The Best Final Fantasy Games You Can't Miss, Guys!
Hello, fellow gaming enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the magical world of Final Fantasy, a series that's been enthralling gamers since 1987. With over a dozen main entries and countless spin-offs, it's no easy task to pick the best Final Fantasy games. But fear not, we've sifted through the pile to bring you the crème de la crème. So, grab your Chocobos and let's embark on this epic journey! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and good final fantasy games.
A Brief History of Final Fantasy
Before we dive into the best Final Fantasy games, let's take a quick look at where it all began. Final Fantasy was created by Hironobu Sakaguchi and his team at Square (now Square Enix) as a last-ditch effort to keep the company afloat. The name was a reflection of Sakaguchi's feelings that, if this game failed, it would be his "last" project and the "final fantasy" for the company. Luckily, it was anything but the end, and the series has since become one of the most iconic and successful in gaming history.
The Best Final Fantasy Games: A Top 10 List
Now, without further ado, let's get to the meat and potatoes. Here are the top 10 Final Fantasy games that you simply must play:
1. Final Fantasy VII (1997)
Kicking off our list is the game that brought Final Fantasy to the mainstream and introduced us to the iconic Cloud Strife. Final Fantasy VII is a masterclass in storytelling, with a complex narrative that's equal parts epic and emotional. The Active Time Battle system was a game-changer, and the iconic soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu is still beloved today. Plus, who can resist the charm of a giant, sentient monster named Cait Sith?
2. Final Fantasy VI (1994)
Before Final Fantasy VII stole our hearts, there was Final Fantasy VI. This game is often hailed as one of the best in the series, with a sprawling world to explore, a memorable cast of characters, and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack. The opera scene alone is worth the price of admission. Final Fantasy VI also introduced the concept of "Espers," powerful magical beings that players could summon to aid them in battle.
3. Final Fantasy IX (2000)
Final Fantasy IX is a love letter to the classic JRPG formula, with a whimsical story, charming characters, and a touch of humor that's often missing from the series. The Active Time Event system allowed players to interact with the world and learn more about the characters, while the Job System added depth to the combat. Plus, who could resist the adorable Zidane Tribal and his mechanical sidekick, Vivi?
4. Final Fantasy X (2001)
Final Fantasy X brought the series into the new millennium with stunning visuals, an engaging story, and a unique battle system called the Conditional Turn-Based Battle. The Sphere Grid system allowed for deep customization of characters, and the game's focus on friendship and love made it a standout in the series. Plus, who can forget the iconic opening sequence, with its hauntingly beautiful music and stirring words?
5. Final Fantasy XII (2006)
Final Fantasy XII introduced a new Active Dimension Battle system, which allowed players to control their party members' actions in real-time. The game's vast world was filled with secrets to discover and treasures to find, and the story was a political drama that was equal parts intrigue and action. The game's soundtrack was also a standout, with a more orchestral sound than previous entries.
6. Final Fantasy XV (2016)
Final Fantasy XV was a long time coming, with development spanning over a decade. The game was a departure from the traditional JRPG formula, with a focus on real-time combat and an open world to explore. The story followed a group of friends on a road trip, with a mix of humor, action, and drama that made it a unique entry in the series. The game's visuals were also a standout, with stunning landscapes and detailed character models.
7. Final Fantasy Tactics (1997)
Final Fantasy Tactics was a tactical RPG spin-off that introduced a complex job system and deep, strategic gameplay. The story was a political drama set in the fictional kingdom of Ivalice, and the game's unique art style and dark tone set it apart from the main series. Final Fantasy Tactics was a critical and commercial success, and it remains one of the most beloved spin-offs in the series.
8. Final Fantasy VIII (1999)
Final Fantasy VIII was a departure from the traditional fantasy setting of the series, with a story set in a futuristic world filled with sci-fi elements. The game introduced the Junction system, which allowed players to equip magical abilities to their characters' stats, and the Guardian Force system, which allowed players to summon powerful creatures to aid them in battle. The game's story was a complex and emotional tale of love, loss, and betrayal, and it remains a fan favorite to this day.
9. Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn (2013)
Final Fantasy XIV started life as a bit of a mess, but a complete overhaul and re-release turned it into one of the best MMORPGs on the market. The game features a rich story, engaging gameplay, and a vast world to explore. The game's soundtrack is also a standout, with a mix of orchestral and electronic music that's both epic and catchy.
10. Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age (2017)
Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age was a remaster of the original Final Fantasy XII, with improved graphics, a remastered soundtrack, and new features like the Zodiac Job System. The game's vast world was filled with secrets to discover and treasures to find, and the story was a political drama that was equal parts intrigue and action. The game's soundtrack was also a standout, with a more orchestral sound than previous entries.
Honorable Mentions
While the above games are our top picks, there are plenty of other Final Fantasy games worth playing. Here are a few honorable mentions:
Final Fantasy III (1990) - The first Final Fantasy game to be released outside of Japan, III introduced the job system that would become a staple of the series. Final Fantasy IV (1991) - IV is often hailed as one of the first JRPGs to feature a complex and emotional story, with a cast of characters that are still beloved today. Final Fantasy VIII (1999) - While VIII may not have made our top 10 list, it's still a worthy entry in the series, with a unique setting and a complex story. Final Fantasy XIII (2009) - XIII was a divisive entry in the series, with a focus on linear storytelling and a new combat system. While it may not be a favorite among fans, it's still a unique and engaging experience. * Final Fantasy XV (2016) - While XV made our top 10 list, it's worth mentioning that the game's story was expanded upon in a series of DLC packs, which added depth and context to the main story.
The Future of Final Fantasy
With over a dozen main entries and countless spin-offs, the Final Fantasy series shows no signs of slowing down. The latest entry, Final Fantasy XVI, is currently in development for the PlayStation 5, and it promises to be a return to the series' medieval fantasy roots. The game was first revealed at the PlayStation Showcase event in 2020, and it's set to be a dark and mature tale of war and politics.
Conclusion
And there you have it, guys! Our definitive list of the best Final Fantasy games. Whether you're a series veteran or a newcomer looking to dive in, there's something on this list for everyone. So, grab your Buster Sword, summon your Bahamut, and get ready to embark on an epic journey through the world of Final Fantasy. Until next time, happy gaming!
Word Count: 1500