The Ultimate List of Games That Capture the Essence of Final Fantasy Tactics

Final Fantasy Tactics undoubtedly takes the crown as the finest spinoff in the series, or at the very least, it ranks among the top contenders. While it may not have been the first tactical RPG ever created, its innovative systems, captivating story, and well-crafted characters established a new standard that future tactical RPGs would seek to emulate.

Much like Final Fantasy 7 revolutionized turn-based RPGs and left an indelible impact on the entire Final Fantasy franchise, Final Fantasy Tactics shared a similar monumental influence. Alongside this gem, other exceptional titles like Vandal Hearts and Kartia: The World of Fate emerged during the same era. However, it is unfortunate that experiencing these classics in their official form has become increasingly challenging. For this reason, the following list will focus exclusively on accessible tactical RPGs that are readily available to play.

8 Disgaea 6: Defiance Of Destiny

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Disgaea 6: Defiance of Destiny represents the newest addition to the tactical RPG series. What sets these games apart, and excites fans of Final Fantasy Tactics, is the ease with which the system can be manipulated. The Calculator Job in Final Fantasy Tactics effectively broke the RPG if players had a grasp on its mechanics.

The Disgaea games embrace and encourage players to devise absurd strategies in order to secure victory. Characters in these games can attain HP levels in the hundreds of thousands, and items even have dungeons within them for leveling up. These games are undoubtedly eccentric, yet remarkably well-crafted.

7 Fire Emblem Engage

Fire Emblem Engage is the latest installment in Nintendo's enduring RPG series. Unlike Fire Emblem: Three Houses, which became excessively complex, Fire Emblem Engage takes a step back. It features a single campaign with a decent number of maps.

In this game, you can assemble an army, change classes, and optimize each character's abilities, among other things. It's an excellent tactical game, especially for newcomers, thanks to its relaxed difficulty settings. After Fire Emblem Awakening, almost every game in the series is worth exploring.

6 Front Mission 1st: Remake

Front Mission 1st: Remake falls short of being the Final Fantasy 7 of remakes, yet it successfully revitalizes the beloved strategy RPG from the SNES era. Offering two distinct campaigns, players delve into contrasting perspectives of the war.

In a departure from traditional classes, players possess the ability to fully personalize their mecha for engaging turn-based battles. Although June's anticipated sequel remake faced delay, Front Mission 1st: Remake offers a satisfying experience for the time being. However, it is essential to anticipate the upcoming sequel as it has never been available internationally prior.

5 Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope

The latest installment in the peculiar crossover series, Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope, greatly enhances the gameplay of its predecessor. The weaponry is now more distinct, offering a heightened sense of definition. Additionally, a wider array of difficulty options are available, and the inclusion of various movement choices further enhances the strategic aspect of the game.

Originally stemming from an unconventional idea combining two seemingly unrelated franchises, this unique blend has flourished into an outstanding tactical RPG series. It serves as an ideal introductory strategy game for newcomers, while posing a significant challenge for experienced players who adjust the settings accordingly.

4 Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes - Definitive Edition

Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes - Definitive Edition is a remastered version of a lesser-known spinoff game from the DS era. Originally released in 2009, the game has seen multiple ports, but it has been a decade since the last release. The gameplay divides the map into two sides, where hero characters serve as objectives in a sports-like game. Players have the ability to summon allies and strategically arrange them for offensive or defensive purposes, depleting their opponent's health or eliminating weaker minions. The complex battle system requires some learning, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a challenging and unconventional tactical gaming experience.

3 Tactics Ogre: Reborn

Tactics Ogre: Reborn serves as a remastered edition of Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together, an original SNES game. With its earlier release preceding Final Fantasy Tactics, it can be seen as a precursor to one of the most exceptional tactical RPGs. The game offers a variety of classes to master, a multitude of recruitable characters, a politically-driven narrative, and much more. Sadly, the Ogre Battle series as a whole has not received the recognition it truly deserves, resulting in many individuals consistently overlooking this hidden gem. However, fans of Final Fantasy Tactics, in particular, should make it a point to experience this game themselves.

2 Triangle Strategy

Triangle Strategy is Square Enix's newest endeavor to create a tactical RPG evocative of Final Fantasy Tactics. Unlike other games, the classes in Triangle Strategy are tied specifically to story characters, prohibiting them from switching between classes. This feature grants each character a distinctive role in battle, such as mages who specialize in healing the party or carpenters who excel at constructing bridges and traps. This unique dynamic opens up a plethora of strategic possibilities in the genre. Additionally, the game boasts stunning visuals, thanks to the HD-2D aesthetic that originated with Octopath Traveler in 2018.

1 Valkyria Chronicles 4

Valkyria Chronicles 4 takes the tactics RPG genre to a new level with its innovative gameplay mechanics. Players have the freedom to maneuver their units in the heat of battle while facing enemy fire. However, time pauses when aiming to provide a strategic advantage. The game offers a wide range of classes, each with its own unique progression paths. For instance, the standard machine gun class can be specialized into a formidable flamethrower class. Although the watercolor design has been toned down compared to the first game, Valkyria Chronicles 4 still boasts visually stunning environments and characters that capture attention.