[Trish]

Also, I assume you're referring to Kingdom Hearts as their current best series. If so, the series got a full-fledged entry just months ago in the form of Birth by Sleep, and is getting a similar treatment with http://www.siliconera.com/2011/01/18/kingdom-hearts-3ds-is-kingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distance/ on the 3DS. Don't let the lack of "III" in the names fool you, these are being treated no different than Kingdom Hearts or Kingdom Hearts II.

So you have to buy every portable console on the market just to play the whole series.

Sorry, but I don't really consider portable versions good sequels; I have no interest in straining my back and my eyes playing a 30+ hour RPG on a 6 inch screen.

[LijLuva]

So you have to buy every portable console on the market just to play the whole series.

Sorry, but I don't really consider portable versions good sequels; I have no interest in straining my back and my eyes playing a 30+ hour RPG on a 6 inch screen.

Well, that's unfortunate then. You aren't taking the games themselves or any of their content into account when considering them bad sequels. That's akin to saying (hypothetical) Kingdom Hearts III isn't a good sequel because you're playing on an SDTV without your glasses.

The PSP Slim does have video out, so it can be played on your TV.

[Charlotte Buckley]

Well, that's unfortunate then. You aren't taking the games themselves or any of their content into account when considering them bad sequels. That's akin to saying (hypothetical) Kingdom Hearts III isn't a good sequel because you're playing on an SDTV without your glasses.

The PSP Slim does have video out, so it can be played on your TV.

I don't have a PSP Slim, PSP, 3DS, etc. (nor do I want any of those for just one game) If they make a sequel to a big name franchise, why can't it be on a major console rather than every single portable system? That's the main problem.

[Helen Quill]

I literally haven't played a final fantasy games since, well, final fantasy I. I haven't had much experience w/ JRPGs either.

Any suggestions where on which final fantasy game to cut my teeth on? I'm on PS3.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions you have.

[Georgine Lee]

I literally haven't played a final fantasy games since, well, final fantasy I. I haven't had much experience w/ JRPGs either.

Any suggestions where on which final fantasy game to cut my teeth on? I'm on PS3.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions you have.

I started with FFVIII, which is probably why I think it's the best in the series. Most people will probably suggest FFVII.

[Colton Idonthavealastna]

I'm watching HCBailly's HD let's play of FFXIII (on YouTube), and really enjoying the visuals, character/enemy design, and battle mechanics.

Same here. I think he's doing a great job so far.

[carrie roche]

I've been thinking about restarting another playthrough in XIII but I can't stand the linearness of the game. Still the graphics are outstanding, Good Battle system, (Although I prefer XII's system), Good group of characters Lighting is awesome probably because of her voice actress, and the music is pretty good I love Barthandulus's theme song. I hope XIII-2 fixes the linearness that XIII had. I'm not asking for XII's version of in game world but something at least better then what XIII had.

[Alex [AK]]

Hello. I've only ever played three Final Fantasy games (XII, XIII, and that spin-off called Dirge of Cerberus). I love Final Fantasy XII (one of my favorite games), hated Dirge of Cerberus (Remind me to be extremely cautious with spin-offs.), and like, although am a bit disappointed with, Final Fantasy XIII (All I have left to do is win the final boss battle.). I have my eye on XIII-2 and Versus XIII, but I'm approaching both of those very cautiously. What I'm hoping for is a bit more open-endedness and character customization. Again, I reference XII. Plus, I need something from Square Enix since Dragon Quest games and Kingdom Hearts games still haven't found their way to the PS3 4 1/2 years after its release... much to my sheer frustration (Really, what gives?). So, just as a reference point for what I enjoy, anything that strongly resembles Kingdom Hearts II, Dragon Quest VIII, or Final Fantasy XII is a must-buy for me, but I'm confused as to why Square Enix seems to have so little involvement with this generation's main PS platform and after XIII, I've come to realize Square Enix isn't a company that keeps a consistent style with their games, so a bit of guidance from you fellow Bethesda fans as to what I should do would be much appreciated, but I really must know why there's barely anything Square Enix-related this generation.

