Every Final Fantasy Remake - Investment Policy

As a long-time fan who has spent countless hours immersed in the world of Final Fantasy, I must say that this list is nothing short of a rollercoaster ride of nostalgia and innovation. From the promise fulfilled with the stunningly beautiful and technically impressive Final Fantasy 7 Remake, to the thrilling adventure that continues in the City of the Ancients with Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, it’s clear that Square Enix has truly outdone themselves.

As a passionate gamer, I can’t help but notice that remakes are all the rage right now, and they’re likely to stay that way unless some major missteps happen from big-name studios. Titles like Dead Space and Resident Evil 4, for horror fans, have been nothing short of phenomenal. Even platformer enthusiasts got a treat with the remakes of classics like Crash Bandicoot and Spyro the Dragon. While some might argue these are just upgraded versions (remasters), they still deliver the nostalgia we crave.

Regardless of the perspective, production studios are capitalizing heavily on nostalgia, and this is especially true for Square Enix. Although they’ve remade specific Final Fantasy games, there have only been a total of six remakes thus far. While remasters form a significant part of their work, let’s set those aside for now and focus on the actual six remakes that Square Enix has produced.

5. Final Fantasy Origins

Combining The Two Games That Started It All

The compilation titled “Final Fantasy Origins” contained the first two games from the series, given a visual upgrade from their original NES 8-bit versions to more advanced 16-bit graphics. Notably, these games were initially remade for the WonderSwan Color, a handheld console exclusive to Japan. This collection is built upon those versions with additional improvements. What makes this collection significant for Western audiences is that it marked North America’s first opportunity to play “Final Fantasy 2” fifteen years after its initial release in Japan in 1988. Interestingly, “Final Fantasy 4” was initially known as “Final Fantasy 2” in North America, creating a disarray in the series’ chronology until “Final Fantasy 7” arrived.

In essence, though they share a name and are both esteemed titles, these two games, namely Final Fantasy and its sequel, present stark contrasts. The original Final Fantasy enabled players to assemble a team of four characters from various roles such as Monks and Black Mages, employing the conventional turn-based combat system and level progression method. In contrast, Final Fantasy 2, also known as “Final Fantasy: The Decisive Battle of the Lusitania War”, introduced named characters and a leveling system that was contingent on battle actions taken, thereby giving birth to a unique series under SquareSoft’s banner – the SaGa series. Although this PlayStation compilation may not be the ideal way to experience these games, the Game Boy Advance version of Final Fantasy 1 & 2: Dawn of Souls offers a superior gaming experience. Additionally, Final Fantasy Origins, despite being less optimal in terms of gameplay, holds historical significance within the franchise, particularly in the Western world.

4. Final Fantasy 4 (DS)

Upping The Storytelling Game

Previously, Final Fantasy 4 had been transferred to various platforms, but this particular version marked the first instance where the cherished characters were transformed into polygonal figures. This updated edition was designed for the DS and included voice acting, enhanced graphics, additional content, and gameplay adjustments. Although it wasn’t as spectacular as some console versions, the in-game cutscenes were skillfully directed. It also offered a more approachable difficulty level compared to other versions, making it an ideal starting point for newcomers to the series.

The DS served as Square Enix’s opportunity to revisit their archives and revamp their classic games at a more affordable cost. Revitalizing “Final Fantasy 4” wouldn’t have been feasible on the PS3, but it was entirely appropriate for the DS. However, fans of this game in the series would undoubtedly yearn for a future, more ambitious remake. This particular installment is significant as it advanced storytelling with a diverse and dynamic cast of characters ranging from Cecil to Tellah, making it deserving of recognition.

3. Final Fantasy 3 (DS)

The Job System Is Born

Although overall, “Final Fantasy 4” offers a more compelling gaming experience, the remake of “Final Fantasy 3” on the DS stands out as an improvement. Similar to how “Final Fantasy Origins” revived “Final Fantasy 2”, this was the first time “Final Fantasy 3” had been re-released since its initial launch in Japan in 1990. This version was the only one that ever existed, making it a lost gem until it was resurrected to appear on the DS. It’s notable as the game that introduced the Job system to the “Final Fantasy” series.

In this game, characters could master spells as a Black Mage, and subsequently apply some of those learned principles in their role as a Thief. Although it may seem simple compared to later iterations, it provided an enjoyable experience for experimentation. For enthusiasts of Final Fantasy, playing this title for the first time was particularly gratifying. Compared to Final Fantasy 4, this game required and merited a complete remake due to its somewhat awkward controls on the NES console, making it less enjoyable to revisit.

2. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Part Two And Going Strong

In simpler terms, “Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth” is the second installment of a probable trilogy of remakes. It follows on from “Final Fantasy 7 Remake,” where Cloud and his companions depart Midgar, ultimately reaching the City of the Ancients. For longtime fans of the original game, this gives an idea of the story’s progression without revealing any spoilers. The gameplay in “Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth” still focuses on action but offers improved mechanics with new party combos and the inclusion of Red 13 and Cait Sith as playable characters.

As a gamer, I can’t contain my excitement about the open-world expansion in this remake! Unlike the first part that was confined to Midgar, even with Yuffie DLC, this version offers a vast world to explore. Square Enix has truly outdone themselves by infusing so much detail and creativity into every corner of this game, from engaging mini-games to hilarious moments that’ll make you laugh out loud. It’s safe to say that it’s one of the best RPGs of 2024, but it falls slightly short compared to its legendary predecessor.

1. Final Fantasy 7 Remake

A Promise Fulfilled With A Wink

As a gamer, I’d say it’s understandable if some folks think the Final Fantasy 7 Remake is the lesser of the two remakes, given its focus on a single location, fewer playable characters, and shorter length compared to the original game. But let me tell you, this game turns those limitations into strengths! Instead of just stretching out a four or seven-hour segment from the original, they’ve crafted an immersive experience that highlights side characters like Jessie, Biggs, and Wedge from AVALANCHE.

To the astonishment of spectators, it surpassed predictions by concealing an unexpected element within. This wasn’t a conventional remake, but rather the commencement of a sequel set in a time loop that seemed appropriate given the bizarre events of the initial game. The question now is, will they successfully complete the series with the third installment? It’s uncertain, but nothing can compare to the exhilaration fans felt when they first launched this game for the first time. This was a long-awaited realization, a decade in the making, following Square Enix’s PS3 tech demo teaser of Final Fantasy 7 running on the system.

2024-12-11 08:06