New details regarding Square Enix's first GameCube RPG Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles have been revealed in an interview with Akitoshi Kawazu. Joining Kawazu is veteran director/producer Kazuhiko Aoki, character designer Itahana, and composer Kumi Tanioka, who last worked on Final Fantasy XI's soundtrack.

In the single-player mode the game will allow players to use either a standard GameCube controller or a GBA in its stead. While in multi-player mode, a map, the enemy status and other information will be displayed on the GBA's screen. Players will also be able to combine their magic. Which mode you are playing, won't affect the game's story, though.

Akitoshi Kawazu's team will implement a mission-based system into the game, with players receiving an item extension after successfully completing the respective mission. Trademarks of the main Final Fantasy series, such as summons or the dramatic CG movie sequences will not appear in Crystal Chronicles. Furthermore, there will be no Dolby Pro Logic 2 support. Play time is expected to be about 30 hours. While currently no concrete plans about a title after Crystal Chronicles exist, Akitoshi Kawazu mentioned he would like to continue to work with Nintendo.

Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles will be available in Japan on July 18th and later this year in the US. The game is also expected to be playable at next week's E3, so look for more coverage and a hands-on report then.

• Quiter