Best Final Fantasy Games Playable On Steam Deck

by

As a lifelong gamer and Final Fantasy enthusiast, I can confidently say that the collection of games you’ve presented has brought immense joy to my gaming life. Each title offers something unique, from the immersive storytelling and deep customization in Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, to the nostalgic charm of Final Fantasy VI Pixel Remaster.

I remember playing Final Fantasy XII for the first time on my PlayStation 2, marveling at its ambitious scope and innovative gameplay mechanics. Now, with The Zodiac Age, I can experience those same feelings with updated graphics and gameplay improvements.

The pixel remasters of earlier entries like FFVI have also been a delight to revisit, offering the perfect blend of nostalgia and modernization. And let’s not forget Final Fantasy VII: The First Soldier, which has kept me entertained during my commute with its strategic gameplay and addictive multiplayer battles.

But what truly sets these games apart is their ability to transport players to rich, immersive worlds filled with unforgettable characters and emotional storylines. They’ve provided countless hours of entertainment throughout my life, and I eagerly anticipate the day when I can lose myself once again in the vibrant, fantastical realms of Final Fantasy.

And as for the joke: “Final Fantasy has been a constant companion in my life, helping me through good times and bad… even if some of those times were just waiting in line at the DMV.

The Steam Deck has revolutionized the way gamers experience their favorite pastime. It provides portable computing power capable of running even the most challenging game titles. For enthusiasts of the Final Fantasy franchise, this presents an excellent chance to immerse yourself in the enchanting worlds these legendary games offer.

The Final Fantasy collection encompasses multiple playstyles, ranging from reminiscence of old classics to thrilling action-adventures. The Steam Deck has made these immersive experiences more convenient and enjoyable than ever before.

As a long-time fan of the Final Fantasy series, I’ve spent countless hours immersed in its captivating worlds and unforgettable characters. Now that the Steam Deck has arrived, I’m excited to share my insights on the best Final Fantasy games that shine particularly well on this handheld gaming device. Drawing from various sources, community feedback, and my own personal experiences, I’ll guide you through some of the standout titles in the series that are perfect for portable play. Let’s embark on this adventure together!

Whether you’ve been a devoted fan for years or just starting out with the collection, this guide should assist you in choosing the ideal game title and determining the right Roman numeral for your upcoming gaming journey.

Best Final Fantasy Games Playable On Steam Deck

Here are the best Final Fantasy games you can play on Steam Deck:

1. Final Fantasy IX

Final Fantasy IX is often hailed as the most traditional in the series due to its revival of the franchise’s medieval fantasy foundation. Unlike its predecessors that delved into futuristic themes, this game offers a setting brimming with castles, airships, and legendary beings. Moreover, it employs a classic Active Time Battle (ATB) system, offering players an opportunity to participate in tactical and turn-based battles.

As a devoted fan, I’d say that each character in Final Fantasy IX boasts their own specialties, such as Zidane’s knack for stealing or Vivi’s command over dark magic. What makes this game even more captivating is the fact that characters can acquire abilities by wielding specific weapons and armor, enhancing the overall storyline development. Plus, it offers captivating side activities like Chocobo Hot and Cold and Tetra Master card game, which offer delightful breaks from the main adventure.

Among fans, Final Fantasy 9 stands out as one of the most remarkable games in the series due to its beautifully aged character designs and vividly pre-rendered backdrops. Its touching narrative, lovable characters, and timeless allure continue to captivate both newcomers and longtime enthusiasts. The game’s appeal remains relevant today while maintaining the enchantment that earned it a place as a masterpiece.

2. Final Fantasy VII

One of gaming history’s most influential and memorable games is Final Fantasy VII. Debuting in 1997, it significantly reshaped the role-playing genre by incorporating cinematic storytelling with strong narratives. Its blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements, featuring unforgettable characters and a captivating narrative, makes it an enduring classic.

This game combines old-school turn-based battles with a dynamic Active Time Battle (ATB) mechanism, ensuring players stay involved by requiring instant choices. It boasts the unique Materia System, where players can tailor abilities, talents, and magic using magical artifacts called Materia. The game also offers popular side activities such as Chocobo Racing and Snowboarding.

Final Fantasy VII revolutionized the gaming industry by introducing 3D character designs, pre-made backdrops, and movie-like sequences that significantly elevated narrative storytelling. To this day, it’s considered a game you absolutely should play due to its enduring impact on video games.

3. Final Fantasy XIV Online

Final Fantasy XIV Online is a widely popular and adored role-playing game within the Final Fantasy collection, recognized worldwide for its immersive storyline, vast gaming environment, and interactive player community. It stands out as a significant figure in the realm of MMORPGs.

The game offers a customizable character setup where you can select diverse races and roles like Mages, Paladins, Warriors, Healers, among others. What sets Final Fantasy XIV apart is its emphasis on community involvement, providing an immersive social environment through Free Companies (guilds), Cross-World Linkshells, and FATEs (massive, open-world events). This setup promotes collaboration and interaction. Additionally, players can engage in crafting, resource gathering, and even house management for a more relaxed gameplay experience.

4. Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster

The HD Remastered Version of Final Fantasy X/X-2 offers a revamped edition of two cherished installments within the Final Fantasy franchise. This version breathes new life onto contemporary platforms by upgrading graphics, introducing fresh features, and refining audio, catering to both novice players and dedicated enthusiasts of the series.

