Final Fantasy Tactics was the entry point into the tactical RPG genre for many gamers. It’s been a while since the last new entry on consoles, and there’s nothing visible on the horizon. What better time to revisit the classics and take a look at the best Final Fantasy Tactics games? Just for an extra bit of spice, we’re also including games from the predecessor series Tactics Ogre. Here are the games you need to check out.
The Best Final Fantasy Tactics Game
Final Fantasy Tactics: War of the Lions
You can’t very well make a list of the best Final Fantasy Tactics games without the first one. There are three different ways to play the game that kicked off the series. The original PlayStation version has a rough localization but plays well. The PlayStation Portable release has some new content and a fresh translation, but suffers from technical problems. The best option is the mobile version, which fixes many of the issues from the PSP port. Whichever version you choose, this is a great game. The story is excellent and the gameplay is compelling.
Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
The first follow-up to Final Fantasy Tactics proved to be a little controversial. The story takes a different tone, following a group of kids who are transported to Ivalice. Some new systems are introduced here, including the idea of Judges and Laws. These new battle restrictions force you to constantly adapt your strategies. Final Fantasy Tactics Advance is an excellent game, so long as you take it on its own terms. While you don’t get the same level of freedom as in the first game, there are plenty of opportunities for customization. As you would expect from a Game Boy Advance game, it’s terrific for on-the-go play.
Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift
Final Fantasy Tactics Advance might be controversial, but Final Fantasy Tactics A2 seems nearly forgotten. Many of the key members of the Advance development team returned for this Nintendo DS game. It builds on the systems of that game, adding in a number of new features related to Clans. Once again, it is set in the world of Ivalice. The story is driven by a completely new cast, but some familiar faces pop up. The mechanics have a lot of depth, giving you a wide array of ways to build your team. If you like tinkering with systems, you may find this the best Final Fantasy Tactics game of them all.
Tactics Ogre: Reborn
This article is about the best Final Fantasy Tactics games, but we wouldn’t have any of them if it weren’t for Tactics Ogre. Originally released on the Super Famicom, Tactics Ogre established a template that many games in the genre still follow. It has seen several ports and rereleases over the years, with the most recent being Tactics Ogre: Reborn on modern platforms. Its story is probably the closest you can find to the political intrigue of the first Final Fantasy Tactics. You’ll have to use your wits to get through this one, as grinding your way through isn’t an option.
Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis
If you enjoyed Tactics Ogre: Reborn and want a little dessert, this Game Boy Advance game might do the job. It was a very early release on the console, and many of the developers would later work on Final Fantasy Tactics Advance. The Knight of Lodis follows in the footsteps of the first game closely. The story is full of intrigue and betrayals, and the gameplay offers all the strategic challenge you would expect. It’s probably the most straightforward game of this bunch, and is a great place to start.
What’s your favorite Final Fantasy Tactics or Tactics adjacent title? Let us know below!
Published: Oct 10, 2024 07:45 pm