Summary
- The Final Fantasy franchise remains as one of the most beloved and objectively amazing series in the gaming world.
- People often choose the best Final Fantasy game for them in terms of nostalgia, story, and smoothness of gameplay.
- Final Fantasy IX is the best game in the franchise for people to play in 2025 as it best represents the series as a whole with its setting, story, and gameplay.
Few gaming franchises have shaped the RPG landscape quite like Final Fantasy. Even decades after its debut, the newer titles of the series still keep getting better. While these titles are definitely made for the modern era of gaming, some would still say that older installments are top tier. So, we made a list of the best Final Fantasy games you should play this 2025.
Quick List: The 5 Best Final Fantasy Games to Play in 2025
The Final Fantasy franchise has grown through the years, with Final Fantasy XVI in 2024 as the series’ latest entry. Yet, you could definitely say that the quality of Final Fantasy games peaked during the release of FFVI to FFX. Fans of the series naturally have varying opinions, but here’s our own ranking of what’s best to play today:
- Final Fantasy IX
- Final Fantasy VII
- Final Fantasy VI
- Final Fantasy IV
- Final Fantasy X
Final Fantasy IX
FFIX’s high fantasy setting is mesmerizing, taking players back to the series’ medieval fantasy roots. It has great graphics for its time, accompanied by a soundtrack that truly leaves an impact. Its story follows the thief Zidane Tribal, with themes surrounding fate, identity, and mortality. Players will find themselves completely immersed and journeying alongside well-developed characters.
The combat is engaging and strategic, enhanced by the Active Time Battle system. Its skill system is also easy to master, even when many players also find it boring.
IX is the perfect blend of classic and modern elements that lets you know you’re in a Final Fantasy game. It’s timeless, nostalgic, and represents the ultimate Final Fantasy experience out of all entries in the series.
Final Fantasy VII
There’s a reason almost every RPG enthusiast knows about Cloud Strife, the protagonist of this entry. This 1997 masterpiece tells the tale of a 3D world on the verge of ruin. It combines both fantasy and futuristic elements in a novel way that clearly influenced the next generation of JRPGs.
While its story is FFVII’s main strength, its combat and levelling systems do not fall too far behind. Players usually prefer its Materia system over IX’s skill system as it allows freedom over experimenting with magic and abilities.
FFVII doesn’t just tick all the boxes of what makes a great RPG game; it has redefined them. For that reason, it’s definitely one of the best Final Fantasy games and JRPGs of all time.
Final Fantasy VI
If you want an emotionally resonant game, FFVI is easily one of the best, if not the absolute best in the series. It features a phenomenal cast of 14 characters, all with compelling backstories. Kefka’s well-developed and memorable character provided the blueprint for FFVII’s Sephiroth, making them two of the most iconic JRPG villains.
FFVI also uses the Active Time Battle system, keeping its combat dynamic. In terms of character building and customization, its Esper system resembles the idea of Materia while it gives set character jobs like Final Fantasy IV.
Final Fantasy VI often goes underappreciated when talking about the best Final Fantasy games to play. Yet, its storytelling, characters, and world-building are all absolute chef’s kisses, making it easy to get into even in 2025.
Final Fantasy IV
Final Fantasy IV might be an older installment in the series, but it’s part of why it’s still a great game to play today. Released in 1991, it featured the first truly character-driven narrative in the series. FFIV follows a journey of redemption, with complex character arcs and emotional storytelling.
Of course, it’s not as flashy as FFVII or as deeply emotional as FFVI. Yet, its main character Cecil has captured the hearts of gamers at the time, and will no doubt do the same to players today.
It paved the way for Final Fantasy’s latter installments with the revolutionary Active Time Battle system. For beginners, it’s a good game to introduce you to the whole franchise.
Final Fantasy X
The latest entry in our best Final Fantasy games list, FFX, is also the most accessible one. It’s available on almost every platform, so you can experience its immersive world readily. It has a well-crafted story blended seamlessly with great character depth. Its protagonist, Yuna, is timid yet strong-willed, embarking on a journey of sacrifice that tackles religious themes and defiance.
FFX breaks away from the Active Time Battle system employed by most FF games and features a Conditional Turn-Based Battle system instead. Here, players can change their character lineup even mid-battle, allowing numerous strategies to outsmart the enemy.
FFX delivers a powerful story, immersive environments, and a moving soundtrack characteristic of the franchise. It might not be a favorite, but playing it wouldn’t leave you disappointed!
Conclusion
Final Fantasy has always been a hallmark of RPG excellence, with multiple titles that offer equally amazing stories and gameplay. Oftentimes, their only rival are other entries from the franchise. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a veteran seeking nostalgia, there’s something for you among the FF games we’ve listed. These titles remain classics that deserve multiple replays, no matter what year we’re in.
