Where to Start Your Final Fantasy Journey: A Beginner's Guide

Hello, brave adventurers! Welcome to our comprehensive guide on where to start your epic journey through the Final Fantasy series. With over 30 years of history and 15 mainline games, it can be overwhelming to decide where to begin. But fear not! We're here to help you embark on your magical, mystical, and sometimes mech-filled adventure. So, grab your Buster Sword or your Materia, and let's dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and where to start final fantasy.

The Final Fantasy Timeline: Which Game to Start With?

Before we jump into the list, let's clear up the timeline confusion. Final Fantasy games can be enjoyed in any order, but some story elements might be spoiled if you play them out of sequence. Here's a simple breakdown:

- Mainline Games (I-XV, plus remakes): These are the core games that tell their own stories, with some shared themes and characters. - Miscellaneous Games: These are spin-offs, sequels, and remakes that may or may not be directly connected to the mainline games.

Now, let's explore where to start Final Fantasy based on your preferences:

For Newcomers: Start with Final Fantasy VII Remake

If you're new to the series, the best place to start is Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020). This game serves as a reimagining of the original 1997 classic, offering an engaging story, modern gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals. It's an excellent entry point for newcomers, as it introduces many iconic characters and themes that reappear throughout the series.

Final Fantasy VII Remake tells the story of Cloud Strife, a former soldier turned mercenary, as he joins an eco-terrorist group to take down the powerful Shinra Electric Power Company. The game features a mix of real-time and turn-based combat, along with a compelling narrative that explores themes of identity, environmentalism, and corporate greed.

For Story and Character Focus: Start with Final Fantasy X

If you're looking for a more traditional JRPG experience with a focus on story and character development, Final Fantasy X (2001) is an excellent choice. This game features a captivating story set in the world of Spira, filled with memorable characters and emotional moments.

In Final Fantasy X, you play as Tidus, a young athlete from the city of Zanarkand, who teams up with a summoner named Yuna on her pilgrimage to defeat the powerful monster Sin. The game introduces the Conditional Turn-Based Battle (CTB) system, which allows players to strategize their attacks and abilities based on the enemy's actions.

For Action-Oriented Combat: Start with Final Fantasy XV

If you prefer fast-paced, action-oriented combat, look no further than Final Fantasy XV (2016). This game features a real-time battle system that allows players to seamlessly transition between exploration and combat. The story follows Prince Noctis Lucis Caelum as he embarks on a journey to reclaim his throne and save his kingdom from the forces of darkness.

Final Fantasy XV also introduces the Ascension system, which allows players to customize their characters' abilities and stats using a skill tree. Additionally, the game features an open-world design that encourages exploration and side quests.

For a Mix of Old and New: Start with Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade

If you're looking for a game that blends the classic Final Fantasy formula with modern gameplay mechanics, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade (2021) is the perfect choice. This enhanced version of the 2020 remake includes all the content from the original game, as well as new story chapters, a new playable character, and improved visuals.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade tells the same story as the original 2020 release, with the added benefit of improved performance and graphics on next-gen consoles. The game also includes the "Episode INTERmission" DLC, which focuses on the story of Yuffie Kisaragi, a character from the original game.

Honorable Mentions: Other Great Starting Points

While the games mentioned above are excellent entry points for the series, there are other fantastic games that deserve your attention. Here are a few more suggestions:

Final Fantasy VI

Considered by many to be one of the best games in the series, Final Fantasy VI (1994) features a complex and emotional story set in a world on the brink of destruction. The game introduces the iconic Active Time Battle (ATB) system, which allows players to input commands for their characters while the battle is ongoing.

Final Fantasy VI also features a memorable cast of characters, including Terra Branford, a young woman with the power to control magic, and Celes Chere, a former general turned resistance fighter. The game's story explores themes of identity, power, and the consequences of war.

Final Fantasy VIII

Final Fantasy VIII (1999) is known for its unique Junction system, which allows players to equip and upgrade weapons using the game's currency, GF Points. The game also features a compelling story set in a world on the brink of war, with a focus on character development and romance.

Final Fantasy VIII follows Squall Leonhart, a young soldier in the Balamb Garden military academy, as he joins forces with a group of mercenaries to take down a powerful sorceress named Ultimecia. The game's story explores themes of love, loss, and the power of friendship.

Final Fantasy IX

Final Fantasy IX (2000) is a return to the series' medieval fantasy roots, with a story set in a world filled with magic and monsters. The game features a classic Active Time Battle system, as well as a unique job system that allows players to customize their characters' abilities and stats.

Final Fantasy IX follows Zidane Tribal, a thief with a heart of gold, as he joins forces with a group of misfits to take down the powerful Queen Brahne. The game's story explores themes of identity, family, and the power of friendship.

Conclusion: Where to Start Your Final Fantasy Journey

So, there you have it! Our comprehensive guide on where to start your Final Fantasy journey. Whether you're a newcomer to the series or a seasoned veteran looking to revisit some classic adventures, there's a game out there for you.

Remember, the most important thing is to find the game that speaks to you and enjoy the ride. The Final Fantasy series is filled with incredible stories, memorable characters, and unforgettable moments. So, grab your controller, and let the adventure begin!

Happy gaming, and may the light of the crystals guide your way!