With 16 main entries and a boatload of spin-offs, Final Fantasy may seem an impenetrable franchise. While I’m not here to tell you which one is best, there’s another question that needs answering. After 36 years, many of these landmark games have been remade and re-released countless times. While all of these are currently available in some shape or form, they aren’t necessarily the best ways to play Final Fantasy.
With that in mind, here’s a summary of every mainline Final Fantasy game, and each major version. While the latest versions are convenient, sometimes certain things are omitted for one reason or another. Be it extra bosses, different graphics, or just a certain quirk of a particular translation.
Final Fantasy
Beginning with the first Final Fantasy (an oxymoron for the ages) there’s no shortage of versions. Originally releasing on the NES, it remains surprisingly playable in its simplicity. Graphics are very basic, particularly the black backgrounds during combat. Still, all the integral DNA in here is carried forward to all future versions. No matter which version you get, your four silent warriors of light will be wandering the world, getting into random encounters, and finding the four crystals. All while fighting enemies that look a little close to Dungeons and Dragons monsters…
Final Fantasy has come a long way from its endearingly simple Dungeons and Dragons-inspired roots
If the graphics are too basic for you, the PS1 remake features an overhauled soundtrack, alongside graphics akin to the later SNES titles. Certain bugs are also fixed – for better and for worse. The Game Boy Advance “Dawn of Souls” release, and later the PSP anniversary release, make more substantial changes. Replacing the spell charge system is the more standard MP system – instead of certain tiers of spells having a limited number of charges between rests, characters now have a single pool of Magic Points that different spells consume in different amounts. This, plus the addition of now-standard revival items at shops, makes it a more modernised version. For a real challenge, a new bonus dungeon is also added near the end.
Most recently, the Pixel Remaster release on mobile, PS4, Switch and PC takes elements from all versions. The magic system is reverted to the more authentic spell charge system, but the graphics and revival items from Dawn of Souls are carried over. More modern quality-of-life changes are brought in too, such as autosaves, maps and disabling encounters. By far the most accessible, though the new graphics and easier difficulty aren’t for everyone; the removal of the bonus dungeon introduced in DoS also remains controversial.
Rebuilt from the ground up, the Pixel Remasters keep a familiar look with a modern flourish (credit: Square Enix)
To summarise all these versions: the original is still playable, but mostly improved on by the PS1 version. The PSP version is the easiest, while the Pixel Remaster offers the most user-friendly and accessible port by far. I’d say this makes the Pixel Remaster the best way to play Final Fantasy, but try and give the PS1 version a go if you want more of a challenge. The bonus content puts the PSP version at a comfortable third.
Final Fantasy II
Back in the day, sequels were often experimental in nature. Final Fantasy II stands as a striking example. Exploration, progression and storytelling were overhauled completely from the first game, resulting in a unique, if polarising entry. The original NES version never released outside of Japan, but fans have released a patch that translates it to English. You’ll be in for a rough time though; it’s all too easy to wander into impossible fights early on.
Final Fantasy II was much more plot oriented than the original – even if it was basically just Star Wars
Stat progression is the big deal; rather than levels, you increase your party’s attributes through taking action. Losing health increases maximum HP, attacking a lot increases attack, and so on. Breeze through too many battles, and you won’t be able to survive a hit from a boss. It’s a bit of a balancing problem that remains even in the PS1 remake. To mitigate this, both NES and PS1 versions have a rather ridiculous workaround; have your party attack each other! It’s an effective way to raise the necessary stats early on, and you’ll have a much easier time.
The aforementioned Dawn of Souls release on GBA adds helpful changes, such as automatically gaining HP increases every few fights. Sadly, you can’t beat your friends half to death for stat gains anymore, but fortunately you won’t need to. Another bonus dungeon is also added in this version, making for a great new epilogue to the story. The Pixel Remaster retains these changes, alongside the QoL changes from FF1. Unfortunately, the epilogue dungeon is also removed.
The Pixel Remaster streamlines a lot of stuff, but you’ll still have to memorise and ask every keyword (credit: Square Enix)
Overall, you’d probably have the smoothest time with the Dawn of Souls release on GBA or PSP. The PS1 version makes for a bit of a masochistic endeavour, while the best thing the Pixel Remaster brings is the maps. Trust me, the dungeons are labyrinthian. So be sure to track down a way to play Dawn of Souls, the best way to play Final Fantasy II.
