Final Fantasy Ranked: The Best Games in the Epic Saga

Final Fantasy is a popular series of role-playing video games created by Square Enix, known for its incredible world-building, engaging storylines, and complex characters. Since the first game was released in 1987, the series has evolved to become one of the most beloved and well-known franchises in the gaming industry.

Each Final Fantasy game offers a unique experience as players embark on grand adventures, face formidable foes, and explore vast worlds filled with magic and mystery. The series has a dedicated fan base that spans generations, with each new installment eagerly anticipated by fans worldwide.

• Story: The heart of the Final Fantasy series lies in its captivating storytelling. Each game presents a new tale of epic proportions, featuring heroes and villains who grapple with deep moral dilemmas and engage in thrilling battles.
• Gameplay: Final Fantasy games combine traditional turn-based combat with innovative gameplay mechanics. Players can customize their characters, summon magical creatures known as Eidolons, and explore intricate dungeons and landscapes.
• Music: One of the standout features of the Final Fantasy series is its iconic music composed by the legendary Nobuo Uematsu. From sweeping orchestral pieces to catchy battle themes, the music sets the mood for each game and enhances the overall experience for players.
• Legacy: Final Fantasy has had a lasting impact on the gaming industry, inspiring countless other developers to create their own epic RPGs. The series has also spawned spin-off games, movies, and merchandise, cementing its place in pop culture.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, Final Fantasy offers something for everyone. Get ready to dive into a world of wonder, magic, and adventure unlike any other in the realm of video games.

Overview of the Ranking Criteria

When it comes to ranking the best Final Fantasy games, there are several criteria that we take into consideration. These criteria include gameplay mechanics, story and character development, graphics and music, overall reception by critics and fans, lasting impact on the gaming industry, and personal enjoyment.

• Gameplay Mechanics: One of the most important factors in determining the best Final Fantasy games is how well the gameplay mechanics hold up. Is the battle system engaging and strategic? Are there fun mini-games or side quests to keep players entertained beyond the main storyline?
• Story and Character Development: A compelling story and well-developed characters can elevate a game from good to great. We look at the narrative depth, world-building, and emotional impact of each game’s story, as well as the growth and complexity of its characters.
• Graphics and Music: While older games may not have cutting-edge graphics compared to newer titles, we still consider the overall art style and visual aesthetic of each game. Additionally, the quality of the music and sound design can greatly enhance the player’s experience.
• Critical and Fan Reception: We take into account the critical acclaim and fan reception of each game, looking at review scores, awards, and player feedback to gauge overall consensus on its quality.
• Impact on the Gaming Industry: Some Final Fantasy games have had a significant impact on the gaming industry, influencing future RPGs and setting new standards for storytelling and gameplay. We consider the lasting legacy and historical relevance of each game.
• Personal Enjoyment: Ultimately, the best Final Fantasy game is subjective and can vary from player to player. We also factor in our own personal enjoyment of each game, considering nostalgic value, replayability, and overall fun factor.

By taking all of these criteria into account, we aim to provide a comprehensive ranking of the best Final Fantasy games, giving you a clearer perspective on which titles stand out as the top experiences in this iconic RPG series.

Ranking of Final Fantasy VII

Final Fantasy VII is often considered one of the best games in the Final Fantasy series. Released in 1997 for the original PlayStation, it was a groundbreaking game that pushed the boundaries of what RPGs could achieve.

One of the reasons why Final Fantasy VII is so highly ranked is its engaging story and memorable characters. The protagonist, Cloud Strife, and his allies must band together to stop the villainous Sephiroth from destroying the world. The emotional depth and development of the characters resonated with players and left a lasting impact.

• Gameplay: Final Fantasy VII introduced the now iconic Materia system, allowing players to customize their characters’ abilities and magic spells. The turn-based combat was challenging yet rewarding, making each battle feel strategic and dynamic.
• Graphics: Despite being released over two decades ago, Final Fantasy VII’s pre-rendered backgrounds and character models still hold up well today. The cutscenes were ahead of their time and added to the immersive experience of the game.
• Music: Nobuo Uematsu’s soundtrack for Final Fantasy VII is considered one of the best in video game history. The haunting melodies and epic orchestral pieces perfectly captured the emotions of the characters and scenes throughout the game.

Overall, Final Fantasy VII is a timeless classic that has withstood the test of time. Its impact on the gaming industry and its influence on future RPGs cannot be understated. For these reasons, Final Fantasy VII deserves its spot as one of the best games in the series.

