Since the release of the original Final Fantasy in 1987, the franchise has evolved to the point that it now features sixteen mainline games, alongside a large assortment of spin-offs. Sadly, not all entries in the Final Fantasy series have managed to stand the test of time, but those that have continue to remain staples in the JRPG genre.
Whether it's due to the entry's iconic combat system, memorable story, or unique art style, these titles are still capable of standing out from the crowd, with some gamers even preferring them to more modern titles. Countless games have become timeless throughout their existence, and the Final Fantasy series is home to several of them.
5 Final Fantasy 9
Final Fantasy 9, released in 2000, is one of the more heavily fantasy-inspired entries in the Final Fantasy series. Set in the world of Gaia, the story follows Zidane and an unlikely group of companions as they attempt to stop the vindictive Queen Brahne from waging war and causing mass destruction.
One of the most notable aspects of Final Fantasy 9 is how visually impressive it is. Though many would argue that Final Fantasy 10 is visually superior, it's hard to deny the charm of Final Fantasy 9's aesthetic, world design, and character models. In terms of combat, the game can also be pretty challenging, which can come as a surprise, given its more approachable art style. Though the game is over twenty years old, it remains one of the most timeless entries in the series, mostly due to these reasons.
4 Final Fantasy 12
Released in 2006, Final Fantasy 12 tells the story of a group of rebels on a quest to reclaim the home that was stolen from them, all while bringing the Archadian Empire to justice. Featuring an endearing group of party members and some truly terrifying villains, the story proves to be one of the most intense and politically-charged ones to come from the Final Fantasy franchise.
Though opinions of Final Fantasy 12 are mixed, it's hard to deny how impressive the game was when it was first released. In an attempt to revitalize the turn-based combat system from previous entries, it introduced the Gambit system, a unique mode of combat that allowed players to alter the fighting style of each playable character. This feature allowed for endless possibilities regarding combat and rewarded players for trying out new things. Final Fantasy 12 is also home to some of the best optional content to ever appear in a Final Fantasy title, which has made it especially timeless for completionists.
3 Final Fantasy 7
Released in 1997, Final Fantasy 7 tells what many believe to be the best story in the whole series. The game follows Cloud Strife, a former SOLDIER, as he attempts to make a life for himself in the city of Midgar. Unfortunately for him, however, a dark presence known as Sephiroth has returned and is hellbent on using Cloud to take revenge on humanity.
Though Final Fantasy 7 certainly has its flaws, it's hard to deny the effect it had on the JRPG genre. Not only was it the first truly revolutionary Final Fantasy title, but it also introduced countless gamers to the JRPG genre and encouraged them to seek out more. The story remains one of the most nail-biting tales in video game history, and the art style has aged like a fine wine. Though there is an argument to be made for Final Fantasy 7 Remake and how it's superior to the original, Final Fantasy 7 is undoubtedly one of the most timeless games currently on the market.
2 Final Fantasy 6
Making its debut in 1994, Final Fantasy 6 proved to be one of the darkest entries in the series. The story follows Terra Branford, a young woman who has an unusual connection with Espers, as she sets out to uncover her origins and purpose. On her journey, she meets an array of friendly faces who join her on her quest, and each of them has a unique reason for doing so.
Though the Final Fantasy series has mostly left the iconic pixel art style behind, Final Fantasy 6 is one of the best entries to ever feature it. To modern gamers, it may not look like much, but those who appreciate a good Final Fantasy story are sure to appreciate its warmth. The story told in this title is surprisingly dark, too, considering the uplifting tone of Final Fantasy 5, and that seems to be one of the reasons fans enjoy it so much. The game also features one of the most unhinged villains in Final Fantasy's history, a court mage named Kefka Palazzo, whose sole goal in the story is to become a god.
1 Final Fantasy 10
Final Fantasy 10 made its debut in 2001 and has since become one of the most memorable entries in the Final Fantasy series. The story follows a young man named Tidus and documents his journey across Spira, a land where he is a complete outsider. By presenting Tidus as an outsider, players learn crucial details about the world at the same time that he does, making it easier for players to relate to Tidus and his struggles.
Final Fantasy 10 is timeless for several reasons. It was the first game in the series to feature completely three-dimensional locations, which helped it stand out from previous entries. On top of that, countless fans believe that the story it tells is one of the best stories in video game history. This, combined with a deeply immersive turn-based combat system, makes Final Fantasy 10 one of the most timeless entries in the Final Fantasy series.