Final Fantasy III
Unlike FF1 and FF2 with their myriad of ports and remakes, Final Fantasy III has been left by the wayside over the years. Since the NES release, only two more versions have materialised. Between the three of them, though, no two are firmly alike, so let’s break it down. The original release on NES is hard – rock-hard. It introduces the Job System that Final Fantasy XIV fans will find familiar, but it’s comparatively quite awkward to get to grips with. Several jobs are borderline useless, and you’ll be forced to pick certain jobs for certain dungeons.
It may not be as pretty as sprites, but the 3D version of FF3 almost looks like a lost PS1 game (credit: Square Enix)
A 3D remake later materialised on DS, which was further ported to mobile and Steam. The low-poly graphics might not be to your fancy compared to the old spritework, so keep that aspect in mind. What it also brings is a revamped story that adds a little more flavor to the original. However, in terms of balancing, it might be even more difficult than the original. The UI changes have also been complained about, particularly the mobile and Steam versions.
This brings us to the Pixel Remaster, which carries a lot of differences. While it may look like a touched up NES port, a lot of work went into rebalancing it. Several jobs received much-needed improvements, while others were nerfed slightly. A removed enemy is restored, and no penalties are in place for job-switching. Add this assortment of enhancements to the usual Pixel Remaster QoL additions, and you get what is surely the best way to play Final Fantasy III.
Chocobos were introduced in FF2, but it was Final Fantasy III that cemented them as a FF mainstay (credit: Square Enix)
In summary – there’s no doubt at all, the Pixel Remaster is the way to go. The NES version is a bit buggy and wasn’t even officially released outside of Japan (once again, fans came to the rescue with a translation patch). The 3D Remake feels like a hard mode for veterans of the original. So for someone brand new to Final Fantasy III, it’s Pixel Remaster all the way. No major removed content to worry about, and all the improvements one could ask for!
Final Fantasy IV
From one of the more forgotten entries, to one of the most revisited. Final Fantasy IV was a huge step forward in videogame storytelling. As such, it has more ports and remakes than some entire franchises have games! The SNES original (titled Final Fantasy 2 due to being the second localised entry) still holds up – kinda. While very playable, heavy changes were made to the USA version – gutting the special skills of the characters and cutting down the script. To really hammer it in, this was brought back over to Japan as “Final Fantasy IV – Easy Type”. Owch. While nostalgic, there are better ways to play.
Final Fantasy IV put a huge emphasis on the summon system – recruiting Bahamut is a legendary undertaking
The PlayStation 1 port…is not one of them. Loading times are painful in a game with so many encounters, and the new translation is filled with strange jokes and pop-culture references. The Game Boy Advance version is slightly improved on that front, but the battle system is rather buggy in the USA release. Two new dungeons and the ability to swap between party members near the end of the game are welcome improvements, at least.
But never mind all that, as the PSP version “Final Fantasy 4: The Complete Collection” offers all this and more. The new dungeons and party swapping are retained, alongside other new features like auto-battle; great for grind sessions. Cinematic 3D cutscenes are added, and graphics are more detailed sprite art than previous versions. Biggest of all, though, is the inclusion of the sequel “Final Fantasy 4: The After Years”, as well as an exclusive connecting chapter.
It may seem tropey now, but Final Fantasy IV’s tale of betrayal and redemption was groundbreaking
When compared to all that, the Pixel Remaster comes up a little short. All the added content over the years has been removed. It still carries a lot of great balancing changes and QoL features, but after the previous versions, it doesn’t seem quite so impressive. Also worth pointing out is the 3D Remake on DS, mobile and Steam. While it’s not much of a looker, it features 3D voice acted cutscenes, as well as a rewritten script that’s more detailed and laden with old-English talk. It’s also much harder, so you’d best save this one if you want to play the game a second time.
