Final Fantasy Games: Ranked by Ultimate Gameplay!

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Summary

  • Final Fantasy 3 introduced the Job system with swappable mechanics for engaging gameplay.
  • Theatrhythm Final Bar Line honors Final Fantasy music with easy-to-understand rhythm gameplay.
  • Final Fantasy Tactics is a thinking man’s game, offering engaging strategy like no other.

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve got to say that each installment in the Final Fantasy franchise is revolutionary in its own right. The original game was initially perceived as a standalone gem, but it ended up leaving an indelible mark on gaming history. For instance, Final Fantasy 3 introduced the Job system, a unique mechanic that allowed for swappable roles, while Final Fantasy 7 was instrumental in drawing more gamers into the RPG genre and cementing the PS1’s position as the console of choice during its era.

The influence of the Final Fantasy series on video game history is vast, leading us to ponder. Which games, both mainline entries and spin-offs, possess the most compelling gameplay loops? Setting aside storylines and graphics, let’s focus on games that remain entertaining to play, and rank them accordingly.

8. Theatrhythm Final Bar Line

Nostalgia Through Music

Theatrhythm Final Bar Line

Description: This latest addition to the Theatrhythm series, our third instalment excluding the Dragon Quest spinoff, invites players on a journey through various stages inspired by the franchise’s music. You can assemble a team and battle enemies in sync with the rhythm. Previous experience with rhythm games should make this game easy to grasp, and its difficulty level is moderate. This game is ideal for fans who adore Final Fantasy tunes and Square Enix music in general, as it also pays tribute to other franchises within the series.

7. Final Fantasy Explorers

Monster Hunter Lite

Final Fantasy Explorers was an endeavor by Square Enix to develop a game similar to Monster Hunter. Despite not achieving massive success or establishing a spin-off series, those who played it appreciated the engaging gameplay mechanics. In this game, players could customize their characters and then embark on monster hunting adventures.

harvested components could be utilized to craft fresh weapons and armor, enabling players to subsequently confront tougher adversaries. This game was less demanding in terms of repetitive leveling, making it an ideal choice for beginners in the action RPG subgenre of Monster Hunter. Despite this, it remains enjoyable to play with friends, even though support has diminished since its release on the 3DS platform.

6. World of Final Fantasy

The Power Of Pokemon

Several games within this series feature elements of monster-catching similar to the beloved Pokémon series. Among them, “World of Final Fantasy” stands out as a remarkable choice and more than just a replica of Pokémon, it serves as a tribute to the entire Final Fantasy franchise.

In this game, you traverse through a variety of universes where adorable versions of popular characters live, including Cloud from Final Fantasy 7. Battles are turn-based, allowing you to mount or pile monsters on your character’s head to unleash consecutive combos. Despite its peculiarities, it’s surprisingly simple to grasp and becomes addictive rather quickly.

5. Stranger Of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin

A Simpler Soulslike

Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin is the result of a partnership between Koei Tecmo’s Team Ninja and Square Enix. This game aimed to offer an accessible entry within the Soulslike genre, which appears resistant to difficulty levels. For instance, it includes adjustable difficulty settings, a feature that seems uncommon in this sub-RPG category.

In addition to hoards of treasures to gather in dungeons, there were roles or professions to explore. The main character, Jack, has the ability to master any profession, whereas his companions can only learn a limited number. Players have the option to complete their missions solo or join forces with friends online through cooperative play.

4. Final Fantasy Tactics

Chess Meets RPG

On the PlayStation 1, the original Final Fantasy Tactics remains technically superior, despite its occasional glitches. The PSP version, titled Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions, expanded content and improved the script, but suffered from performance issues. Although the original is not without its bugs, it delivers a captivating strategy game experience unmatched by others.

The narrative unfolds along a primary route, but players are free to traverse various locations and undertake assorted tasks on an expansive world map. They can personalize their in-game characters and recruit temporary ones who come equipped with gear and numerous Job options. With multiple strategies available for each conflict, Final Fantasy Tactics stands out as a strategist’s dream among the Final Fantasy series.

3. Final Fantasy 10

Did It For The Blitzball

Final Fantasy X left quite an impression when it debuted on the PlayStation 2. Its graphics and voice acting were highly acclaimed, especially considering that it was one of the early games released during the PS2’s life span. It not only garnered praise for its quality but also marked a significant departure from the series’ traditional battle system and world exploration methods.

The Sphere Grid streamlined experience points acquisition instead of traditional grinding, intricate puzzles were a key feature within dungeons, it transitioned from an open world setting to being linear, and characters could be exchanged during battles. The most notable side activity, Blitzball, was woven into the narrative, offering a compelling reason to play this game independently.

2. Final Fantasy 9

Every Character Matters

Final Fantasy 9 marked the farewell to the original style of role-playing games from the PS1 era within the Final Fantasy series. It harkened back to the classic roots of RPGs, as seen on the NES, but with a sense of vitality and maturity that surpassed later installments. The game employed a traditional turn-based combat system set in a fantasy realm, yet it managed to feel more polished and established than its successors.

Apart from its distinctive elements, the series introduced mechanics that were never revisited, giving it a unique touch. The party often split up, allowing players to decide which characters to follow. Additionally, there was the Chocobo Hot and Cold mini-game for globe-trotting adventures, as well as Tetra Master, a card game. For many fans, this particular installment is considered the most idyllic in the series.

1. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

A Love Letter To The Original And Series As A Whole

The game, titled “Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth,” is the second installment in the trilogy remake of “Final Fantasy 7.” Compared to its predecessor, “Final Fantasy 7 Remake,” the combat system has been improved with better flow. Additionally, players are given more weapons and Materia to utilize, along with the ability to control new characters such as Red 13 and Cait Sith.

With the world reopened, there’s an abundance of activities at hand – from delving into hidden caves, to mastering Summon techniques, and completing various side missions. The game is bursting with mini-games, creating an impression as if the entire franchise has made a triumphant comeback. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth promises to set a high standard in numerous aspects.

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2025-03-20 07:34