When Final Fantasy Tactics released on the original PlayStation in 1997 (1998 in the US), it was a revelation. Final Fantasy had once again reinvented itself and delivered an all-time great role-playing game, albeit this time with a tactical twist. Now over 25 years later, the PS1 classic returns with an enhanced remaster called Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles.
Fans of the original game will be glad to know that this is an incredibly faithful upgrade. In fact, there are two versions to choose from when you boot up the game: enhanced and classic versions. The classic version is exactly what you’d expect as it features the graphics and gameplay of the original game replicated perfectly, while also using the improved War of the Lions (the PSP remake) translation. Meanwhile, the enhanced version is what I’d recommend to everyone, nostalgia trip or not, as it is a great blend of being true to the original while modernizing it in meaningful ways.
The most immediate changes you’ll notice with the enhanced version of Final Fantasy Tactics is the enhanced presentation. The graphics have been improved, with some great tweaks to the user interface as well, and the game’s story is now fully voice acted. Other smart additions include a new easy difficulty, auto save during battles, the ability to speed up the game, and a new tactical view feature that allows you to see more of the battlefield at a glance. All of these changes are relatively slight, but they add up to make for a much better experience that is quite noticeable when you boot up the classic version.
Both the story (which has some additional dialogue scenes) and gameplay of Final Fantasy Tactics have stood the test of time wonderfully. Battles are incredibly thrilling, really testing players outside of the new Squire difficulty level, and the story is one of Final Fantasy’s finest. There’s also some great fan service as you can still recruit Cloud from Final Fantasy VII into your party. With rewarding boss fights and plenty of depth, this is the best version of one of the greatest RPGs ever made
If there’s any gripe against the game, it’s that some of the additions from War of the Lions are missing. From the multiplayer mode to the extra job classes and playable characters, it’s always a bummer when some content gets locked behind an old port. It’s understandable that the original dev team wanted to stay true to their vision and hone that in, rather than the PSP update, but it’s still a very slight bummer when it could’ve still been implemented.
Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles (PS5) Review: Final Verdict
A lovingly crafted remaster of an all-time great classic, Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles is the update that the seminal tactical RPG game deserves. The new controls and difficulty options make it the most accessible version of the game, while the gameplay and presentation tweaks are undeniable upgrades. While completists will still miss some of the War of the Lions content, this classic has stood the test of time and is a must-buy for RPG fans.
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Final Fantasy Tactics has never looked or played this good
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New difficulty mode and controls make it beginner friendly
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Stellar story and combat
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War of the Lions content is missed
Disclosure: The publisher provided a digital copy for our Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles PS5 review. Reviewed on version 1.020.000.
The post Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles (PS5) Review: Classic RPG Still Shines appeared first on PlayStation LifeStyle.
It’s great to see such a classic RPG getting the recognition it deserves! Final Fantasy Tactics has always had a special place in gaming history, and it’s exciting to hear it still shines on the PS5. The strategic depth and storytelling are truly timeless. Looking forward to more discussions about it!
Absolutely! It’s fascinating how its intricate job system set a standard for tactical RPGs that followed. The depth of strategy in character customization really adds to its timeless appeal.
I completely agree! The job system really does showcase the depth of strategy in the game. It’s interesting to see how it influenced not just later Final Fantasy titles but also many other RPGs that followed, allowing for more customization in character development.
I totally see your point! The job system not only adds layers of strategy but also allows for unique character builds, which can completely change the dynamics of battles. It’s fascinating how much creativity players can express through their choices!
Absolutely! The job system really encourages players to experiment with different combinations, making each playthrough feel fresh. Plus, the way character development ties into the story adds even more depth to the experience.
I completely agree! The job system adds so much depth to the gameplay. It’s interesting how it allows players to tailor their strategies based on the unique abilities of each class, which can really change the course of battles. Have you found any particular combinations that work well for you?
Absolutely! The job system really encourages strategic planning and customization for each character. Plus, the way it combines with the game’s rich story and world-building makes each playthrough feel unique. It’s a timeless classic for sure!
I completely agree! The job system not only allows for unique character builds but also adds depth to combat strategies. It’s interesting how players can experiment with class synergies to create powerful combinations!