Charting the Realms: A Tier List of Final Fantasy Games

Alright, fellow adventurers and chocobo riders! Let’s be real – diving into the Final Fantasy series is like trying to pick your favorite flavor of ice cream when they’re all ridiculously delicious. Everyone has their own “ultimate weapon” when it comes to which entry reigns supreme. But, like any good summoner, we’re here to bring order to the chaos and attempt the impossible: ranking these legendary games. Get ready for some passionate debate, some surprising inclusions, and maybe even a few nostalgia bombs along the way.

Why Final Fantasy Games Rank So Differently for Everyone

Okay, before we even begin, let’s acknowledge the giant elephant in the room – taste is subjective! What resonates with one player might completely miss the mark for another. Maybe you grew up playing Final Fantasy VII and Aerith’s death is permanently etched into your soul, making it an untouchable masterpiece. Or perhaps the deep customization and job system of Final Fantasy V is your jam. Age, entry point to the series, and preferred gameplay style all play huge roles in shaping our personal rankings. It’s like arguing about the best Star Wars movie – good luck getting everyone to agree!

Final Fantasy Games Ranked from Best to Worst

This is it. The moment of truth. Remember, this ranking is based on a blend of critical acclaim, commercial success, lasting impact, and, yes, a healthy dose of personal opinion. Try to be nice in the comments, okay? Also, keep in mind that even the “lowest” ranked game on this list is still a Final Fantasy game, which means it probably has something awesome to offer.

S-Tier

These are the titans, the games that have defined the series and left an indelible mark on gaming history. They represent the peak of Final Fantasy’s storytelling, gameplay, and overall experience. They’re the equivalent of a perfectly executed Limit Break – devastatingly effective and unforgettable.

Final Fantasy VI (III in the US upon release): Widely considered by many to be the pinnacle of the series, FFVI boasts a sprawling cast of memorable characters, a compelling storyline, and a breathtaking soundtrack. The villain, Kefka, is arguably the most iconic and effective antagonist in the entire franchise. The world is rich, the story is deep, and the characters are well-developed. Seriously, if you haven’t played this, drop everything and do it now.

Final Fantasy VII: The game that brought Final Fantasy to the mainstream. From Cloud’s spiky hair to Sephiroth’s dramatic entrance, FFVII is a cultural phenomenon. Its blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements, coupled with a poignant story about loss, identity, and environmentalism, resonated with millions. While the graphics may look dated now, the impact of this game is undeniable, and the Remake series only solidifies its place in the gaming pantheon.

A-Tier

These games are fantastic in their own right, offering compelling stories, engaging gameplay, and memorable characters. They may not quite reach the heights of the S-tier, but they’re still essential experiences for any Final Fantasy fan. Think of them as the solid, reliable party members you always count on in a tough battle.

Final Fantasy X: A deeply emotional tale about faith, sacrifice, and the power of love. Tidus and Yuna’s journey through Spira is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The sphere grid system offers a unique approach to character progression, and the turn-based combat is polished to a shine. Plus, the Blitzball minigame is surprisingly addictive (and infuriating!).

Final Fantasy IX: A love letter to the classic Final Fantasy games, FF IX returns to a more traditional fantasy setting with a charming cast of characters and a whimsical storyline. Zidane, Vivi, and Garnet are all incredibly endearing, and the game’s themes of mortality and self-discovery are surprisingly profound. It’s a comforting and nostalgic experience that will warm your heart.

B-Tier

These entries offer solid gameplay and interesting ideas, but they might be held back by some flaws, whether it’s a convoluted story, underdeveloped characters, or technical limitations. They’re still worth playing, but you might need to lower your expectations slightly. Consider them the talented but slightly inconsistent chocobos of the series.

Final Fantasy IV (II in the US upon release): A pioneering title in terms of storytelling and character development. Cecil’s journey from Dark Knight to Paladin is a classic redemption arc, and the game features a diverse cast of companions. However, the translation can be a bit rough in the original version, and the gameplay is relatively simple compared to later entries.

Final Fantasy V: The job system is the star of the show here, offering unparalleled customization and strategic depth. The story is relatively lighthearted, but the gameplay is incredibly engaging. It is also, unfortunately, less interesting than the mechanics in the eyes of some fans. While others find its charm in being mechanically-focused.

