Ranking The Best Final Fantasy Games My Personal Tier List

As a long-time fan of the Final Fantasy series, I've spent countless hours immersed in the world of crystals, summons, and epic adventures. With so many entries in the franchise, each with its unique charm and gameplay mechanics, it's inevitable that some stand out more than others. Today, I'm excited to share my personal tier list of Final Fantasy games, ranking them based on my enjoyment, overall quality, and lasting impact. This is, of course, just my opinion, and I encourage you to create your own tier list and share your thoughts! This is all based on a combination of personal enjoyment, critical reception, and overall impact on the JRPG genre. Remember, this is just one fan's opinion, and your own list might look very different!

S Tier: The Pinnacle of Final Fantasy

These are the games that I consider to be the absolute best of the best. They represent the pinnacle of the Final Fantasy experience, with compelling stories, memorable characters, innovative gameplay, and a timeless quality that keeps me coming back for more. They are masterpieces of the JRPG genre and gaming in general. They have captivating stories, unforgettable characters, innovative gameplay mechanics, and a timeless quality that keeps players returning for more. These are the titles that have left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape and continue to be celebrated for their excellence.

Final Fantasy VI

Final Fantasy VI, originally released as Final Fantasy III in North America, holds a special place in my heart. Its sprawling narrative, ensemble cast of richly developed characters, and haunting musical score combine to create an unforgettable experience. The story tackles mature themes of war, loss, and redemption, featuring one of the most iconic villains in gaming history: Kefka Palazzo. Kefka’s nihilistic philosophy and relentless pursuit of destruction make him a truly terrifying and compelling antagonist. The game's steampunk-inspired world is beautifully realized, and the sprite-based graphics still hold up remarkably well today.

The gameplay is a masterclass in turn-based combat, with a deep and customizable magic system. Each character has their unique backstory and abilities, contributing to a diverse and engaging party dynamic. The Esper system, which allows characters to learn magic from summoned creatures, adds a layer of strategic depth to the battles. The game’s narrative is ambitious, with multiple interconnected storylines that gradually converge, creating a sense of epic scope. The opera scene is a standout moment, showcasing the game's ability to blend drama, music, and visual storytelling into a cohesive and emotionally resonant experience. The characters in Final Fantasy VI are not mere archetypes; they are complex individuals with their own motivations, flaws, and strengths. Terra Branford, a mysterious woman with magical powers, is a central figure in the story, grappling with her identity and her role in the world’s fate. Locke Cole, a treasure hunter with a tragic past, provides a sense of swashbuckling adventure. Celes Chere, a former general in the Gestahlian Empire, undergoes a profound transformation as she questions her loyalties and seeks redemption. The ensemble cast allows for a wide range of character interactions and relationships, enriching the narrative and making the world feel more alive. Final Fantasy VI’s enduring legacy is a testament to its groundbreaking storytelling, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay. It remains a benchmark for the series and a beloved classic among JRPG fans.

Final Fantasy VII

Final Fantasy VII needs no introduction. It is the game that catapulted the series into the mainstream and remains one of the most beloved and influential video games of all time. Its blend of science fiction and fantasy, coupled with a deeply emotional story and memorable characters, resonated with a generation of gamers. The story follows Cloud Strife, a mercenary with a mysterious past, as he joins the eco-terrorist group Avalanche in their fight against the Shinra Electric Power Company, a corporation draining the planet's life force. The game explores themes of environmentalism, corporate greed, and the consequences of unchecked technological advancement.

Cloud's character arc, his identity struggles, and the complex relationship with Sephiroth, the iconic antagonist, are central to the game's narrative. Sephiroth's fall from grace and his descent into madness make him one of the most compelling villains in gaming history. The game’s pre-rendered backgrounds and polygonal character models were groundbreaking for their time, creating a visually stunning world that captured the imagination of players. The materia system, which allows players to customize their characters' abilities by equipping magical orbs, adds a layer of strategic depth to the gameplay. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, is considered one of the best in video game history, with iconic themes that perfectly capture the mood and emotion of the story. Aerith's death is one of the most shocking and memorable moments in gaming, highlighting the game’s willingness to take risks and explore mature themes. Final Fantasy VII’s impact on the gaming industry is undeniable, paving the way for future JRPGs and influencing the development of cinematic storytelling in video games. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to resonate with players on an emotional level. The game's themes of environmentalism and corporate responsibility remain relevant today, adding to its lasting impact. Final Fantasy VII’s legacy extends beyond the gaming world, inspiring fan art, cosplay, and countless discussions about its characters, story, and themes.

A Tier: Excellent and Highly Recommended

These are the games that I consider to be excellent and highly recommended. They may not quite reach the heights of the S Tier, but they offer fantastic experiences with compelling stories, engaging gameplay, and memorable characters. These are titles that consistently deliver high-quality experiences and are considered essential entries in the Final Fantasy canon. They often feature innovative mechanics, memorable soundtracks, and compelling narratives that leave a lasting impression on players.

Final Fantasy IV

Final Fantasy IV is a landmark title in the series, establishing many of the tropes and conventions that would become staples of the franchise. It was the first game to feature the Active Time Battle (ATB) system, which added a sense of urgency and dynamism to the turn-based combat. The story follows Cecil Harvey, a dark knight who undergoes a journey of redemption as he uncovers a conspiracy threatening the world. The narrative is rich with melodrama and emotional moments, featuring a cast of memorable characters who grapple with moral dilemmas and personal growth.