I started playing these games with Kingdom Hearts II, then found Dragon Quest VIII, played the Final Fantasy XII demo that came with Dragon Quest VIII, and bought/fully played the collector's edition of Final Fantasy XII. I loved those games, waited for a very long time for Final Fantasy XIII, was completely crushed, after waiting for so long, that it had so many complaints of linearity and that I couldn't find any mention, even, of PS3 Dragon Quest or Kingdom Hearts games, and so I bought XIII. The graphics stunned me and I like the characters and music, but I can't stand what I see as overly-repetitive, constantly dragging-on gameplay that just got to me after a certain point. I also played Dirge of Cerberus on the PS2 and fail to see how it has any connection to an RPG series. I've seen my brother play I and II on his PSP and am currently contemplating buying VII, VIII, and/or IX from the PSN.

[Kelvin Diaz]

currently contemplating buying VII, VIII, and/or IX from the PSN.

If you want character customization and open-endedness, that's the way to go. I think those are the last 3 FF games before they ditched the world map exploration.

Customization:
FFVII has the Materia system, where your weapons have "slots" to insert different gems to give you magic/abilities/summons/stats. You can level the gems up to make the effect stronger, and the gem spawns a level 1 copy of itself when it reaches max level. (which could take forever for some of the really strong ones)

FFVIII has the Junction system where you attach magic spells to your stats to increase your power. The stronger the spell, and the more of that spell you have, the greater the stat boost. To junction to a stat you need a GF (guardian force) equipped that has the [insertstat]-Junction ability learned. GFs learn abilities through combat and also level up to become stronger when you summon them in battle. (it all sounds confusing but it's really not)

FFIX I haven't played to completion, if I remember right your items have abilities that you can learn if you get enough AP, and then you just equip the abilities you have learned.

[Silencio]

..but I'm confused as to why Square Enix seems to have so little involvement with this generation's main PS platform and after XIII, I've come to realize Square Enix isn't a company that keeps a consistent style with their games, so a bit of guidance from you fellow Bethesda fans as to what I should do would be much appreciated, but I really must know why there's barely anything Square Enix-related this generation.

Development costs are a recurring factor. It's why you see games like The Third Birthday, Dissidia, The Four Heroes of Light, Type-0, etc. on the PSP and DS. They've committed to Fabula Nova Crystallis, which even before XIII-2 was a fairly large investment in the PS3. XIII, XIII-2, Versus XIII, XIV and, from what we've heard, Kingdom Hearts III (after Versus of course).

It isn't just Square though. It's been rough this generation for JRPGs and home consoles in general.

[maddison]

If you want character customization and open-endedness, that's the way to go. I think those are the last 3 FF games before they ditched the world map exploration.

Customization:
FFVII has the Materia system, where your weapons have "slots" to insert different gems to give you magic/abilities/summons/stats. You can level the gems up to make the effect stronger, and the gem spawns a level 1 copy of itself when it reaches max level. (which could take forever for some of the really strong ones)

FFVIII has the Junction system where you attach magic spells to your stats to increase your power. The stronger the spell, and the more of that spell you have, the greater the stat boost. To junction to a stat you need a GF (guardian force) equipped that has the [insertstat]-Junction ability learned. GFs learn abilities through combat and also level up to become stronger when you summon them in battle. (it all sounds confusing but it's really not)

FFIX I haven't played to completion, if I remember right your items have abilities that you can learn if you get enough AP, and then you just equip the abilities you have learned.

Which would you recommend that I start with?

Development costs are a recurring factor. It's why you see games like The Third Birthday, Dissidia, The Four Heroes of Light, Type-0, etc. on the PSP and DS. They've committed to Fabula Nova Crystallis, which even before XIII-2 was a fairly large investment in the PS3. XIII, XIII-2, Versus XIII, XIV and, from what we've heard, Kingdom Hearts III (after Versus of course).

It isn't just Square though. It's been rough this generation for JRPGs and home consoles in general.

