For nearly 40 years, Final Fantasy has been a beloved part of the gaming world, starting with the original game on the NES in 1987. Since then, Square Enix has released many new games, remakes, and online RPGs for fans to enjoy.
With so much history, it can be tough to know where to begin if you’re new to the series. That’s why we’ve put together two lists: one that shows the story in the order it happened, and another that lists the games as they were originally released. You can easily switch between these lists using the buttons at the top of the page to find the best way for you to start playing.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
Release date:
June 10, 2021
5(8 reviews)
Platforms:
PC (Microsoft Windows)
PlayStation 5
Xbox Series X|S
Nintendo Switch 2
More info
What it’s about: Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is an enhanced and expanded version of Final Fantasy VII Remake that features a new episode starring Yuffie and introduces an exhilarating new story arc with numerous gameplay additions for players to enjoy.
Final Fantasy X-2
Final Fantasy X-2
Release date:
March 13, 2003
4(2 reviews)
Platforms:
PlayStation 2
More info
What it’s about: Final Fantasy X-2 is the direct sequel to Final Fantasy X, developed and published by Square Enix. It was the first direct sequel game in the Final Fantasy series and the first to feature an all-female playable cast. It also returned to the job system not seen in the main series since Final Fantasy V.
The game uses a character class system where the equipped dressphere determines her abilities and stats. Party members can switch to any dressphere in their Garment Grid to swap to new skills and adapt to different opponents. It makes use of the Active Time Battle system that was absent from Final Fantasy X. The party has access to all locations early on and can visit them through the Celsius, complete several minigames and sidequests in a chapter before progressing through the story to the next one.
Final Fantasy XI Online
Final Fantasy XI Online
Release date:
May 16, 2002
3(3 reviews)
Platforms:
PC (Microsoft Windows)
PlayStation 2
Xbox 360
More info
What it’s about: Final Fantasy XI Online is the franchise’s first MMORPG as well as the eleventh installment in the main series. FFXI was the world’s first cross-console MMORPG, available for Windows, PlayStation 2, Xbox 360 and Steam. Since its release in 2002, it has become the most financially successful title in the Final Fantasy series. Due to the nature of online RPGs, FFXI differs in that the player is not the only hero. Instead, each player creates a customizable character and adventures through the world of Vana’diel with other players; leveling up, exploring, completing missions, quests, and much more. Leveling up requires a group of people working together in what is called a Party, with each participant contributing their own skills to help take down a foe and gain Experience points. Battles occur in real-time, taking the ATB system to a new level, which was emulated again to a certain extent in Final Fantasy XII.
Final Fantasy XII
Final Fantasy XII
Release date:
March 16, 2006
5(4 reviews)
Platforms:
PlayStation 2
More info
What it’s about: The game takes place in the fictional land of Ivalice, where the empires of Archadia and Rozarria are waging an endless war. Dalmasca, a small kingdom, is caught between the warring nations. When Dalmasca is annexed by Archadia, its princess, Ashe, creates a resistance movement. During the struggle, she meets Vaan, a young adventurer who dreams of commanding an airship. They are quickly joined by a band of allies; together, they rally against the tyranny of the Archadian Empire.
Final Fantasy XIII
Final Fantasy XIII
Release date:
December 17, 2009
4(9 reviews)
Platforms:
PC (Microsoft Windows)
PlayStation 3
Xbox 360
More info
What it’s about: As a deepening crisis threatens to plunge the floating world of Cocoon into chaos, a band of unsuspecting strangers find themselves branded enemies of the state. With the panicking population baying for their blood, and the military all too happy to oblige, they have no choice but to run for their lives. Join them on a desperate quest to challenge the forces controlling their fate, and prevent untold destruction.
Featuring an unforgettable storyline, a battle system blending action and strategy, cutting-edge visuals and awe-inspiring cinematic sequences, FINAL FANTASY XIII delivers the next step in the evolution of gaming.
Final Fantasy XIII
Final Fantasy XIII
Release date:
December 17, 2009
4(9 reviews)
Platforms:
PC (Microsoft Windows)
PlayStation 3
Xbox 360
More info
What it’s about: As a deepening crisis threatens to plunge the floating world of Cocoon into chaos, a band of unsuspecting strangers find themselves branded enemies of the state. With the panicking population baying for their blood, and the military all too happy to oblige, they have no choice but to run for their lives. Join them on a desperate quest to challenge the forces controlling their fate, and prevent untold destruction.
Featuring an unforgettable storyline, a battle system blending action and strategy, cutting-edge visuals and awe-inspiring cinematic sequences, FINAL FANTASY XIII delivers the next step in the evolution of gaming.
Final Fantasy XV
Final Fantasy XV
Release date:
November 29, 2016
4(25 reviews)
Platforms:
PC (Microsoft Windows)
PlayStation 4
Xbox One
Nintendo Switch
Google Stadia
More info
What it’s about: Play as Noctis, the Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Lucis, as you seek to reclaim your homeland from the imperial army. With your closet friends along for the ride, you’ll travel through the breath-taking world of Eos encountering larger-than-life beasts and unforgiving enemies. Face thrilling combat as you learn to master your weaponry and magic skills by channeling the power of your ancestors.
Final Fantasy XVI
Final Fantasy XVI
Release date:
June 22, 2023
5(9 reviews)
Platforms:
PC (Microsoft Windows)
PlayStation 5
Xbox Series X|S
More info
What it’s about: Final Fantasy XVI is the first fully fledged action RPG in the mainline Final Fantasy series. Clive Rosfield is on a mission to free mankind from its fate, and must use the Eikonic powers at his disposal to overcome every obstacle his enemies lay before him.
Final Fantasy XVI
Final Fantasy XVI
Release date:
June 22, 2023
5(9 reviews)
Platforms:
PC (Microsoft Windows)
PlayStation 5
Xbox Series X|S
More info
What it’s about: Final Fantasy XVI is the first fully fledged action RPG in the mainline Final Fantasy series. Clive Rosfield is on a mission to free mankind from its fate, and must use the Eikonic powers at his disposal to overcome every obstacle his enemies lay before him.
