Is 50 dollars too much for a 1997 game remaster? I was very excited for Final Fantasy Tactics The Ivalice Chronicles until I saw the price

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Initially learning that Final Fantasy Tactics was receiving an update sent shivers of excitement down my spine. Over the years, I’ve likely played it close to a hundred times, experimenting with all sorts of party combinations to reach the finish line. Given its significant impact on the tactical RPG genre, it seems incredible that it took so long to receive a worthy revamp for contemporary gaming platforms like PCs and consoles. Surprisingly, I didn’t realize the exact price of the standard version until today (upon examining the collector’s edition).

FF Tactics fans deserve better than this “remaster”

I’m not implying that Square Enix is excessively pricing the collector’s edition at $249.99; it’s a common practice these days. However, what feels off to me is the pricing of the standard edition of Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, which costs $49.99. It seems odd because they’re essentially charging contemporary game prices for a 30-year-old title that has been updated with improved visuals, a better soundtrack, voice acting, and an autosave feature.

It seems to me that the term “remaster” might not be entirely accurate. From what I’ve observed, it appears more as an upgraded version, with some adjustments made to certain features and combat mechanics. However, there’s no new translation involved, as it was already included in the 2007 War of the Lions PSP version. Essentially, The Ivalice Chronicles comes across as an improved re-release of Final Fantasy Tactics, complete with a standard price tag for new releases.

Indeed, last year we did receive a revamped version of Dragon Quest III, yet it wasn’t merely an update; it was a genuine remake. Initially, I was reluctant to spend $49.99 on it, but the enticing promise of fresh, new elements ultimately convinced me to make the purchase. It appeared and played like a completely new game, boasting additional content.

Speaking of FF Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, it seems the price tag doesn’t seem fitting given that it’s not a full remaster. In my opinion, it might be more advantageous to opt for the War of the Lions, available on iOS and Android at $13.99, which frequently goes on sale for around $6.99. Here’s hoping that whatever developments are happening with the Final Fantasy IX remake won’t result in pricing issues.

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2025-06-12 22:02