Introduction
The Final Fantasy series is one of the most beloved and iconic video game franchises of all time. With more than 15 mainline titles (and countless spin-offs), choosing where to start can be daunting for newcomers. Each game in the series offers a unique world, story, and gameplay style, so selecting your first Final Fantasy experience can heavily influence how you perceive the franchise. Thanks to some of the finest fantasy game development companies in the world, the series has evolved across platforms and decades.
This guide will help you answer the big question:
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Which Final Fantasy game should you play first?
We’ll break down each entry in the series, from their gameplay systems to the stories they tell, and highlight what makes them stand out. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of which Final Fantasy is right for you based on your personal gaming preferences.
Understanding the Final Fantasy Series
Before we dive into specific recommendations, it’s important to understand what makes the Final Fantasy series so special. Each game, while sharing common elements such as crystals, chocobos, and certain magic spells features completely different characters, settings, and plots. This means you can theoretically start with any game in the series without needing to play previous entries.
The games also span multiple generations of consoles, each reflecting the game development technology of its time. This is a testament to the innovation brought by fantasy game development services, continually pushing the envelope for RPG design and storytelling.
What Are You Looking For in a Game?
The first step in deciding which Final Fantasy to play is to consider your gaming preferences. Ask yourself:
- Do you prefer turn-based combat or action-oriented gameplay?
- Are you looking for a classic retro experience or cutting-edge graphics and design?
- Do you enjoy deep, complex narratives or something more lighthearted and simple?
Once you’ve identified your preferences, you can match them to the right Final Fantasy game. Below, we’ll explore a variety of games from the series that fit different playstyles and interests.
The Classics: Start with Final Fantasy VI or Final Fantasy IX
For those who appreciate a classic RPG experience, Final Fantasy VI and Final Fantasy IX are excellent starting points. These games represent the height of the series’ traditional turn-based combat and storytelling, developed by some of the best minds in the fantasy game development agency world.
Final Fantasy VI (1994)
Final Fantasy VI, originally released on the Super Nintendo (SNES), is often regarded as one of the greatest RPGs of all time. It offers a compelling mix of narrative depth, character development, and turn-based combat.
Why start with Final Fantasy VI?
- Story: The game boasts one of the richest and most emotional stories in the franchise, with a large ensemble cast of well-developed characters. It explores themes of freedom, rebellion, and the consequences of technological advancement in a world controlled by an oppressive empire.
- Gameplay: The Active Time Battle (ATB) system is iconic and provides a strategic layer to combat. Each character has unique abilities, adding variety to battles.
- Accessibility: Though it’s an older game, it’s available on many platforms, including mobile, PC, and consoles.
Final Fantasy VI is perfect for players who want a rich, story-driven experience with a retro feel, showcasing how fantasy game development companies set the gold standard for narrative RPGs.
Final Fantasy IX (2000)
Final Fantasy IX, released on the original PlayStation, is a love letter to the early days of the series. It combines traditional RPG mechanics with modernized graphics (for its time) and a charming, whimsical story.
Why start with Final Fantasy IX?
- Story: It’s a fun, lighthearted adventure filled with quirky characters and a fairytale-like setting. While the story touches on heavy themes like identity and mortality, it maintains a sense of charm and humor throughout.
- Characters: The cast is diverse, with each character having their own unique abilities and personalities. The protagonist, Zidane, is a refreshing departure from the brooding heroes of later titles.
- Accessibility: Final Fantasy IX is widely available on various platforms, including the PlayStation Store, Steam, and mobile devices.
For those looking for a classic RPG with a lighter tone and modern touches, Final Fantasy IX is an excellent choice, supported by some of the finest fantasy game developers who brought the world to life.
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The Modern Experience: Start with Final Fantasy XV or Final Fantasy VII Remake
If you prefer modern gaming experiences with cutting-edge graphics, action-packed gameplay, and expansive worlds, then Final Fantasy XV or Final Fantasy VII Remake may be the perfect starting points for you. Both are excellent examples of modern RPGs, created by top fantasy game development services.
