Are Final Fantasy Games Connected?

The Final Fantasy series, developed by Square Enix, is one of the most beloved and long-running RPG franchises in gaming history. With over 16 mainline entries, numerous spin-offs, and remakes, many fans—both newcomers and veterans—often wonder: Are Final Fantasy games connected?

The short answer? Yes and no. While most Final Fantasy games exist as standalone stories with unique characters, worlds, and lore, there are underlying themes, shared elements, and occasional direct sequels that create a subtle but undeniable thread of connection throughout the franchise.

This article explores how the Final Fantasy games are linked, whether through recurring characters, shared universes, or thematic similarities, giving fans a deeper understanding of the connections within this iconic series.

1. Standalone vs. Connected: How the Final Fantasy Series Works

Unlike franchises such as The Legend of Zelda or Metal Gear Solid, where games are part of a larger, continuous narrative, most Final Fantasy titles are designed as self-contained adventures. Each game typically features:

✔ A new world with its own unique setting and lore.

✔ A fresh set of protagonists and villains.

✔ A different battle system and gameplay mechanics.

However, despite these differences, Final Fantasy games are not entirely disconnected—certain entries share direct sequels, spin-offs, and overarching themes that link them together.

2. Direct Sequels and Spin-Offs in Final Fantasy

While most Final Fantasy games are separate from one another, some titles do have direct sequels or spin-offs that expand upon their worlds.

Mainline Direct Sequels

• Final Fantasy X-2 (Sequel to Final Fantasy X)
• Final Fantasy XIII-2 & Lightning Returns (Continuations of Final Fantasy XIII)
• Final Fantasy IV: The After Years (Sequel to Final Fantasy IV)

Spin-Offs and Expansions

• Final Fantasy VII Compilation (Crisis Core, Dirge of Cerberus, Advent Children)
• Final Fantasy Tactics Series (Shares elements with Final Fantasy XII)
• Final Fantasy XV: Episode DLCs (Expands upon Final Fantasy XV)

These sequels and spin-offs exist within the same universe as their original game, creating a clear, narrative connection that builds upon existing storylines.

3. Recurring Characters and Easter Eggs

Even when a Final Fantasy game is not a direct sequel, there are plenty of recurring characters, creatures, and names that link the series together.

Cameo Characters and Themes

• Cid – A character named Cid appears in almost every game, usually as an engineer, scientist, or pilot.
• Gilgamesh – A recurring warrior who travels between dimensions, appearing in multiple games.
• Biggs & Wedge – A pair of soldiers named Biggs and Wedge, referencing Star Wars, frequently appear.
• Moogles & Chocobos – These adorable creatures show up across nearly all Final Fantasy games.

These recurring elements serve as a subtle thread, reinforcing that while the worlds may be different, they all belong to the same Final Fantasy multiverse.

4. The Ivalice and Fabula Nova Crystallis Universes

Beyond direct sequels, Final Fantasy has created shared universes where multiple games exist within the same lore.

The Ivalice Alliance

• Final Fantasy XII, Final Fantasy Tactics, and Vagrant Story all take place in Ivalice, a world known for its political intrigue, war, and magical history.

Fabula Nova Crystallis Mythology

• Final Fantasy XIII, Final Fantasy Type-0, and Final Fantasy XV were initially planned as part of a shared mythos based on powerful crystals, gods, and fate.

These universes show that while most games are standalone, some do share a deeper lore connection.

5. Time Travel, Alternate Realities, and the Final Fantasy Multiverse

Certain Final Fantasy games have suggested that all titles might exist within a greater multiverse.

Hints of a Multiverse in Final Fantasy

• Final Fantasy Dissidia brings characters from multiple games into a single battle-focused universe.
• Final Fantasy XIV (MMORPG) includes storylines where characters and elements from other Final Fantasy titles appear in alternate realities.
• The Final Fantasy VII Remake introduces a timeline-altering twist, hinting at a multiversal connection between past and future versions of the game.

While not every game is directly connected, these elements suggest a broader, interconnected Final Fantasy cosmos.

6. Recurring Themes That Link the Series

Beyond direct sequels and shared characters, Final Fantasy games often explore similar themes and story elements:

✔ The Power of Crystals – Many games feature mystical crystals that control fate, magic, or balance the world (FFI, FFIII, FFV, FFXV).

✔ War Between Good and Evil – Most entries revolve around empires vs. rebels, light vs. darkness, or gods vs. mortals (FFVI, FFVII, FFXII).

✔ Sacrifices for the Greater Good – The protagonists often sacrifice something personal to save the world (FFIX, FFX, FFVIII).

✔ The Journey of a Chosen Hero – Each game features a reluctant hero or group of warriors who must overcome destiny (FFVII, FFVIII, FFXV).

These recurring themes give Final Fantasy its distinct identity, even when the games are narratively unconnected.

Conclusion