Ultimate Ranking: The Top Final Fantasy Game You Can't Miss

Final Fantasy is undoubtedly one of the most successful video game franchises in history. It has not only shattered sales records but has also left an indelible mark on the gaming industry, shaping and defining an entire genre for over 35 years. Each new installment brings fresh and innovative ideas to the table, cementing its position as a true pioneer in the world of gaming.

But what sets the best Final Fantasy games apart is their ability to truly connect with players, leaving a lasting impression that extends beyond the screen. From their unforgettable soundtracks to their emotionally charged storylines, these games have touched the hearts and minds of millions of fans worldwide. They are a testament to the power of gaming to inspire, entertain, and move us in ways that few other mediums can match.

7 Final Fantasy 9

Upon its release, Final Fantasy 9's cartoonish art style and return to a more medieval setting were initially seen as a deviation from the series' progression towards realism and steampunk/cassette futurism. However, for most players, the game's departure from the seriousness of Final Fantasy 8 provided a refreshing and lighthearted experience, largely due to the writers' skillful use of humor. As such, Final Fantasy 9 is widely regarded as one of the last truly great games in the franchise.

6 Final Fantasy 5

The JRPG genre owes a lot to Final Fantasy, and it's hard to imagine what it would look like without it. Over the years, the franchise has made significant contributions, including its mastery of turn-based combat and the establishment of many prominent JRPG tropes. However, it's the series' iconic job system that truly stands out, and Final Fantasy 5 does an exceptional job of showcasing it. Building on the work of its predecessors, the 1992 classic perfected the job system, providing players with a highly customizable experience that caters to any playstyle. Though the story and characters may not be the series' best, there's still plenty of fun to be had with Bartz, Lenna, and Faris.

5 Final Fantasy Tactics

Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together heavily influenced Final Fantasy Tactics, which was widely regarded as one of the best tactical RPGs available at the time. While the debate continues as to whether Tactics surpasses its predecessor, it's a must-play for any Final Fantasy fan. The battle environments are expertly crafted and the gameplay is exceptional, making it one of the most accessible tactical RPGs of its generation, despite occasional difficulty spikes. The world-building and narrative are on par with what is expected from a Final Fantasy game, adding the perfect finishing touch to an already beautifully decorated game.

4 Final Fantasy 14

Final Fantasy 14 often gets overlooked in discussions of the best Final Fantasy games because it's an MMORPG, not a traditional single-player adventure. However, dismissing this title would be a disservice to both the game and its creators. It's a content-rich and well-crafted game that stands out in the genre. While the experience is different from what series veterans may expect, it captures the sense of grandeur and wonder that fans fell in love with. What's more, it does so in a way that's both accessible and distinctive.

3 Final Fantasy 7

The release of Final Fantasy 7 marked a significant turning point for both the franchise and the JRPG genre as a whole. Although they had achieved some success in the West prior to this release, it wasn't until Cloud and his crew made their debut in 1997 that they gained mainstream recognition outside of Japan. Despite its blocky 3D graphics that appear dated by today's standards, this installment was a major breakthrough for the franchise. The game took advantage of the increased capacity of PS1 discs, which allowed for higher-quality audio files and improved textures. Additionally, the narrative introduced some of the franchise's most iconic and complex characters to date.

2 Final Fantasy 10

Final Fantasy 10 has a strong claim to being the greatest Final Fantasy game ever made. The game boasts an exceptional soundtrack, a captivating storyline that tackles complex and relatable themes, and one of the most memorable main party casts in the franchise's history. What sets Final Fantasy 10 apart is how these elements come together in a seamless and cohesive manner. Additionally, the game's storytelling is elevated by the inclusion of voice acting, a first for the mainline Final Fantasy series.

1 Final Fantasy 6

Final Fantasy 6 stands out as a top contender among the franchise's impressive lineup of games. Building on its predecessors, this 1994 classic delivers a quintessential 2D JRPG experience that's hard to beat. Credit is due to Kazuko Shibuya, whose remarkable sprite work brings to life a lovable cast of characters, each with their own iconic theme and pivotal role in the story. And, of course, Kefka remains one of the best Final Fantasy villains of all time, with his maniacal laugh and unrelenting thirst for power leaving a lasting impression.