A pivotal figure in the development of one of gaming’s most iconic series, Nasir Gebelli, has resurfaced from retirement to share insights about his work. Known for his significant contributions to Square’s Final Fantasy games during the late ’80s and early ’90s, Gebelli’s recent interview with NHK World marks his rare public appearance in years. His legacy in programming, particularly with games like Final Fantasy 3 and Secret of Mana, continues to influence the industry.
As previous reports have highlighted Gebelli’s foundational role in establishing the Final Fantasy franchise, this latest interview reaffirms his pivotal involvement. Earlier sources detailed his expertise with the MOS Technology 6502, while this interview expands on his experiences transitioning from Apple II to NES development. Contrasting earlier limited public interactions, the recent dialogue offers fresh perspectives on his creative process and collaboration with team members.
How Did Gebelli Adapt to NES Development?
“I thought it was pretty similar to what I was doing for Apple,” Gebelli said, “the same processor, and I already knew just about every machine code for that processor.”
Leveraging his extensive knowledge of the MOS Technology 6502 processor, which both the Apple II and NES utilized, Gebelli transitioned seamlessly between platforms without a significant learning curve.
What Challenges Did He Face in Creating Final Fantasy?
“It was a challenge,” Gebelli said, “but at the same time it was exciting to be able to do something different. And it was also fun to work with the team, especially Sakaguchi-san.”
Developing Final Fantasy required navigating a relatively new genre, as role-playing games were not as mainstream during that era. Despite limited experience, Gebelli embraced the opportunity to innovate and collaborate, laying the groundwork for future RPGs.
What Insights Did Gebelli Share About His Programming Approach?
“So as far as coding it was pretty simple. There was no learning curve. But I’d never seen any roleplaying games until Final Fantasy [was] brought up.”
Gebelli emphasized the importance of a strong technical foundation, utilizing his mastery of machine code to create complex game mechanics. His ability to develop features like Final Fantasy 3’s airship demonstrates his commitment to enhancing gameplay experience. Reflecting on his work, he suggested it could look better “if it was at least like 10% slower.”
Gebelli’s reflections provide valuable lessons for current game developers, emphasizing the importance of strong technical foundations and the willingness to explore new genres. His work on Final Fantasy not only shaped the series but also set standards in game design and programming that are still relevant today. By revisiting his contributions, enthusiasts and professionals alike can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities involved in creating enduring video game classics.
