10 Best Final Fantasy Games of All Time: Which One Takes the Crown?

As a longtime fan of the Final Fantasy franchise, I am excited to dive into the topic of ranking the top 10 best Final Fantasy games of all time. With so many games in the series, it can be difficult to determine which ones are truly the best. In this article, I will be using a set of criteria to rank the top 10 games, as well as discussing some honorable mentions and games that didn't quite make the cut. Let's dive in!

Introduction to the Final Fantasy franchise

The Final Fantasy franchise has been around for over three decades, with the first game being released in 1987. Since then, the series has become known for its memorable characters, epic storylines, and innovative gameplay. The games feature a mix of traditional RPG elements, such as turn-based combat and character leveling, as well as unique features like the Materia system in Final Fantasy VII and the Job system in Final Fantasy V.
The series has also been known for pushing the boundaries of graphics and sound, with each new game showcasing the latest technology of its time. From the pixelated graphics of the early games to the stunning visuals of the more recent titles, Final Fantasy has always been at the forefront of gaming technology.

Criteria for ranking the best Final Fantasy games

To determine the top 10 best Final Fantasy games of all time, I will be using a set of criteria that includes story, characters, gameplay, graphics, and sound. Each game will be scored out of 10 for each category, with a maximum score of 50 points. The games will then be ranked based on their total score.
The story category will take into account the overall plot, pacing, and character development. Characters will be scored on their depth, likability, and importance to the story. Gameplay will include combat mechanics, exploration, and side quests. Graphics will be scored on their visual appeal and technical prowess, while sound will include the quality of the music and voice acting.

The Top 10 Best Final Fantasy games of all time (countdown format)

1. Final Fantasy IX (Score: 38/50): Final Fantasy IX was released in 2000 and is often considered a love letter to the series as a whole. The game features a return to the series' roots with a medieval setting and a focus on character-driven storytelling. The game's cast of characters is memorable, with the loveable Zidane and the tragic Vivi being particular standouts. The gameplay is solid, with a return to the traditional turn-based combat and the addition of the ability system, which allows characters to learn new abilities from equipment.
2. Final Fantasy XII (Score: 39/50): Released in 2006, Final Fantasy XII took a departure from the traditional gameplay of the series with its real-time combat system. The game's story is sprawling and epic, with a large cast of characters and a political intrigue plotline. The game's graphics are stunning, with detailed environments and character models. The voice acting is also notable, with standout performances from actors such as Gideon Emery and Catherine Taber.
3. Final Fantasy IV (Score: 40/50): Final Fantasy IV, released in 1991, is often considered a classic of the series. The game's story follows the dark knight Cecil as he becomes embroiled in a plot to destroy the world. The game's characters, including the stoic Kain and the gentle Rosa, are memorable and well-developed. The gameplay features the Active Time Battle system, which has become a staple of the series. The game's graphics were impressive for their time, with detailed character sprites and colorful environments.
4. Final Fantasy VII (Score: 41/50): Arguably the most well-known game in the series, Final Fantasy VII was released in 1997 to critical and commercial acclaim. The game's story follows the mercenary Cloud as he becomes embroiled in a plot to save the world from a corrupt corporation. The game's characters, including the iconic Sephiroth and the spunky Tifa, are some of the most beloved in gaming history. The gameplay features the Materia system, which allows players to customize their characters' abilities. The game's graphics were groundbreaking for their time, with impressive 3D models and pre-rendered backgrounds.
5. Final Fantasy VIII (Score: 42/50): Released in 1999, Final Fantasy VIII is often seen as a divisive entry in the series. The game's story follows the brooding Squall as he becomes involved in a time-traveling plotline. The game's characters, including the spunky Rinoa and the enigmatic Laguna, are memorable and well-developed. The gameplay features the Junction system, which allows players to customize their characters' stats by equipping magic. The game's graphics were impressive for their time, with detailed character models and environments.
6. Final Fantasy X (Score: 43/50): Final Fantasy X, released in 2001, was the first game in the series to feature fully-voiced characters. The game's story follows the star athlete Tidus as he becomes embroiled in a plot to defeat a monstrous entity known as Sin. The game's characters, including the determined Yuna and the stoic Auron, are some of the most well-developed in the series. The gameplay features the Sphere Grid system, which allows players to customize their character's abilities. The game's graphics were stunning for their time, with detailed character models and breathtaking environments.
7. Final Fantasy VI (Score: 44/50): Released in 1994, Final Fantasy VI is often considered one of the best RPGs of all time. The game's story follows a large cast of characters as they try to stop a madman from destroying the world. The game's characters, including the stoic Celes and the tragic Locke, are some of the most well-developed in the series. The gameplay features the Active Time Battle system and the Esper system, which allows characters to learn new abilities from summoned creatures. The game's graphics were impressive for their time, with detailed character sprites and colorful environments.
8. Final Fantasy III (Score: 45/50): Released in 1990, Final Fantasy III was the first game in the series to feature the Job system, which allows characters to change classes and learn new abilities. The game's story follows a group of four warriors as they try to stop an evil force from destroying the world. The game's characters are memorable, despite the lack of individual personalities. The gameplay is solid, with a deep Job system and challenging boss battles. The graphics were impressive for their time, with detailed character sprites and colorful environments.
9. Final Fantasy V (Score: 46/50): Released in 1992, Final Fantasy V is often seen as an underrated gem in the series. The game's story follows a group of characters as they try to stop an evil sorcerer from taking over the world. The game's characters, including the spunky Faris and the mysterious Galuf, are memorable and well-developed. The gameplay features the Job system, which is one of the best in the series. The graphics were impressive for their time, with detailed character sprites and colorful environments.
10. Final Fantasy Tactics (Score: 47/50): Released in 1997, Final Fantasy Tactics is often seen as a masterpiece of the strategy RPG genre. The game's story follows the noble Ramza as he becomes embroiled in a plot to overthrow a corrupt church. The game's characters, including the tragic Delita and the enigmatic Wiegraf, are some of the most well-developed in gaming history. The gameplay features a deep Job system and challenging battles. The graphics were impressive for their time, with detailed character sprites and stunning cutscenes.

