Note that this list uses the Japanese numbers for the series, as 3 of the first 6 titles were not released in PAL areas.
Final Fantasy
Platforms: NES, PSX (Re-release, Final Fantasy Origins)
This is where it all started, with several animated sprites saving the world for some reason. Well, they had to start somewhere, but with FFI rehashed and re-released recently, our more cynical generation cannot see much in Square's original Final Fantasy. However, its basic plot and simple job system were the best thing since sliced bread (in the day), although they gave little indiction of what Square could produce over the years.
Pretty, isn't it?
Final Fantasy II
Platforms: NES, PSX (Re-release, Final Fantasy Origins)
A vast improvement over FFI, this one features a better storyline, and characters that releate to the plot. This one is also one of the hardest Final Fantasy games ever. With bosses you scraped a victory against appearing as random encounters (and in groups) in the next dungeon area you visit, FFII is an exercise in difficulty. With the level up and skill up system still not perfected, it is very hard to match the challange this Final Fantasy dishes out.
Final Fantasy III
Platforms: NES
The last 8-bit Final Fantasy game. This particular Final Fantasy was never released outside Japan. This particular iteration is basically FFI with added storyline, not much of an overhaul, but the job system was improved quite a bit.
Final Fantasy IV
Platforms: SNES
FFIV is the first outing for the series on the SNES, with 16-bit replacing the old 8-bit graphics. FFIV has a massive world to explore, with many characters to meet along the way. In this version, characters are mostly restricted to their classes (The lead character is a Dark Knight for example). FFIV has many hours of play in it, but is surpassed by the two other Final Fantasy games that appeared on the SNES.
Final Fantasy V
Platforms: SNES, PSX (Re-release, Final Fantasy Anthologies)
This is the version where the job class system finally works for Final Fantasy. FFV is definatly one of the best RPGs of its time. Originally, gamers outside Japan missed this jem of an RPG and could only play it after Square released this version alongside FFVI for the PSX. Filled with both mini-games and excellent storyline, FFV (and FFVI) are definatly worth picking up if you are a fan of older RPGs.
Better you than Cloud cross-dressing a couple of games later
Final Fantasy VI
Platforms: SNES, PSX (Re-release, Final Fantasy Anthologies)
The last Final Fantasy to appear on a Nintendo console (at least until FFT:A and FF:CC). FFVI is considered to be the paragon of Final Fantasy storyline excellence, it is easy to understand and get involved in. FFVI is unique in the sense that it has no real lead character, as the focus changes from person to person so often, it is difficult to define "main" character. FFV's job class system was not used in this version, but each chracter was different and used distinctly different skills in battle. With a play time of around 60 hours, FFVI is deep, involving and very fun to waste time with.
Final Fantasy VII
Platforms: PSX, PC
The RPG that introduced many to the series, but also a graphical revolution to Final Fantasy's first 6 outings. Gone were the 16-bit graphics to be replaced with pre-rendered backgrouds, full motion video and 3D characters. FFVII also introduced the materia system, which allowed unique customization of characters to suit certain roles, and also had many mini-games that extend the life of FFVII further. Even though its been graphically surpassed, it should still be played by any Final Fantasy fan.
Admit it, you were drooling infront of your TV screen when you saw this
Final Fantasy VIII
Platforms: PSX, PC
Graphically, FFVIII looks superior to its predecessor, with characters now actually looking human. However, both the storyline, and the "Junction" system (Where magic is quantified and used to boost stats as well as being used in battle) were very complicated. Although another great game for the series, the complicated storyline does let it down somewhat.
Final Fantasy IX
Platforms: PSX
A return to a true Fantasy word, complete with mischevous princess, fat genderless cooks, a theif with a case of missing identity and someone who wants to destroy reality, FFIX brought back the series from the technlogical worlds of VII and VIII. With storyline characters again specialising in certain roles, there is less room for character customization, but the storyline, and battles more than make up for this.
Final Fantasy X
Platforms: PS2
Final Fantasy takes another leap forward onto the PS2. Visually stunning, and also features voice acting for the first time in a Final Fantasy game. FFX also uses the new sphere grid system, so even if the characters are specialised at the start, you can iron out most of the differences (Except Overdrives and Yuna's Aeons) and make a super efficient fighting force. FFX's battle system is pure turn-based, with characters and monsters taking actions at cearly defined moments. Excellent for long, tough battles that need careful planning.
Final Fantasy X-2
Platforms: PS2
The only true Final Fantasy sequel, set 2 years after the events of FFX. FFX-2 is only really worth playing if you have played and understood FFX, as the plot of X-2 depends strongly on the events of the original. The turn-based system of FFX has been replaced with the familiar real time battle system and dresspheres (Essentially Final Fantasy's tried and tested Job system) replace the sphere grid. A nice extension to FFX, but not essential playing.
Final Fantasy XI: Online
Platforms: PS2, PC
Final Fantasy XI is Square's foray into the online world, with US, PAL and JP gamers across both the PC and PS2 participating in the largest Final Fantasy to date. Thosands of players battle the beastmen across the world of Vana'Diel. Comes complete with fishing, crafting, chocobos and involved storyline.
Read PALGN's review here.
"Ow, you shouldn't be hitting me, its not your turn!"
Final Fantasy Tactics
Platforms: PSX
Square's entry into the Tactical RPG field. As the name suggests, FFT is more about battlefield tactics than who can smack who hard enough. Using FFV's job system, the characters can specialise in a vareity of different jobs. Coincidentally, FFT includes Cloud from FFVII as a bonus character.
Final Fantasy Tactics: Advance
Platforms: GBA
Set in the same world (Ivalice) as FFT and the upcoming FFXII, FFT:A is an improvement over the formula set down in the original Tactics. With almost the same job system, and mission based storyline with plenty of extra missions ensure hours of play. Just make sure not to burn your GBA batteries out on this one.
Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles
Platforms: NGC
Those who missed Final Fantasy on a Nintendo console the first time round can rejoyce with the release of Crystal Chronicles on the Gamecube. FF:CC is quite different to its NES/SNES counterparts, with a real time battle system and the possibility to have upto 4 players playing together. The downside to this otherwise excellent Final Fantasy is the fact that a GBA (and NGC-GBA link cable) is required for each player.
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