Top 10 Best Final Fantasy Video Games
Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re looking at the best the Final Fantasy franchise has to offer.
#10: “Final Fantasy Tactics” (1998)
Top 10 Final Fantasy Video Games
As Final Fantasy’s first foray into the tactical RPG genre, “Final Fantasy Tactics” succeeded as not only its best spin off, but one of the best games in the series. Directed by Yasumi Matsuno, the man behind the excellent Ogre Battle series, “Tactics” features grid-based combat and boasts a wide variety of classes the player can assign their characters to. The game follows the story of Ramza Beoulve, a cadet who finds himself right in the middle of the War of the Lions, a civil conflict over the throne of Ivalice. With its riveting plot, addictive gameplay, and exceptional presentation, “Tactics” is a must-play for any “Final Fantasy” fan.
#9: “Final Fantasy XII” (2006)
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Expanding on “Tactics”’ world of Ivalice, “Final Fantasy XII” was a groundbreaking title for the PlayStation 2, that introduced many unique changes to the Final Fantasy formula. Most notable of these changes was the ADB system, which eliminated random battles, instead taking place on the same field the player explored. Accompanying that was the Gambit system, which allowed players to assign fixed commands to its AI party members. The plot itself is the weakest part of “Final Fantasy XII”, as the protagonist Vaan was not an important figure amidst all of the politics that were going on. However the rest of the game more than makes up for it, cementing it as one of the best JRPGs the PlayStation 2 has to offer.
#8: “Final Fantasy XVI” (2023)
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The first “Final Fantasy” to reach next-gen consoles, “XVI” is a gamechanger in more ways than one. It features high octane real-time combat, which is extremely reminiscent of the “Devil May Cry” franchise. The narrative has a much darker and adult tone, compared to the rest of the franchise, following the former prince Clive and his quest to destroy all the Mothercrystals that decay the land. Another highlight is the Eikon battles, which are out of something you’d see from an episode of “Attack on Titan”, with its gigantic setpieces and dramatic moments.
#7: “Final Fantasy IV” (1991)
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Without a doubt, FF4 is one of the most important entries in the franchise, given the precedents it set going forward. It revolutionized Final Fantasy with its Active Time Battle system and excellent storytelling, something uncommon at the time. It features a party of characters, who are determined by the narrative rather than players choice, creating an interesting dynamic. Key among them is Cecil, the protagonist, who’s journey from Dark Knight to Paladin is unforgettable, to say the least. “Final Fantasy IV” is such a gem of a game that it continues to stand out among its modern contemporaries, despite its age.
#6: “Final Fantasy X” (2001)
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To say we were all blown away when “Final Fantasy X” was released back in 2001 is truly an understatement. The PlayStation 2’s technology pushed the franchise to new heights, making for visuals that are deemed incredible to this day. The game follows Blitzball superstar Tidus, as he’s whisked away from Zanarkand, into the world of Spira. Here, he must go on a pilgrimage with the summoner Yuna to defeat the monstrous Sin, a gigantic whale-like beast that terrorizes the land. FF10 was a unique hit, and became the first game in the franchise to get a follow-up sequel, with “Final Fantasy X-2”.
#5: “Final Fantasy VII Remake” (2020)
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Ever since Square Enix showed a tech demo of FF7’s opening at E3 2005, fans had been desperate for an updated version of the beloved classic. Fast forward almost 15 years later and this wish of “Final Fantasy VII Remake” had finally been granted. Dropping the original's turn-based combat, Remake features a unique blend of real-time action with the ATB bar. The game only covers the Midgar section of the story, which had upset some fans. However, it more than makes up for this with shocking narrative changes, leaving for more hype for its upcoming sequel, “Final Fantasy VII Rebirth”.
#4: “Final Fantasy XIV” (2013)
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The original version of “Final Fantasy XIV” was an absolute disaster, to such a degree that Square Enix decided to start it back up again, from scratch. Taking its place was “A Realm Reborn”, an upgrade in every way. FF14 has one of the strongest stories in the franchise, with Scions of the Seventh Dawn fight against the mysterious Ascians being at its forefront. Gameplay-wise, it has an incredible amount of things to explore and do, like its dungeons and trials, that are so good you’ll be wanting to replay them often. “Final Fantasy XIV” is also notable for its excellent expansion packs, which continue its ever growing story, as well as adding a wide array of new content.
#3: “Final Fantasy IX” (2000)
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The swansong for mainline Final Fantasy on the PS1, “Final Fantasy IX” is a throwback to earlier games in the franchise, while also maintaining modern improvements from its era. The game stars thief Zidane, who after kidnapping Princess Garnet, ends up becoming her protector from evil forces. With its outstanding characters, locations, and story, “Final Fantasy IX” oozes charm. The game also distinguishes itself for being the last game where franchise legend, Nobuo Uematsu was the sole composer.
#2: “Final Fantasy VI” (1994)
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For many, this is the best game in the franchise, and it's hard to argue against that. “Final Fantasy VI” is the complete package, and boasts one of the best stories in gaming, supported by a richly developed cast, who each have their own personal arcs and goals. Of note is its villain Kefka, the comedic evil clown, standing out as the biggest threat any group of heroes in the series has ever faced. “Final Fantasy VI” is a timeless classic that needs to be played by anyone even remotely interested in the franchise.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.
“Final Fantasy VIII” (1999)
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“Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII” (2007)
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“Final Fantasy XV” (2016)
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Despite Its Setbacks This Game Is Still Worth Your Time.
#1: "Final Fantasy VII" (1997)
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“Final Fantasy VII” raised the bar for RPGs, and made "Final Fantasy" the mega franchise it is today. Deep in lore, the plot is one of the most beloved in all of video games, still vigorously discussed by fans. And its storytelling is made all the more engaging through a well-written and memorable cast of characters, such as Cloud, Tifa, Barrett, as well as villain, Sephiroth, and a soundtrack that is perfectly tied to its themes and tones. “Final Fantasy VII”’s tracks have never left listeners’ hearts and minds, with "One-Winged Angel" remaining a stand out. These elements have truly earned “Final Fantasy VII” its status of masterpiece. It’s no wonder, then, that this entry continues to be the main focus of the company, Square Enix.
Which Final Fantasy is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
