Final Fantasy: What Version Should I Play?

------------------------------------------------Final Fantasy: What Version Should I Play?---------------------------------------------

Final Fantasy (1987)

>Recommended: Pixel Remaster, PC - Steam > PS4/Switch/Xbox/iOS/Android

>Faithful to the original but modernized. Beautiful pixel-art, orchestrated soundtrack. Restores MP slot system from the NES version. Quality of life updates (auto-battle, save anywhere, etc).  Introduced the core concepts of the series: turn-based combat, a party of four customizable heroes, elemental crystals, and a world-saving quest. 6 Jobs.

>Legacy #1: PSP - Fully remade graphics in high-res 2D. Bonus dungeon Labyrinth of Time. Improved music, UI, and gameplay balance.
>Legacy #2: Origins PS1 - Updated visuals and music. Two difficulty modes: Easy and Normal. Quality of life improvements.
>Legacy #3: Dawn of Souls GBA - Major overhauls: no MP limits, uses MP pool instead of spell slots. Includes four new dungeons (Souls of Chaos). Much easier than the original.


Final Fantasy II (1988)

>Recommended: Pixel Remaster, PC - Steam > PS4/Switch/Xbox/iOS/Android

>Restores original spell slot system. Beautiful pixel art, orchestrated soundtrack. Quality-of-life improvements (auto-battle, quick save). EXP, gil, and job point multipliers. Toggle for random encounters. Optional retro-style fonts. Unique stat-based growth system, characters grow stronger based on how they’re used in battle. The story focuses on a rebellion against an empire, with named protagonists and a character driven story.

>Legacy #1: PSP – Hi-res 2D, remastered audio, updated UI. Includes Soul of Rebirth and Arcane Labyrinth dungeons. Balance adjustments to progression and difficulty.
>Legacy #2: Origins PS1 – Includes story cutscenes, updated sprites, and enhanced music. Two difficulty options: Easy and Normal.
>Legacy #3: Dawn of Souls GBA – Includes Soul of Rebirth, a bonus epilogue scenario. MP system instead of original spell charge system. Less punishing difficulty.


Final Fantasy III (1990)

>Recommended: Pixel Remaster, PC - Steam > PS4/Switch/Xbox/iOS/Android

>First official 2D release in English. Faithful to the original Famicom version, not the 3D remake. Restores spell slot system. New pixel art, rearranged soundtrack, QoL features (save anywhere, auto-battle, map enhancements). Introduced the Job System, allowing players to freely switch roles like Dragoon, Summoner, and Ninja throughout the game. The story centers on four orphaned Heroes of Light restoring balance to the world.


Final Fantasy III 3D Remake (2006)

>Recommended: PC - Steam > iOS/Android

>Port of the PSP version at higher resolution. Achievements and controller support. Includes auto-battle.

>Legacy #1: PSP - HD version of the 3D remake. Sharper 2D backgrounds and cleaned-up 3D models. Includes gallery and music player.
>Legacy #2: Original Nintendo DS - Fully 3D remake with new models and story additions. Character personalities added (absent in the original). Uses MP system instead of spell charges. First official English release of FFIII.


Final Fantasy IV (1991)

>Recommended: Pixel Remaster, PC - Steam > PS4/Switch/Xbox/iOS/Android

>Faithful to the original SFC version, not 3D remake. New pixel art, rearranged music, modernized UI. Spell names updated (e.g., Fire → Fire, Fira, Firaga). Adds QoL features. (EXP/JP/Gil multipliers, random encounter toggle) Optional retro-style font. Introduced the Active Time Battle (ATB) system. Players follow Cecil the Dark Knight through a tale of redemption and political intrigue. Each character has a fixed Job with unique abilities.

>Legacy #1: Complete Collection PSP - Includes FFIV with enhanced 2D visuals and rebalanced difficulty, Interlude (a short bridge episode) & The After Years (sequel)
>Legacy #2: Advance GBA - Based on WonderSwanColor version with updated translation. Slightly rebalanced; includes bonus dungeons. Some bugs and lag issues.
>Legacy #3: Chronicles PS1 - Faithful to SFC original; added new FMVs and load times.


