Summary
- Old Final Fantasy mistranslations are referenced in the Magic: The Gathering x Final Fantasy collection.
- Errors in the text of the original Final Fantasy games frequently became memes.
- Magic: The Gathering is an homage to Garland’s famous mistranslated statement from Final Fantasy 1.
One of the first and most notorious mistranslations in the history of the video game series is referenced in the Magic: The Gathering x Final Fantasy crossover set.
With amazing screenplays and voice acting that bring the storylines to life in ways that were not possible in the previous Final Fantasy games, Square Enix puts a great deal of work into localizing the current games.
Indeed, some of the most infamous localization mistakes ever made in a video game can be found in the older Final Fantasy titles. Perhaps the most well-known of these is “You Spoony Bard,” which first appeared in Final Fantasy 2 (the English version of Final Fantasy 4 on the Super Nintendo).
The card game’s creators have been able to incorporate a wide range of fanservice and references due to the upcoming Final Fantasy set in Magic: The Gathering. One of these can be seen in a Magic: The Gathering YouTube video, where the lettering alludes to a glitch in the original Final Fantasy.
The Gathering: Magic Is Featuring Garland’s Most Famous Line
Garland was supposed to declare that he was going to slay the party, hence this is one of the first localization mistakes in the history of Final Fantasy.
An opportunity was used to use it as Garland’s official card text because he appears as one of the antagonists in the Final Fantasy x Magic: The Gathering crossover set. Yes, an error in translation from 1990 has been inherited.
Unfortunately, the Final Fantasy crossover package for Magic: The Gathering only contains the mainline games. Jack Garland could have used some extremely offensive language on his card if the spin-offs had been included, but an age rating would have to be added.
MTG Pays Homage to Infamous Final Fantasy 1 Mistranslation: A Nostalgic Nod to Gaming History
This iconic error, etched into the memories of retro gamers, has found its way into MTG’s Universes Beyond: Final Fantasy set, sparking nostalgia and laughter among fans. Let’s dive into why this reference is so special and how it bridges the gap between two legendary franchises.
The Infamous Mistranslation: “This guy are sick”
For those unfamiliar, Final Fantasy was a groundbreaking RPG that laid the foundation for the genre. However, its English localization was riddled with errors due to the limitations of the time. One of the most memorable mistakes occurs in the town of Elfheim, where a character says, “This guy are sick” instead of “This guy is sick.” The grammatical blunder became a beloved inside joke among fans, symbolizing the charm and quirks of early gaming translations.
The mistranslation wasn’t just a mistake—it was a cultural moment. It highlighted the challenges of localizing games in the 1980s, when developers had limited resources and space for text. Despite its awkwardness, the line became a hallmark of Final Fantasy’s identity, endearing itself to players who grew up with the game.
In the Universes Beyond: Final Fantasy set, MTG pays tribute to this iconic moment with a card that subtly references the infamous line. While the exact wording of the card hasn’t been revealed yet, fans speculate it could be a flavorful ability or flavor text that captures the spirit of the original mistranslation. This isn’t just a throwaway reference—it’s a celebration of gaming history and the shared memories of players who experienced Final Fantasy in its early days.
MTG’s inclusion of this reference is a testament to its ability to connect with fans on a deeper level. By acknowledging a moment that’s both humorous and historically significant, Wizards of the Coast shows its respect for the legacy of Final Fantasy and the community that has kept it alive for decades.
Why This Reference Matters
- Nostalgia Factor: For many gamers, Final Fantasy was their first introduction to RPGs. The mistranslation is a reminder of a simpler time in gaming, when even imperfections added to the charm. MTG’s reference taps into this nostalgia, creating an emotional connection with players.
- Cultural Impact: The “This guy are sick” line has transcended its origins, becoming a meme and a symbol of early gaming culture. By referencing it, MTG acknowledges its place in the broader gaming lexicon.
- Bridging Communities: MTG and Final Fantasy are two of the most influential franchises in their respective genres. This reference serves as a bridge between the two communities, inviting fans of one to explore the other.
The Legacy of Localization
The mistranslation also serves as a reminder of how far game localization has come. In the 1980s, translations were often rushed or handled by small teams with limited resources. Today, localization is a meticulous process, with teams dedicated to preserving the original intent and tone of a game. The “This guy are sick” line is a charming artifact of a bygone era, and MTG’s reference ensures it won’t be forgotten.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Gaming’s Quirks
MTG’s homage to the infamous Final Fantasy mistranslation is more than just a clever Easter egg—it’s a celebration of gaming’s history, imperfections, and the communities that keep these stories alive. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Final Fantasy, a dedicated MTG player, or both, this reference is a delightful reminder of the shared experiences that make gaming so special.
As we eagerly await the release of the Universes Beyond: Final Fantasy set, let’s raise a toast to the quirks of gaming history and the moments that bring us together. After all, as the saying goes, “This guy are sick”—and we wouldn’t have it any other way.