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How to Play the Final Fantasy Games in Release Order

The numbered Final Fantasy mainline games run from I through XVI. Most stand alone, so release order is optional, and Pixel Remaster bundles the first six.
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For the numbered mainline games, follow the sequence FINAL FANTASY I through FINAL FANTASY XVI. That is the simplest release-order path for the core series. It is not a chronological list of every spin-off, remake, sequel, mobile game, or online expansion in the wider franchise.

Numbered Final Fantasy games in release order

  1. FINAL FANTASY I
  2. FINAL FANTASY II
  3. FINAL FANTASY III
  4. FINAL FANTASY IV
  5. FINAL FANTASY V
  6. FINAL FANTASY VI
  7. FINAL FANTASY VII
  8. FINAL FANTASY VIII
  9. FINAL FANTASY IX
  10. FINAL FANTASY X
  11. FINAL FANTASY XI
  12. FINAL FANTASY XII
  13. FINAL FANTASY XIII
  14. FINAL FANTASY XIV
  15. FINAL FANTASY XV
  16. FINAL FANTASY XVI

Square Enix presents the numbered entries in this order on its official series page. The publisher’s history page also covers non-numbered games and other franchise material, so a list of the numbered games should not be mistaken for a complete franchise release chronology.

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Do you need to play them in order?

No. Square Enix says that almost every mainline game is a standalone adventure with its own world, characters, and gameplay mechanics. Release order is useful if you want to see how the series changes over time, but it is not a prerequisite for understanding every later installment. The publisher’s advice is that there are many possible entry points; you can begin with the game that most appeals to you.

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What regional release names can confuse the order?

Older Western releases did not always use the same numbers as the Japanese originals. Square Enix’s North American history notes that FINAL FANTASY IV was released there as FINAL FANTASY II, and FINAL FANTASY VI as FINAL FANTASY III. It also says FINAL FANTASY II appeared in North America as part of FINAL FANTASY ORIGINS. Those historical labels can make a North American list look out of sequence; use the numbered titles above for the mainline order, and specify the territory when discussing launch dates or original packaging.

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Can you get the first six in one collection?

Square Enix’s FINAL FANTASY Pixel Remaster series covers the first six adventures and can be purchased as individual games or in a bundle. It is one route to playing I–VI together, but it does not include the full I–XVI sequence. Check the relevant platform store for current regional availability and whether its edition and format suit you.

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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.

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