Cactuar Correspondence - Weekly FFTCG Chat 11/1/18

let's talk fftcg!

Every week, there is something new to discuss and analyze in this game. In this feature, we answer your questions and respond to recent developments, new meta decks, specific cards we like or don't like -- you call it, we'll answer.

If you want to join the conversation, send us your thoughts! We would also love to hear the questions you have next week, so please shoot us a message at Facebook or on Twitter. Thanks for reading!

This week we are joined by RB from Square Enix North America! Many players in the community know RB as the face of the North American scene, but they join us this week as a fan sharing their personal opinions.

We’re also joined by Kody Snodgras, a decorated player and friend!

Do you think Title is a balanced format that warrants high level tournament play or is it just a for fun format?

RB: I think we’re finally at a place where Title is a very deep and complex format. When Title was first a thing in Opus III, the majority of people I played against using Tactics or Zero Cadets, people were a little too afraid to experiment. Now that there are 7 sets, there is so much variety in Title Format and it truly feels like you’re able to defend your favorite FINAL FANTASY. Whether it could be seen as a “high level tournament,” I can’t quite comment on, but I think it’s not “just for fun” anymore.

KODY: Title is a cool format that I wouldn’t say is balanced due to certain titles getting more support than others. I personally consider title a “for fun format” that could see potential high level play when it becomes more balanced across all of the Final Fantasy titles.

ADAM L: I actually think its more balanced than people give it credit for. Sure there are some very oppressive things in the format but a ton of the categories are very playable. I really hope that we get a Crystal Cup that is title this year that would be awesome. I know I'd show up for that. 

CHRIS: Title I think is more balanced than people realize. There are a ton of super playable options and knowing how to build the optimal deck for each category isn’t easy. I know I would love to see it played as a major tournament format at least once.

After Pre-Release, do you have any new impressions on Opus VII cards you didn't expect?

RB: Xezat was way better than I expected. I’m not sure if it was just that he’s a great card in Opus VII Limited or if he’s a viable constructed card, but he did make me want to try a Dawn Warriors + Moogles deck. I only lost one game during pre-release, and it was the one where I couldn’t get Xezat on the field.

KODY: I believe the new monsters that become forwards are a much bigger threat than originally expected. Also the new Warrior of Light cards are INSANE.

ADAM L: I wasn't surprised by too much to be honest. If I had to pick one that was better than expected it has to be Mid Previa (7-101) I think. Dealing 9k for pitching 3 cards to play him from the break zone was pretty good. I'm interested to maybe try him in Standard.

CHRIS: I think so far the cards that I’ve seen have delivered. However, I think my opinion of Jecht has dropped since first testing him out. I do think he is still a fantastic late game card that could put you right back into a game you may have otherwise been out of.

Which will have a greater impact on the meta: Sin, or Jecht?

RB: That’s a tough call, but I think overall Sin fits in more decks as a board wipe, while Jecht seems fairly niche.

KODY: As much as I would love to say Jecht, I believe Sin will have a bigger impact this meta similar to the impact Nidhogg had last format.

ADAM L: Hmm this is kinda tough. I really like both cards. If I had to put money on it I'd probably say Jecht. Hes better against the current meta right now but if the meta slows down you better watch out for Sin. Also Sin does give a board wipe to every deck that wants to play him. I just think the fact that Jecht can easily be a 1cp 9k is just better right now.

CHRIS: Its hard to say. I think both cards have a lot of potential. I think more people will try Jecht but ultimately I think Sin will be what we see more of.

Will a new Standard Units build emerge that will be more competitive than the Wind / Water builds of the past?

RB: Thaumaturge is a Standard Unit. Oh, you said new. I’d be interested to see one, but I’m not sure what it might be based on this set.

KODY: I could see both Earth/wind and Earth/water standard units seeing even more play this format, whether or not they will surpass Wind/water we will have to wait and see.

ADAM L: Short answer is no but there are a lot of things to unpack with all the new standard units. I think the best thing that comes out of these will be some sort of 3 color standard unit deck that includes wind and water but I don't think it will be better than the builds of old. I'm interested to try it as with alot of things this set.

CHRIS: I think the potential for a - color standard units deck is there, will it be better than Wind Water? That’s really hard to say, that deck is a well-oiled machine.

If you had to choose one art style from all of the art styles featured in FFTCG, which one would you pick?

RB: Matsuda-san’s art easily (FFII in Opus VI, and FFV in Opus VII). I’d love to see more cards across the FINAL FANTASY franchise in Matsuda-san’s style, especially the older games with not as much concept art. FINAL FANTASY VI, IX, X-2, XIV: Heavensward, and FF: Crystal Chronicles are my favorite games, so Matsuda-san art of those would be the best.

KODY: Amano by far.

ADAM L: Easy. Amano, no question. I grew up looking at that art so its very iconic to me. However the new art by Matsuda is very dope. I hope he also continues to do more custom art for this game.

CHRIS: Amano art all day long! I’d be a happy fella if all the cards were done in his iconic art style!