Few gaming franchises have had the same impact as Final Fantasy. Since its debut in 1987, this legendary series has delivered unforgettable stories, innovative gameplay mechanics, and some of the most beloved characters in gaming history. But which Final Fantasy games stand above the rest? Let’s dive into 15 of the best Final Fantasy games of all time, ranked for their impact, storytelling, gameplay, and overall legacy.
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1. Final Fantasy IX
Many Final Fantasy fans will argue that Final Fantasy IX is the ultimate entry in the series. Released in 2000, it was a love letter to classic Final Fantasy, blending medieval fantasy aesthetics with modern storytelling and refined mechanics. The game’s protagonist, Zidane, is a refreshing change from the usual brooding heroes, bringing charm and humor to the adventure.
The world of Gaia is full of breathtaking locations, from the lively city of Lindblum to the eerie ruins of Terra. Final Fantasy IX also features one of the most emotionally charged narratives in the series, with characters like Vivi, whose existential crisis adds unexpected depth. The Active Time Event system allows players to see what’s happening with other party members in real-time, creating a richer story experience.
Combat in Final Fantasy IX returns to classic turn-based action, but with unique class-based abilities, making every character feel distinct. The Trance system acts as a temporary power boost during battle, adding strategic variety. With its heartfelt story, timeless visuals, and nostalgic charm, Final Fantasy IX remains one of the best RPGs ever made.
2. Final Fantasy XII
When Final Fantasy XII launched in 2006, it redefined the series with its real-time battle system and open-world exploration. The game’s political intrigue-heavy story, set in the kingdom of Ivalice, felt more grounded compared to previous entries. It introduced players to characters like Vaan, Ashe, and the sky pirate Balthier, who remains one of the franchise’s most beloved characters.
The Gambit system was a game-changer, allowing players to program AI behaviors for their party members. This gave combat a strategic depth unseen in previous entries, making battles feel more fluid and engaging. The License Board system provided flexible character progression, letting players mold their characters however they liked.
The world of Ivalice is massive, with sprawling environments and seamless exploration. Unlike older games that relied on random encounters, Final Fantasy XII allowed players to see enemies in the wild, a feature that would later become a staple in the series. With its deep mechanics, immersive world, and mature storytelling, Final Fantasy XII holds up as one of the best RPGs of all time.
3. Final Fantasy XIII
Final Fantasy XIII often sparks debate among fans, but there’s no denying its ambition. Released in 2009, it featured one of the most cinematic experiences in gaming, with breathtaking visuals and a fast-paced combat system. The game’s story follows Lightning, a strong yet emotionally complex heroine fighting against the oppressive Sanctum government.
The Paradigm Shift system was a unique take on combat, allowing players to switch roles mid-battle for strategic advantage. While the game started with a linear structure, it later opened into the vast plains of Gran Pulse, offering exploration and challenging encounters. Despite criticisms of its restrictive first half, Final Fantasy XIII is a technical and narrative achievement that deserves more appreciation.
4. Final Fantasy VI
Final Fantasy VI is often hailed as one of the greatest RPGs of all time. Released in 1994, it featured one of the most diverse casts in gaming, with no single protagonist but rather a group of compelling characters. The villain, Kefka, is one of the most memorable antagonists in gaming history, known for his chaotic destruction and chilling laugh.
The game’s opera scene remains legendary, demonstrating Final Fantasy VI’s ability to tell a deeply emotional story through its SNES-era graphics. The Esper system allowed deep customization, while the game’s second half completely changed the dynamic, letting players approach the world in a nonlinear fashion.
Even today, Final Fantasy VI is regarded as a near-perfect RPG, combining storytelling, music, and gameplay into an unforgettable experience.
5. Final Fantasy III
The original Final Fantasy III introduced the job system, one of the most beloved mechanics in the series. Released in 1990, it allowed players to change their characters’ roles, offering a level of strategic depth that was groundbreaking at the time.
While its story was simpler compared to later entries, Final Fantasy III laid the foundation for many Final Fantasy mechanics, including summons and multi-tiered magic. The game’s 3D remake for the DS modernized the experience, making it accessible to a new generation of players.
6. Final Fantasy VII
Final Fantasy VII is perhaps the most influential RPG of all time. Released in 1997, it brought cinematic storytelling to the forefront with stunning pre-rendered cutscenes and an epic sci-fi narrative. The game introduced players to Cloud Strife, a mercenary with a mysterious past, and Sephiroth, one of gaming’s most iconic villains.
The Materia system provided deep character customization, allowing players to mix and match magic, abilities, and summons. The story tackled complex themes like identity, corporate greed, and environmental destruction, making it one of the most thought-provoking entries in the series. Final Fantasy VII also delivered memorable side quests, like the Gold Saucer amusement park and the hidden boss fights against Ruby and Emerald Weapon.
Its influence extended beyond gaming, inspiring movies, spin-offs, and, eventually, a full remake in 2020. The combination of engaging gameplay, legendary characters, and emotional storytelling ensures Final Fantasy VII remains one of the greatest RPGs of all time.
7. Final Fantasy XV
Final Fantasy XV took the series in a bold new direction with its open-world exploration and action-based combat. Players follow Noctis and his friends on a road trip to reclaim his kingdom, blending slice-of-life moments with epic battles against gods and monsters.