Why is that? Is there any forseeable chance of recovery? It's an absolutely shameful day when I can't find games (specifically RPGs of any kind, let alone JRPGs) that I want on the current generation of home platforms... and that's exactly the predicament I currently find myself in. It makes me wonder why I "upgraded" to a PS3. I can't find the successors to my favorite PS2 games for this platform. :glare:

[I love YOu]

Which would you recommend that I start with?

Well my personal favorite is FFVIII, but many people consider that one of the worst in the series. You should take some time and research the basic plot and characters (but not into spoiler territory) and pick whichever appeals to you the most, since the story's what really matters.

[Ashley Tamen]

Well my personal favorite is FFVIII, but many people consider that one of the worst in the series. You should take some time and research the basic plot and characters (but not into spoiler territory) and pick whichever appeals to you the most, since the story's what really matters.

Just out of curiousity, what is Final Fantasy XII typically considered to be? I've seen some... interesting Youtube comments regarding it. I'd seriously consider giving up a large number of my favorite games for this console generation just for a spiritual (similar in gameplay/gameworld design) sequel to Final Fantasy XII.

[Kelly Osbourne Kelly]

Just out of curiousity, what is Final Fantasy XII typically considered to be? I've seen some... interesting Youtube comments regarding it. I'd seriously consider giving up a large number of my favorite games for this console generation just for a spiritual sequel to Final Fantasy XII.

Dunno, my last Final Fantasy game was X-2. Not because it was a bad game though, I just sorta lost interest in modern JRPGs after that and stuck with my nostalgic classics.

[Rach B]

Just out of curiousity, what is Final Fantasy XII typically considered to be? I've seen some... interesting Youtube comments regarding it. I'd seriously consider giving up a large number of my favorite games for this console generation just for a spiritual (similar in gameplay/gameworld design) sequel to Final Fantasy XII.

Mostly positive reception, but I've noticed that a good number of people who love it are folks that've never been into previous Final Fantasy games. Still, fans seemed to have enjoyed it for the most part. Personally, it's probably my least favorite in the series. It just wasn't the direction I'd like to see the games go in. The characters, story, combat, License Board, etc. The one thing I thought the game got right was the level design. If they could combine that with a lot of what XIII had going for it, I'd be a very happy man.

Luckily it looks like Versus XIII will have similar areas. Nomura has said that the game will be more open and that we'll have access to airships and such. Combined with the Kingdom Hearts-esque combat and an incredible art direction, it's easily my most anticipated game right now.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YiIx9VJWSl8&hd=1

Now that's a good direction for the series in my humble opinion.

Which would you recommend that I start with?

While IX is my personal favorite, VIII is a close second and is horribly underrated. It starts off fairly slow and it tends to scare folks off with the Junction system tutorials (though, you may like this), but eventually it gains some serious momentum.

Why is that? Is there any forseeable chance of recovery? It's an absolutely shameful day when I can't find games (specifically RPGs of any kind, let alone JRPGs) that I want on the current generation of home platforms... and that's exactly the predicament I currently find myself in. It makes me wonder why I "upgraded" to a PS3. I can't find the successors to my favorite PS2 games for this platform. :glare:

If there is then I'm not seeing the signs.

[Chris Ellis]

Just out of curiousity, what is Final Fantasy XII typically considered to be? I've seen some... interesting Youtube comments regarding it. I'd seriously consider giving up a large number of my favorite games for this console generation just for a spiritual (similar in gameplay/gameworld design) sequel to Final Fantasy XII.

There are those who praise XII as the best FF to come out in a long time, who praise its revamped battle system, and story wrought with political intrigue...and then there are those who say it's just a single-player version of XI with an annoying protagonist who plays little part in the plot. :shrug:

There is no such thing as a general consensus for any individual Final Fantasy game. Each one has three vocal detractors for every five supporters, and no two people like the same combination of games.

