5 Best Square Enix Games That Aren’t Final Fantasy

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Square Enix is widely known for the Final Fantasy series, and deservedly so – it’s one of the best in gaming. However, the company has created many other amazing games, including titles like Parasite Eve, Nier Automata, Star Ocean: Second Evolution, and Front Mission 3. Despite this impressive collection, Square Enix is often simply thought of as “the Final Fantasy company,” which is understandable given the series’ quality and the constant re-releases and remakes of Final Fantasy VII.

Often, people only think of Final Fantasy when they consider classic Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs), which unfairly overlooks many other excellent titles from the same era – some of which are actually superior to the best Final Fantasy installments. These games were innovative in their stories, gameplay, and graphics, and remain enjoyable even now. Here are Square Enix’s five greatest games, expanding beyond the Final Fantasy series.

5) Kingdom Hearts

Man, Kingdom Hearts was a seriously risky move for Square Enix, but it totally paid off. Mixing Disney with their own stories could have been a disaster, but it became a huge deal – one of the most popular action RPGs out there. It’s cool they threw in some Final Fantasy faces, but honestly, Kingdom Hearts feels like its own thing, and that’s what makes it special. As a gamer, I was hooked from the start!

The true strength of Kingdom Hearts lies in its story. While known for being complicated, the game’s heart centers on powerful themes like friendship, memories, and figuring out who you are. This gives the story real meaning beyond just combining Disney and Square Enix characters. Kingdom Hearts showed that Square Enix could appeal to more players without simplifying its gameplay or emotional impact, and that continues to shape their games today.

The game’s combat is a major strength. It’s quick, easy to control, and combines action-packed battles with the character growth you expect from RPGs in a seamless way – it was truly innovative when it first came out. Whether you’re new to RPGs or a seasoned player, you’ll quickly understand how the combat works. Longtime fans will also appreciate the variety of abilities, gear, characters, and extra challenges. All of these elements combined to make Kingdom Hearts a truly special and unforgettable game.

4) Xenogears

Released in 1998, Xenogears is still considered one of the most ambitious role-playing games of all time, and few games have reached its level of storytelling since. It combined classic RPG gameplay with a complex and thought-provoking story that delved into topics like religion, psychology, and politics. Xenogears paved the way for later RPGs that weren’t afraid to explore mature themes with depth and nuance, and it continues to be praised for its bold narrative vision.

The game featured a unique combat system that combined strategic, turn-based moves with fast-paced combos, encouraging players to think ahead instead of just mashing buttons. Large-scale mech battles made the story feel even more epic, suggesting a world much bigger than the individual characters. This game has heavily influenced many RPGs since, including the Xenoblade Chronicles series, which carries on its legacy.

Although its development was troubled and the ending feels rushed, Xenogears is still a hugely influential game. It’s amazing how beloved it is despite its flawed conclusion, making you wonder just how incredible it could have been with more time. However, for those who are willing to delve into its complex themes, Xenogears offers a unique experience that very few games can rival.

3) Dragon Quest XI: Echoes

Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel – it perfects a classic formula, and that’s what makes it special. The Dragon Quest series has always been known for being easy to understand, charming, and consistently well-made. This game takes those qualities to a new level, capturing the very best parts of what people love about Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs).

The game boasts a beautiful, classic art style with instantly memorable characters. Combat is turn-based, but refined and adaptable, blending familiar RPG elements with helpful modern features. This creates an experience that honors the history of the genre while also being easy for newcomers to pick up. It’s a game that feels both wonderfully familiar and refreshingly new, offering the best of both worlds.

As a huge Dragon Quest fan, I think what really makes Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age special is how well it balances fun and heartfelt moments. You’re laughing one minute and genuinely moved the next, and the characters feel so real as they grow and change. It’s proof that if you stick to good game design and do it well, you can still create something truly amazing. And now, hearing that Dragon Quest XII is aiming to build on everything XI did? It’s got me thinking this next one could be the best Dragon Quest game ever!

2) Vagrant Story

Vagrant Story was a truly ambitious game from Square Enix. Released on the original PlayStation, it broke from typical RPG formulas with its gritty atmosphere, intricate gameplay, and sophisticated story focused on politics. Even today, its unique feel is hard to beat, and it feels like a natural step forward from Final Fantasy Tactics. It’s a game that really deserves to be remade for modern consoles.

The game’s combat was challenging and not always intuitive, but it was also fresh and creative. Success depended on learning how different weapons worked against various enemies, and carefully choosing your position in battle. It required focus and skill, and felt less like a typical RPG and more like a beautifully presented, story-driven experience. While it may have been overly complex for some players when it first came out, it clearly inspired many of the popular RPGs we enjoy today.

What truly sets Vagrant Story apart is its remarkably unified design. Everything, from the gameplay systems to the environments, works together to create a consistent and immersive experience. Although it never got a direct sequel, its impact is visible in later Square Enix games that tried innovative storytelling and complex gameplay. It demonstrates Square Enix’s willingness to be bold and experimental. Despite being later connected to the Final Fantasy series, Vagrant Story remains a standout title and one of Square Enix’s finest achievements.

1) Chrono Trigger

Often considered one of the greatest RPGs of all time, Chrono Trigger consistently ranks at the top due to its excellence in every aspect. Released in 1995, the game benefited from a talented development team and a strong creative vision, resulting in a truly timeless experience. While newer games like Sea of Stars and Threads of Time try to emulate its success, Chrono Trigger continues to stand out as exceptional.

The game’s battle system kept the action flowing by eliminating random battles and keeping players constantly engaged. Players were encouraged to try different strategies and work together using powerful dual and triple techniques. This led to a lot of surprising moments and allowed for creative gameplay. The game’s time travel wasn’t just part of the story; it actively changed the game world, influenced how the story unfolded, and even affected characters’ growth. Square Enix managed to pull off this complex feature flawlessly, despite how difficult time travel mechanics usually are to implement.

The game offered multiple endings that encouraged players to revisit it, but never felt drawn out or repetitive. Its music and visual style are still instantly recognizable and beloved. It provided a full and emotionally resonant experience without any wasted elements. Even now, years later, it’s considered a gold standard for role-playing game design. This lasting impact comes from a rare combination of imaginative ideas, careful execution, and genuine consideration for the player.

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2026-01-09 18:16