This game boasts breathtaking graphics with detailed character models, backdrops, and cutscenes in high definition, offering a significant upgrade from the PlayStation 2 versions. Unlike the initial release, it comes equipped with fully voiced dialogue for both Final Fantasy X and X-2. Players can savor extra content from the International Version of Final Fantasy X, which includes additional bosses, dungeons, and even a special mission for Final Fantasy X-2 that was not available previously.

This remaster maintains the original gameplay essence and deep emotional impact, yet elevates it for contemporary players. It’s a must-have for fans of the series and a great introduction for newcomers to these legendary games.

5. Final Fantasy

Final Fantasy pioneered the role-playing game (RPG) genre in its original form back in the late 1980s, and it was this groundbreaking work that laid the foundation for many of the characteristics now synonymous with Japanese RPGs (JRPGs), a style that has since become iconic for the series.

The initial game might seem basic compared to modern ones, but it continues to exert a significant impact due to pioneering several RPG essentials like party-based battles, character roles (or jobs), and vast exploration maps. It swiftly garnered widespread acclaim, earning recognition for its captivating narratives, endearing characters, and intricate game worlds.

Although it might appear old-fashioned according to contemporary norms, its influence laid the groundwork for the extensive sequels that were to come.

6. Final Fantasy III

In simpler terms, Final Fantasy III is the third title in this popular series, introducing numerous groundbreaking advancements for the franchise. This includes unique gameplay elements and aspects, such as a job system that lets players switch their characters’ classes during gameplay. The job system has since become a signature feature across several other Final Fantasy games, including Final Fantasy V and the tactical spin-off series known as Final Fantasy Tactics.

Although less famous than some later installments within the series, it represents a crucial part as it blends traditional turn-based RPG gameplay with fresh mechanisms. The job system and complex battle mechanics it introduced served as the groundwork for numerous elements that have become synonymous with the Final Fantasy saga over time.

7. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion

Title Redefinition: Experience Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion, the revamped version of the Action Role-Playing Game (RPG), Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. This updated adaptation brings the prelude to the renowned Final Fantasy VII onto contemporary gaming platforms with improved visuals, refined gameplay mechanics, and re-orchestrated music. In this game, you’ll control Zack as he engages in real-time combat against numerous adversaries, seamlessly blending action and role-playing elements.

This remaster enhances the battle system by incorporating convenience upgrades like simplified controls and quicker gameplay dynamics. It showcases Digital Mind Wave (DMW), a slot-style mechanism that activates extras and unique abilities during conflicts, including limit breaks, summoning help, and stat enhancements.

Regardless if you’re an old or new enthusiast, this title offers a unique fusion of action, storytelling, and nostalgia that significantly enhances Final Fantasy VII’s legacy. It transcends being merely a remaster; it serves as a re-immersion into one of the most emotionally impactful stories within the Final Fantasy series.

8. Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade

The updated and enriched edition of Final Fantasy VII Remake, titled “Intergrade,” delivers superior visuals, extra narrative elements, and swifter loading speeds compared to the original version.

Enhancements made to Intergrade include 4K resolution, ray tracing, and better textures and lighting, creating an astonishingly detailed version of the city Midgar. The game additionally offers Performance Mode, allowing for a faster 60 frames-per-second gameplay, thereby providing a more fluid and captivating experience.

Revamped with improved graphics, extended storylines, and state-of-the-art enhancements, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is more than a re-telling; it’s a fresh take on a cherished classic. It preserves the essence of the original while daringly broadening its narrative and scale, securing its status as one of the most revered RPGs in its era.

9. Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age

As a dedicated gaming enthusiast, diving into the world of video games, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age – an upgraded rendition of the classic Final Fantasy XII. This revamped version boasts enhanced visuals, a refreshed soundtrack that’s been re-orchestrated to perfection, and gameplay tweaks to provide a smoother gaming experience. One of the most significant improvements is the introduction of the Zodiac Job System, which adds an exciting layer of depth to the already engaging gameplay.

The Zodiac Job System enables players to assign two unique roles to each character, like Warrior, Black Magician, or Engineer, chosen from a set of twelve possibilities. This system provides extensive personalization to cater to the player’s preferred gameplay approach. It enhances the original version with features such as a speed-up mode for efficient exploration and grinding, an auto-save function, and revamped user interface components.

Refreshingly enhancing one of the series’ most daring installments, The Zodiac Age provides both veteran fans and novices an opportunity to delve into a peak moment within the Final Fantasy saga.

10. Final Fantasy VI Pixel Remaster

The Final Fantasy VI Pixel Remaster is essentially a fresh, contemporary interpretation of the timeless classic, Final Fantasy VI. This version brings an upgrade to the pixel art style, multiple user-friendly improvements, and a rearranged soundtrack, all while preserving the unique appeal and complexity of the original game.

Final Fantasy VI offers a turn-based gaming experience, employing the Active Time Battle (ATB) system. Moreover, it boasts enhanced pixel art designs that maintain the original 16-bit charm, but with improved character graphics, settings, and special effects to give it a fresh, updated look.

The updated version of Final Fantasy VI Pixel Remaster beautifully recaptures the emotional richness, intricate characters, and groundbreaking gameplay that made the original an enduring classic in the Final Fantasy series. By refining it for today’s audience, it remains a compelling choice whether you’re revisiting this beloved title or encountering it freshly. For enthusiasts of role-playing games and storytelling, this remaster is a must-have addition to your gaming library.

Read More

2024-12-30 15:44