Square Enix Games That Mix Sci-Fi And Fantasy

Key Takeaways

Experience a nostalgic journey through iconic Final Fantasy locations with real-time combat in Stranger of Paradise.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake offers a blend of sci-fi elements with fantasy combat in the dystopian world of Midgar.
SaGa Emerald Beyond stands out with an expansive narrative, 17 paths to explore, and a fusion of sci-fi and fantasy worlds.

As a seasoned gamer with over three decades of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that Square Enix has truly outdone themselves with their captivating blend of sci-fi and fantasy genres. These games are not just for newbies or veterans to the Saga series, but for anyone who appreciates a good yarn spun across diverse worlds and timelines.

For approximately three decades now, iconic games such as Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest have catapulted Square Enix into the limelight. Over this period, they’ve expanded significantly, consistently favoring the creation of immersive, 80-hour long JRPGs, which often feature vast worlds and narratives that resonate with their respective eras in gaming.

While Square Enix may appear seasoned in the gaming industry, it’s anything but an old dog without new tricks. Instead, its extensive library is teeming with a diverse range of experimental titles, such as thrilling sci-fi shooters and chilling horror-adventure mysteries. For gamers who enjoy a blend of aliens and elves, here are some exceptional Square Enix games that seamlessly combine science fiction and fantasy.

8 Stranger Of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin

A Nostalgic Trip Through Final Fantasy Locales

For devoted fans of the Final Fantasy series, Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin will take them on a nostalgic trip as they revisit some of the game’s famous landmarks, offering an exceptional real-time combat experience that is among the finest in the series so far.

In a thrilling twist, the game Stranger of Paradise reenacts the pivotal moments preceding the first Final Fantasy, offering an intriguing perspective by allowing players to control Garland prior to his descent into villainy as the antagonist in FF1. The captivating journey of Jack Garland as he strives for chaos finds him battling hordes of advanced robotic minions and relentless sorcerers and mages alike.

7 Final Fantasy 7: Remake

A Gaming Classic, Revitalized

Among the standout games in the Final Fantasy collection, the unique atmosphere and setting of Midgar, with its gritty, futuristic vibe, offers a dystopian backdrop filled with science fiction elements. In this game, players encounter foes using dark magic and engage in combat that combines fantasy elements, all while following Cloud, a popular character known for his oversized sword, in one of the series’ most captivating narratives to date.

In a minimalist yet futuristic backdrop, we find a captivating tale woven around supernatural battles, adversaries, and sorcery. This setting serves as the foundation for a gripping storyline about defiance against oppressive rule, and Cloud’s fierce confrontation with the formidable Sephiroth.

6 Harvestella

Cozy Farming With A Hint Of Cataclysm

Harvestella, developed by Square Enix, combines elements of the burgeoning farming-fantasy genre, offering a unique blend of stunning fantasy landscapes and cosmic monster designs reminiscent of science fiction. This game is perfect for newcomers to the farming simulator realm. The main storyline revolves around Quietus, a catastrophic event from outer space that occurs during the fifth season, bringing about strange phenomena such as fog, crop failure, meteor showers, and otherworldly horrors typical of eldritch lore.

In the game Harvestella, the science fiction aspects are less prominent compared to other titles on this list. However, it still offers a captivating, space-themed magic system called Quietus that expands the world of Harvestella from earthbound landscapes and extends it into the cosmos.

5 Chrono Cross

It Takes A Village To Save The World

In “Chrono Cross,” the concept of parallel worlds serves as the core narrative, seamlessly combining the fantastical village of El Nido with distant, futuristic landscapes, eccentric scientists, and terrifying genetic aberrations. This game frequently brings to mind the legendary “Chrono Trigger,” but it quickly becomes apparent that it aims to be a unique title, distinctly different from games set in more traditionally-rooted fantasy worlds.

Additionally, it’s important to mention that while exploring the game’s mix of sci-fi and fantasy realms, players can recruit up to approximately 40 characters, many of whom are native to El Nido itself.

4 SaGa Emerald Beyond

One Hub, Seventeen Paths

Titled “SaGa Emerald Beyond”, this game is a standalone installment in the extensive SaGa series. What sets it apart is its sprawling narrative with numerous interwoven storylines. These narratives are deeply embedded within the game environment, known as the Junction, serving as a central hub for players to traverse 17 distinct realms. Each realm offers a unique blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements, making Emerald Beyond a shining example of the fusion genre. In one instant, your party could be delving into a vast forest world or a chilling realm of vampires, only to find themselves in a city that appears to span the future in the next moment.

If you’re seeking a Square Enix game that heavily emphasizes the setting, combining elements from sci-fi and fantasy genres, then you should definitely check out “Emerald Beyond“. As an independent title within the SaGa series, it invites both novice players and seasoned veterans to delve into its unique world, known as the Junction.

3 Lost Sphear

Golden Age Flavored Fantasy

In a blend that harks back to the epic fantasy worlds of ’90s JRPG classics, “Lost Sphear” combines elements of grand high fantasy with futuristic mech battles and a captivating narrative that borders on the bizarre, delving into the mysteries of magic and the destiny of the universe. The protagonist’s unique power to rejuvenate areas of the world affected by time, ranging from entire villages to the passage of day and night, merges enchanting magical elements with a touch of cosmic fiction that borders on the surreal.

In a nod to Chrono Trigger, Lost Sphear offers an experience that has sparked debate among RPG enthusiasts due to some gameplay choices. However, for those seeking a modern JRPG published by Square Enix that aims to recapture the intricate charm of ’90s role-playing games, Lost Sphear could be a worthwhile adventure to embark on.

2 Live A Live

Cave Men And Cowboys

Immersed in the captivating 2.5D artistry of Square Enix, Live a Live is a must-play for RPG enthusiasts seeking a diverse gaming experience spanning various settings and timeframes. This game masterfully combines elements of fantasy, sci-fi, prehistoric, western, kung-fu tales into one timeless adventure, expertly revamped from its exclusive Super Famicon heritage. If you’re hunting for a Square Enix title that offers a unique blend of prehistoric, western, martial arts, fantasy, and sci-fi storylines, Live a Live is the perfect pick for you.

From ancient times to stories about legendary characters, even extending into the far reaches of time, this timeless masterpiece skillfully connects its storylines that span both science fiction and fantasy genres on contemporary platforms, making it one of Square Enix’s innovative projects.

1 Star Ocean: The Second Story R

The Epitome Of Sci-Fi Fantasy

Star Ocean: The Second Story R is the epitome of Square Enix’s unique blend of fantasy and science fiction. Presented in a 2.5D format, this game follows two main characters with separate narratives. One character hails from a mystical, enchanting realm, while the other is a citizen of an interstellar Federation.

In this game, you’ll find combat that flows seamlessly, a system called “break” which encourages players to deal damage quickly, and an innovative feature called “private actions”. These elements promise an immersive experience not only in the world beneath, but also in the Federation above. If you’re a gamer who appreciates Square Enix’s intricate storytelling, extensive world-building, and stunning 2.5D visuals, this is the game tailored to your tastes.

2024-08-24 06:06