Final Fantasy IV 3D Remake (2007)

>Recommended: PC - Steam > iOS/Android

>Port of Nintendo DS version. Updated resolution and music.

>Legacy #1: Original, Nintendo DS - Full 3D remake with voice acting, cutscenes, and added mechanics (Augment system). Higher difficulty, strategic gameplay tweaks.


Final Fantasy IV The After Years (2008)

>Recommended: 3D Remake, PC - Steam > iOS/Android

>Port of Nintendo DS 3D version. Updated resolution and music.

>Legacy #1: Complete Collection PSP - 2D, direct sequel to FFIV, features returning characters from the original along with new ones. The story is split into chapters called "Tales.
>Legacy #2: Nintendo DS - Full 3D remake based on FFIV 3D. Overhauled models, voice acting, and redone cutscenes. Streamlined into a continuous story (no episodic format). Includes Moon Phase System and Band abilities (combo moves). Final dungeon is notably lengthy and challenging.


Final Fantasy V (1992)

>Recommended: Pixel Remaster, PC - Steam > PS4/Switch/Xbox/iOS/Android

>Faithful to the original SFC version. Gorgeous new pixel art, redrawn monsters, orchestrated music. Rebalances certain jobs. Adds QoL features. Optional retro-style font. Excludes GBA bonus jobs and Sealed Temple. Extensive party customization and synergy-building. Players can mix and match over 20 Jobs to master skills across classes.

>Legacy #1: Advance GBA - Updated translation. Four new jobs: Gladiator, Cannoneer, Necromancer, Oracle. Sealed Temple bonus dungeon. Improved visuals, menus and sound (but downsampled audio, can be modded)
>Legacy #2: Anthology PS1 - Bundled with VI. First official English localization. Long load times, bare-bones port of the SFC version. Added CG FMVs at intro and ending.


Final Fantasy VI (1994)

>Recommended: Pixel Remaster, PC - Steam > PS4/Switch/Xbox/iOS/Android

>Completely redone HD pixel graphics, supervised by original artist Kazuko Shibuya. Fully orchestrated soundtrack with rearrangements by Nobuo Uematsu. Faithful to the original. Includes cinematic opera scene with vocals, text-based. Adds QoL features. No GBA Espers or dungeons. Large ensemble cast with distinct abilities, combines a gripping narrative that touches on empire vs. rebellion, technology vs. magic, and post-apocalyptic existentialist themes

>Legacy #1: Advance GBA - Updated translation with more accurate tone and detail. Added four new Espers, new dungeon (Dragon's Den), and music player. Some minor censorship and downgraded sound due to GBA limitations.
>Legacy #2: III SNES – Released as Final Fantasy III due to skipped Western localizations of FFII/III/V. Censored in some parts (religious terms, nudity). Iconic Woolsey translation (somewhat humorous tone). Despite censorship, it became a cult classic.
>Legacy #3: Anthology PS1 – Bundled with V. Added FMVs but long load times due to disc-based hardware. Translation closer to original Japanese.


Final Fantasy VII (1997)

>Recommended: PC - Steam > PS4/Switch/Xbox/iOS/Android

>All versions based on PC port. First 3D Final Fantasy with pre-rendered backgrounds. 3-disc game with FMVs and iconic soundtrack. Western release had a rushed translation. Massive commercial and critical success. Cloud saves, Achievements, Mods, 3x speed, God Mode, No Encounters toggle. Very easy to mod.

>Legacy #1: Original, PS1 - International English release includes various bonus content (super bosses, Zack storyline expansion)
>Legacy #2: 1998 PC port - MIDI music instead of PS1-quality audio. Some minor bugs and performance quirks. No controller support by default.
>Legacy #3: PS3/PSP/PS Vita - Exact port of the PS1 version. Digital download; runs via emulation. Adds save anywhere via system suspend.

