Which Is the Best Version of the Final Fantasy Pixel Remasters in 2025? Steam, Console, and Mobile Compared

The Square Enix Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster Series was initially launched on both PC and mobile devices in 2021. Since then, there have been numerous fixes and updates, with the games also becoming available on consoles like the Xbox Series X|S as the latest platform to join the lineup. This month, a significant update for the entire series of Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster games was released across all platforms, marking nearly four years since its initial launch on PC and mobile.

To help you choose the ideal version of the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series that suits your needs best, I will be comparing the games across consoles, PC, and mobile platforms considering factors such as visuals, performance, load times, and additional features.

I’ve been enjoying the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster games ever since they came out on iOS and Switch, available across various platforms such as the latest Xbox and Apple Arcade. For this article, I’ve gone back to play these games on the Nintendo Switch OLED, Steam Deck OLED, ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme), PS5, PS4 Pro, Xbox Series X, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 12, iPhone 14 Plus, and iPad Pro (2020) to provide a comprehensive review.

Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series explained

If you haven’t been following along, Square Enix intended to release an enhanced collection of the initial six Final Fantasy games known as the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series. By upgrading Final Fantasy I, II, III, IV, V, and VI to contemporary specifications and making them compatible with current gaming platforms, this bundle represents a significant improvement over the outdated versions of FF5 and FF6 from 2013 and 2014, which aren’t worth considering at the moment.

This remake not only made significant improvements by updating sprites, backgrounds, color schemes, music arrangements, and added various quality-of-life features, cheats, and more. However, it’s worth noting that despite these enhancements, the Pixel Remasters are not the ultimate versions as some content from earlier adaptations has been omitted.

Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster features by platform – PC, mobile, Switch, Xbox, and PlayStation

Initially, I began drafting this article in November of the previous year, but had to pause my work due to numerous games launches I was covering concurrently. At that time, there were significant differences among the platforms where this series was available. However, things have drastically changed now. When Square Enix rolled out the 1.2.0 updates for the Steam versions of the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series (version 1.2.1 on mobile as of March 28, 2025), I picked up where I left off with the expectation that we’d have to wait a considerable amount of time before these new updates reached other platforms. However, Square Enix surprised me by introducing previously missing features and new ones in the mobile releases, followed by updates on all console versions as well. Before diving into the remaining feature or platform disparities, let me summarize the patches that have been applied to the games since their launch:

Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster release timeline

July 2021: Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series debuts on PC and mobile with FF1, FF2, and FF3.
September 2021: FF4 launches for PC and mobile.
November 2021: FF5 launches for PC and mobile.
February 2022: FF6 launches for PC and mobile.
April 2023: Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster with FF1, FF2, FF3, FF4, FF5, and FF6 launches on PS4 and Nintendo Switch bringing new BGM,font, and game boost/assist options.
January 2024: Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series on PC and mobile gets updated with the new console port features, but the BGM and font options are left out of the mobile releases.
September 2024: Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series launches for Xbox Series X|S and Windows via the Microsoft Store as a Play Anywhere title.
January 2025: Final Fantasy 1 Pixel Remaster launches on Apple Arcade.
March 2025: Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series gets updated on Steam with new features and fixes, the mobile versions are updated soon after with those fixes in addition to the missing options, and the console versions are also updated with 1.2.0 a few days later.

Now that all the platforms have been updated to version 1.2.0, are there significant variations in terms of features and content across these platforms?

Currently, all versions share similar features with minor distinctions based on their respective platforms. They all offer the Boost options, Background Soundtrack Toggle, and Classic Font option. Additionally, each version includes its own unique game-related modifications and updates. Notably, the main disparities lie in:

Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster on Switch: The hybrid nature of the platform lets you play it on the go or docked at home. Being able to put a game like this in sleep mode is also a great feature for resuming later.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster on Xbox: This being a Play Anywhere title means you can play it on your Xbox Series console at home and also access your save back on Windows PC to play on your computer or on a portable PC like the ROG Ally. The Xbox version also supports Quick Resume which is great to have in games like this like the sleep feature on Switch.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster on PlayStation: This version offers Trophy support and is playable on both PS4 and PS5 via backward compatibility.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster on iOS/Android: The mobile versions are the most portable options available with both touch and controller support. They also have cloud saving between devices to play on say an iPhone and then continue on iPad and back.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster on Steam: This version remains the best since it lets you mod out some of the quirks and technical issues still present in addition to being playable across PC handhelds and fantastic on Steam Deck.

Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster font options – classic, modern, and mods

Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster – scrolling issues explained

In every version of Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster, regardless of platform, a consistent problem is the scrolling issue. This problem creates a choppy or jerky sensation when the camera moves, and this happens because characters move at 80 pixels per second, which is faster than the game’s own frame rate. A possible solution for this issue would be for Square Enix to release patches that adjust the movement speed to either 60 px/sec or 120 px/sec, doubling the target speed. As an alternative, users can modify the PC version to increase the frame rate to 80 frames per second, but I haven’t tested this solution personally.

As a devoted fan, I’ve found an effective method to discern this: By paying close attention to the camera movement, particularly comparing horizontal movements with diagonal ones. It’s more harmonious when moving diagonally, as the speed seems better aligned in those instances. A telling example can be found in Final Fantasy 5, during the early Chocobo stages. This particular situation serves as a useful guide to identify other performance issues that occasionally arise on certain platforms while playing the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster.

In the Chocobo’s ride across FF5, the motion is seamless and flawless on PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC. However, on older mobile devices and Nintendo Switch, there may be some minor lag or stuttering issues. A YouTube video by AustinSV (available at the linked address from about 0:58) provides a clear demonstration of the technical glitches persisting in the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster.

Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster visuals and performance differences across PC, console, and mobile

Beyond the scrolling problems mentioned earlier, which affect all versions of the Pixel Remaster games across all platforms, certain platforms also experience performance-related issues, particularly noticeable during the opening scene of FF5 when you mount the Chocobo. You’ll find that the movement feels significantly different when riding the Chocobo compared to when you aren’t. This is a useful benchmark for testing scrolling issues as I previously mentioned, but interestingly, when riding the Chocobo, the performance on PlayStation (PS4 Pro and PS5) and PC versions remains smooth without any stutter or sudden lags every few seconds.

There seems to be a small glitch affecting the Nintendo Switch, mobile devices, Xbox Series X, and Microsoft Store on Windows platforms. I find it surprising that this issue hasn’t been resolved yet, especially considering how long these mobile versions have been around, and there’s no sign of an update to rectify it. I’m also disheartened to see that even after multiple adaptations, the Xbox version still carries this problem. At first, I believed this was a performance issue common in some Unity games on Switch or older mobile devices, but its occurrence on the iPhone 15 Pro and then Xbox Series X has led me to suspect it’s related to something other than just processing power. It’s unclear if this glitch is connected to the same problem reported in the latest Super Monkey Ball game as discussed by Digital Foundry before it was fixed.

In theory, I prefer the Xbox version of the game because I can play it on my Xbox Series X and then resume my progress on my ROG Ally handheld device. However, I was taken aback to find that the Microsoft Store/Play Anywhere version on my ROG Ally exhibited the same stuttering issue, an issue not present in the Steam version. This isn’t a problem that would deter many players, but it’s disappointing to see another instance where the same game performs poorly on the Microsoft Store version and runs smoothly on Steam. To verify this specific stuttering issue and ensure it is not a universal problem across all versions, I used my phone’s slow-motion camera to record movement at 120fps in the PS5, Switch, Xbox Series X, ROG Ally, and Steam versions.

When you play the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster games on PC at refresh rates other than 60hz, 120hz (or any multiple of 60), there may be some issues. However, these problems don’t appear when playing on the Steam Deck LCD screen. Unfortunately, the OLED model with its 90hz display shares the same problem I encountered while playing the Suikoden remaster. To resolve this issue, you can set your OLED screen to 60hz through the quick access menu. This adjustment should only affect the scrolling issue I mentioned previously.