With a lot to pick from, it can seem a bit daunting. But to put it simply; if you have a PSP, or all the means to legally emulate it, The Complete Collection gives you the most bang for your buck. If you’re not interested in the extra games, or dislike the new graphics, the GBA version could be more for you. Just be sure to get hold of the European version, with all the major bugs fixed! The Pixel Remaster version is, of course, the easiest one to buy right now, and still makes for a fine way to play. But overall, the best way to play Final Fantasy IV is on the PSP.
Final Fantasy V
Final Fantasy V is another overlooked classic – essentially a bigger and arguably better version of Final Fantasy III, complete with an updated job system. The original SNES version was never officially translated, so for most, that’s ruled out. America would eventually get it on the PS1 – complete with a terrible translation and annoying load times. For many, this port gave it a somewhat sour reputation that’s still felt slightly today.
One of Final Fantasy V’s most lovably silly additions was Gilgamesh; he’s popped up in many games since
It wouldn’t be until the GBA port that the west would finally get a solid version of the game. A new translation makes it a much more enjoyable read, and several new jobs and an extra dungeon are thrown into the mix. The GBA version of the game would later serve as a basis for another port on PC and Mobile. Unfortunately, the graphics and font in this version are obscenely ugly to look at. Even if they do appeal to you, you’re out of luck; these versions were delisted to make way for the Pixel Remaster.
When they said the library was fully booked, this was not what Bartz had in mind… (credit: Square Enix)
And speaking of the Pixel Remaster itself, it’s what you’ve come to expect hearing by now. The same selection of updated features apply, but say goodbye to those new jobs from the GBA version. Of course, even without this content, you’re getting a good version of a great game anyway. But in terms of content, the Game Boy Advance version is the best way to play Final Fantasy V.
Final Fantasy VI
Final Fantasy VI is often considered the magnum opus of the franchise, for good reason. Despite this, there haven’t been that many iterations over the years. Fortunately, the original SNES version was released in America. As a bonus, it features what was actually a great translation for the time; while censored, several lines are creatively changed to work around the strict regulations. The result still holds up well today, certain errors aside.
Of all of Final Fantasy VI’s iconic moments, suplexing the train ranks high above all
Along with all prior games but FF3, a GBA port was also released for FF6. It features a revised translation that’s more faithful to the Japanese script, but carries over fan-favourite lines from the old translation. On top of that, there’s once again added content, some cut from the original SNES release. If I had to point out one flaw, however, it’s that the graphics were brightened significantly to account for the GBA’s lack of a backlight. If emulated, this ruins some of the mood present in the darker SNES original.
Sadly, these new graphics carry over to the Pixel Remaster, while the bonus content is once again removed. Regardless, it is still a joy to be able to play through the game with autosave and the like. That’s not to mention the newly orchestrated versions of some of Nobuo Uematsu’s finest works. The idea of remaking Final Fantasy VI on the same scale as VII has been floated around, but is unlikely to materialise. With that being said, one key scene from the original is remade in the HD-2D style, as popularised by Octopath Traveller. Perhaps one day, we can get the whole game in that style?
The Pixel Remaster takes the standout Opera scene, and fully voices it for the first time (credit: Square Enix)
Until then, you’re left with a small platter of options. The best way to play Final Fantasy VI, if you want maximum content, is on the GBA. As with FF5, there was an older PC remaster, and it was just as ugly. It’s also been delisted to make way for the Pixel Remaster, which is still a competent repackaging of the SNES original. However, if you want to experience Final Fantasy VI with that original, darker aesthetic, you’ll just have to find a way to play the original SNES version.
Final Fantasy VII
Few games have left such a crater on pop-culture as large as Final Fantasy VII. A watershed moment in gaming history, some even consider it the first truly “AAA” game. Perhaps as testament to its quality, there aren’t nearly as many versions of FF7 as some of the older games. Of course, the original PS1 version is beloved for good reason, and holds up just fine – the low polygon counts aside. However, the script was translated in a rush, and there’s no shortage of typos and errors.
Cloud’s journey inspired a generation – perhaps the Remake saga can do the same? (credit: Square Enix)
The original PC (and later Steam) release replaced the irreplaceable soundtrack with a terrible MIDI rendition. Luckily, the current version is much better, with the proper soundtrack, cleaned up typos and mod support. It’s worth mentioning that the version on modern consoles, while similar, actually has built-in cheats that are absent on PC. These are great if you just want to experience the story, level yourself to 99 and turn off encounters. Of course, being console ports, there are no mods.
