The Final Fantasy series is known for its successful role-playing games, usually featuring traditional turn-based combat. But almost thirty years ago, Final Fantasy Tactics showed the series could offer something different. First released in Japan for the PlayStation in 1997, and then in North America in 1998, Tactics kept the fantasy stories fans loved but presented them in a new, turn-based strategy format.
This game perfectly captures the storytelling style of the Final Fantasy series while also trying out new ways to play. It’s a solid strategy game that’s enjoyable even if you’re not familiar with the Final Fantasy universe. Here’s what makes Final Fantasy Tactics still stand out as a great game.
Why Square Enix Final Fantasy Tactics
The idea for Final Fantasy Tactics came from a desire to explore new directions for the Final Fantasy series – something that’s always been key to its success. Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi wanted to make a strategy game within the franchise, but he was too busy with other Final Fantasy titles. He then brought in Yasumi Matsuno, who had previously worked on the Ogre Battle series. Matsuno joined Square Enix with several team members and adapted the fast-paced gameplay of Ogre Battle to fit the Final Fantasy style. He directed and wrote the story for the project. While other Final Fantasy games of that time were known for their advanced 3D graphics, Tactics stood out with its hand-drawn visuals and thoughtful strategic gameplay, giving it a timeless appeal.
Inspired by the Final Fantasy series and his own experiences in game development, Matsuno created a story centered on the difficulties of maintaining hope, particularly in a society marked by inequality and hardship. Final Fantasy Tactics presents a historical narrative about Olan Durai and the “War of the Lions,” a conflict that plunged the kingdom of Ivalice into chaos. Unlike earlier Final Fantasy games, Final Fantasy Tactics tackled complex social issues and darker themes, and it’s remembered for its poignant and open-ended conclusion. Combined with enduringly strong gameplay, the game demonstrated that the Final Fantasy series could offer more than just a typical RPG experience.
Final Fantasy Took A Big Step With Tactics
Final Fantasy Tactics was a unique departure for the Final Fantasy series. Though it still focused on story and characters with turn-based battles, its different style and scope showed how flexible the Final Fantasy brand could be. Released in 1997-1998, the game was a risk that paid off, and it was a relief to see players enjoy it. Critics generally liked it too, giving it a Metacritic score of 83/100. While it didn’t sell as much as core Final Fantasy games like Final Fantasy VII, Tactics built a loyal fanbase and became a beloved cult classic. It’s even been remade and its world has appeared in later mainline games like Final Fantasy XII, demonstrating its lasting impact. Looking back, Final Fantasy Tactics proved that spin-off games could be incredibly successful.
Alongside the unique Japanese game Chocobo’s Mysterious Dungeon, this strategy title showed the world that Final Fantasy wasn’t limited to role-playing games. This paved the way for numerous spin-offs, some building on this game’s strategy elements and others trying out completely new gameplay. Its distinct look arrived at an important moment for Final Fantasy as it moved into 3D graphics. By being so different from Final Fantasy VII, it demonstrated that the Final Fantasy universe could accommodate diverse game designs.
The series had consistently demonstrated its ability to deliver both focused, individual stories and sprawling, epic narratives. This flexibility allowed for innovative spin-offs, paving the way for unexpected collaborations like Kingdom Hearts and unique gameplay experiences such as Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles. Final Fantasy Tactics stands out as a strong strategy game, elevated by its surprisingly mature and emotional story – a hallmark of the Final Fantasy series that both honors its past and ventures into new territory. While often overlooked, Final Fantasy Tactics is a surprisingly crucial installment in the franchise’s history.
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2026-01-29 04:14