Few video game franchises boast such an extensive legacy as Final Fantasy . Since the first installment, the series has been continuously reimagined to deliver unique protagonists, engrossing narratives, unparalleled gameplay mechanics, and spectacular musical scores.
The challenge in ranking them stems from the fact that every fan has their favorites based on particular preferences. While some appreciate the narrative-driven quests, others favor deeper tactical encounters. Nevertheless, certain games appear on every enthusiast’s list for their overall impact on the player base and the series as a whole.
In this article, you will find the final fantasy games ranked in terms of quality and lasting appeal. Below are the top ten greatest Final Fantasy games of all time.
10. Final Fantasy XV
Despite its development issues, Final Fantasy XV provides one of the most emotionally engaging character relationships in the series. The bond between Noctis and his companions throughout their road trip has proven to be quite memorable.
The journey itself has kept players entertained for hours due to the sheer beauty of the world, even though there are some narrative inconsistencies. Interestingly enough, the relationships between the four protagonists are one of the strongest threads running through the game.
9. Final Fantasy IV
This installment has been overshadowed by later Dark Knights but has pioneered the genre in terms of narrative. Cecil’s journey from an antihero to a Paladin is one of the most compelling in all of gaming.
Additionally, FFIV was the first game to utilize the Active Time Battle system, which has been used in almost every following entry. Despite being one of the earliest role-playing games, it has stood the test of time remarkably well.
8. Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
Despite its poor critical reception at launch, Final Fantasy XII has since gained immense popularity among gamers. The game’s engaging storyline is one of the best in the series, and the new Gambit System adds incredible depth to the gameplay. The game’s remake made it even more accessible and enjoyable than ever before, which made XII one of the most popular games in the series.
Final Fantasy XV stands out for its open-world approach, real-time combat, and emotional story, offering a different take on the series’ classic formula.
7. Final Fantasy XIV
The first iteration of Final Fantasy XIV was one of the biggest failures in the history of the video game industry. However, the game underwent a major restructuring, after which it became an incredibly impressive MMORPG with an equally remarkable story and fantastic characters. This game has something to offer for everyone, regardless of their preferences and whether they have played an MMO before. Even those who have never played a Massive Multiplayer Online game can become engrossed in the story and slip into the world created by the developers.
6. Final Fantasy VIII
One of the most controversial entries in the series, Final Fantasy VIII , has been gaining popularity among fans for its unique approach to character development and narrative.
On one hand, VIII was the first game to utilize the Junction System, making it one of the most innovative entries in the franchise. On the other hand, many consider it a turning point in the series for the worse due to the unnecessary shift towards melodrama. However, these strengths, combined with a beautiful soundtrack and expansive world, have given VIII its well-deserved cult status.
5. Final Fantasy X
The PlayStation 2 had an amazing launch with Final Fantasy X leading the charge. Featuring voice acting, impressive graphics for the time, and one of the most emotionally resonant endings, FFX was a staggering achievement for Square Enix. The relationship between Tidus and Yuna serves as the game’s backbone and is one of the highlights of the entire series. Moreover, the Sphere Grid and turn-based encounters provide tremendous variety and depth to the gameplay.
Final Fantasy XIV: New Clan Details Unveiled for PS3, PC also offers a closer look at the game’s world, clans, and evolving MMO experience.
4. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
While Final Fantasy VII Rebirth does not stray far from the original in terms of story, the expansion of the world, combat mechanics, and content has been mind-blowing.
The game’s variety and depth, along with its tremendous value for first-time players and those who want to revisit the story, have earned it the number four spot on our list. Additionally, the remake’s unique take on the events of Gaia showcased the developers’ skill in bringing the much-loved game to modern audiences.
3. Final Fantasy IX
This entry is without a doubt one of the most beloved by the both the creators and the audience. Featuring the most attractive synthesis of the previous games, Final Fantasy IX managed to return the series to its roots.
Set in an expansive medieval fantasy kingdom, IX offers a lighter version of the usual darkness of the rest of the series, delivering more comedic performances and one of the most memorable villains of all time. The pixel graphics of Vivi and the catchy music have not lost their charm even after all these years, and the adventure that Vivi, Zidane and the others embark on still attracts new people to this day.
2. Final Fantasy VII
Few games in the history of entertainment software have earned such critical acclaim and cult following as Final Fantasy VII . This particular title reworked the series in a way that made future entries possible and gave it a lasting appeal for almost three decades.
FFVII’s deep story, the seemingly impossible villain, and the greatest soundtrack in the series’ history combine to make it one of the most revered games of all time. With its upcoming remake, FFVII will continue its journey on top of the RPG genre, right where it was always meant to be.
1. Final Fantasy VI
When talking about the final fantasy games ranked list, it would be nearly impossible to make a list and not include the work that defined the genre for the first place. FFVI possesses an astounding amount of varied story beats and some of the most lovable characters in the history of games.
Unlike the later entries in the series, VI retains a certain level of audacity that makes it clear that it was the game that first defined the JRPG as we know it today. Set in the vast world of Terra, it has even more variety in its gameplay, a deeply engaging soundtrack composed in pixels, and a villain that will make you question reality itself.
The series’ memorable worlds also stand out when compared with some of the 5 Biggest Video Game Open-Worlds, where exploration takes center stage.
Honorable Mentions
The list of Top 10 Final Fantasy games is far from being exhausted by these ten entries. Below are several other games that deserve more attention and praise.
- Final Fantasy V
- Final Fantasy XVI
- Final Fantasy Tactics
- Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
- Final Fantasy XIII
Each entry in this legendary series is unique, providing the player with thrilling adventures full of unforgettable events. Some games offer deeper tactical experiences; others – introduce groundbreaking story elements. Regardless of which part of the series the fans choose, each of them will find something fascinating in this list.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of which entry players select, the debate about the best ever Final Fantasy video game will continue for as long as the series remains popular. Since the product line features numerous diverse entries, each of which provided the player with an action-packed, often breathtaking adventure, the list of the best Final Fantasy games will always be subjective.
No matter if it was Terra’s journey or another memorable adventure, each fan will find their favorite on the list of the best Final Fantasy games.