Final Fantasy XV (2016)
Final Fantasy XV is a more recent entry in the series, offering open-world exploration and real-time combat. It’s a departure from the traditional turn-based style but still retains many of the core elements of a Final Fantasy game.
Why start with Final Fantasy XV?
- Story: The game follows Noctis, a prince on a road trip with his three best friends. The story is emotionally charged and focuses on brotherhood, duty, and the burden of leadership.
- Gameplay: The real-time, action-based combat system is dynamic and fast-paced, offering a more hands-on approach than older Final Fantasy titles. You can control Noctis while directing his companions in combat.
- Exploration: The open-world design allows players to explore a vast, beautiful environment filled with quests, secrets, and stunning locations.
Final Fantasy XV is a great choice for players who enjoy open-world games with a strong narrative and action-oriented gameplay. Developed by a leading fantasy game development company, it showcases how innovation and storytelling can evolve together.
Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020)
Final Fantasy VII Remake is a reimagining of one of the most iconic games in the series. It combines a modern action-RPG combat system with the beloved characters and story of the original Final Fantasy VII.
Why start with Final Fantasy VII Remake?
- Story: The original Final Fantasy VII (released in 1997) revolutionized storytelling in games, and the remake brings this classic tale to life with a fresh perspective. It focuses on eco-terrorism, corporate greed, and the battle for the planet’s future.
- Gameplay: The game offers a hybrid combat system that blends real-time action with tactical elements, allowing players to pause and issue commands to their party.
- Nostalgia + Modernization: For those familiar with the original game, the remake offers a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern gameplay mechanics. However, even newcomers will appreciate the deep story and fast-paced combat.
If you’re a fan of modern RPGs but want to experience a piece of gaming history, Final Fantasy VII Remake is an excellent place to start, created by a top fantasy game development agency that balanced nostalgia with innovation.
For Turn-Based Strategy Fans: Start with Final Fantasy X
For players who prefer turn-based combat systems and character progression, Final Fantasy X offers a balance of classic RPG mechanics with more modern presentation.
Final Fantasy X (2001)
Final Fantasy X, released on the PlayStation 2, is one of the most beloved entries in the series and is often recommended as a starting point for new players. The game introduced voice acting to the series and features an emotional, character-driven narrative.
Why start with Final Fantasy X?
- Story: The game follows Tidus, a sports star who is transported to the world of Spira, where he joins Yuna, a summoner, on a pilgrimage to defeat the monstrous Sin. The story is filled with themes of sacrifice, love, and existentialism.
- Combat: The game uses a turn-based combat system called the Conditional Turn-Based Battle (CTB), which allows players to plan their moves strategically without the pressure of real-time decisions.
- Progression: The Sphere Grid system lets you develop characters in a variety of ways, allowing for deep customization.
Final Fantasy X is an excellent choice for those who love turn-based combat and engaging, emotional storytelling, thanks to brilliant design by a seasoned game development company.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which Final Fantasy game you should play first. Your choice will depend on your gaming preferences, such as whether you prefer classic RPG mechanics or modern, action-oriented gameplay.
- If you’re looking for a classic RPG experience, start with Final Fantasy VI or Final Fantasy IX.
- If you want to experience modern gameplay and stunning visuals, try Final Fantasy XV or Final Fantasy VII Remake.
- For fans of turn-based strategy, Final Fantasy X is a great introduction to the series.
- If you want to experience a piece of gaming history, consider starting with the original Final Fantasy VII.
Ultimately, the best way to discover the magic of Final Fantasy is to dive in and explore the diverse worlds, characters, and stories this legendary franchise has to offer. With so many incredible titles, all created by the industry’s top game development services, you’re sure to find a Final Fantasy that resonates with you.
