Geno, the doll, also made a cameo appearance in Mario & Luigi in an arcade in Little Fungitown. Geno is definitely owned by Square-Enix because at the end of the credits in Mario & Luigi, it says that the character Geno is a registered trademark of Square-Enix.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Geno, among Nintendo fans, is by far the most popular Square character for Brawl. He is also quite popular among older Square fans. Also, Geno has starred in a game with Nintendo characters (Super Mario RPG), and was in a game in which Nintendo and Square cooperated together to bring a great RPG experience. Super Mario RPG is being brought to the Virtual Console later this year, and many younger gamers may become new fans of this RPG classic and may request to see Geno in full 3-D. Geno would have a very interesting and unique moveset if he were brought into Brawl. Finally, Yoko Shimomura, one of the composers for Super Mario RPG, is composing for Super Smash Bros. Brawl.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Geno, like Crono, is pretty much unknown to younger Nintendo and Square fans, and many have not played his game (it was released in 1996). Some of these young Square fans are even put off by his design (“Eeeeeeeeeew, ugly naked doll!”). Besides his cameo in Mario & Luigi, he has not starred in any more games. Young Square fans argue that a more mainstream choice should be made instead of Geno , who they say who is only a pet favorite in the eyes of older Nintendo and Square fans, and that casual gamers should be more looked at when making this choice regarding Square-Enix’s representative for Brawl.
What Are His Chances:
Geno has the best chances out of all the Square-Enix character I have listed. Sakurai knows that Geno is wanted among fans, because he was asked at least four times in his e-mail bag. Also, Square probably won’t ask for anything in return if they do request Geno for Brawl, as shown by his cameo in Mario & Luigi. All it basically boils down to is if Sakurai’s team will even ask Square for Geno. If they do, he is basically guaranteed to appear.
Mallow:
First appearance: Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars (SNES)
Profile:
Mallow is one of Mario’s allies and fellow party members in Super Mario RPG. He is a cloud-like creature with the ability to control the weather. Mario first meets Mallow when he was being harassed by the notorious thief, Croco. Mario decides to aid Mallow in getting his stolen special coin back from Croco after he sees him sobbing. Mallow is the first character to join Mario’s party in the game. Mario and Mallow manage to defeat the thief and get back the coin. When they return to the Mushroom Kingdom, they find it under the control of one of Mack, one of Smithy’s generals. After defeating Mack, they venture through the Kero Sewers, and make their way to Tadpole Pond, the home of Mallow’s grandfather, Frogfucius. During this meeting with Frogfucius, he learns that he is not a frog, and that one stormy night, Frofucius found Mallow drifting down a river. He then decided to raise Mallow as his own. After this revelation, Mallow decides to journey with Mario, hoping to discover his real parent and home.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Mallow is quite popular among Nintendo fans, and a lot of people want to see him in Brawl. Also, Mallow has starred in a game with Nintendo characters (Super Mario RPG), and was in game in which Nintendo and Square cooperated together to bring a great RPG experience. Also, Super Mario RPG is being brought to the Virtual Console later this year, and many younger gamers may become new fans of this RPG classic and request to see Mallow in full 3-D. Mallow would have a very interesting and unique moveset if he were brought into Brawl just judging by all his weather-based attacks in Super Mario RPG. Finally, Yoko Shimomura, one of the composers for Super Mario RPG, is composing for Super Smash Bros. Brawl.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Mallow is nowhere near as popular as Geno is among fans of Super Mario RPG. Mallow is pretty much unknown to younger Nintendo and Square fans, and many have not played his game (it was released in 1996). Some of these young Square fans are even put off by his design. Young Square fans argue that a more mainstream choice should be made instead of Mallow, and that casual gamers should be more looked at when making this choice.
What Are His Chances:
Like I mentioned earlier, Mallow is nowhere near as popular as Geno. If a Super Mario RPG character is chosen as Square’s representative, it will be Geno, not Mallow. However, Mallow is far more likely to be in Brawl than most of the characters in this analysis topic. The only way Mallow is getting in over Geno would be if they find making a moveset for Mallow easier and more unique than Geno.
Magnus Gallant:
First appearance: Ogre Battle 64: Person of Lordly Caliber (N64)
Profile:
Magnus Gallant is the main protagonist of Ogre Battle 64. He is the only son of Ankiseth and a childhood friend of Prince Yumil. Because of conflict with his father, he joins the military academy at the age of twelve. He graduates at the age of 18, and he then goes to the Southern Division to enroll in the army with his friends. Magnus is soon appointed to commander, with Hugo as his advisor and Diomedes as his second in command. His decisions in dialogue and in battle (mainly liberating or capturing a town) affect the story progression, which characters join or leave your battalion, and which ending you will see. If Magnus’s health drops below zero during a mission, its game over for the player.
Why He Should Be In Brawl:
Ogre Battle 64 was one of the best games on the Nintendo 64, and one of its two good RPGs (the other being Paper Mario). Nintendo also helped develop the game, and even published it in Japan. However, Magnus is owned by Square-Enix, since they bought Quest (the developer of the Ogre Battle series) and the rights to the series. Since, Magnus’s game was helped developed and published by Nintendo, he should get in over most Square-Enix characters. Magnus also has many fans among hardcore Nintendo fans, and by placing him in, it would help revive interest in the Ogre Battle series.
Why He Should Not Be In Brawl:
Although Ogre Battle 64 was critically acclaimed and praised by reviewers and fans, the game did not have good sales. Also, the Ogre Battle series is rather niche, and a character from a more mainstream and popular game should get in over any character from that series. Finally, Magnus is quite similar to most lords in the Fire Emblem series, hence his moveset would not be as unique as other character choices.
What Are His Chances:
Magnus was once requested in Sakurai’s poll on the Japanese Brawl site. However, I would say that his chances for Brawl are low. His series is basically dead (the last game to be released in the series was in 2002), and the Ogre Battle series does not have as much fans as Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, Chrono Trigger, Kingdom Hearts, or Super Mario RPG. Although Magnus is more deserving than most of the characters in this topic, his chances remain low solely because his limited fanbase and the lack of popularity of his series compared to that of the other series mentioned in this topic.
To Be Continued.