The game’s real-time combat system was a departure from turn-based mechanics, offering fast-paced action with the ability to warp-strike across the battlefield. The world of Eos is breathtaking, filled with hidden dungeons, massive monsters, and detailed cities that make exploration rewarding.
Side activities like fishing, cooking, and photography gave the game a personal touch, making players feel like they were part of Noctis’ journey. The DLC expansions further expanded the lore, diving deeper into the backstories of Noctis’ companions. Despite a rocky development cycle, Final Fantasy XV delivers an unforgettable adventure filled with brotherhood, loss, and hope.
8. Final Fantasy XIV
Final Fantasy XIV had one of the most remarkable comeback stories in gaming history. The original 2010 release was a disaster, but Square Enix rebuilt it from the ground up as Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, turning it into one of the best MMORPGs ever made.
With an ever-expanding world, Final Fantasy XIV offers one of the most engaging stories in an online game, filled with twists, betrayals, and emotional moments. The Job system allows players to switch classes on the fly, making progression flexible and rewarding. The game also includes massive 24-player raids, PvP, and endless side content like crafting and housing.
Each expansion—Heavensward, Stormblood, Shadowbringers, and Endwalker—has only strengthened its reputation as one of the greatest Final Fantasy experiences. Whether you’re in it for the story, the community, or the deep combat mechanics, Final Fantasy XIV is a masterpiece that continues to evolve.
9. Final Fantasy X
Final Fantasy X was the first entry to feature fully voiced characters, bringing Tidus, Yuna, and the world of Spira to life in a way no previous game had done. The game’s narrative, centered around Yuna’s pilgrimage and the tragic fate of Sin, is one of the most emotional in the series.
The Sphere Grid system allowed for deep character progression, letting players customize each hero’s abilities. Final Fantasy X also introduced Blitzball, a unique underwater sports mini-game that became a fan favorite. The game’s turn-based combat was polished and refined, making each battle feel strategic and rewarding.
With its gorgeous environments, unforgettable soundtrack, and heartbreaking story, Final Fantasy X remains a standout in the franchise.
10. Final Fantasy XVI
Final Fantasy XVI takes the series in a darker, more mature direction, embracing an action-heavy combat system reminiscent of Devil May Cry. The game tells the story of Clive Rosfield as he navigates political intrigue, war, and fate in the land of Valisthea.
The Eikon battles, massive kaiju-like fights between god-like summons, are some of the most cinematic moments in Final Fantasy history. The combat is fluid and intense, offering a mix of combos, magic, and special abilities. The world-building is deep and immersive, drawing inspiration from classic medieval fantasy.
While Final Fantasy XVI is a departure from traditional RPG mechanics, its strong narrative and thrilling combat system make it a bold and exciting entry in the series.
11. Final Fantasy VIII
Final Fantasy VIII is one of the most unique entries in the series, with its realistic setting and complex battle mechanics. The game follows Squall, an emotionally distant mercenary, as he becomes entangled in a war that spans time itself.
The Junction system lets players equip magic to enhance their stats, creating endless customization possibilities. Final Fantasy VIII also introduced Triple Triad, one of the best mini-games in RPG history. The story, centered around Squall and Rinoa’s romance, offers a rare focus on personal relationships.
With its gorgeous pre-rendered backgrounds, deep customization, and ambitious story, Final Fantasy VIII stands out as a classic.
12. Final Fantasy IV
Final Fantasy IV set the foundation for story-driven RPGs, introducing the first truly developed characters in the series. The journey of Cecil, a dark knight seeking redemption, was a huge step forward for gaming narratives.
The Active Time Battle system, introduced in this game, became a franchise staple. Each character had a set role, making battles strategic and engaging. The story tackled themes of redemption, sacrifice, and heroism, creating one of the most memorable adventures in RPG history.
Even decades later, Final Fantasy IV is a must-play for any RPG fan.
13. Final Fantasy V
Final Fantasy V is best known for its expansive Job system, offering more customization than any previous entry. Players can mix and match skills to create powerful hybrid classes, leading to endless strategic possibilities.
The game’s lighthearted tone and adventurous spirit make it a joy to play. Though often overlooked, its deep gameplay mechanics and flexible character progression make it one of the most replayable games in the series.
14. Final Fantasy II
Unlike its predecessor, Final Fantasy II introduced a leveling system based on skill usage, rather than traditional experience points. Though divisive, it was a bold experiment that influenced later RPGs.
The story, which follows a group of rebels fighting against an empire, introduced darker themes and a more involved narrative than the first game.
15. Final Fantasy XI
Final Fantasy XI was the series’ first MMO, paving the way for Final Fantasy XIV. It was groundbreaking for its time, featuring a massive world, job-based progression, and challenging raids.
Though its difficulty curve was steep, Final Fantasy XI built a strong online community that lasted for decades. It remains a nostalgic favorite for MMO fans.
Final Thoughts
The Final Fantasy series has evolved in many ways, from turn-based battles to real-time action, from medieval settings to futuristic worlds. Each game on this list represents a different era in the franchise’s history, showing how Final Fantasy has continued to innovate and captivate players for decades.
Whether you prefer the classic storytelling of Final Fantasy VI, the political intrigue of Final Fantasy XII, or the modernized action of Final Fantasy XVI, there’s a Final Fantasy game for every type of RPG fan. No matter which entry is your favorite, one thing is certain: Final Fantasy is and always will be one of the most important franchises in gaming history.
