The developers of Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin have steadily revealed more details about the story told during the game, along with a few of the locations the protagonists will visit during their travels. So far, most of the locations shown are towns or dungeons that were originally present in Final Fantasy I. These locales have had a huge graphic overhaul, though, resulting in a fresh, breathtaking makeover of some well-established areas.
Square Enix has assured fans that new areas will be included in Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin. But, as this is somewhat of a reimagining of Final Fantasy I, fans can certainly expect to see updated versions of classic locations. Screenshots revealed so far of areas like Castle Cornelia and the Chaos Shrine look absolutely stunning, while still evoking feelings of nostalgia for long-time players of the Final Fantasy series. In case you've missed them, here are all confirmed locations so far in Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin.
Castle Cornelia
Castle Cornelia is where the journey to defeat Chaos begins in the original Final Fantasy. The King of Cornelia entrusts the four Warriors of Light with putting a stop to the darkness spreading throughout the land.
In Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin, Jack and his companions appear to start their journey to vanquish Chaos here as well. It's currently unknown how much of Castle Cornelia players will be able to explore, but the new-and-improved castle shown off in trailers looks absolutely beautiful.
Northern Bridge
The Northern Bridge is a minor location in the original Final Fantasy, but it has grown to become an iconic one for good reason—crossing this bridge signifies the four Warriors of Light starting their journey, initiating a cutscene and the game's title sequence.
The Northern Bridge in Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin seems to serve a similar purpose, with trailers showing the main band of protagonists crossing it as they set off from Castle Cornelia.
Related: What is the Stranger of Paradise Final Fantasy Origin release date?
Pravoka
In Final Fantasy I, Pravoka is the first town that players encounter after crossing the Northern Bridge. It's a seaside town, and one that has essentially been taken hostage by Captain Bikke and his band of pirates. The Warriors of Light then liberate Pravoka from Bikke's clutches, gaining a new ship in the process.
In Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin, Bikke is causing trouble in Pravoka again. Based on trailers and screenshots provided by Square Enix, developers have managed to give the new version of Pravoka an updated look while retaining the feeling of emptiness and isolation initially present in the city, brought about because of Bikke and his gang.
Western Keep
Upon visiting Western Keep in Final Fantasy I, the Warriors of Light are tricked into helping a false king. Afterward, the king attacks the party and reveals himself to be Astos, the evil king of the Dark Elves.
The version of Western Keep that Jack and his group visit in Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin appears to have expanded on its look from the original—it's eerie and desolate, like a kingdom long-forgotten. Mixed in with the crumbling structures, however, are clear signs of some life and magic still present amongst the ruins.
Crystal Mirage
According to Square Enix, the Crystal Mirage is Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin's version of Mirage Tower. It's a relic left behind by the Lufenians in Final Fantasy I, used to access the Flying Fortress. The Warriors of Light must ascend its spiral staircase to reach the top, fighting off abandoned Lufenian machina on their way.
It's currently unclear how Crystal Mirage will differ from Mirage Tower in terms of plot, as there hasn't been any information released about Lufenians in Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin. But, screenshots reveal that its signature four pillars are still present, now with an otherworldly blue glow.
Related: How to play the Stranger of Paradise Final Fantasy Origin trial version
Flying Fortress
The Flying Fortress in the original Final Fantasy is home to both the Wind Crystal and the Fiend of Wind, Tiamat. It's a departure from most areas in the rest of Final Fantasy I, with its interior having a more industrial feel than other dungeons. It was created using the advanced technology of the Lufenians, and was home to many of them before Tiamat forced them to flee.
The Flying Fortress shown in Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin seems to have doubled down on the sci-fi aspect of this area, with its inner walls looking similar to the inside of a futuristic factory. And, based off the trailers, players can expect to find Tiamat residing here again.
Chaos Shrine
The Chaos Shrine is possibly the most iconic and recognizable returning location from Final Fantasy I. It's the first dungeon in the game, the first location where players battle Garland, and it's the key to undoing the time-loop created by Chaos. Called both the Temple of Fiends and Temple of Chaos is the original version, it's here that the Four Fiends throw Garland back in time in an attempt to save his life.
Square Enix hasn't revealed how the Chaos Shrine will come into play during Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin. But, given the main character Jack is said to become Garland himself, and Tiamat is returning as one of the Four Fiends, this location will surely hold great importance in the game's story.
Refrin Wetlands
The Refrin Wetlands are new to Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin, but not entirely unfamiliar. It appears to be based off the Sunleth Waterscape from Final Fantasy XIII, full of dense foliage and exotic wildlife. Demos have shown that the Refrin Wetlands will employ a special game mechanic, one where players must change the weather to either rainy or sunny in order to progress through the area.
The Refrin Wetlands appear to act as a sort of introductory dungeon for players, teaching mechanics that players will have to learn in Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin. As the game has yet to be released, though, the version shown in the demo is subject to change and could appear differently than the final product.
Developers are sure to reveal more information about Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin's as its release date approaches, so be sure to check back in here at Pro Game Guides for future updates! Looking for information about Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin? Check out Everything we know about Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin.
Published: Dec 27, 2021 08:53 am