Summary
- Final Fantasy franchise has seen quality games post 2000 merger, with some titles making a huge impact even today.
- Final Fantasy 13 was groundbreaking, despite divisive opinion, mainly due to the rewarding gameplay post-linearity.
- Final Fantasy Tactics stands out for its challenging tactical combat and enhanced PSP version that still holds up well.
Final Fantasy's history in the gaming industry is legendary, with fans being graced by some incredible titles that are in a class of their own. From amazing turn-based games to admirable attempts at replicating real-time combat, the franchise has seen it all and then some.
5 Weakest Gods In Final Fantasy Games, Ranked
They might be gods, but they're far from being the strongest. Here are the Final Fantasy deities that lack power compared to others.
With the SquareSoft and Enix merger being cemented in the early 2000s, the company devoted extra resources to developing a wave of quality Final Fantasy games, spinoffs, and remakes, among other things. The best ones of the bunch made a huge splash around twenty years ago and are still talked about fondly by fans to this day.
8 Final Fantasy 13
The Most Divisive Game In The Series
Final Fantasy 13
- Released
- March 9, 2010
WHERE TO PLAY
The strong emotions caused by the mere mention of Final Fantasy 13 make it clear that this title made a major impact back when it launched. It was the first title in the series to be launched on the Xbox, which was already major news back in the day.
While the weird story, confusing jargon, divisive character writing, and a focus on linearity didn't sit right with many, Final Fantasy 13 rewarded players for sticking with it in the long run. The game feels amazing once players reach Gran Pulse, allowing them to finally change their party makeup and explore the world freely instead of having their hand held throughout the experience.
7 Final Fantasy 10-2
A Bombastic And Energetic Sequel That Continues Yuna's Adventures
Final Fantasy X-2
- Released
- November 18, 2003
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- t
- Developer(s)
- Square Product Development Division 1
- Genre(s)
- JRPG
Final Fantasy 10-2 is the sequel no one wanted, especially given how beautiful the predecessor's ending was. However, once fans got their hands on this title, they were elated to see just how engaging the combat system was.
Any Final Fantasy game with a robust job system is bound to excite the masses, and Final Fantasy 10-2 didn't disappoint in this regard. Players could switch dresspheres on the fly and employ techniques to smash their enemies with ease.
6 Dissidia Final Fantasy
The Spinoff Fighting Game That Had No Business Being So Good
Dissidia Final Fantasy
- Released
- August 25, 2009
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- t
- Developer(s)
- Square Enix
- Genre(s)
- Fighting
- Platform(s)
- PSP
No one expected Dissidia Final Fantasy to establish itself as one of the greatest Final Fantasy games fans could enjoy on the PSP. This game brings the heroes and villains of multiple Final Fantasy games together in an epic struggle between Chaos and Cosmos.
Final Fantasy: Characters Who Died Too Quickly In Their Games
Not all Final Fantasy characters live long enough to see the credits roll. Here are some examples who died far too quickly.
Players must improve their skills and masterfully balance Bravery and HP attacks to take out their opponent in style. Fights become really tough later on, urging players to master defensive moves instead of staying on the offense all the time.
5 Final Fantasy 12
Boasts An Epic Story Full Of Political Intrigue
Final Fantasy 12
- Released
- October 31, 2006
WHERE TO PLAY
Final Fantasy 12's epic story will enrapture fans in no time. Even if Vaan may not be the best protagonist in the series, the game almost structures itself as an ensemble cast and gives everyone the time to shine.
The focus on hunts coupled with the grand narrative made Final Fantasy 12 one of the best games on the PS2. The Gambit system was somewhat worth mastering if players wanted to micromanage every action that their AI-controlled party members performed in combat.
4 Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7
A Prequel With Amazing Real-Time Combat And An Emotional Story
Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7
- Released
- March 24, 2008
- ESRB
- Teen // Blood, Mild Language, Mild Suggestive Themes, Violence
- Developer(s)
- Square Enix
- Genre(s)
- Action RPG
- Platform(s)
- PlayStation Portable
Crisis Core is an amazing Final Fantasy game that had no business being so compelling. Fans accusing this title of being yet another attempt to cash in on Final Fantasy 7's allure swallowed their words after seeing just how incredible this adventure was.
Zack Fair is a lovable protagonist who is deeply loyal to his friends, which leads to a tragic ending that will make fans tear up. It also explores Cloud's backstory and the events leading to his memories being addled before the events of Final Fantasy 7.
3 Final Fantasy 9
A Charming Mix Of Old And New Final Fantasy
Final Fantasy 9
- Released
- July 7, 2000
WHERE TO PLAY
One of the most charming Final Fantasy games fans can get their hands on, the ninth mainline entry boasts some of the best Final Fantasy party members of all time. Characters like Zidane, Garnet, Steiner, Vivi, and Eiko will have a strong impact on fans who love the charming translation of this game.
Best Final Fantasy Games That Explore The Most Mature Themes, Ranked
The Final Fantasy franchise has had everything from wacky to cute to grim and mature. When it comes to the latter, these games take the crown.
From enacting theatrical battles to fighting for the fate of the world, Final Fantasy 9 constantly wows fans by paying respect to the series' roots. It may be less spectacular than the titles that preceded it, but that should take nothing away from the sheer quality oozing out of every pore in Final Fantasy 9.
2 Final Fantasy Tactics: The War Of The Lions
An Updated Version Of One Of The Best Strategy Video Games
Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions
- Released
- May 10, 2007
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- t
- Developer(s)
- Square Enix, Tose
- Genre(s)
- Tactical
It's a testament to the quality of Final Fantasy Tactics that it still held up when it received an enhanced release on the PSP. The tactical combat is quite challenging but worth powering through once fans understand how to make the most of a bad situation.
Mastering jobs and leveling up is a must for players who don't want to be decimated by the various infamous difficulty spikes in the game. Thankfully, the amazing story more than makes up for its drawbacks and ensures that fans will have a great time with Final Fantasy Tactics when they're done with this adventure.
1 Final Fantasy 10
Arguably The Best Title In The Series
Final Fantasy 10
- Released
- December 17, 2001
WHERE TO PLAY
- ESRB
- T for Teen: Mild Blood, Mild Suggestive Themes, Violence
- Developer(s)
- Square Enix
- Genre(s)
- JRPG
- Platform(s)
- PS2
To this day, many fans swear by the fact that Final Fantasy 10 is the peak of this series. This is hefty praise that is justified when fans check out this title and see just how ahead of its time the game was in the context of JRPGs.
Smooth party-switching, a Sphere Grid that looked complicated but was deceptively simple, and a story for the ages elevated Final Fantasy 10 to legendary status. Despite being a bit too overbearing at the start, fans will shed tears for Tidus and appreciate his dogged nature by the time this game draws to a close.
8 Final Fantasy Games That Exceeded Expectations
The Final Fantasy series is one of the most prestigious in gaming. With a high bar, these entries managed to surpass fan expectations.