Final Fantasy Tactics (1997)

>Recommended: War of the Lions, PPSSPP > PSP/iOS/Android

>Enhanced port with new hand animated cutscenes, voice acting, updated translation, multiplayer, new Jobs, and two new guest characters (Balthier from FFXII and Luso from FFT:A2). PSP version can be easily modded using emulation for enhanced functionality and visuals.

>Legacy #1: Original, PS1 - The original classic SRPG; known for deep tactical combat, political intrigue, and Jobs system. English translation had some localization issues. Missing the updates from War of the Lions port.
>Legacy #2: The Ivalice Chronicles, PC- Steam/PS4/Switch/Xbox - Modern console port, UI has been completely overhauled, updated War of the Lions translation, visuals are "updated", new voice acting, Tactical View, battle speed-up, and difficulty options.


Final Fantasy VIII (1999)

>Recommended: Final Fantasy VIII Remastered, PC - Steam > PS4/Switch/Xbox/iOS/Android

>New character models in HD, but backgrounds are still original. UI and font updated. QoL, cheats, 3x speed, God mode, no encounters. Mods. Known for Draw/Junction system, Guardian Forces, SeeD academy setting and the card game Triple Triad. Critically acclaimed, but divisive due to its unique systems. First in the series to feature realistically proportioned characters, and a modern-day fantasy setting. It removed traditional armor/weapons shops.

>Legacy #1: Original, PS1 - Wobbly graphics galore, but the style is unmistakable.
>Legacy #2: 2013 PC - Updated 2000 PC port. Achievements, cloud saves, launcher with "Boosters": Max HP, Gil, and Magic. Chocobo World items integrated without minigame. Still uses MIDI-quality music, though mods can replace it. First official modern re-release of FFVIII before Remaster.
>Legacy #3: PS3/PSP/PSVita - Digital emulation of PS1 version. Same visuals and content as original.


Final Fantasy IX (2000)

>Recommended: PC - Steam > PS4/Switch/Xbox/iOS/Android

>Character models are upscaled, backgrounds are not. UI updated, Boosters/cheats/QoL/3x speed etc. Critically acclaimed for its character writing and art design. A love letter to classic FF themes. Black mages, kingdoms, crystals. Active Time Event side story system. Moguri Mod is must have. One of the most beloved entries in the series.

>Legacy #1: Original, PS1 - VERY long load times. Wobbly graphics. Nothing a little Duckstation PGXP can't fix.
>Legacy #2: PS3/PSP/PSVita - Digital emulation of PS1 version. Same visuals and content as original.


Final Fantasy X (2001)

>Recommended: Original, PCSX2 > PS2

>The first Final Fantasy on PlayStation 2, the first to feature fully voiced characters and fully 3D environments. Breath taking cinematics. Conditional Turn Based combat, Sphere Grid, the iconic setting of Spira. No PC port, no QoL, no mods? No problem. Play it this way the first time. A groundbreaking entry in the series and a major turning point in Final Fantasy history.

>Legacy #1: HD Remaster Steam - Resolution settings, Cheats/boosters/QoL, 5x speed toggle, toggle original/remastered music. Japanese and English audio. International Expert Sphere Grid. "Remastered" HD visuals. Facial animations are missing, and Tidus' face is wrong.
>Legacy #2: HD Remaster PS4/Switch/Xbox - Same as Steam version but no mods/resolution settings.
>Legacy #3: HD Remaster PS3/PSVita - Cross-save between PS3 and Vita.


Final Fantasy X-2 (2003)

>Recommended: HD Remaster, PC - Steam > PS4/Switch/Xbox

>Remastered visuals, updated UI. First FF with an all-female main cast. Active Time Battle (ATB) system with Garment Grid and Dresspheres. Includes FFX-2 International + Last Mission content. No new story content beyond original additions. Japanese Voice Acting. Achievements/trophies. QoL. Mods.

