Final Fantasy Games With The Best Graphics (For Their Era)

Key Takeaways

Final Fantasy 3 was a standout on the NES, offering expansive worlds, lively NPCs, and a new job system.
Final Fantasy 6 wowed players with detailed visuals, rich character development, and a breathtaking soundtrack.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake reimagined the iconic original, delivering stunning visuals, epic storytelling, and immersive gameplay.

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the fantastical worlds of Final Fantasy, I can confidently say that each new installment brings with it an unprecedented level of visual splendor and storytelling prowess. From the pre-rendered charm of Midgar in the original Final Fantasy 7 to the breathtaking vistas of the Ninth Generation’s Rebirth, the series has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in video game graphics.

The Final Fantasy series has always been regarded as the quintessential JRPG series. While Dragon Quest may be more popular in Japan, the Final Fantasy series has dominated the West with its cinematic presentation, spectacular worlds, and unforgettable storylines. There’s something special about when a Final Fantasy game is released. The series played a pivotal role in popularizing JRPGs in the West following the success of Final Fantasy 7 on the PS1, setting new standards for the genre with each subsequent release.

The “Final Fantasy” collection continues to stand tall as one of the most exceptional Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG) franchises. It leads the pack in terms of presentation, music, and character development. Despite other deserving contenders vying for the JRPG throne, and recognizing that not every installment shines equally, only a handful of studios can match the blockbuster reputation of “Final Fantasy.” A significant factor behind their triumph is the stunning visuals of the games, and among the series, these “Final Fantasy” titles are the most visually impressive for their respective periods.

8 Final Fantasy 3

The Pinnacle Of NES-Era JRPGs

Era: Third Generation

1991 saw the debut of the SNES and the much-loved Final Fantasy 4. For us die-hard fans, Final Fantasy 3 marked the swan song for this iconic 8-bit console. In this epic tale, I found myself joining the Four Heroes of Light on a quest to reestablish harmony and vanquish the ominous Cloud of Darkness that threatened our world. The narrative, while following familiar footsteps laid by its predecessors, was more polished and engaging in its execution.

In terms of size, visuals, music, and innovative job system, Final Fantasy 3 was a remarkable game that showcased the NES’s limits to its full potential. The world was vast and vibrant, with diverse settlements, and as your party progressed, more areas became accessible through various vehicles and airships. Even for an 8-bit system, it was a remarkable game, and it remains enjoyable by today’s gaming standards.

7 Final Fantasy 6

An Innovative, Stunning 16-Bit JRPG

Era: Fourth Generation

Final Fantasy VI is frequently discussed as one of the top games in the series. It was the last title to feature 2D graphics, yet it remains a timeless classic that showcased extraordinary feats on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). Only a handful of other games, such as Chrono Trigger on the SNES and Phantasy Star 4 on the Sega Genesis/Mega Drive, could rival its graphics and music.

In my gaming experience back then, this game really stood out! The towns, structures, and character models were astonishingly detailed for their time. It felt like stepping into a 3D world, which was nothing short of breathtaking. To top it off, the soundtrack was nothing less than enchanting.

6 Final Fantasy 9

Arguably The Best Looking Game On The PS1

Era: Fifth Generation

Among the beloved PlayStation era of Final Fantasy games, it’s often said that Final Fantasy 7 holds a special place, but Final Fantasy 9 stands out for its stunning visuals. Its intricately designed world and captivating character designs can easily match up to contemporary titles. In an ‘Inside Final Fantasy’ interview, the creators revealed that they drew inspiration for the character models from Jim Henson’s classic fantasy film, The Dark Crystal.

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5 Final Fantasy 10

A Generational Leap For The Series

Era: Sixth Generation

In comparison to Final Fantasy 9, Final Fantasy 10 seemed almost revolutionary just a year later on the PlayStation 2. The characters in this game were more realistically proportioned compared to the somewhat cartoonish figures in Final Fantasy 9. Additionally, it featured predominantly polygonal backdrops in open environments, and subtly combined pre-rendered elements within indoor shops and homes.

This game didn’t have an expansive open world like its past versions, and the narrative seemed more straightforward. However, it was packed with stunning cutscenes that rival some of the series’ most recent releases. In combat, Final Fantasy 10 introduced the well-received Conditional Turn-Based system, enabling players to switch characters on the fly. The intricate character animations, showcasing the use of potions and items in battles, still hold up as impressive today.

4 Final Fantasy 12

A World That Was Way Ahead Of Its Time

Era: Sixth Generation

Final Fantasy 12 was the last game in the series for the PlayStation 2, releasing in the same year as both the Xbox 360 and PS3. Despite not receiving as much recognition as other games in the long-lasting series, Final Fantasy 12 was one of the most visually impressive games on the PS2. Compared to Final Fantasy 10, it felt more expansive with enemies visible before battles commenced.

In the remastered version of “Final Fantasy 12: The Zodiac Age”, the world and character designs continue to be visually impressive. While there have been updates like enhancing the Zodiac Job System and improving resolution, the overall game remains largely unchanged. However, these modifications reveal just how refined the PlayStation 2 original version was.

3 Final Fantasy 13-2

A Stunning Title With Improvements Over The Original

Era: Seventh Generation

Despite being a stunning game, “Final Fantasy 13” is undeniably one of the most contentious titles in the series. While its combat system was impressive, it seemed like a regression compared to “Final Fantasy 12.” The sense of freedom and exploration was traded for a more linear journey, with no towns to explore or diversions from the main narrative. In an effort to assuage fans’ discontent, “Final Fantasy 13-2” extends the trilogy and offers a more authentic JRPG experience, packed with additional activities.

In terms of visual appeal, Final Fantasy 13-2 is a breathtaking game, boasting enhancements over its predecessor that set it apart as one of the most visually stunning games from the PS3/360 era. Compared to part three, Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy 13, this installment is more visually striking, but with a captivating main character and a cinematic ambiance, playing through the entire trilogy is highly recommended due to its exceptional quality.

2 Final Fantasy 7 Remake

A Stunning Reimagining Of The Iconic Entry

Era: Eighth Generation

The remake of Final Fantasy 7 achieved the unthinkable by satisfying longtime fans while simultaneously attracting new ones. It refreshed the PS1 classic yet deviated from its original storyline, presenting an alternate timeline similar to Star Trek’s Mirror Universe. The opening city of Midgar, once a pre-rendered beauty, was transformed into a fully explorable metropolis, setting the stage for an epic tale. This marks the beginning of a monumental trilogy.

The intricately designed universe within the “Final Fantasy 7 Remake” was an astounding feat on the PlayStation 4, and despite being upgraded for the PlayStation 5, it continues to stand tall. With its breathtaking landscapes, captivating character designs, and remarkable soundtrack, the remake outshines “Final Fantasy 15,” which debuted around the same time, in terms of visual polish.

1 Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

One Of The Best-Looking Games On The PS5

Era: Ninth Generation

As a dedicated PlayStation 5 enthusiast, I’ve been absolutely thrilled by the arrival of two standout titles: “Final Fantasy 16” and the long-awaited “Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth”. While both games are undeniably captivating, there’s something about “Final Fantasy 16” that feels a bit monochrome next to the vibrant, immersive world of “Rebirth”. The latter boasts a colossal, exquisitely crafted universe brimming with narrative depth and rich lore.

Remarkable landmarks such as Kalm Town and the Golden Saucer have been vividly depicted, providing expansive spaces to traverse, brimming with various activities and sub-quests. The gameplay is seamless, the soundtrack is captivating, and the character designs are stunning. Final Fantasy Rebirth stands as one of the most impressive installments in the franchise.

2024-11-11 06:34