Final Fantasy VIII: A controversial entry that’s either loved or hated. Its complex junction system and unconventional story about mercenaries and time travel are divisive, but it has a certain charm. Squall and Rinoa’s romance is angsty and memorable, and the game features some stunning visuals for its time. But, the Draw system can be tedious, and the plot can be a bit confusing. This is like the Marmite of Final Fantasy games.

Final Fantasy XII: Set in the world of Ivalice (also featured in Final Fantasy Tactics), FF XII offers a vast and sprawling world to explore, a unique combat system, and a political storyline. However, the characters are less memorable than in other entries, and the gambit system can feel a bit automated.

C-Tier

These games are not necessarily bad, but they don’t stand out as particularly memorable or groundbreaking. They might have some interesting ideas, but they’re often overshadowed by stronger entries in the series. They’re like the support magic spells that are only situationally useful.

Final Fantasy XIII: A visually stunning game with a fast-paced combat system, but its linear structure and convoluted storyline are major drawbacks. The characters are also somewhat underdeveloped. While the combat can be fun once you get the hang of it, the initial hours can feel restrictive.

Final Fantasy XV: An ambitious open-world adventure with a strong focus on brotherhood and camaraderie. Noctis and his friends embark on a road trip filled with monster hunts, camping, and fishing. However, the story feels incomplete, and the side quests can be repetitive. The combat can be enjoyable, but a bit button-mashy.

Final Fantasy III (VI in Japan): While it pioneered some important features like the job system, it is often overlooked because of its lack of compelling story and characters. Its also not as advanced in its implementations of these aspects as other games in the series, especially when comparing the NES version to later games.

D-Tier

These are the games that most fans tend to forget about, or actively dislike. They might have some redeeming qualities, but they’re often plagued by significant flaws that make them difficult to recommend. They’re like the summons that never seem to land a critical hit.

Final Fantasy II: A bizarre entry that introduced a skill-based leveling system that’s more frustrating than rewarding. The story is convoluted, and the characters are largely forgettable. It’s an interesting experiment, but one that ultimately fails to deliver a satisfying Final Fantasy experience. This game can be a slog and that’s why it often places at the bottom of these kinds of lists.

Final Fantasy XIV (1.0): The original version of FF XIV was a complete disaster, plagued by technical issues, a clunky user interface, and a lack of compelling content. It was so bad that Square Enix eventually shut it down and rebuilt it from the ground up as Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, which is now one of the most popular MMORPGs in the world. This game is the definition of “redemption arc”.

The Future of Final Fantasy Games

Despite its ups and downs, the Final Fantasy series continues to evolve and innovate. With the success of Final Fantasy VII Remake and the ongoing popularity of Final Fantasy XIV, the future looks bright for the franchise. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, there’s sure to be a Final Fantasy game out there that will capture your imagination and transport you to a world of adventure. So, grab your sword, summon your eidolon, and embark on your own Final Fantasy journey!

FAQ

What is the best Final Fantasy game for newcomers to start with?

That’s a great question! While FFVII is a classic, starting with FF X or FFIX might be a bit more accessible for modern gamers due to their more refined gameplay mechanics and engaging stories. FF X has a straightforward narrative and a turn-based combat system that’s easy to learn, while FFIX offers a charming and nostalgic experience that’s sure to delight newcomers.

Why is Final Fantasy VIII so divisive?

Ah, Final Fantasy VIII – the Marmite of the series! Its complex junction system, which involves drawing magic from enemies and attaching it to stats, is a love-it-or-hate-it mechanic. Some players find it strategic and rewarding, while others find it tedious and confusing. The story, which revolves around mercenaries and a time-traveling sorceress, is also unconventional and can be difficult to follow. Some people love the risk, while others are put off!

Will there ever be a Final Fantasy game that surpasses Final Fantasy VI in popularity?

That’s a tough one! FFVI holds a special place in the hearts of many fans due to its compelling story, memorable characters, and iconic villain. While future Final Fantasy games may surpass FFVI in terms of graphics, gameplay, or commercial success, it’s hard to say if they’ll ever achieve the same level of cultural impact and nostalgia. It is a high bar to clear, but that isn’t to say that it’s impossible!