Ranking of Final Fantasy VI

Final Fantasy VI is widely regarded as one of the best entries in the series, and for good reason. Released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, this game is beloved by fans for its deep storyline, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay.

One of the standout features of Final Fantasy VI is its large and diverse cast of characters. From the enigmatic Terra to the rebellious Locke, each character has their own unique backstory and role to play in the overarching narrative. The game’s villain, Kefka, is often hailed as one of the greatest villains in video game history, thanks to his unpredictable and maniacal nature.

Another defining aspect of Final Fantasy VI is its innovative use of the Esper system. This magic system allows characters to learn spells and abilities from equipped Espers, adding a layer of depth to the gameplay. In addition, the game introduces the concept of Limit Breaks, powerful attacks that characters can unleash when their HP is low.

• Deep and engaging storyline
• Memorable characters, including the iconic villain Kefka
• Innovative gameplay mechanics such as the Esper system and Limit Breaks
• Impressive visuals and music for its time

Overall, Final Fantasy VI is often considered a standout entry in the series due to its rich storytelling, well-developed characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics. It has earned its place as one of the best Final Fantasy games of all time.

Ranking of Final Fantasy X

Final Fantasy X holds a special place in the hearts of many fans of the series. Released in 2001 for the PlayStation 2, this game introduced players to the world of Spira and the unforgettable characters of Tidus, Yuna, and Auron.

One of the standout features of Final Fantasy X is its innovative turn-based combat system. Players take turns with their party members to strategically plan out their attacks and defenses. The introduction of the “CTB” (Conditional Turn-Based) system added a new layer of depth to battles, making them both challenging and rewarding.

Another aspect that sets Final Fantasy X apart is its emotional and engaging storyline. The journey of Tidus and Yuna as they seek to defeat the monstrous creature known as Sin is filled with poignant moments, unexpected twists, and heart-wrenching sacrifices. The bond that forms between the characters and the player is truly unforgettable.

In terms of graphics, Final Fantasy X was a visually stunning game for its time. The character designs, environments, and cinematic cutscenes were all beautifully crafted, bringing the world of Spira to life in vibrant detail.

When it comes to music, Final Fantasy X also stands out with its iconic soundtrack composed by Nobuo Uematsu and Masashi Hamauzu. The hauntingly beautiful melodies perfectly capture the emotional highs and lows of the story, elevating the overall gaming experience.

• Turn-based combat with CTB system
• Engaging and emotional storyline
• Stunning graphics for its time
• Iconic soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu and Masashi Hamauzu

Overall, Final Fantasy X is often regarded as one of the best entries in the series, earning it a spot high on the ranking list. Its combination of memorable characters, intricate combat system, captivating storyline, and stunning visuals make it a must-play for any fan of RPGs.

Ranking of Final Fantasy IX

Final Fantasy IX is often considered one of the best games in the series by many fans. It was released in 2000 for the PlayStation console and has a more traditional fantasy setting compared to some of the other games in the series. The game follows the story of Zidane Tribal, a thief who gets caught up in a quest to save the world while discovering his own identity.

One of the reasons why Final Fantasy IX is ranked so highly is because of its memorable characters. The main cast is filled with unique and lovable characters, each with their own motivations and backstories. Players get attached to these characters and become invested in their journey throughout the game.

The gameplay in Final Fantasy IX is also praised for its classic turn-based combat system. Players take turns attacking enemies and using special abilities to defeat them. The game also includes a variety of side quests and mini-games to keep players entertained and engaged.

Another standout feature of Final Fantasy IX is its gorgeous art style and beautifully crafted world. The game features detailed character designs, stunning pre-rendered backgrounds, and epic cutscenes that bring the world of Gaia to life.

Overall, Final Fantasy IX is a standout title in the series because of its engaging story, memorable characters, classic gameplay, and gorgeous visuals. It captures the essence of what makes Final Fantasy games so beloved by fans around the world.

• Memorable characters with unique backstories
• Classic turn-based combat system
• Engaging story with plenty of side quests and mini-games
• Beautiful art style and well-crafted world

Final Fantasy IX is definitely worth playing if you are a fan of the series or if you are looking for a classic RPG experience. It is a game that has stood the test of time and continues to be beloved by fans over two decades after its initial release.

