When you think ofFinal Fantasy, classic turn-based battles might be the first thing that springs to mind. But let’s be real: this legendary RPG series has always been about so much more. It’s a universe brimming with incredible artistry, deep emotion, and pure, unadulterated fun, all independent of whether you’re waiting for your ATB bar to fill.
This isn’t just about evolving combat; it’s about recognising the consistent brilliance found in its storytelling, character design, and the little details that make each entry magical. It’s a tough ask, but I’m going to take a look at what truly makes Final Fantasy, well, Final Fantasy.
Unforgettable Characters
Heroes And Villains And Everything In-Between
The series boasts a pantheon of iconic characters who resonate long after the credits roll. Whether it’s Cloud Strife’s struggle with identity, Lenna’s quiet strength, or the complex villainy of Kuja, these personalities are rarely one-dimensional.
Beyond the protagonists, memorable supporting casts like the familial Tantalus players or quirky stars like Selphie or Rikku add depth and humor. Their personal journeys, growth, and sacrifices, often driven by poignant dialogue and compelling backstories, foster strong emotional connections, making them as vital to the experience as any gameplay system.
A Cast Of Iconic Summons
Summoning Up Some Iconic Moments
Summons, known variously as Espers, Aeons, or Eikons, are the series' spectacular magical showpieces. These colossal beings, from the elegant Shiva to the destructive Bahamut, aren’t just powerful attacks; they’re often deeplyintegrated into the lore and plot. Their visually stunning, over-the-top animations have become a hallmark, demonstrating the series' constant push in graphical fidelity. Final Fantasy 16 is an absolute triumph thanks to its stupendous kaiju-esque showdowns.
Beyond their utility in battle and story, their symbolic presence and the effort required to acquire them in games like Final Fantasy 10 make them powerful motivators for exploration and progression.
Crystals
Getcha Crystals! We’ve Got Crystals Here!
The Crystals are the recurring, enigmatic heart of many Final Fantasy narratives. Far more than mere MacGuffins, they often serve as sources of magic, life, or destruction, embodying the very balance of the world.
From the elemental crystals of the earliest titles that need reawakening to the more abstract interpretations in later games, their presence frequently signifies a looming threat or a quest for restoration. Their iconic glow and mysterious power tie disparate entries together thematically, representing a timeless struggle between light and darkness. Without crystals, we wouldn’t have Final Fantasy at all.
Job Systems
Final Fantasy 5 Is A Truly Underrated Gem
Final Fantasy’s Job Systems offer unparalleled character customisation and strategic depth. From the classic customizability enhancements in FF3 and FF5 to the way later games like FF9 tailor their characters to iconic classes, these mechanics give the series a strong mechanical identity that carries through it well. This freedom in character building remains a cornerstone of the series' combat identity, even in its action-oriented evolution.
Job Systems foster replayability and experimentation, encouraging players to discover powerful combinations and overcome challenges in unique ways. I find myself going back to Final Fantasy Tactics to play with its superb Job System often.
Chocobos & Moogles
K-KWEEEEEH!
Beyond the epic sagas, the endearing presence of Chocobos and Moogles provides much-needed charm and levity. Chocobos, the beloved giant birds, serve as delightful, often musical, modes of transport and even star in their own minigames. Moogles, with their fluffy bodies and “kupo!” catchphrase, pop up as helpful guides, mail carriers, or simply adorable background characters.
These iconic mascots are instantly recognisable symbols of the series, cementing its whimsical side and fostering a unique identity that balances its more serious themes with pure, unadulterated cuteness. Kupo!
Minigames Galore
Final Fantasy games areinfamous for their rich array of minigames, offering delightful distractions and often substantial rewards. From the strategic card battles of Triple Triad in Final Fantasy 8 to the high-stakes underwater sport of Blitzball in Final Fantasy 10, these diversions are more than just filler.
These games often feature their own progression systems, unique mechanics, and even side stories to experience, and this dedication to robust optional content ensures that we can lose ourselves for hours, adding immense replayability. The only turn-based combat I need in my life is a card game, and it’s called Tetra Master.
Fashion & Character Design
Slaying Goblins Or Just Slaying In General?
Final Fantasy’s fashion and character design are undeniably iconic, often pushing boundaries with their distinctive, sometimes outlandish, aesthetics. From Cloud’s spiky hair and oversized Buster Sword to Lightning’s sleek, futuristic attire, characters are instantly recognisable. Tetsuya Nomura’s influence is particularly evident in the blend of buckles, zippers, and often elaborate outfits that define a generation of heroes and villains.
This commitment to a bold visual identity ensures that characters are not just memorable for their personalities but also for their unforgettable, trendsetting appearances.
Cid
A Longstanding Tradition
The recurring Cid archetype is one of Final Fantasy’s most charming traditions. While never the same person, each Cid typically fills the role of an eccentric, brilliant engineer, pilot, or inventor, often associated with airships.
From the salty airship mechanic in Final Fantasy 7 to the strategic military leader in Final Fantasy 13, their personalities range widely, but their connection to technology and often crucial role in providing aerial transport is a constant. Cid’s presence provides a comforting familiarity and often a source of dry wit or gruff wisdom. Truly, when you start a new FF, you’re counting the minutes until you reach a Cid.
The Music Of Nobuo Uematsu
A Legend
Nobuo Uematsu’s music is arguably the soul of Final Fantasy, transcending mere background noise to become an integral part of the experience. His compositions, from the soaring orchestral themes like ‘One-Winged Angel’ to the melancholic melodies of ‘Over The Hill,’ evoke powerful emotions and define iconic moments.
This isn’t to downplay the excellent OSTs created by other composers, but Uematsu’s contribution to the series is grand and undeniably significant.
Uematsu’s ability to craft unforgettable leitmotifs and diverse soundscapes, blending genres seamlessly, created a sonic identity for the series that is universally lauded. His scores aren’t just memorable; they are masterpieces that elevate the storytelling and emotional impact of every game they appear in.
