If you’re on the hunt for an engaging narrative within video games, look no further than the iconic Final Fantasy series. Developed by Square Enix, this landmark JRPG franchise has consistently delivered rich and captivating tales that push the limits of storytelling in gaming.
The creative minds at Square have an extraordinary talent for developing fresh, imaginative worlds every few years, particularly during the fifth and sixth console generations. Their ability to return with vast, unique universes has kept players enthralled and eager for each new installment.
With that in mind, I’m inviting the analytical voices of the internet to weigh in as I rank specific Final Fantasy titles, but I will do so with a focus on their narratives, the strength of their writing, and their influence on the franchise as a whole.
It’s important to note that I have excluded Final Fantasy XI and Final Fantasy XIV from this list, as both are MMOs. Though both are exceptional in their own right and deserving of appreciation, they do not provide the same memorable single-player experiences that the other mainline entries do. Consequently, my rankings will reflect the narrative strengths and concepts of these titles, which are less pronounced in an MMO format.
14 Final Fantasy II
Growing Pains
Crafting a story amidst the limitations of 8-bit hardware is a challenging task, yet it was one that the artists at Square embraced while developing Final Fantasy II. With a small color palette and rudimentary audio techniques, the developers relied on their vivid imaginations and innate charm to create a captivating fantasy.
This classic installment features familiar genre tropes, following young heroes determined to vanquish a great evil. Memorable characters such as Firion and Minwu have earned a special place in the hearts of fans as they embark on their charming journey through the game.
Nevertheless, certain gameplay mechanics and structures in early Final Fantasy titles can feel dated when juxtaposed with their contemporaries, often hindering the narrative. Despite this, FFII provides engaging moments and serves as an enjoyable escape into traditional fantasy realms.
13 Final Fantasy
The Fabled First Steps
The inaugural Final Fantasy title emerged at a time when JRPGs were beginning to flourish in mainstream gaming, largely thanks to influential titles like Dragon Quest. Though the narrative of the Warriors of Light parallels Erdrick’s journey, it shines with its own unique charm.
The story follows the Warriors of Light as they strive to defeat four malevolent fiends and restore power to their lifeless crystals, integrating an innovative time-traveling element that was quite ground-breaking for its time.
Despite its high-fantasy context, I appreciate how FFI skillfully establishes its antagonist, Garland, as a formidable force. While the game may seem quaint by today’s standards, it deserves recognition for its engaging story, compelling pace, and the poignant sense of despair that permeates its final hours.
12 Final Fantasy III
The First Truly Great FF Story
Although Final Fantasy III is still constrained by 8-bit limitations, it makes substantial advances in storytelling and plot architecture, resulting in a narrative that stands out among JRPGs of its era.
Representing one of the most memorable narratives in JRPG history, FFIII masterfully intertwines heartfelt drama and humor, alongside a cast of irresistibly charming characters. Notably, early hints of external storytelling influences, such as the Dark Warriors—alternate versions of the protagonists—foreshadowed new narrative territories for the franchise.
11 Final Fantasy V
A Story About Hate
Regrettably, Final Fantasy V tends to be overlooked compared to other titles from the SNES era, a missed opportunity given its strong character development and engaging narrative. Unlike traditional high-fantasy tales, the story feels reminiscent of classic 1980s adventure films.
While it retains the fundamental elements of crystals and a god-like adversary defeated through friendship, the distinctive unfolding of the narrative and individual character arcs offers something fresh. Humor pervades the experience, as Square cleverly employs sprite animations to create entertaining cutscenes.
The game’s climax leads the players towards a thrilling confrontation with Exdeath, the personification of pure hatred, whose malevolent goal is to annihilate life itself. This haunting justification for Exdeath’s existence serves as a reminder that his character embodies everything contrary to the essence of humanity, adding a layer of existential despair to Final Fantasy V.
10 Final Fantasy IV
Next-Gen Improvements
The transition from the NES to the SNES was revolutionary, offering developers opportunities to create more sophisticated graphics. No team capitalized on this shift quite like Squaresoft, particularly with Final Fantasy IV.
The game opens with a breathtaking sequence that immediately immerses players, as they assume the role of Cecil—an intriguing character who stands out as a modern protagonist, eschewing traditional heroic traits.
In this installment, character development takes precedence more than ever before. This is especially evident with Rydia, whose transformative journey reveals the profound changes within her character, as well as those of her companions.
9 Final Fantasy XV
Reclaim Your Throne
After nearly a decade of development, Final Fantasy XV finally saw the light of day on PS4 and Xbox One in November 2016, emerging from a state of uncertainty. The franchise had been on an unconventional path, shifting between MMOs and singular story arcs; thus, returning to a more traditional narrative of young heroes embarking on a road trip felt refreshingly nostalgic.
The narrative follows Noctis, a disenchanted prince driven to reclaim his father’s throne. The game flourishes with emotional depth, portraying intimate moments that allow players to reflect on personal stakes. Beneath the surface of epic battles and cinematic spectacle lies a touching exploration of friendship and trust, making Final Fantasy XV a truly compelling adventure.
8 Final Fantasy XVI
Accept The Truth
Upon diving into Final Fantasy XVI, I was quickly captivated by Clive Rosfield and his emotionally resonant journey. This latest installment feels like the hallmark of a franchise that has evolved over three decades.
Characterized by its slow build yet substantial payoff, Clive emerges as an accessible protagonist with relatable struggles. His quest to uncover the fate of his brother Joshua unfolds within a narrative framework reminiscent of prestige dramas, interweaving diverse character arcs and agendas seamlessly. It stands as one of Square’s most successful storytelling achievements.
7 Final Fantasy XIII
Not Even Fate Can Stand In Their Way
Despite the mixed critical reception surrounding its release, the Final Fantasy XIII trilogy has since cultivated a fervent and dedicated fanbase. I wholeheartedly believe their enthusiasm is warranted, as this installment has immense storytelling depth.
The narrative eloquently explores themes of acceptance and forgiveness, particularly evident in Lightning and Snow’s relationship.Final Fantasy XIII showcases the balance of profound emotions amid epic struggles, a hallmark of the franchise’s narrative prowess.
Darker concepts permeate the story, as the game’s early exposition revolves around Fal’Cie—elements displaced due to fear and hostility towards others. This theme of conflict against oppression echoes throughout the adventure, ultimately leading to a story of hope and humanity’s fight for a kinder future.
6 Final Fantasy VI
Tradition Meets Modernity
From its stunning introductory sequence featuring Terra’s poignant approach to Narshe to the harrowing final confrontation with the tyrannical Kefka, Final Fantasy VI brilliantly encapsulates the themes of existence and the essence of fighting for a cause.
As each character discovers their own motivations, the story reveals the fragility of the world, paralleling the impending threat posed by Kefka’s destructive ambitions. Witnessing his callous disregard for life deepens the narrative, as he sacrilegiously seeks to amass power at humanity’s expense.
5 Final Fantasy X
A Next-Generation Masterpiece
For its first nine iterations, the Final Fantasy franchise was intrinsically tied to its written dialogue conveyed through text. However, with Final Fantasy X, the power of the PS2 and an incredible voice cast transformed it into a significant evolution for the series.
The narrative kicks off with chaos during a Blitzball match, propelling a young man named Tidus into an unfamiliar world where he forges new relationships and embarks on a magnificent journey.
What struck me most about FFX is the connection players form with Tidus, as both he and we navigate this uncharted terrain together. The themes surrounding Yuna’s pilgrimage and the final confrontation with Sin highlight the importance of meaningful endings, themes that have left an enduring impact on fans over the past two decades.
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