Before I finish, it’s worth addressing the Remake – it’s not a Remake in the conventional sense. If you’re not aware, Final Fantasy VII Remake is only part one of a trilogy, and only covers the opening act of the original game. It’s still a big, 30-40 hour experience with incredible production values and gameplay, but you’ll need to play Final Fantasy VII Rebirth to see more. Even then, the final part doesn’t even have a title yet, let alone a release date, so you’ll just have to wait.
The remake is a great game, but perhaps overcomplicates the story a little (credit: Square Enix)
FF7 Remake is great, but the revamped story expects players to already have baseline knowledge of the original game. As for the actual, original experience, the PC version on Steam is the best way to play Final Fantasy VII. If there’s anything at all you don’t like about it, there’s a very high chance the modding community has you covered!
Final Fantasy VIII
How do you top a game with the pedigree of Final Fantasy VII just a year later? Erm, you don’t. Final Fantasy VIII may not hit the same heights, but it’s still near and dear to many people’s hearts. As with FF7, there’s not many distinct options. The original PS1 release is fine by all accounts – you can emulate it on most hardware, and even PS3s can play old PS1 discs without any hassle.
The updated models of the remaster mean that Squall can finally look like “the best-looking guy here”. (Credit: Square Enix)
There was an older PC port back in the day that still remains on Steam, which is mostly the same as the PS1 original. Most notable is the addition of Chocobo World, a minigame for the Pocketstation that never originally made it outside of Japan. Another release on PC, as well as modern consoles, is Final Fantasy VIII Remastered. This adds new, higher quality character models, but backgrounds are still low-resolution. Chocobo World is removed from this version, but all exclusive items are now available in-game.
In terms of convenience, you might as well just get the remaster, as most changes are inconsequential. The old PC release is a little harder to run out of the box, but mod support and Chocobo World make up for it. PS1 comes last, but isn’t really that much worse at all. Honestly? Just go with whatever’s easiest for you!
Final Fantasy IX
A swansong to the classic era of Final Fantasy in a sense, Final Fantasy IX is a brilliant adventure. The last mainline game for the PS1, it looks brilliant for its age. The pre-rendered backgrounds, while still limited by the resolution, are more detailed than ever. Unfortunately, for all its good elements, the battles are legendarily slow. Modern emulators can fast-forward, but on standard hardware it might really be a drag.
Even before upscaling, the backgrounds of Final Fantasy IX are breathtaking (credit: Square Enix)
Fortunately, there’s a modern PC and console version that updates the character models. Both versions have the trainers seen in earlier games on this list – they allow you to essentially cheat in infinite money and level up to maximum at the touch of a button, if you don’t want to worry about grinding. However, you’ll definitely want the PC version here, thanks to the Moguri Mod – a mod that has upscaled each and every one of the pre-rendered backgrounds to high resolution. Other handy features can also be enabled – it’s the definitive package, thanks to the work of many fans.
Without a doubt, the best way to play Final Fantasy IX is on PC with mods. But even without mods, it’s a great game that is a shining star in the PS1’s rich library – play it however you see fit, you won’t be disappointed. Check out this trailer that the folks behind the Moguri Mod put together; it should give you a clear picture of how it enriches the experience.
Final Fantasy X
A huge technical leap, an unforgettable story, and brief sponsor of Battlebots on Comedy Central. Yes, Final Fantasy X has many claims to fame, but kind of lacks an absolute definitive version. In the red square, the original PS2 version…well, versions. The original USA release lacks key gameplay features such as the enhanced Sphere Grid, only implemented in a later Japanese edition. The European release incorporates these new features… but only runs at 50FPS, then-standard for PAL format releases. Furthermore, the image is cropped to 16:9. So either you get a lesser version that runs better, a better version that runs worse…or the best version, but only in Japanese. What a conundrum!
