Ep.180 – It’s A Riot: A Tactical Trip Through the History of Vagrant Story

In 2000, Square released Vagrant Story, an ambitious PlayStation RPG that blurred the line between cinema and gameplay. In this episode, we follow Yasumi Matsuno’s creative journey—from the political intrigue of Ogre Battle and Tactics Ogre to his arrival at Square, where he built the world of Ivalice through Final Fantasy Tactics and beyond. We explore how his fascination with power, truth, and perception shaped Vagrant Story’s fragmented narrative, intricate combat system, and moody art direction. Our discussion traces the team’s technical innovations, their meticulous 3D modeling of French-inspired ruins, and the game’s critical acclaim despite modest sales. Join us as we explore Matsuno’s rise, burnout, and legacy in shaping tactical and narrative RPGs on today’s trip down Memory Card Lane.