Why Final Fantasy Is Hard to Start
The Final Fantasy franchise spans over three decades, 16 mainline titles, and dozens of spin-offs. Unlike series like Zelda or Mario, each numbered entry is a completely standalone story with its own world, characters, and often its own battle system. This is great news for newcomers — you can start almost anywhere — but it also means there's no obvious "entry point." This guide cuts through the confusion.
The Golden Rule: Each Game Is Self-Contained
Before anything else, understand this: you do not need to play Final Fantasy 1 before playing Final Fantasy 7. The numbers are not sequential chapters. Each game is its own universe. The only recurring elements are certain names (Chocobo, Moogle, Cid, Crystals) and gameplay themes, not story continuity.
Best Entry Points by Player Type
If You Want the Classic JRPG Experience
Start with Final Fantasy VI (available on Steam, iOS, Android, and PlayStation). It features a large ensemble cast, one of gaming's greatest villains in Kefka, and a story that genuinely surprised players in 1994 — and still holds up. The Pixel Remaster version (2022) is the definitive way to play it.
If You Want the Most Iconic Entry
Final Fantasy VII (or its 2020 Remake) is where most people's love for the franchise begins. Cloud, Aerith, Sephiroth — these characters are cultural icons. The original is available on virtually every platform. The Remake trilogy (Remake, Rebirth, and the upcoming third part) is a modern reimagining that expands the story significantly.
If You Want Modern Graphics and Real-Time Combat
Final Fantasy XVI (PS5/PC) plays more like an action game than a traditional RPG. It's dark, cinematic, and story-heavy. If you come from games like God of War or Devil May Cry, this is your Final Fantasy.
If You Want Something Cozy and Emotional
Final Fantasy IX is a love letter to the franchise's roots, with a charming cast and a surprisingly profound story about identity and mortality. It's widely considered one of the best in the series.
Franchise Roadmap at a Glance
| Game | Combat Style | Best For | Platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| Final Fantasy VI | Turn-based ATB | Classic JRPG fans | PC, Mobile, Switch |
| Final Fantasy VII | ATB / Action (Remake) | Story-driven fans | All platforms |
| Final Fantasy IX | Turn-based ATB | Cozy/emotional players | PC, Console, Mobile |
| Final Fantasy X | Turn-based strategic | Voice-acted drama | PC, PS4, Switch |
| Final Fantasy XIV | MMO / Action | Online social players | PC, PS4/5 |
| Final Fantasy XVI | Real-time action | Action game fans | PS5, PC |
What to Avoid as a Beginner
- Don't start with Final Fantasy II — its levelling system is notoriously obtuse even for veterans.
- Don't start with Final Fantasy XIII — the corridor-heavy structure and passive battle system frustrate newcomers.
- Don't feel obligated to play in order — there is no payoff for doing so.
Final Recommendation
If you can only pick one starting point: play Final Fantasy VII Remake. It's visually stunning, accessible, emotionally gripping, and gives you a taste of everything the franchise does best — drama, spectacle, memorable characters, and a world worth caring about. Once you're hooked, the rest of the franchise opens up naturally.