Be sure to check out Final Fantasy X – where else will you get to experience Blitzball? (credit: Square Enix)
In the blue square, however, is the HD Remaster, originally for PS3 and later most modern platforms. Now, why even entertain the PS2 version when this exists? Well, gameplay-wise, you would be better off with the remaster by all accounts. However, the original facial animation data for the characters was supposedly lost at some point. The resulting attempt to recreate the character’s faces and expressions have been wildly controversial, and overall considered vastly inferior; see the differences for yourself. (Credit to Digital Foundry)
Altogether, even with this in mind, you’d be best off with the remaster. Not only does it contain all the content missing from the only other USA release, but it also contains direct sequel Final Fantasy X-2. Purists, however, may find much more charm in the older, more expressive faces of the PS2 original. Good luck with untangling the mess of versions if you do, but I’d say the remaster is the best way to play Final Fantasy X.
Final Fantasy XI
Final Fantasy XI marked the first MMO entry in the series. No single-player for you – you’ll have to not only buy the game, but pay a monthly subscription. Still, you’re left with a whopping 20 years worth of content to dig into. But before you think about that eBay listing for a PS2 copy, let me stop you right there.
FFXI is a product of its time, but without it we may never have gotten FFXIV (credit: Square Enix)
First of all, I doubt you have the necessary extra hardware to connect your PS2 to the internet. Secondly, if you do, bad news; the PS2 servers are long gone. All those used discs out there are now useless; that is, unless you’re having guests over and need something to use as an extra coaster. Fortunately, the game remains online on PC, so consider giving the 2-week trial a go! That is, assuming it doesn’t take you 2 weeks to get the archaic PlayOnline launcher to work on a modern OS.
Final Fantasy XII
Often overlooked, Final Fantasy XII is incredibly unique. Utilising an interesting combat system akin to MMOs, it has a strong following. As with FF10, FF12 received several new jobs and mechanics in a second edition that never left Japan. While the PS2 version is a great game, the version available in the States is just not complete.
Fortunately, the west would eventually get these new features in the remaster. Final Fantasy XII – The Zodiac Age adds all the content from the updated edition, as well as New Game+. With this, you can restart the game with all characters at Level 90. For the masochists, there’s also New Game-, which starts characters at the lowest level with no experience gain.
Final Fantasy XII’s unorthodox combat is not dissimilar to an offline MMORPG (credit: Square Enix)
Altogether, the best way to play Final Fantasy XII is easily through the Zodiac Age remaster. Certain complaints are levelled at it being easier, but it’s no big deal at all. Do keep in mind, however, that the Xbox One and Switch versions of Zodiac Age allow you to carry equipment to New Game+. For some reason, this is the only major feature omitted from the Steam and PS4 versions.
Final Fantasy XIII
Long awaited and somewhat disappointing, Final Fantasy XIII may still be the most controversial entry. However, it has a dedicated fanbase, and it’s still incredibly pretty to look at. Debuting on the PS3 and Xbox 360, it’s the only mainline Final Fantasy to have not been ported to modern consoles.
On PS3 and Xbox 360, performance is acceptable but not at the standard one would expect nowadays. The PC port is more capable of higher resolutions, but the ports themselves are legendarily glitchy. You may be able to alleviate the worst of it with mods, but there’s no guarantee. However, a surprise backwards-compatibility patch from Microsoft actually boosts performance on Xbox One and Series X/S! The resolution, anti-aliasing and even pre-rendered cutscenes are all significantly boosted.
It’s worth giving FFXIII a shot, if just for the only leading lady in mainline Final Fantasy (credit: Square Enix)
While the PC ports are easy to get hold of thanks to frequent sales, consider getting Final Fantasy XIII on Xbox One or Series X/S. The boosted performance, no mods required, is much simpler than wrestling with mods. Also consider Final Fantasy XIII-2 and Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII, the other two parts of the XIII trilogy. Both are also boosted to 60FPS on the Series X, much preferable to their still-broken PC ports.