The game’s pixel art graphics were impressive for their time, showcasing detailed character sprites and vibrant environments. The story is a classic tale of good versus evil, with a strong emphasis on character development and emotional relationships. Cecil’s transformation from a dark knight to a paladin is a central theme, highlighting his struggle to overcome his past and embrace his true potential. The ATB system revolutionized turn-based combat, adding a layer of strategy and real-time decision-making to battles. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, is filled with memorable melodies that enhance the emotional impact of the story. Final Fantasy IV’s legacy lies in its pioneering gameplay mechanics and its emotionally resonant storytelling. It laid the foundation for future Final Fantasy titles and remains a beloved classic among fans of the series. The game’s emphasis on character development and its exploration of moral themes continue to resonate with players, making it a timeless entry in the Final Fantasy canon. The relationships between the characters, such as Cecil’s bond with Rosa and his rivalry with Kain, add depth and complexity to the narrative. Final Fantasy IV’s influence can be seen in countless JRPGs that followed, cementing its place as a pivotal title in the genre.

Final Fantasy IX

Final Fantasy IX is often seen as a love letter to the classic Final Fantasy games, returning to a more traditional fantasy setting after the science fiction elements of VII and VIII. The story follows Zidane Tribal, a charming thief, as he becomes entangled in a conflict that threatens the world of Gaia. The game features a diverse cast of characters, each with their unique abilities and personalities, who embark on a journey of self-discovery and adventure. The narrative explores themes of mortality, identity, and the meaning of life, offering a poignant and thought-provoking experience.

The game’s visual style is reminiscent of the early Final Fantasy titles, with vibrant colors, detailed character designs, and whimsical environments. The story is a blend of classic fantasy tropes and unique narrative twists, creating a world that feels both familiar and fresh. Zidane’s character arc, as he grapples with his origins and his purpose in life, is one of the most compelling in the series. The Trance system, which replaces the Limit Break mechanic from previous games, adds a strategic element to battles, allowing characters to unleash powerful abilities when their Trance gauge is full. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, is filled with memorable melodies that perfectly capture the mood and emotion of the story. Final Fantasy IX’s legacy lies in its return to classic fantasy themes and its exploration of profound philosophical questions. It is a celebration of the series’ roots and a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional JRPG storytelling. The game’s emphasis on character development and its exploration of complex themes continue to resonate with players, making it a beloved entry in the Final Fantasy canon. The relationships between the characters, such as Zidane’s bond with Garnet and his rivalry with Kuja, add depth and complexity to the narrative. Final Fantasy IX is a reminder of the power of fantasy to explore profound human emotions and experiences.

B Tier: Great Games with Minor Flaws

These games are still great and enjoyable, but they have some flaws that prevent them from reaching the higher tiers. This could be due to pacing issues, less compelling stories, or gameplay mechanics that don't quite click. However, they are still worth playing for fans of the series. These titles often have unique strengths, such as innovative gameplay mechanics or memorable characters, but they may also suffer from inconsistencies in their narrative, pacing issues, or a lack of polish in certain areas. Despite their flaws, they offer enjoyable experiences and contribute to the rich tapestry of the Final Fantasy universe.

Final Fantasy X

Final Fantasy X was the first game in the series to be released on the PlayStation 2, bringing with it a significant leap in graphical fidelity and presentation. The story follows Tidus, a star blitzball player, as he is transported to the world of Spira and joins a pilgrimage to defeat the monstrous Sin. The game features a compelling narrative, a unique setting inspired by Southeast Asian cultures, and a cast of memorable characters. The narrative is a blend of adventure, romance, and religious allegory, exploring themes of sacrifice, faith, and the burden of tradition.

The game’s visuals were stunning for their time, showcasing detailed character models and breathtaking environments. The story is a complex and emotional tale, with twists and turns that keep players engaged. Tidus’s journey from a carefree athlete to a selfless hero is a central theme, highlighting his growth and his relationships with the other characters. The Conditional Turn-Based Battle system, which replaces the ATB system, adds a strategic element to battles, allowing players to plan their actions based on the turn order. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, Masashi Hamauzu, and Junya Nakano, is filled with memorable melodies that enhance the emotional impact of the story. Final Fantasy X’s legacy lies in its groundbreaking graphics and its emotionally resonant storytelling. It is a testament to the series’ ability to evolve and innovate while remaining true to its roots. The game’s exploration of complex themes and its emphasis on character relationships continue to resonate with players, making it a beloved entry in the Final Fantasy canon. The romance between Tidus and Yuna is one of the most memorable in the series, adding a layer of emotional depth to the narrative. Final Fantasy X is a reminder of the power of video games to tell compelling stories and create unforgettable characters.

Final Fantasy VIII

Final Fantasy VIII is a controversial entry in the series, with some fans praising its unique story and characters, while others criticize its complex gameplay mechanics and unconventional narrative. The story follows Squall Leonhart, a stoic mercenary, as he becomes entangled in a conflict that threatens the world. The game features a romance-driven plot, a unique magic system based on drawing spells from enemies, and a world filled with political intrigue and magical elements. The narrative explores themes of love, war, and the power of memory, offering a thought-provoking and often divisive experience.

The game’s visuals were impressive for their time, showcasing realistic character models and detailed environments. The story is a complex and often confusing tale, with time travel elements and a focus on character relationships. Squall’s character arc, as he learns to open himself up to others and embrace his emotions, is a central theme. The Junction system, which allows players to equip Guardian Forces and customize their characters’ stats, is a unique but often criticized gameplay mechanic. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, is filled with memorable melodies, including the iconic theme song