Ranking of Final Fantasy VIII

Final Fantasy VIII holds a unique place in the hearts of many fans of the series. Released in 1999 for the original PlayStation, this game took players on a thrilling journey full of romance, mystery, and treacherous foes.

One of the standout features of Final Fantasy VIII is its innovative Junction system. This system allows players to customize their characters by junctioning magic spells to their stats, making for a deep and strategic gameplay experience.

The story follows Squall Leonhart, a brooding mercenary, and his comrades as they navigate a world filled with political intrigue and supernatural threats. Along the way, players will uncover dark secrets and make choices that will impact the fate of the world.

While some fans praise the game for its compelling story and complex characters, others criticize it for its convoluted plot and sometimes frustrating gameplay mechanics. Despite its flaws, Final Fantasy VIII remains a beloved entry in the series for its ambitious storytelling and memorable moments.

When it comes to ranking Final Fantasy VIII among the best in the series, opinions can vary widely. Some fans consider it to be a top-tier title, praising its emotional depth and character development. Others believe it falls short compared to other entries, citing its uneven pacing and confusing plot twists.

• Graphics: The game pushed the limits of the original PlayStation hardware with its detailed character models and cinematic cutscenes.
• Soundtrack: Final Fantasy VIII features a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack composed by the legendary Nobuo Uematsu that perfectly complements the game’s emotional moments.
• Gameplay: The Junction system adds a new layer of strategy to the traditional Final Fantasy formula, allowing for a more personalized approach to character progression.

In the end, whether you rank Final Fantasy VIII as one of the best in the series or not, there’s no denying the impact it has had on gamers around the world. Its ambitious storytelling, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay elements make it a standout entry that continues to captivate players to this day.

Ranking of Final Fantasy IV

Final Fantasy IV holds a special place in the hearts of many fans as it was the first game to introduce the Active Time Battle system. This system added a new level of excitement and strategy to the gameplay, making every battle feel intense and fast-paced.

One of the standout features of Final Fantasy IV is its engaging storyline, filled with memorable characters and plot twists that keep players on the edge of their seats. The main protagonist, Cecil, goes through a riveting character development arc that has resonated with fans for years.

From a visual standpoint, Final Fantasy IV may not have the advanced graphics of newer titles in the series, but its pixel art style is charming and nostalgic for long-time fans. The music in the game is also a standout, with iconic tracks that set the mood perfectly for each moment in the story.

When it comes to gameplay, Final Fantasy IV offers a balanced mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and challenging battles. The progression system allows for customization of characters’ abilities and equipment, giving players a sense of control over their party composition and tactics.

• Storyline: Compelling narrative with memorable characters and plot twists.
• Visuals: Charming pixel art style that is nostalgic for fans.
• Music: Iconic tracks that set the mood for each moment in the story.
• Gameplay: Balanced mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and challenging battles.

In terms of ranking, Final Fantasy IV often lands near the top of the list for its compelling story, innovative gameplay mechanics, and lasting impact on the series as a whole. While newer titles may have surpassed it in terms of graphics and technical advancements, Final Fantasy IV remains a classic that continues to be cherished by fans around the world.

Ranking of Final Fantasy XV

Final Fantasy XV is the fifteenth installment in the popular Final Fantasy series and has gained both praise and criticism from fans. This game takes a different approach to gameplay compared to its predecessors, with an open-world setting and real-time combat system.

Many fans have praised Final Fantasy XV for its stunning graphics, vast open world, and engaging storyline. The game follows the journey of Prince Noctis and his friends as they set out on a quest to reclaim his kingdom from the evil empire that has taken over. The character development in this game is strong, and players become emotionally invested in the relationships between the main characters.

However, some fans have criticized Final Fantasy XV for its pacing issues and lack of depth in certain areas of the game. While the world is vast and beautiful, some players feel that it lacks substance and can feel empty at times. The story can also be convoluted, with some aspects of the plot feeling rushed or underdeveloped.

• Graphics: 9/10
• Gameplay: 7/10
• Storyline: 8/10
• Character Development: 9/10

In terms of ranking, Final Fantasy XV falls somewhere in the middle of the pack. While it excels in certain aspects such as graphics and character development, it falls short in others like gameplay and storytelling. Overall, Final Fantasy XV is a solid entry in the series that offers a unique experience for fans of the franchise.

Ranking of Final Fantasy XII

Final Fantasy XII ranks high on the list of best Final Fantasy games for several reasons. Released in 2006, it offers a unique blend of the classic Final Fantasy gameplay with new and innovative features.

