The Best Final Fantasy Games With No Permanent Party Members

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Summary

  • Some Final Fantasy games focused on just one hero, limiting or eliminating party members entirely.
  • Final Fantasy 14 and 16 offer experiences with minimal party interaction, but emphasize the solo journey.
  • Lightning Returns and Crisis Core highlight solo protagonists with unique mechanics, appealing to players seeking a challenge.

Ever since its launch on NES in 1987, the iconic game known as Final Fantasy has been centered around party systems. In the early days, players could construct a team of four characters, each with roles like Black Mage or Thief. This team was who they controlled throughout the game. As the series evolved, these parties became more distinct and dynamic, sometimes featuring characters that joined or left the team as the story unfolded.

In the various iterations of the Final Fantasy series, some games have deviated from the traditional party system and focused on a single protagonist. These unique entries either had no party members at all, relied on rotating characters, or allowed players to decide who was part of the group. Let’s examine these unconventional Final Fantasy games and evaluate their enjoyment factor despite lacking extensive party systems. The fewer party members in a game, the higher its ranking, alongside its overall quality.

7. Final Fantasy 14

The MMO Scene

In simpler terms, “Final Fantasy 11” and “Final Fantasy 14” are both Massively Multiplayer Online Games (MMOs) that allow for solo play, but “Final Fantasy 14” simplifies this idea with numerous quality-of-life enhancements. Players can customize their characters, from appearance to profession, and traverse a large game world without the need for a party to accompany them.

A significant aspect of enjoying Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) games like the Final Fantasy series is interacting with others, whether they are friends or new acquaintances. While it is technically possible to play these games alone, such as the FF MMOs, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles, and Final Fantasy Explorers, this goes against their fundamental design. However, it’s worth mentioning that Final Fantasy 14 caters well to those who prefer solo adventures in role-playing games (RPGs), although it may not be the optimal way to experience this MMO.

6. Final Fantasy Mystic Quest

America’s RPG

In simpler terms, Final Fantasy Mystic Quest represented North America’s unique opportunity to have a game tailored specifically for them. The main character, named Benjamin, is a warrior who enhances his abilities through the acquisition of items and weapons during his journeys, as well as the conventional method of earning EXP.

In essence, the game functions akin to the gear advancement system seen in “The Legend of Zelda,” but it is a turn-based role-playing game instead. Accompanied by a changing crew of party members, Benjamin’s journey features the nimble ninja Tristam among others. Unlike traditional games, players don’t get to decide who travels with Benjamin; instead, they are part of a two-party setup where companions join and leave according to the storyline’s twists and turns.

5. Final Fantasy 16

The Power Of Ifrit

The most recent installment of the main series is titled Final Fantasy 16, and it focuses primarily on a single protagonist named Clive. During his adventure, he’ll be joined by various party members controlled by AI, such as his companion Torgal who takes the form of a wolf.

In the story missions, Clive usually has someone to fight with him, while side content is typically meant for Clive on his own. However, the Eikon battles, which change Clive into Ifrit, are primarily solo experiences as well and undeniably the best part of the game.

4. Dirge Of Cerberus: Final Fantasy 7

Vincent’s Revenge

The game titled “Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy 7” serves as a spin-off from the original “Final Fantasy 7”. Set after both the game and movie “Final Fantasy 7: Advent Children”, it primarily follows the character, Vincent Valentine. While characters like Reeve provide support to Vincent through his communication channel, they do not physically join him in battles.

In this game, characters progress through sequential missions aimed at dismantling a Shinra offshoot called Deepground. They use an array of customizable firearms, with some levels even allowing Cait Sith to take control, but the main focus is on Vincent, reminiscent of games in the style of Devil May Cry.

3. Platinum Demo: Final Fantasy 15

Noctis’ Dream

  • Developer: Square Enix
  • Publisher: Square Enix
  • Released: March 30, 2016
  • Platforms: PS4, Xbox One

The “Platinum Demo: Final Fantasy 15” was unveiled prior to the main game’s launch, but it deviated from the conventional demo format. Instead, it presented a prequel narrative featuring a younger Noctis and his companion creature, Carbuncle, who were transported into a dream realm. The gameplay and visuals bore a resemblance to the “Kingdom Hearts” series, as Noctis was equipped with less serious weapons such as a toy hammer to minimize the graphic violence.

Despite being brief, fans were utterly enamored with the Platinum Demo, finding it even more delightful than the main game. Given their eagerness for a fresh Kingdom Hearts installment at the time, this appreciation might have been fueled. Yet, as years pass, it remains an enjoyable RPG to quickly revisit on a lazy afternoon.

2. Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy 13

Dressing For Success

Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII served as the concluding chapter in the Final Fantasy 13 series. Unlike its predecessors, this installment features only one main character – Lightning. In contrast to previous games, gameplay remains turn-based at its core, but a new aspect allows Lightning to switch between different outfits that correspond to various Jobs.

Furthermore, similar to our last game, we revisit the concept of time-travel, although it’s essentially a repeating timeline like in games such as The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask. This adds complexity to the game, but also presents a richer and more satisfying experience for those who persevere.

1. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7

Zack’s Back

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but express my enthusiasm for diving into the thrilling world of “Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7” – another captivating spin-off from the iconic series. Unlike Vincent’s side quest, this game offers a more conventional action RPG experience. Set as a prequel, it follows the story of Zack, unfolding events that take place just prior to the main game’s commencement. Despite having some backing at base, Zack’s missions were predominantly solo ventures.

In this updated version of the game for modern consoles, Zack now has his reliable set of blades at hand, along with different Materia he can combine to make unique loadouts.

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2025-06-06 01:37