Best Final Fantasy Games To Play If You Love FF7 Remake & Rebirth

Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth successfully reinvent the original Final Fantasy 7 experience by delivering modern graphics, an enhanced narrative that adds depth to its characters, and a combat system that, despite significant changes, remains faithful to the legacy of the classic title. These elements make both remakes stand out as milestones in JRPG history, attracting a new generation of fans while also pleasing longtime players with their approach.

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Although the remake boasts exclusive and innovative mechanics, other titles in the franchise demonstrate similar potential in narrative and gameplay. The best Final Fantasy games for those who liked Final Fantasy 7 and Rebirth feature thrilling stories and modern gameplay. Each one expands the series universe, providing memorable experiences and engaging challenges across unforgettable epic adventures.

10

Final Fantasy 8

The Successor To Final Fantasy 7 Is Also An Excellent Game

Released

February 11, 1999

ESRB

T for Teen: Mild Language, Suggestive Themes, Violence

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

Exploring a futuristic world filled with political conflicts and secrets, Final Fantasy 8 presents a cinematic narrative that mixes war, romance, and time travel. The protagonist, Squall Leonhart, bears an introspective personality similar to Cloud Strife from Final Fantasy 7 Remake, creating a smooth transition for anyone seeking a more serious and immersive storyline.

At the time, the game also innovated in terms of gameplay, adding real-time elements to combat to make the series’ traditional turn-based system more interactive. As a result, these elements make Final Fantasy 8 an ideal pick for fans of Final Fantasy 7 Remake who want to explore a new story set in similar environments.

9

Final Fantasy 13

A Highly Underrated Linear Experience Among Players

Systems

Released

March 9, 2010

ESRB

t

OpenCritic Rating

Weak

Final Fantasy 13 is one of the most underrated entries in the franchise, mainly for having been released at an inopportune moment. However, the game brings qualities that make it an excellent choice for those who enjoyed the Final Fantasy 7 remakes. Through striking visuals and an amazing soundtrack, it offers a distinct approach within the series.

While it does begin with a certain linearity in exploration, its engaging narrative and the characters’ dilemmas deliver an emotional story, focused on destiny and resistance. For those seeking a Final Fantasy akin to FF7 Remake, Final Fantasy 13 has challenging battles, an absorbing progression system, and a detailed futuristic world, making it one of the franchise’s most underestimated experiences.

8

Final Fantasy Tactics

Cloud Strife Makes A Special Appearance In This Tactical JRPG

Systems

Released

June 20, 1997

ESRB

t

Although not a central character in the story, Cloud Strife can be recruited as a companion to assist Ramza Beoulve on his journey in Final Fantasy Tactics, making the game an excellent option for fans of the protagonist from Final Fantasy 7 Remake. This special reference is notable even if the character’s story is not deeply explored in this title.

Furthermore, Final Fantasy Tactics, despite featuring gameplay that diverges from the series’ standard and leaning more toward a tactical JRPG format than the traditional formula, remains an outstanding game. Its rich tactical strategy and deep character customization offer a unique and engaging challenge, providing both value and nostalgia for fans who discover a memorable experience in this title.

7

Final Fantasy 6

One Of The Best Pixel Art Final Fantasy Titles

Released

October 11, 1994

ESRB

T For Teen Due To Fantasy Violence, Partial Nudity

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

Before transitioning to 3D graphics, Final Fantasy was a major reference among pixel art JRPGs, with Final Fantasy 6 serving as a benchmark of excellence in the franchise. The game achieved incredible quality standards through its artistic direction as well as its extensive character development throughout the narrative.

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Although it is entirely different from Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth, the sixth installment remains a classic retro game that deserves to be experienced by anyone interested in exploring the series further. For fans of Sephiroth, Final Fantasy 6 also features Kefka Palazzo, one of the most iconic villains in JRPGs.

6

Final Fantasy 12: The Zodiac Age

The Combat In The Game Resembles That Of Final Fantasy 7 Remake

Released

October 31, 2006

ESRB

T For Teen due to Alcohol Reference, Fantasy Violence, Mild Language, Partial Nudity, Suggestive Themes

For players who appreciated the combat mechanics found in Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth, a great option to continue within the franchise is to try Final Fantasy 12: The Zodiac Age. Both titles share a similar gameplay style, where characters explore the environment and battles operate through an active combat system.