Final Fantasy XIV
After a legendarily poor launch, Final Fantasy XIV has been re-forged into one of the hottest MMORPGS on the market. A lot of people only know Final Fantasy through FFXIV, and for good reason. As of right now, you can play the game on PC, PS4/5 and Xbox Series S/X. No matter which platform, you’ll need to pay the standard $13 subscription fee, outside of the free trial. While all three versions have identical content for the most part (including the latest expansion, Dawntrail), there are a couple of things to know in regards to pricing…
Where else can you take on larger-than-life monsters with your friends? (Monster Hunter doesn’t count) (credit: Square Enix)
For one, ignore any PS3 copies you see around in the wild – that version is long deprecated. The PC version is the easiest way to play – though keep in mind, there are two versions: Steam, and Square Enix Store. They’re not cross compatible, so expansions for one won’t work with the other. As for the PS4/5 version, no need to worry about PS Plus if you don’t have it, the subscription fee is all you need to pay. Keep in mind, though, that the PS4 version is likely to become deprecated within the next few years.
The Xbox version, on the other hand, will require you to pay both the subscription fee and the $10 Game Pass Core monthly fee (or $60/year). Neither applies for the free trial, but it winds up as the most expensive way overall. Altogether, if you have the system for it, the PC version is the best way to play Final Fantasy XIV. A PS5 is a solid way to go about it too, or a PS4 if you don’t mind the worse graphics. While the Xbox port was a long time coming, the added fees are a big disappointment. And if you want to improve your finances in-game, check out this guide to pump up your gil in FFXIV.
Final Fantasy XV
Maligned by a nightmarish development schedule and lack of post-launch content, Final Fantasy XV is still a memorable adventure. Combat fully eschews the ATB and turn-based systems of old for a more real-time action approach. Releasing in 2016, it’s recent enough that it launched on Xbox One and PS4 – fully backwards compatible with current gen consoles. The difference between the two original platforms are minor – PS4 gives you slightly better graphics, XONE has slightly better performance. Current-gen consoles improve things a little bit, but there’s one other platform worth checking out.
For all its faults, FFXV’s sense of camaraderie is unmatched in the series (credit: Square Enix)
Releasing much later in 2018, the Steam version is much improved. Boasting much better graphics and performance (if you meet the requirements), it’s hands-down better in every way. Not just that, but it’s slightly cheaper than the console versions, while also containing most post-launch DLC. If all this doesn’t satisfy, there’s a vast array of mods available out there. Even an official Half-Life mod that lets you suit up as Gordon Freeman himself!
Without a doubt, the best way to play Final Fantasy XV is the Steam version. It should be noted that there’s a second PC version on the Microsoft Store, but you won’t get access to mods. If you don’t have a good enough PC to run it, though, the console versions are adequate enough – especially current gen. If all you have to hand is a Switch or phone, well… there is Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition! It’s staunchly different, but if you’re desperate, it works. Feels like a bit of a consolation prize, though…
Final Fantasy XVI
Here we are, all caught up with the 16th and latest main entry in the Final Fantasy series. After all these years, it would appear that Square Enix has still got it, as far as the KeenGamer review is concerned. Released exclusively for the PlayStation 5, it… well, can’t be played anywhere else – for now! While that does, by default, make the PS5 version the best, consider waiting. It’s recently been announced that a PC version is on the way. Come the 17th of September this year, Clive Rosfield’s journey will be available on Steam and the Epic Games Store. Hopefully, this port will be able to run a lot smoother than the disappointing performance on PS5.
Final Fantasy XVI eschews a lot of franchise tradition. but still delivers a blockbuster fantasy epic (credit: Square Enix)
So while the best way to play Final Fantasy XVI right now would be on PS5, anyone with a beefy gaming rig should be looking in the PC port’s direction. And there’s no need to wait – a free demo is available right now, to get a taste of how it’ll run. The base game will be available for just $50 as opposed to the PS5’s retail price of $70. However, if you have the extra $20, you can get it with the DLC included. That’s a deal worth considering, as the DLC has been quite excellent.
Conclusion
So, for any future Final Fantasy enthusiasts, there you go. Of course, nobody says you have to play ALL of these to begin with – the beauty of the series is being able to start with any mainline entry. And while this list points you towards the best version of each, you’re still going to be fine with the versions you can buy on current platforms. Let’s hope that the PC version of Final Fantasy XVI manages to be the definitive version – and hey, maybe Square could toss us Final Fantasy VII Rebirth while they’re at it!