>Legacy #1: Original, PS2/PCSX2 - No voice language selection: English dub only in NA/EU. Japan had International + Last Mission edition later.


Final Fantasy XI Online

>Recommended: Ultimate Collection Seekers Edition, PC - Steam

>Final Fantasy XI base game, all expansions and add-ons. The first MMORPG to offer cross-platform play between PlayStation 2 and Windows PC, later including Xbox 360 players. Despite its age, Final Fantasy XI continues to receive updates and maintain an active player base.

>Legacy #1: PS2/360 - Support for this version ended in 2016.


Final Fantasy XII (2006)

>Recommended: The Zodiac Age, PC - Steam > PS4/Switch/Xbox

>Definitive release based on the International PS2 version. HD visuals and UI. Re-orchestrated soundtrack with music toggle. Auto-save, controllable guest characters, 12-job system with dual-job option after a certain point, 2x & 4x speed boost. Explore a vast, open fantasy world and battle over 50 side boss hunts. Innovative entry that redefined the series with its real-time combat system. Gambit System for AI-controlled party behavior.

>Legacy #1: Original, PS2 - 6 playable characters, License Board the same for all characters.
>Legacy #2: International Zodiac, PS2 - Japan only, enhanced 12-job system, Trial mode, 2x speed.

Final Fantasy XIII (2009)

>Recommended: PC - Steam

>PC port initially had poor performance, SE updated resolution/framerate capacity and controller support improvements. Fan patches required for improved functionality. Enhanced character model and upscaled texture mods. First FF game developed for HD consoles. Visually stunning. Strictly linear, tutorialized first half with basic exploration in the later half. Over 60 boss monsters to hunt. 6 playable characters, 6 Jobs. Paradigm Shift system, auto battle mechanic. The debut of protagonist Lightning, a fan-favorite.

>Legacy #1: Xbox One/Series X - The best way to play FFXIII today on console, up to 4K resolution. Uncompressed FMV's. All the same content as PC version. Works with physical 360 discs or digital.
>Legacy #2: Original, PS3 - 720p 30fps target.
>Legacy #3: Original, 360 - 3 DVDs, lower-resolution cutscenes and texture quality.


Final Fantasy XIII-2 (2011)

>Recommended: PC - Steam

>Another poor port that requires fan patches. SE updated only the bare essentials here. But it includes nearly all DLC, unlike the Xbox/PS3 versions. Best value. Enhanced character model and upscaled texture mods. Follow Serah & Noel through time Recruitable monster allies (over 150 monsters) Crystarium 2.0, Time-travel system to visit alternate versions of locations. Branching paths and multiple endings. DLC bonus episodes and fights (Lightning, Sazh, Gilgamesh).

>Legacy #1: Xbox One/Series X - Same improvements as XIII, best console versions, 4K/60FPS on Series X.
>Legacy #2: Original, PS3/360 - Base game without DLC. 720p 30fps.


Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII (2013)

>Recommended: PC - Steam

>Based on the PS3 version. Resolution and visual upgrade, options are much improved compared to previous ports. Does not require fan patch. No enhanced character model or upscaled texture mods are available. Includes most DLC (costumes, weapons). Deep costume-based job customization (like Dresspheres in X-2). Doomsday mechanic. You have 13 days to save the world. Lightning is the only playable character. Pause time strategically to complete tasks.

>Legacy #1: Xbox One/Series X - Same improvements as before, best console version. Up to 4K/60FPS on Series X.
>Legacy #2: Original, PS3/360 - Base game without DLC. 720p 30fps.


Final Fantasy XIV Online (2010)

>Recommended: FINAL FANTASY XIV Online Complete Edition, PC - Steam

>Base game and all expansions. Players create a character and can switch between various Jobs/classes. A rich narrative that evolves with each expansion. Dungeons, raids, PvP, crafting, and housing. A testament to successful game redevelopment, it offers MMO fans a vast and immersive world.

