Discover the Top Sci-Fi Final Fantasy Games You Never Knew You Needed to Play!

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Summary

  • Final Fantasy games blend sci-fi with fantasy, exploring themes like innovation vs. nature & hidden costs of progress.
  • Final Fantasy 15 offers a grounded depiction of a modern world with sci-fi elements intertwined in an intimate journey.
  • Final Fantasy 7 presents an iconic cyberpunk setting in Midgar, highlighting the power imbalance between corporations and society.

Although the title suggests it, the “Final Fantasy” series has chosen to veer away from traditional fantasy settings like wizardry, castles, and battleaxes. Instead, it delves into the vibrant realm of science fiction. However, magic and myth continue to be integral elements in these futuristic narratives, coexisting harmoniously with diesel engines and fictional computers.

However, “Final Fantasy” video games aren’t just about introducing futuristic elements for aesthetic purposes, but offer unique perspectives on the speculative-tech genre. These games tackle various themes such as the balance between innovation and nature, the impact of technology on human experience, and the potential drawbacks of progress driven by machine masters. The following “Final Fantasy” games are highly regarded for their strong science fiction elements, both in terms of visual style and narrative themes.

6. Final Fantasy 15

Grounded Fantasy With Smatterings Of Science Fiction

After exploring elaborate realms in both high fantasy and advanced technology, Final Fantasy 15 feels remarkably relatable due to its earthy vibe. Instead of immersing players in a bewilderingly distinct universe, Eos could be perceived as a reflection of the contemporary era, embellished with a touch of futuristic elements.

In the world of Final Fantasy 15, you’ll encounter magitek soldiers, airships, and even flying cars. However, these futuristic elements serve as a backdrop to the heartfelt exploration of characters’ growth and the relationships that develop along the way. While there are grand sci-fi spectacles scattered throughout the game, Eos is a setting that combines the familiar with science fiction accents.

5. Final Fantasy 10 / 10-2

The Sci-Fi Post-Apocalypse With A Spiritual Journey

In simpler terms, it can be challenging to imagine a post-apocalyptic fantasy setting because they often seem old-fashioned or primitive compared to our modern world. However, the beginning of Final Fantasy 10 is set in the advanced city of Zanarkand and features a main character who seems familiar with our own reality. He might even find this world lacking in technology for shaping water.

From Tidus’ viewpoint, players can join him in witnessing a once advanced world of science and technology being reduced to bare subsistence amidst constant devastation. Along his voyage through Spira, Tidus comes across numerous ancient artifacts, ruins, and vehicles that eventually get utilized against Sin. The story’s core message revolves around the peril posed by technological advancement to all mankind. Each ruin acts as a poignant reminder of its downfall during an era of rapid progress, with its demise being caused by overconfidence in civilization’s abilities.

4. Final Fantasy 6

Power, Steampunk, Balance, And Ruin

The initial exploration of a technologically advanced setting in the series was relatively cautious compared to subsequent installments. Reminiscently, Final Fantasy VI‘s World of Balance appears to be undergoing a magical-industrial evolution. The scenery is reshaped by steam-and-aether engines, which hold the power to disrupt the natural balance.

The “Final Fantasy” series has historically explored technology in various forms, such as the iconic spaceship in the original’s final act. Although later entries may delve deeper into the effects of technology, the chaotic evil villain Kefka, from earlier games, was driven mad due to experiments combining magic and technology, which led him to develop a disordered personality and an insatiable hunger for power.

3. Final Fantasy 13

Inequal Worlds Of Utopia And Dystopia

The trilogy based on the game “Final Fantasy 13” has both supporters and critics, but it’s hard to deny its strong influence on science fiction, particularly in visual aesthetics. Its narrative explores themes such as deception, manipulation, enslavement (of humans and beasts), artificial intelligence, and systemic inequalities. These themes are integral to the storyline, and when viewed favorably, they can even be seen in its linear gameplay design.

Although many people find its world and background hard to understand, those who venture into its logs will discover a captivating sci-fi atmosphere that harmonizes beautifully with its impressive graphics. The subsequent games in the trilogy further dive deep into science fiction concepts, like time travel and alternate realities.

2. Final Fantasy 8

Bright, High-Tech Futurism

Although commonly referred to as a “romance” title, Final Fantasy 8 doesn’t hesitate to integrate science fiction prominently into its storyline. While the romantic aspect could hold its own in a fantasy setting, it demonstrates that science fiction can be just as emotionally resonant without feeling cold or impersonal. The game stands out with its stunningly detailed pre-rendered backgrounds, offering an immersive experience in a world richer and more expansive than any other gaming world at the time, and still among the most intricate today.

Unlike its two predecessors, Final Fantasy 8 deviates from the pattern of delving deeper into the sci-fi genre. Instead, it introduces an optimistic (albeit occasionally troubled by war) world that exudes intricate thoughtfulness and vibrant colors in its aesthetics. The world’s design, encompassing architecture, vehicles, and fashion, maintains a consistent theme of cleanliness, sophistication, and modest futurism, hinting at a focus on human comfort, even amidst the ever-present threats of war and oppressive sorcery.

1. Final Fantasy 7

The Cyberpunk Standout

The sci-fi game that typically pops into the minds of most Final Fantasy enthusiasts is undeniably Final Fantasy 7. Few settings can match the iconic status of Midgar, which dominates much of its initial act. This sprawling dystopian cityscape, fueled by Shinra’s Mako reactors, evokes a strong cyberpunk feel with its looming industrial zones, neon-illuminated slums, and a society torn apart by inequality in wealth and power.

In Final Fantasy 7, you’ll encounter numerous science-fiction elements interwoven throughout, such as biotechnology projects like Sephiroth and Jenova, the Sister Ray cannon, and colossal cyborg guardians known as WEAPONs. The game not only boasts intricate sci-fi world-building but also seamlessly integrates this setting into its narrative. A significant part of the story in Final Fantasy 7 revolves around the power disparity between corporations and those left behind, as well as the environmental destruction caused by their relentless pursuit of profit.

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2025-02-01 03:40