Honorable mentions - Final Fantasy games that almost made the list

There were many Final Fantasy games that almost made the list, but didn't quite make the cut. Some of these games include:

• Final Fantasy XIII (Score: 36/50)
• Final Fantasy Tactics Advance (Score: 35/50)
• Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles (Score: 33/50)

While these games didn't make the top 10, they are still worth playing for fans of the series.

Why some Final Fantasy games didn't make the cut

There were some Final Fantasy games that didn't make the cut for the top 10. Some of these games include:

• Final Fantasy II
• Final Fantasy X-2
• Final Fantasy XIII-2

These games were not included in the top 10 due to various reasons, including weak storylines, unlikable characters, or lackluster gameplay.

Final Fantasy games that divided the fanbase

There were some Final Fantasy games that divided the fanbase due to their unique gameplay mechanics or controversial storylines. Some of these games include:

• Final Fantasy VIII
• Final Fantasy XIII
• Final Fantasy XV

While these games may not be for everyone, they still have their dedicated fanbase.

Final Fantasy games that received critical acclaim but were not popular

There were some Final Fantasy games that received critical acclaim but were not as popular as some of the other entries in the series. Some of these games include:

• Final Fantasy Tactics
• Final Fantasy XII

While these games may not have sold as well as some of the other entries in the series, they are still considered classics by many fans.

Final Fantasy games that were popular but received mixed reviews

There were some Final Fantasy games that were popular among fans but received mixed reviews from critics. Some of these games include:

• Final Fantasy X-2
• Final Fantasy XIII
• Final Fantasy XV

While these games may not have been critically acclaimed, they still have their dedicated fanbase.

Final Fantasy games that were underrated

There were some Final Fantasy games that were underrated and often overlooked by fans of the series. Some of these games include:

• Final Fantasy V
• Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
• Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles

While these games may not have received the same level of attention as some of the other entries in the series, they are still worth playing for fans of the franchise.

Conclusion - Which Final Fantasy game takes the crown as the best of all time?

After much deliberation and scoring, the Final Fantasy game that takes the crown as the best of all time is Final Fantasy Tactics. The game's deep and engaging story, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay make it a standout among the series. While other games may have more popular appeal or groundbreaking graphics, Final Fantasy Tactics is the complete package and a masterpiece of the RPG genre.