Best Games That Play Like Classic Final Fantasy Titles

Final Fantasy is a dynamic series that has evolved multiple times throughout its long and rich history. From classic JRPGs with tried-and-tested turn-based combat to action-packed real-time offerings, the franchise has seen it all and then some.

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While people enjoy the modern Final Fantasy games that are jam-packed with cinematic real-time combat systems, there’s something to be said about the series’ past and how much fans loved the more traditional games in the genre. Thankfully, there are plenty of similar titles that can help scratch this nostalgic itch.

8

Octopath Traveler 2

The Job System Is Fun To Mess Around With And Perfect For Final Fantasy Fans

Released

February 24, 2023

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

An excellent sequel that addresses most problems players had with the first game, fans of classic JRPGs can’t go wrong with Octopath Traveler 2. The amazing HD-2D visuals whisk players away into a beautiful world full of challenging combat and banger OSTs.

Players who find gameplay and music to be a critical part of old Final Fantasy games will find both Octopath Traveler games to be perfect for them. If they only have time to explore one of these lengthy JRPGs, then the sequel is an easy recommendation.

7

Chrono Trigger

One Of The Greatest JRPGs Of All Time With Classic Turn-Based Combat

Chrono Trigger is one of the most legendary ahead-of-its-time JRPGs that needs no introduction. The dream team of Yuji Horii, Hironobu Sakaguchi, and Akira Toriyama developed something magical that is still inspiring many modern video games.

It’s easy to see why classic Final Fantasy fans will love Chrono Trigger, especially with the series creator’s input in making this genre-defining JRPG. The nostalgic pixel art, simple yet effective combat, and an epic story are just a few of the many things players will love about this game.

6

Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake

Lets Modern Fans Enjoy One Of The Most Important Dragon Quest Games Ever Made

Released

November 14, 2024

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

Dragon Quest 3 is one of the most important games in the series, introducing many series staples and serving as the easiest game to get into if fans want to check out this series for themselves. With Dragon Quest 11 breaking new ground in the West for this series, it’s easy to see why Square Enix thought that worldwide audiences were ready to experience this classic JRPG with a fresh coat of paint.

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Everything from the job system to the engaging story will help classic Final Fantasy fans feel right at home with the beautiful Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake. Players will love the classic gameplay loop of getting stronger with each fight, letting them take on tougher bosses in stride.

5

Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Fans Of Final Fantasy 5 Will Love Switching Jobs Around In This Turn-Based Yakuza Game

Released

January 26, 2024

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

Yakuza: Like a Dragon was a fresh and invigorating game in the series that gave JRPG fans an excuse to get into this series. Infinite Wealth polishes the systems of its predecessor to make the title’s slow-paced combat more engaging than before.

The job system will feel right at home for fans of Final Fantasy 5 and Final Fantasy 3. It helps that a bunch of these roles are hilarious and feel right at home with the goofy undertones of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth.

4

Bravely Default 2

A Modern JRPG That Aims To Emulate The Classic Hallmarks Of The Genre

Systems

Released

February 26, 2021

Publisher(s)

Nintendo

OpenCritic Rating

Strong

Fans who missed out on the 3DS Bravely Default games don’t have to worry about being out of the loop for this one. Bravely Default 2 is a standalone entry where playing the previous games isn’t required for players to enjoy the plot, something that long-time Final Fantasy fans are familiar with.

It helps that the game’s classic turn-based combat and fun job system will be perfect for fans of the Final Fantasy games back when the company was called SquareSoft. Using Brave Points to enhance attacks and maximize damage makes for a simple yet compelling gameplay loop that fans will love.

3

The Legend Of Heroes: Trails In The Sky

Players Who Love NPC Interactions And Final Fantasy 7’s Materia System Will Love This Game

Systems

Released

June 24, 2004

Developer(s)

Nihon Falcom

OpenCritic Rating

Mighty

The stellar localizations of most Final Fantasy games helped them attract a sizable fanbase. Players who love engaging dialogue and rich NPC interactions present in games like Final Fantasy 4 and Final Fantasy 6 will have a great time with The Legend of Heroes series.

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Trails in the Sky and its sequel are hailed as the best games in the series, with these games receiving a remake to attract new fans. However, players can still have a great time with the original title, especially since the Orbments that players equip feel somewhat similar to Final Fantasy 7‘s materia system.

2

Phantasy Star 4: The End Of The Millennium

The Best Game In The Phantasy Star Series In The Eyes Of Many

Phantasy Star IV: The End of the Millennium

Released

December 17, 1993

Phantasy Star debuted around the same time as Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest. However, while Square and Enix enjoyed rampant success with these titles, the same can’t be said for Sega’s attempt to break into the JRPG market.

It’s a shame, since most fans will argue that these games perfected the formula with their deep stories and engaging worlds. Phantasy Star 4 is considered by many to be the best title in the series and a great entry point for Final Fantasy fans who are tentative about getting into another rich JRPG franchise.

1

Suikoden 2

The Best Entry In An Epic JRPG Series Full Of War And Conflict

Systems

Released

September 29, 1999

Players who want to check out JRPGs with epic stories featuring warring nations (a theme Final Fantasy games have used time and time again) will love the Suikoden series. Common consensus places Suikoden 2 at the very top, with its grounded and epic story being a major highlight.

If players loved the massive cast of characters in Final Fantasy 6, then they’ll be in for a great time with Suikoden 2. A whopping 108 Stars of Destiny can be recruited in the game, with the maximum number being crucial for players who want the best ending.

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