One of the standout features of Final Fantasy XII is its open-world exploration. Players can freely roam through vast landscapes, encountering various creatures and completing side quests along the way. The game’s setting of Ivalice is rich and immersive, bringing the world to life in a way that few other games have achieved.

Another aspect that sets Final Fantasy XII apart is its combat system. The game utilizes the Gambit system, allowing players to program their party members’ behaviors in battle. This adds a strategic element to combat, giving players control over how their characters respond to different situations.

Additionally, Final Fantasy XII boasts a compelling story and well-developed characters. The political intrigue and complex relationships between the characters add depth to the plot, keeping players engaged throughout the game.

Visually, Final Fantasy XII is stunning. The game’s graphics were considered groundbreaking at the time of its release, with detailed character models and beautifully rendered environments. The music, composed by Hitoshi Sakimoto, complements the visuals perfectly, enhancing the overall experience.

Overall, Final Fantasy XII is a standout entry in the series, offering a unique and engaging gameplay experience. Its combination of open-world exploration, innovative combat systems, compelling story, and stunning visuals solidifies its place as one of the best Final Fantasy games of all time.

Ranking of Final Fantasy XIII

Final Fantasy XIII was a controversial entry in the series, with fans either loving it or finding it lacking compared to other titles. The game takes place in a futuristic world called Cocoon, where a group of individuals known as l’Cie are given a Focus and must fulfill it to avoid being turned into creatures known as Cie’th.

One of the most divisive aspects of Final Fantasy XIII is its linear gameplay. Many players criticized the game for lacking exploration and feeling restrictive compared to previous titles in the series. However, others appreciated the streamlined experience and focus on the story.

In terms of combat, Final Fantasy XIII introduced the Paradigm Shift system, allowing players to switch between different roles for their characters during battles. This added a strategic element to the gameplay and required players to think more tactically about their approach to fights.

Visually, Final Fantasy XIII is stunning. The game’s graphics are top-notch, with beautifully designed environments and character models. The soundtrack is also noteworthy, with memorable melodies that enhance the overall atmosphere of the game.

• Pros:
  • Stunning visuals
  • Memorable soundtrack
  • Strategic combat with the Paradigm Shift system
• Cons:
  • Linear gameplay may feel restrictive to some players
  • Story may be confusing for some players to follow

Ultimately, Final Fantasy XIII is a game that divided the fan base but still has its merits. If you enjoy a more focused, story-driven experience and appreciate gorgeous visuals, then this game may be worth checking out. However, if you prefer open-world exploration and nonlinear gameplay, you may find Final Fantasy XIII lacking in comparison to other entries in the series.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Final Fantasy is a beloved series that has captivated gamers around the world for decades. With its innovative gameplay, captivating storylines, and memorable characters, it’s no wonder why fans continue to return to these games time and time again.

When it comes to ranking the best Final Fantasy games, it’s important to consider factors such as gameplay mechanics, graphics, story, characters, and overall impact on the gaming industry. Each game in the series brings something unique to the table, making it difficult to definitively rank them from best to worst.

• Final Fantasy VII: Known for its iconic characters, emotional story, and groundbreaking graphics, Final Fantasy VII remains a fan favorite and rightfully claims the top spot on many lists.
• Final Fantasy VI: Often regarded as one of the best games in the series, Final Fantasy VI boasts complex characters, an epic storyline, and a diverse cast of playable characters.
• Final Fantasy X: With its stunning graphics, strategic battle system, and emotional narrative, Final Fantasy X is a standout entry in the series.

It’s important to note that each player’s personal preferences may impact how they view the rankings of these games. What may be the best game for one fan may not be the favorite for another. Ultimately, the best Final Fantasy game is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Final Fantasy series or a newcomer looking to dive into the world of JRPGs, there is a game in the franchise for everyone. Each title offers a unique experience that is sure to keep you entertained for hours on end.

As the series continues to evolve and new installments are released, it’s clear that Final Fantasy will remain a staple in the gaming community for years to come. So, grab your controller, select your favorite game from the series, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the fantastical worlds of Final Fantasy.

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Ana Luíza Oliveira

Discover the gaming world through the eyes of Ana Luíza, the dynamic force behind howtoplay.blog. From a casual player to a respected author and redactor, Ana’s journey is a testament to her passion. Her writings transcend ordinary guides, offering deep insights and connecting every type of gamer with the essence of virtual adventures.