>Legacy #1: PS4/5 - Same as PC port but there are no mods. Mouse and keyboard supported. This is the version for your dad who doesn't play games.
>Legacy #2: MacOS - Same as PC port but there are no mods. This is the version you buy if you're a homosexual who works at an Apple Store.
>Legacy #3: Xbox Series - See above. Though nobody has ever actually purchased this version...


Final Fantasy XV (2016)

>Recommended: Final Fantasy XV Windows Edition, PC - Steam

>Base game and all DLC, greatly expanded content. NVIDIA: HairWorks, Ansel, ShadowPlay. Supports 4K/8K ultrawide resolution, 120fps. High-resolution texture pack optional download. First-person mode. Mods. Noctis and his friends reclaim a fallen kingdom and face the empire of Niflheim. Regalia car travel, camping, and day-night cycle monster battles.

>Legacy #1: Royal Edition, PS4/Xbox - Same content as the Windows Edition, without the graphical upgrades. 1080p 30fps target.
>Legacy #2: Original, PS4/Xbox - Base game was unfinished at launch and required major updates. 1080p 30fps.


Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020)

>Recommended: Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, PC - Steam

>Definitive release, enhanced visuals, up to 4K 120fps, ultra-wide, faster load times. Includes Episode INTERmission DLC standalone Yuffie side story. Barebone port that requires fan patches to improve functionality. Mods. Follows Cloud, and covers the events of Midgar from Disc 1 of FFVII on PS1. Fully reimagined environments, real-time action combat with ATB Commands. Expanded character development and side stories.

>Legacy #1: Intergrade, PS5 - All the same content as PC version. 4K 30fps in graphics mode, 1512p 60FPS in performance mode.
>Legacy #2: PS5 - A free upgrade if you already own VII Remake for the PS4. Same enhanced graphics/performance. No Yuffie DLC.
>Legacy #3: Original, PS4 - The original release, 1080p 30fps, terrible quality textures and background LOD.


Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin (2022)

>Recommended: Deluxe Edition, PC - Steam

>Base game and all the DLC. Enhanced visuals, up to 4K 120fps, ultra-wide. Online co-op for up to three players, allowing friends to team up and tackle missions together. Over 20 Jobs to switch between during real-time action combat battles.

>Legacy #1: PS5/Xbox Series X - Lack of TAA. Shimmering. Checkerboard upscaling. Asset quality causes unstable framerates. Targets 4K 30FPS with dynamic resolution.
>Legacy #2: Xbox Series S - Same problems but the game runs at even lower resolution with greatly reduced environmental details and shaky framerate.
>Legacy #3: PS4/Xbox One - 720p 30FPS.


Final Fantasy XVI (2023)

>Recommended: Final Fantasy XVI Complete Edition, PC - Steam

>Base game and all the DLC. Enhanced visuals, DLSS, up to 4K 120fps. Barebone port that requires fan patches for improved functionality, suffers from overall poor optimization. Mods. Follows Clive Rosfield on his journey through political intrigue, personal tragedy, and epic battles involving gigantic powerful Dominants.

>Legacy #1: Original Complete Edition, PS5 - Same content as PC. 1080p 30fps. Dynamic resolution that goes as low as 720p in busy areas on Performance mode. FSR1 upscaling is very dated.


Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (2024)

>Recommended: PC - Steam

>Enhanced visuals. Up to 8K 120 FPS with NVIDIA DLSS & VRR. Ultra-wide. Port is better than Remake but suffers from poor optimization. Continues the story of FFVII on PS1 up to the end of Disc 1. Deep party gameplay, character-focused side quests, expanded story with major divergences and meta-narrative changes. Dozens of mini-games.

>Legacy #1: PS5 Pro - Same content as PC. Improved visuals, 4K 60fps with PSSR upscaling.
>Legacy #2: Original, PS5 - Same content as PC. Uses nearest-neighbor checkerboard upscaling. A sharp 4K 30FPS with ghosting, or very blurry 1080p 60fps.