Today we will discuss about 5 underrated final fantasy games. Final Fantasy is one of the longest-running video game franchises, with a legacy spanning over three decades. Each installment in the franchise offers a unique experience, making them special in their own right. However, several excellent titles within the Final Fantasy series have been overlooked by the community over the years.
Here, we will highlight five of the most underrated games in the Final Fantasy franchise that deserve more recognition.
1) Final Fantasy V
Platforms: Super Nintendo Entertainment System
Designers: Nobuo Uematsu, Yoshitaka Amano
Mode: Multiplayer video game
Composer: Nobuo Uematsu
Genres: Japanese role-playing game, Adventure game
Developers: Square, Square Enix, Tose
Publishers: Nintendo, Square, Square Enix
Released in 1992, Final Fantasy V was well-received for its innovative gameplay mechanics and engaging storyline. However, it was overshadowed by the success of Final Fantasy IV and VI, which boasted better visuals and gameplay. Positioned between these giants, Final Fantasy V faded from memory despite its lighter narrative tone and fresh approach. This game still has much to offer for those willing to give it a chance.
2) Final Fantasy Tactics
Platforms: PlayStation Portable, PlayStation, Android, PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 3
Designers: Yasumi Matsuno, Akihiko Yoshida, Hitoshi Sakimoto
Series: Final Fantasy, Final Fantasy Tactics
Initial release date: 20 June 1997
Mode: Single-player video game
Composers: Hitoshi Sakimoto, Masaharu Iwata
Genres: Tactical role-playing game, Adventure game
Final Fantasy Tactics launched on the PlayStation 1 in 1997 and received a mixed reception. Set in Ivalice, the same world as Final Fantasy XII, this game deviated from the mainline series’ traditional JRPG mechanics in favor of a tactical RPG approach. While its strategic combat and complex gameplay alienated some players, those who embraced the challenge found it deeply rewarding. It’s a title worth revisiting for its rich tactical depth and intricate story.
3) Final Fantasy XII
Initial release date: 16 March 2006
Platforms: PlayStation 2, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Designers: Yasumi Matsuno, Hitoshi Sakimoto, Akihiko Yoshida
Composers: Hitoshi Sakimoto, Masaharu Iwata, Hayato Matsuo
Mode: Single-player video game
Genres: Japanese role-playing game, Action-adventure game
Released for the PS2 in 2006, Final Fantasy XII attempted to refresh the series by moving away from turn-based combat, which resulted in mixed reactions. Although its open-world environment and politically charged narrative are now appreciated, it didn’t receive the recognition it deserved at launch. Today, it’s seen as an underrated gem that offers a unique experience within the Final Fantasy universe.
4) Final Fantasy VIII
Initial release date: 11 February 1999
Platforms: PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Android, PlayStation 3, iOS, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows
Mode: Single-player video game
Composer: Nobuo Uematsu
Genres: Japanese role-playing game, Adventure game
Following the wildly successful Final Fantasy VII, Final Fantasy VIII had big shoes to fill when it arrived on the PlayStation 1 in 1999. Featuring realistic character designs and a mature storyline, it garnered positive reviews but was frequently compared to its predecessor. This constant comparison overshadowed its merits, making it an underrated title that deserves a second look.
5) Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles
Designers: Akitoshi Kawazu, Kenichiro Yuji
Developers: Square Enix, Game Designers Studio, Square
Publishers: Square Enix, Nintendo, Nintendo of America Inc., SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD., Nintendo of Europe GmbH
First release: Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles; August 8, 2003
Genre(s): Action role-playing, action-adventure, city-building, tower defense
Platform(s): Android, iOS, GameCube, Nintendo DS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Wii
This 2003 GameCube spin-off distinguished itself with a unique art style and multiplayer co-op gameplay. However, its potential was hindered by the GameCube’s limited market presence and the requirement for multiple Game Boy Advance units for multiplayer. Despite these challenges, Crystal Chronicles remains a fun co-op experience that would likely thrive in today’s gaming landscape, where co-op games are in high demand.
Conclusion
These underrated Final Fantasy games showcase the series’ diversity and innovation. They may have been overshadowed at release, but each offers unique gameplay and storytelling elements that make them worth exploring. By revisiting these hidden gems, fans can appreciate the depth and variety that the Final Fantasy franchise has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes Final Fantasy V underrated?
A: Despite its innovative gameplay and engaging story, Final Fantasy V was overshadowed by the more visually and mechanically advanced Final Fantasy IV and VI.
Q: Why did Final Fantasy Tactics receive mixed reviews?
A: The game deviated from the traditional JRPG mechanics of the mainline series, adopting a tactical RPG approach that some players found challenging and niche.
Q: What was controversial about Final Fantasy XII’s gameplay?
A: Final Fantasy XII moved away from the series’ iconic turn-based combat, which divided fans and critics. However, its open-world design and political drama are now appreciated.
Q: How did Final Fantasy VIII suffer from being the successor to Final Fantasy VII?
A: Final Fantasy VIII was constantly compared to the highly successful Final Fantasy VII, which overshadowed its own merits and led to it being underrated.
Q: What challenges did Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles face?
A: The game required multiple Game Boy Advance units for multiplayer co-op and was released on the less popular GameCube, limiting its reach despite its enjoyable co-op gameplay.
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