Some may question whether it’s necessary to discuss these problems, but given the numerous re-releases and updates of the Final Fantasy series throughout the years, one might expect Square Enix to deliver top-notch performance with its flagship franchise. The primary goal of this collection was to provide the finest versions of the classic Final Fantasy games. However, it’s disheartening that fundamental technical issues persist not only in the initial release, but also after multiple platform transfers and updates.

Which version of the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series is the best?

From the 1.2.0 update, all platforms host identical major features for the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series. However, the Steam edition stands out as the optimal choice due to its modifiability, enabling users to rectify minor technical glitches and customize the experience with various font options, or even incorporate other modifications according to personal taste.

As a devoted gamer, I’ve noticed some performance discrepancies across various platforms of these games. Primarily, the PC and PlayStation versions seem to struggle with scrolling problems. On the brighter side, the mobile, Switch, and even Xbox Series X versions have their own set of performance challenges too. Regrettably, this includes the latest iPhone 15 Pro as well.

Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster problems still present in 2025

Regarding improvements Square Enix could make since they continue to update their games across all platforms, my top concern remains the persistent scrolling problem that affects every version on every platform. Moreover, I’d like to see performance issues addressed, particularly on mobile devices, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox Series X versions of the game. While it’s great that Square Enix is still releasing patches, even years later, it’s disappointing that we had to wait so long for fundamental fixes, especially given the high price tag.

Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster physical release editions

If you’re one of those who prefers owning the tangible editions of games, particularly for Final Fantasy titles like me, there are a few factors to consider regarding the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster collection. The physical version of this collection is exclusively available on PS4 and Nintendo Switch. Initially, it was offered in bundles through the Square Enix Store at launch. Subsequently, it saw an Asia-only Switch release (as shown below) and a standard retail launch in North America and Europe. The latest version released in North America and Europe is the newest SKU for this collection. Unfortunately, none of the physical releases come with all updates preloaded on the disc/cartridge.

The Asia Switch edition features reversible artwork but no stickers. On the other hand, the latest North American and European release comes with a sticker sheet but lacks reversible art. Although it’s unlikely to happen, I believe this collection deserves a physical release on Xbox as well.

Which version of the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster should you buy?

As a passionate enthusiast, I’ll lay out the pros and cons of each variant, understanding that everyone has unique preferences:

– Pros and Cons of Each Version (As a Passionate Enthusiast)

Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster on PlayStation: If you care about trophy support or don’t care about portable play, this is the best console version to get.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster on Xbox: If you have access to a PC handheld or play on both Xbox Series consoles and PC, the Play Anywhere feature is a big selling point in addition to the Quick Resume feature, but the hitching issue holds this back a bit.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster on Nintendo Switch: The hybrid nature of the Switch is the biggest selling point for the Pixel Remasters on the platform, but this is also held back by the hitching issue right now.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster on Steam: Being able to mod the games and fix some of the lingering issues is the main draw of this release in addition to them playing amazing on Steam Deck.
Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster on iOS: As of the latest update, the iOS (or Android) version of the games is at feature parity with other platforms, but the hitching issue is still here. This version is worth getting if you play a lot on your phone or have Apple Arcade in the case of the first game.

I’m glad I could assist you in choosing the location to obtain the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series and remind you to update or re-download it, should you already possess it. It’s a pleasure to think that we might replay these games in the future with a potential new update. Let’s cross our fingers that any remaining issues will be addressed, making it easier to wholeheartedly recommend these timeless RPGs for today’s gaming platforms.

The series of games known as Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster can now be played on various platforms such as Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android, and PC (Steam, Microsoft Store). We’ve prepared comprehensive walkthroughs for Final Fantasy I, Final Fantasy II, Final Fantasy III, Final Fantasy IV, Final Fantasy V, and Final Fantasy VI. Explore all our other guides covering the entire Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster Series here.

2025-03-29 14:57