Moreover, combat is not the only aspect that can captivate players of the Final Fantasy 7 remakes; this game also boasts an excellent story. Here, players embark on an epic journey through Ivalice, one of the franchise’s most popular worlds, as they strive to save the Kingdom of Dalmasca from an imminent war.

5

Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7 Reunion

A Must-Experience Prequel For Fans Of Final Fantasy 7 Worldbuilding

Released

December 13, 2022

ESRB

T for Teen due to Blood, Violence

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

While the main plot of Final Fantasy 7 revolves around Cloud Strife and his personal struggles, the game also highlights other compelling characters, such as Zack Fair and Sephiroth – widely regarded as one of the greatest villains in the franchise. Although the remakes expand on their backgrounds, Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth still don’t give them the spotlight they truly deserve.

For players who have fallen in love with the world Square Enix crafted in Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth and want to dive deeper into its lore, Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7 Reunion is a must-play. This game unfolds from Zack Fair’s perspective, exploring his journey as a SOLDIER while also providing a deeper look at the game’s iconic antagonist, Sephiroth.

4

Final Fantasy 10

A Timeless Classic For All Final Fantasy Players

Systems

Released

December 17, 2001

ESRB

T for Teen: Mild Blood, Mild Suggestive Themes, Violence

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

Besides being among the best Final Fantasy options for those who tried the remake and want something else, Final Fantasy 10 is also an excellent choice for newcomers, offering a great point of entry into the franchise as a whole. Its cast is well-developed, and the combat system is straightforward, providing a standout turn-based JRPG.

Even though it was originally created for the PlayStation 2, Final Fantasy 10’s visuals still hold up today, and the HD remaster makes them even more appealing to a modern audience. This allows the game to preserve the essence of the Final Fantasy formula in one of the franchise’s timeless classics.

3

Final Fantasy 15

An Exquisite Journey Of Friendship

Released

November 9, 2016

ESRB

T for Teen: Language, Mild Blood, Partial Nudity, Violence

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

This modern installment in the Final Fantasy saga appeals to enthusiasts of FF7 Remake and Rebirth through its state-of-the-art, intricately detailed graphics. As the fifteenth title in the series, it provides a gratifying experience. Assuming the mantle of Noctis, the audience witnesses the unfolding journey of the protagonist in a narrative that predominantly centers on friendship.

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Final Fantasy 15 accomplishes this with distinction, delivering character interactions that sound natural and foster a deep attachment. In addition, the game offers a notable contrast to Final Fantasy 7 Remake by featuring an open world during the initial hours, as opposed to the linear exploration found in Midgar.

2

Final Fantasy 7

Nothing Beats The Original Game

Released

January 31, 1997

ESRB

T for Teen: Blood, Fantasy Violence, Language, Mild Suggestive Themes

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

For players who cherished the experience of the remakes of Final Fantasy 7 and fell in love with the universe it created, trying the original version is an excellent option, especially for those who appreciate a retro gaming experience. The original story of Cloud Strife is well constructed across its various iterations, offering a unique experience to every player.

Thus, despite some differences in narrative development and certain gameplay mechanics – particularly in combat – the original Final Fantasy 7 remains a game worth exploring for fans of the remakes. It not only features a well-developed story but also provides an excellent opportunity to compare the evolution of the franchise over time.

1

Final Fantasy 16

The Game Features Modern Mechanics And Visuals

Systems

Released

June 22, 2023

ESRB

M For Mature 17+ Due To Blood and Gore, Partial Nudity, Sexual Themes, Strong Language, Violence

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

Although Final Fantasy 16 is set in a medieval fantasy environment, contrasting with the steampunk elements found in the Final Fantasy 7 remakes, both share some of the most modern gameplay features in the franchise. For those seeking more recent experiences within the series, this title is an excellent option, combining fluidity and intensity in combat.

Furthermore, Final Fantasy 16 presents an engaging narrative that follows different phases of Clive Rosfield’s life in combat that is even more accelerated than that of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake. With its dark atmosphere, striking characters, and meticulously detailed world, the game is a superb choice for those wishing to remain in the franchise without venturing into its older titles.

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