[M!KkI]

Mostly positive reception, but I've noticed that a good number of people who love it are folks that've never been into previous Final Fantasy games. Still, fans enjoyed it for the most part. Personally, it's probably my least favorite in the series. It just wasn't the direction I'd like to see the games go in. The characters, story, combat, License Board, etc. The one thing I thought the game got right was the level design. If they could combine that with a lot of what XIII had going for it, I'd be a very happy man.

Luckily it looks like Versus XIII will have similar areas. Nomura has said that the game will be more open and that we'll have access to airships and such. Combined with the Kingdom Hearts-esque combat and an incredible art direction, it's easily my most anticipated game right now.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YiIx9VJWSl8&hd=1

Now that's a good direction for the series in my humble opinion.


While IX is my personal favorite, VIII is a close second and is horribly underrated. It starts off fairly slow and it tends to scare folks off with the Junction system tutorials (though, you may like this), but eventually it gains some serious momentum.


If there is then I'm not seeing the signs.

I've already watched Final Fantasy Versus XIII's trailer... multiple times. I've really got my eye on that one and I love the Latin theme music. I also read that bit about the open-endedness and I like the thought of that, as well. Do we know anything about XIII-2, however? How many different teams do they have working on RPGs over at Square Enix, anyway? Who was responsible for XII? What about XIV (I've heard it's a pile of crap. Is that true?)? Dragon Quest games, such as VIII? Also, about that recovery I mentioned, then what is going to happen? Why are costs a problem? What does switching most games over to handheld consoles do for such costs? Are you optimistic about some distant future, then, or do you believe the next console generation won't be much better?

On a sidenote of personal interest, would there be any reason for me to hold on to some hope for a spiritual successor/game extremely similar to XII coming out sometime within the next decade?

[Michelle Chau]

On a sidenote of personal interest, would there be any reason for me to hold on to some hope for a spiritual successor/game extremely similar to XII coming out sometime within the next decade?

There's http://finalfantasy.wikia.com/wiki/Fortress, which is part of the Ivalice Alliance and was set to release on X360 and PS3. The original developers got the boot but Square is apparently still working on it internally.

[Bethany Short]

What about XIV (I've heard it's a pile of crap. Is that true?)?

It had a lot of problems at launch, dunno if they fixed them yet.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EaGvRv6jqw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CA7GGnyNwEs (compare the minimap in each screen)

[TOYA toys]

It had a lot of problems at launch, dunno if they fixed them yet.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EaGvRv6jqw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CA7GGnyNwEs (compare the minimap in each screen)

Not really. The game is still free for early adopters, but they've taken most of the executive staff off the project and are supposed to be giving the game a complete overhaul. I can't imagine them bringing that one around though, seems like they'll cut their losses before long.

[Laura Cartwright]

Just out of curiousity, what is Final Fantasy XII typically considered to be? I've seen some... interesting Youtube comments regarding it. I'd seriously consider giving up a large number of my favorite games for this console generation just for a spiritual (similar in gameplay/gameworld design) sequel to Final Fantasy XII.

I've thought about giving 12 a shot. I heard a lot of people didn't care for the combat but at a glance it doesn't look quite as lame as some of the other Final Fantasies released recently. Honestly I really don't like what Final Fantasy has evolved into. The name itself seems to be the only reason anybody buys them any more, which enables Square to keep churning them out.

[Tammie Flint]

A few tidbits here and there. The game will be more fantasy oriented, compared to XIII's futuristic setting. The development team is attempting to flesh out the world and make it seem more alive, presumably by adding NPCs and such. There have been talks of towns, shops, etc. making a comeback, but no confirmation yet. The battle system will be an evolved version of XIII's.

Thanks for the info. That sounds pretty good.

[Judy Lynch]

I was talking to my brother a couple of days ago who was telling me about how the new Final Fantasy Dissidia (sp?) game was released for the PSP. Apparently it was so frustrating that it caused him to break his PSP out of sheer rage.

He's going to buy a new one next week.(idiot)

So my question to you guys is:

Has anyone played it? Is it really hard or does he just svck?

[JD FROM HELL]

Edit: D'oh wrong thread