Since the release of the originalFinal Fantasyin 1987, the franchise has evolved to the point that it now features sixteen mainline games, alongside a large assortment of spin-offs. Sadly, not all entries in theFinal Fantasyseries have managed to stand the test of time, but those that have continue to remain staples in the JRPG genre.
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Whether it’s due to the entry’siconic combat system, memorable story, or unique art style, these titles are still capable of standing out from the crowd, with some gamers even preferring them to more modern titles.Countless games have become timelessthroughout their existence, and theFinal Fantasyseries is home to several of them.
5Final Fantasy 9
Final Fantasy 9, released in 2000, is one of the more heavily fantasy-inspired entries in theFinal Fantasyseries. Set in the world of Gaia,the story follows Zidaneand an unlikely group of companions as they attempt to stop the vindictive Queen Brahne from waging war and causing mass destruction.
One of the most notable aspects ofFinal Fantasy 9is how visually impressive it is. Though many would argue thatFinal Fantasy 10is visually superior, it’s hard to deny the charm ofFinal Fantasy 9’s aesthetic, world design, and character models. In terms of combat, the game can also be pretty challenging, which can come as a surprise, given its more approachable art style. Though the game is over twenty years old, it remains one of the most timeless entries in the series, mostly due to these reasons.
4Final Fantasy 12
Released in 2006,Final Fantasy 12tells the story of a group of rebels on a quest to reclaim the home that was stolen from them, all while bringing the Archadian Empire to justice. Featuring an endearing group of party members andsome truly terrifying villains, the story proves to be one of the most intense and politically-charged ones to come from theFinal Fantasyfranchise.
Though opinions ofFinal Fantasy 12are mixed, it’s hard to deny how impressive the game was when it was first released. In an attempt to revitalize the turn-based combat system from previous entries, it introduced the Gambit system, a unique mode of combat that allowed players to alter the fighting style of each playable character. This feature allowed for endless possibilities regarding combat and rewarded players for trying out new things.Final Fantasy 12is also home to some of the best optional content to ever appear in aFinal Fantasytitle, which has made it especially timeless for completionists.
3Final Fantasy 7
Released in 1997,Final Fantasy 7tells what many believe to be the best story in the whole series. The game followsCloud Strife, a former SOLDIER, as he attempts to make a life for himself in the city of Midgar. Unfortunately for him, however, a dark presence known as Sephiroth has returned and is hellbent on using Cloud to take revenge on humanity.
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ThoughFinal Fantasy 7certainly has its flaws, it’s hard to deny the effect it had on the JRPG genre. Not only was it the first truly revolutionaryFinal Fantasytitle, but it also introduced countless gamers to the JRPG genre and encouraged them to seek out more. The story remains one of the most nail-biting tales in video game history, and the art style has aged like a fine wine. Though there is an argument to be made forFinal Fantasy 7 Remakeand how it’s superior to the original,Final Fantasy7is undoubtedly one of the most timeless games currently on the market.
2Final Fantasy 6
Making its debut in 1994,Final Fantasy 6proved to be one of the darkest entries in the series.The story follows Terra Branford, a young woman who has an unusual connection with Espers, as she sets out to uncover her origins and purpose. On her journey, she meets an array of friendly faces who join her on her quest, and each of them has a unique reason for doing so.
Though theFinal Fantasyseries has mostly left the iconic pixel art style behind,Final Fantasy 6is one of the best entries to ever feature it. To modern gamers, it may not look like much, but those who appreciate a goodFinal Fantasystory are sure to appreciate its warmth. The story told in this title is surprisingly dark, too, considering the uplifting tone ofFinal Fantasy 5, and that seems to be one of the reasons fans enjoy it so much. The game also features one of themost unhinged villainsinFinal Fantasy’s history, a court mage named Kefka Palazzo, whose sole goal in the story is to become a god.
1Final Fantasy 10
Final Fantasy 10made its debut in 2001 and has since become one of the most memorable entries in theFinal Fantasyseries. The story follows ayoung man named Tidusand documents his journey across Spira, a land where he is a complete outsider. By presenting Tidus as an outsider, players learn crucial details about the world at the same time that he does, making it easier for players to relate to Tidus and his struggles.
Final Fantasy 10is timeless for several reasons. It was the first game in the series to feature completely three-dimensional locations, which helped it stand out from previous entries. On top of that, countless fans believe that the story it tells is one of the best stories in video game history. This, combined with a deeply immersive turn-based combat system, makesFinal Fantasy 10one of the most timeless entries in theFinal Fantasyseries.
