True sequels aren’t typical for Final Fantasy games, but they’ve happened consistently over the last forty years. We’re actually seeing more and more main entries get follow-ups, or at least additional content, that continues their stories. While there have been several sequels over time, their quality varies quite a bit.
When we talk about sequels here, we mean direct continuations of a main game’s story, like Final Fantasy X-2. We’re not including spin-off titles like Final Fantasy Tactics or Dissidia, or downloadable content like that found in FF15 and FF16. To create this ranking, we considered both user and critic reviews, and how much time we personally spent playing these fantastic RPGs.
8. Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy 13
Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy 13 is the third game in the Final Fantasy 13 series. Like the other games in the series, it received mixed reactions from players. The story can be confusing and feel disconnected at times. A unique feature is a time limit – similar to Majora’s Mask – where running out of time restarts the game, though you keep your items. Not everyone appreciated this mechanic.
Despite its flaws, the combat is surprisingly fun, and the game is genuinely enjoyable if you approach it without expecting perfection. It includes plenty of references for fans of the series, and if you haven’t finished the trilogy, it’s worth checking out to see how the story concludes.
7. Final Fantasy 4: The After Years
Final Fantasy 4 is a landmark game, especially for its strong story and well-developed characters. Its sequel, Final Fantasy 4: The After Years, is also fun to play, though it often feels overshadowed by the original. Putting aside issues with how it was initially priced on the Wii or its performance on the GBA, The After Years provides a genuinely enjoyable experience.
If you enjoyed FF4, you’ll likely enjoy this game, though the battles can become repetitive. While the main character’s son doesn’t quite have the same appeal as his parents, the overall cast is still good. The After Years is a strong Final Fantasy sequel, but a few others are even better.
6. Final Fantasy XIII-2
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Final Fantasy XIII-2 at first, but it turned out to be really good! The battles are fantastic, and focusing the story on Serah, Lightning’s sister, was a smart move. The new characters, like Noel, are likeable, and having a moogle companion is just plain enjoyable.
While not a perfect game, Final Fantasy XIII-2 is a definite step up from Final Fantasy 13 and offers some truly memorable experiences. Be warned, though – it features an incredibly challenging final boss battle! Many players find it superior to Lightning Returns, and it’s debatably better than the original Final Fantasy 13, especially if you enjoy its combat system and world design.
5. Final Fantasy 12: Revenant Wings
Following the events of saving Ivalice, Final Fantasy 12: Revenant Wings lets players join Vaan as he pursues his lifelong dream of becoming a sky pirate. He’s joined by familiar faces like Penelo, Balthier, and Fran. This DS title plays and looks more like Final Fantasy Tactics than the original Final Fantasy 12, but fans will appreciate another chance to explore the world of Ivalice.
While the story isn’t as gripping or emotionally powerful as the main Final Fantasy game, it’s still a good one with some unexpected twists. It’s genuinely funny and touching at times. However, where this game really stands out is in its combat and gameplay. Final Fantasy 12: Revenant Wings is an almost flawless real-time strategy RPG for a handheld console, and it’s so well-made it could easily be played on a modern console like the Switch 2.
4. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7
Zack is an important character in the original Final Fantasy 7, despite having limited screen time. While Crisis Core was a fantastic game, it didn’t reach as many players because it was originally released on the PSP. Now, the remastered version of Crisis Core is available on most modern gaming platforms, and it includes several improvements to make the experience even better.
If you’re a fan of Final Fantasy VII, Crisis Core is a must-play. It’s also considered one of the best stories in the Final Fantasy series, even though it’s technically a prequel. The game expands on the original’s plot and adds depth – and sometimes darkness – to the world of FF7.
3. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a bit unusual because it continues the story of the original game while also reimagining it. However, it feels more like a true sequel to Final Fantasy 7 Remake thanks to significant changes and additions. Like the first remake, it’s full of dramatic cutscenes, but now features large, open worlds to discover and a huge amount of optional things to do – perhaps even too much!
Those who loved the original Final Fantasy VII will likely enjoy this new installment, but Final Fantasy VII Rebirth truly shines when it offers something fresh and expands on what Final Fantasy VII Remake started. It’s arguably the most ambitious sequel in the entire Final Fantasy series – until Final Fantasy VII Remake Part 3 is released.
2. Final Fantasy X-2
The shift from Final Fantasy 10 to X-2 can feel abrupt. The story quickly changes Yuna’s role from a world-saving hero to a pop star. After defeating Sin, Yuna and her new group, the Gullwings, explore a much more cheerful version of Spira, now armed with pistols instead of her traditional staff.
This game rewards players with points as they progress and features a fantastic job system centered around Dress Spheres. It speeds up the combat from Final Fantasy X, switching to a more dynamic Active Time Battle system. While it might not appeal to everyone immediately, it’s a very enjoyable experience and arguably boasts the best job system in the entire Final Fantasy series.
1. Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
Many consider Final Fantasy Tactics Advance to be as good as, or even better than, the original Final Fantasy Tactics. While the first game is a classic, Tactics Advance refines the gameplay, battles, visuals, and story. It gets off to a quirky start with a snowball fight, which might seem a little childish to some, but beyond that lies a truly captivating adventure.
I still love the characters in Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, and the story about Marche and his brother Doned remains powerful even today. With the release of Ivalice Chronicles, it’s the perfect time to remaster Final Fantasy Tactics Advance so a new audience can enjoy this fantastic Final Fantasy sequel.
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2026-04-12 22:22