Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Choose your next Final Fantasy by the experience you want—not by its number. Most numbered mainline entries tell self-contained stories, so you can usually start with the setting or combat that appeals to you. The main exception is a direct sequel: play Final Fantasy X before X-2, for example. For a quick match, decide whether you want action combat, party tactics, classic fantasy, or an ongoing online world, then check that the game and edition are available on your platform.
Do you need to play Final Fantasy games in order?
Usually, no. Numbered mainline games generally have separate settings and stories, rather than continuing one long plot from the previous number. Square Enix’s series index presents individual premises for the numbered entries, and PlayStation’s Final Fantasy guide describes the mainline games as self-contained apart from defined sequels.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
FINAL FANTASY RESONANCE - PlayStation 5 | $49.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
FINAL FANTASY I-VI Collection Anniversary Edition - 2024 (NSW) | $47.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE | $31.90 | Buy on Amazon |
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
There are exceptions. Final Fantasy X-2 follows X, while Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the second game in the VII remake project, following VII Remake (available as INTERGRADE on supported platforms). If story continuity matters to you, follow the games’ stated order rather than treating every title with a different subtitle as a standalone entry.
Choose by the kind of play you want
Combat is one of the clearest ways to narrow the field. The series spans action-focused fighting, systems that mix action and commands, and party-based approaches that give you more control over how characters behave.
#1 Best Overall
- Cinematic pixel art - What if FINAL FANTASY had continued to push the limits of pixel art? The first FINAL FANTASY to join the HD‑2D lineup, FINAL FANTASY RESONANCE delivers a visually striking experience that feels both nostalgic and new, enhanced by dynamic camera angles and pixelized 3D models that make every moment more dramatic and immersive.
- A return to the familiar - A classic RPG adventure unfolds in a world filled with beloved FINAL FANTASY elements—airships, crystals, espers and moogles woven into the fabric of the story, and so much more.
- Strategic turn-based battles - Exploit enemy weaknesses to stagger them—breaking their defenses to seize extra turns and gain the upper hand with powerful Resonance attacks in cinematic battles shaped by smart choices.
- FINAL FANTASY legends - Bolster your team with Visions, echoes of beloved FINAL FANTASY characters, who fight alongside you with unique skills and abilities for deep party customization.
- Hours of side content to discover - The world is full of secrets, including the wandering swordmaster Gilgamesh, a Colosseum with deadly monsters and rewards to match, the Chamber of Arms with formidable foes sealed within legendary weapons, and a showdown with Ultima Weapon.
| If you want… | Consider… | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Cinematic storytelling with hybrid combat | Final Fantasy VII Remake INTERGRADE | Square Enix describes it as an entry point for newcomers. It is the first part of a multi-game remake project, and a free demo is available. See the publisher’s INTERGRADE announcement. |
| A distinctly action-oriented mainline game | Final Fantasy XVI | PlayStation characterizes its combat as action-oriented. Check the platform and edition you intend to buy. |
| Party behavior you can configure | Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age | Its Gambit system lets you set rules for how party members act in combat. |
| A classic fantasy presentation | Final Fantasy IX | It deliberately revisits series elements such as crystals and a medieval European fantasy motif. |
| An ongoing online adventure with other players | Final Fantasy XIV Online | It is an MMORPG, so expect a shared world and online play rather than a single-player entry. Its North American Free Trial has its own feature restrictions. |
| Two connected games in one collection | Final Fantasy X / X-2 HD Remaster | Play X first and then its direct sequel, X-2. |
This is a preference-based shortlist, not a ranking of quality. For a broader setting match, scan Square Enix’s series index for the premise of each numbered entry.
Know what the VII remake project involves
The remake project is a multi-game commitment, not one self-contained retelling in a single release. VII Remake INTERGRADE is the first entry and VII Rebirth the second. Square Enix announced FINAL FANTASY VII REVELATION as the third entry, with a planned release date of April 8, 2027. Its September 3, 2026 announcement says editions and plans may change, so check the current listing before making a preorder.
Rank #2
- The games that inspired a generation come to life once more, in the ultimate 2D pixel remaster!
- These games are newly developed remaster editions based on the original titles. Some of the changes and additional elements found in other remakes of these games are not included.
- The Anniversary Edition includes a pixel character sticker sheet.
- Universally updated 2D pixel graphics, including the iconic FINAL FANTASY character designs created by Kazuko Shibuya, the original artist and current collaborator.
- Beautifully rearranged soundtrack in a faithful FINAL FANTASY style, overseen by original composer Nobuo Uematsu.
Platform availability depends on the particular game, edition, and store. Square Enix’s announcements list INTERGRADE and REBIRTH for PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, and PC, with platform-specific announcements and caveats. Do not assume a listing for one title or edition applies to every other release. Confirm the exact format and regional store page for your system.
Recommended Free Tools
Try a demo or trial before committing
Sample the VII remake games
Square Enix says INTERGRADE has a free demo with save-data transfer. Its REBIRTH announcement says the Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox demos include Chapters 1 and 2 and transfer progress. Demo availability and features can vary by platform, so check the store for your system. See the publisher’s INTERGRADE announcement and REBIRTH announcement.
Rank #3
- Immerse yourself in the city of Midgar like never before, with improved textures, lighting, and background environments
- Players can switch between two game modes: "Graphics Mode" prioritizes 4K high-resolution graphics; "Performance Mode" prioritizes smooth action at 60 frames per second
- Capture and share your memorable moments from the game with a fully customizable “Photo Mode”
- Players can enjoy immersive battles by using the DualSense PlayStation 5 controller with its haptic feedback integration
- Play the brand-new episode featuring Yuffie and experience new combat and gameplay additions
Try XVI on Xbox
Square Enix’s June 9, 2025 announcement confirms a free Xbox demo for Final Fantasy XVI with save carryover. On Xbox Series X|S and Xbox PC, the publisher lists the game digitally as a Complete Edition or as the base game and DLC separately. Check the current store listing for the format you want: Square Enix’s Xbox announcement.
Use the XIV Free Trial if you want an online game
For North America, Square Enix’s Free Trial page says players can progress to level 80 without a playtime limit, subject to restrictions. The trial excludes features including the market board, player-to-player trading, and Free Companies. These limits matter if the social and trading side of an MMORPG is a key reason you are interested. Trial terms can change; consult the North American Free Trial page for current details.
Quick Recap
Make the choice with three checks
- Pick your preferred play style: action combat, configurable party tactics, or an online shared world.
- Check continuity: a numbered entry is usually a fine starting point, but play direct sequels in order.
- Verify platform and sample options: confirm the specific edition on your system and look for a demo or trial before buying.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
