Top 8 Final Fantasy Games Newcomers Should Avoid at All Costs!

Summary

Final Fantasy 8’s unique Junction system can be overwhelming and not representative of the series.
Final Fantasy 10-2 is action-packed, lighter on story, and experimental, better enjoyed after other entries.
Final Fantasy 2 is grind-heavy, less creative, and may underwhelm newcomers, better suited for returning fans.

Newcomers to the widely acclaimed Final Fantasy video game series might find themselves turned off by their initial experience if the chosen game proves too challenging or uncomfortable for them to appreciate fully. Given the wide array of unique mechanics that distinguish each Final Fantasy title, it’s understandable why not every game may be easily approachable.

These games aren’t necessarily poor choices, but they might be more suitable for players to explore later, as they offer a unique and challenging experience that can be appreciated better with some familiarity. It’s worth noting that while many Final Fantasy games cater to beginners, the ones mentioned here could potentially be too complex for first-time series enthusiasts.

8. Final Fantasy 8

The Junction System Is A Tricky Mechanic Which Isn’t Representative Of The Rest Of The Series

In Final Fantasy 8, the magic system deviates significantly from other games in the series. Rather than armor, players will find themselves wielding magic to boost certain stats and acquire skills. This allows for more versatile use of magic beyond just casting spells. However, this is merely the beginning of how intricate this mechanic becomes, and due to the game’s less-than-perfect explanation, newcomers might feel overwhelmed when they encounter it during the initial hours of play.

In Final Fantasy 8, there’s a distinctive feature: enemies adjust their level to match the player, making it difficult to grind for experience points, which is a key aspect of the series’ typical gameplay pattern. Since Final Fantasy 8 significantly alters the traditional structure, it’s recommended to play some other games in the series first before diving into this one for an optimal experience.

7. Final Fantasy 10-2

This Experimental Direct Sequel To Final Fantasy 10 Can Intimidate Newcomers In Its Bizarre First Few Hours

Although the Final Fantasy series doesn’t have many direct sequels, some of them are relatively accessible for newcomers, such as Final Fantasy 13-2. However, unlike that game, Final Fantasy 10-2 can be a tough sell initially, particularly because it’s quite demanding in terms of gameplay. This game is packed with action from start to finish and has a lighter narrative compared to other mainline games in the series.

In this game, there will only be three party members, which may seem limiting compared to what fans are accustomed to. However, such changes fit well with the idea that 10-2 is an experimental title, allowing developers to innovate and modify the gameplay mechanics from the original Final Fantasy 10, ultimately leading to a significantly different gaming experience.

6. Final Fantasy 2

Final Fantasy 2 Can Feel A Little Underwhelming For Those Who Are Hyped For Diving Into The Series

Although Final Fantasy 2 may be briefer than the initial installment in terms of total playtime, it’s also quite demanding when it comes to grinding, a factor that can amplify its difficulty level. Furthermore, the creativity in the game’s environments, particularly within the dungeons, seems somewhat limited; many rooms appear identical, creating an overwhelming sense of navigating through a colossal labyrinth. The leveling system for weapon spells may also feel repetitive and dull to novice players, potentially deterring their interest.

Longtime fans of Final Fantasy may revisit the second installment for nostalgia reasons, but the first game might not be as appealing to newcomers. Nevertheless, it offers a good cast of characters, memorable tunes, and tough combat encounters that make it worth exploring.

5. Stranger Of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin

This ‘Remake’ Of The First Game Ditches A Lot Of The Series’ Traditions For A Different Experience Entirely

The title of this offshoot game might be a bit misleading. Although it delves into the ‘origins’ of Garland, the main antagonist from the original Final Fantasy game, this doesn’t automatically make it suitable for beginners. Stranger of Paradise is heavily focused on hack-and-slash gameplay, and while Final Fantasy 16 also embraces action, its combat is more lenient in comparison.

Contrarily, the game “Stranger of Paradise” starts off quite challenging just a few stages in, particularly if players fail to take advantage of its extensive Job system. To elaborate on the stages, each of the 16 levels are inspired by locations from earlier games, like the Mako Reactor and Flying Fortress. It’s worth mentioning that these nods to past games will only resonate with those who have already ventured through those predecessors before reaching this title.

4. Final Fantasy 15

Though Still A Great Game, Final Fantasy 15’s Sluggish Pace And Messy Story Can Make It A Difficult Starting Point

It’s common knowledge among fans of the Final Fantasy series that the development of Final Fantasy 15 was fraught with difficulties, lasting over a decade in what some might call a protracted period of development challenges. Despite these hurdles, the game was eventually released in a satisfactory condition and has gained a substantial following. However, it’s evident that the story underwent significant changes and revisions before its official release, with elements being altered or relocated numerous times.

Due to its complex and fragmented storyline, playing Final Fantasy 15 might initially seem confusing for newcomers. To fully grasp many key plot points, one may need to watch additional anime series or movies. Consequently, some players might choose to stop playing the series altogether. A wiser approach would be to start with other story-rich versions of Final Fantasy first, and then move on to FF15 once you have developed a taste for it, which many fans find unique.

3. Final Fantasy 12

Final Fantasy 12’s ADB Combat Can Take A While To Get The Hang Of

Over the years, the battle systems in the “Final Fantasy” series have undergone significant transformations, shifting towards more interactive real-time combat in modern iterations. However, the twelfth main game offers a unique twist with its Active Dimension Battle (ADB) system. Unlike traditional battles that require a separate screen, players can engage monsters directly in the overworld. Each character’s intentions for attacks are indicated by visible lines, which they execute automatically.

In addition, players have the power to manage certain actions and skills of their teammates during battle, maintaining a hint of the classic turn-based gameplay style. Though it’s quite original, mastering the ADB system can be challenging, even for seasoned series enthusiasts.

2. Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy 13

Lightning Returns Features A Unique Time System And Plenty Of Recurring Characters

Lightning Returns stands as the concluding chapter in the Final Fantasy 13 trilogy. Contrary to expectations, Final Fantasy 13-2 is relatively simple to dive into due to its time-warping antics and fresh faces. However, Lightning Returns might present a challenging sequel for those not acquainted with its prequels. Without any preliminary narration, it plunges players directly into the gameplay, placing them in charge of Lightning, who is on a mission to save the world from impending destruction within the span of thirteen days.

Readers familiar with the “13” trilogy can dive straight in, but those new to the series might find themselves asking questions from the beginning, like why Lightning is chosen for world salvation and why she initially appears intent on killing Snow. The game “Lightning Returns” features an in-game timer mechanism reminiscent of “Majora’s Mask“, a unique element that only appears in the series on this occasion.

1. Dirge Of Cerberus: Final Fantasy 7

Dirge Of Cerberus Is Essentially In An Entirely Different Genre From The Rest Of The Series

In terms of the games within the Final Fantasy 7 universe, while Advent Children serves as a good introduction, it doesn’t fully apply to Dirge of Cerberus. This is because Dirge of Cerberus focuses on Vincent Valentine, a character who was an optional party member in the original game. The storyline in this spin-off is more impactful for those who are already familiar with Vincent’s past actions and motivations from the original game as it takes place three years later.

Moreover, the third-person arcade shooter gameplay style in this title represents a significant shift from the usual turn-based and RPG-centric gameplay found in the primary releases of Final Fantasy 7. This game offers an engaging experience for fans who have been following the series, but newcomers might find it somewhat disorienting due to this departure from the norm.

2025-01-29 09:04