6 Best Equipment Systems In Final Fantasy Games, Ranked

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that the equipment systems in the Final Fantasy series have always been a unique blend of innovation and nostalgia. Each game offers a distinct approach to character customization, making every playthrough feel fresh and engaging.

One delightful aspect of the Final Fantasy series lies in its ongoing innovation. Unlike the fans of Dragon Quest, who seem content with recurring menus and monsters, the creators of Final Fantasy strive to surpass their previous work each time by introducing fresh elements. This is evident in the new worlds, distinct characters, varied battle systems, and more.

In this universe, equipment can transition across roles, encompassing spin-offs as well. The Final Fantasy series doesn’t boast complex weapon and armor systems like other RPGs, but certain ones leave a lasting impression. These will be evaluated based on their originality and user-friendliness.

6. Final Fantasy 10

Adding Abilities To Gear

In the game “Final Fantasy 10”, it was the first main series installment that introduced an element resembling a loot system. Following a battle, players could receive weapons or armlets to utilize. These acquisitions were usually similar, but they came with distinct abilities, making the rewards more intriguing and thrilling.

As a devoted fan, I found it fascinating how Tidus’ sword could be enhanced with additional power or defense in Final Fantasy. Moreover, the option to tailor gear with abilities later on added an extra layer of excitement. This customization system was intriguing and made the game even more engaging. But that wasn’t the only thing that set it apart – the level-up system via Sphere Grid was equally unique, offering a fresh take on traditional RPG mechanics.

5. Final Fantasy 16

Switching Things Up

The upgrade system for weapons and equipment in Final Fantasy 16 was quite straightforward. You, as a player, could control only one character, named Clive, who primarily wielded swords. Significant events within the game would grant you new swords that could be enhanced.

As a gamer, I could venture off on side missions to gather materials and craft fresh weapons – not just your run-of-the-mill RPG equipment. In Final Fantasy 16, there’s an exciting twist: instead of summons, Clive has these powerful entities known as Eikons at his disposal. Transforming him in combat from the colossal strength of Titan to the swiftness of Garuda is just a summon away! To make things even more thrilling, I can upgrade these abilities through a skill tree, further enhancing my character, all while keeping the gear system as a backbone for progression.

4. Final Fantasy 7 Remake

Leveling Up What Came Before

In the initial version of “Final Fantasy 7”, weapons and armor enhanced characters’ stats and provided spaces for Materia to be inserted. However, there were no options to enhance equipment. This was altered in the “Final Fantasy 7 Remake”. Each weapon within the remake is now upgradeable, and each comes with its own skill tree.

This skill tree provides opportunities for additional Materia slots and enhances stats such as HP. Every weapon comes with an associated skill that players can learn. For instance, Cloud’s famous Buster Sword grants him the Focused Thrust ability, which adds an interactive element to weapon usage beyond just purchasing items in a store, as it increases numerical values.

3. Final Fantasy 9

Learning From Equipment

In Final Fantasy 9, the method of granting characters skills was distinctively tied to the equipment system, much like in the remake of Final Fantasy 7, yet it went beyond just weapons; armor and accessories were included as well. The weapons and armor were infused with abilities, but not every character could master every skill. For instance, a robe might have Black or White magic embedded within it.

Giving Dagger the robe would enable her to cast White Mage spells, whereas Vivi would acquire Black Mage spells upon receiving it. Once mastered, these abilities could be utilized without wearing the armor, offering players additional motivations for gear selection beyond mere stat increases, as seen in many previous RPGs. This method of learning magic and acquiring skills was an engaging approach to enriching battles.

2. Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin

The All Mighty Loot

Final Fantasy 10 initiated the concept of loot, but it was significantly amplified in Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin. This spinoff took the original Final Fantasy game and transformed it from a traditional turn-based RPG to an action game with mechanics similar to Souls games and loot systems like Diablo. Additionally, it introduced cooperative play as a new feature for the series.

In a dungeon, players might find numerous weapons and armor with minor variations – from enhancements to skills. While these items may sometimes be less useful, they contribute to the overall system. Playing can provide a hit of dopamine as you strive for rare loot. It’s also worth noting that in this game, Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin, equipment is tied to jobs, and there are many jobs available for selection.

1. Final Fantasy Explorers

A Lighter Monster Hunter Experience

In the Final Fantasy series, it’s Final Fantasy Explorers that stands out for making gear acquisition feel satisfying. This spin-off title might be seen as Square Enix’s response to the popularity of the Monster Hunter series. Players are given the opportunity to design their own character, select a profession, and then embark on an exciting journey into the unknown.

In this game, monsters would leave behind materials that could be utilized for crafting equipment back in town. The most effective armor and weapons were linked to loot drops from tougher opponents, so players had to put in a bit of effort to obtain what they required. This was much like the game Monster Hunter, where dedication paid off as it took commitment to become the greatest warrior in Final Fantasy Explorers. The challenge and time invested made the risk and reward worthwhile.

2024-12-04 11:34