Which Final Fantasy Games Are Connected? A Comprehensive Guide
Hello, gamers! Today, we're diving into the vast world of Final Fantasy to explore which games are connected. This popular RPG series has a rich history with many standalone titles, but some games share more than just a universe. So, let's buckle up and navigate through the connected games of Final Fantasy! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and which final fantasy games are connected.
The Fabulous Fabula
Before we start, let's clarify that the term "connected" here refers to games that share a direct storyline, characters, or universe. Some games might share themes or elements, but they're not considered connected for this guide.
Final Fantasy I to VI: The Original Saga
The first six games in the series are often referred to as the "original saga." While they don't share a direct storyline, they all take place in the same universe and share many similarities. The first five games follow a group of heroes battling against the forces of darkness, while Final Fantasy VI introduces a more complex narrative with multiple playable characters.
Final Fantasy I, II, and III (or IV, V, and VI in Japan) are directly connected, sharing a common timeline and even some recurring characters. The story begins with the crystals of the Light, Earth, Fire, Water, and Wind being stolen, setting off a chain of events that spans the first three games.
Final Fantasy IV and V are also connected, with IV taking place 17 years after the events of V. In IV, you play as Cecil, a dark knight who embarks on a journey to save the world from the evil Golbez. Meanwhile, V follows the story of Bartz, a young man who joins forces with other heroes to defeat the evil Exdeath.
Final Fantasy VI is a standalone game but shares some elements with the previous games, such as the recurring character Mog and the theme of crystals.
The Compilation of Final Fantasy VII
The next connected games we'll explore are part of the "Compilation of Final Fantasy VII," a multimedia project that expands the story of Final Fantasy VII. The project includes the original game, as well as several spin-offs and movies.
Final Fantasy VII
The most iconic game in the series, Final Fantasy VII follows Cloud Strife and his allies as they battle against the evil Shinra Electric Power Company and the monstrous Jenova. The game is famous for its deep story, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics.
Before Crisis: Final Fantasy VII
This mobile game is a prequel to Final Fantasy VII, taking place seven years before the events of the original game. It follows the Turks, an elite special forces unit working for Shinra, as they deal with various threats and conspiracies.
Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII
A direct sequel to Before Crisis, Crisis Core follows Zack Fair, a young SOLDIER who becomes a mentor to Cloud Strife. The game explores the events leading up to Final Fantasy VII and provides valuable context for the original game's story.
Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy VII
This action RPG takes place three years after the events of Final Fantasy VII and follows Vincent Valentine as he battles against a new threat. While it's not directly connected to the other games in the Compilation, it shares the same universe and features some returning characters.
Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children
This CGI movie is a direct sequel to Final Fantasy VII, taking place two years after the events of the original game. It follows Cloud as he battles against a new enemy and deals with the consequences of his past actions.
Final Fantasy VII Remake
A modern reimagining of the original game, Final Fantasy VII Remake follows the same basic story as the original but expands and changes many elements. It's the first in a planned series of games that will tell the complete story of Final Fantasy VII.
The Ivalice Alliance
The next connected games we'll explore are part of the "Ivalice Alliance," a group of games developed by Square Enix's Team Ninja that share the same universe and gameplay mechanics.
Final Fantasy Tactics
The first game in the Ivalice Alliance, Final Fantasy Tactics is a tactical RPG that follows Ramza Beoulve and his allies as they battle against a corrupt noble class. The game is known for its deep gameplay mechanics and complex story.
Final Fantasy XII
While not a direct sequel, Final Fantasy XII shares the same universe as Final Fantasy Tactics and features many references and connections to the earlier game. The story follows Vaan and his allies as they battle against the Archadian Empire.
Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift
These two games are direct sequels to Final Fantasy Tactics, taking place in the same universe and featuring many returning characters. They follow a different gameplay style than the original game, focusing more on exploration and customization.
Vagrant Story
This action RPG takes place in the same universe as the other Ivalice Alliance games and features some returning characters. The story follows Ashley Riot as he investigates a mysterious incident in the city of Lea Monde.
The Fabula Nova Crystallis
The final connected games we'll explore are part of the "Fabula Nova Crystallis," a group of games that share a common mythos and themes. The project includes three main games and several spin-offs.
Final Fantasy XIII
The first game in the Fabula Nova Crystallis, Final Fantasy XIII follows Lightning and her allies as they battle against the forces of Cocoon. The game is known for its unique combat system and complex story.
Final Fantasy XIII-2
This direct sequel to Final Fantasy XIII follows Serah Farron and Noel Kreiss as they travel through time to save the future. The game features a more open-ended structure than its predecessor and allows players to explore different timelines and outcomes.
Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII
The final game in the Fabula Nova Crystallis, Lightning Returns follows Lightning as she embarks on a final journey to save the world. The game features a unique gameplay mechanic where the world will end after 13 days, encouraging players to make tough decisions and prioritize their actions.
Final Fantasy Type-0
While not a direct sequel, Final Fantasy Type-0 shares the same universe and mythos as the other Fabula Nova Crystallis games. The story follows a group of students from the Vermilion Chapter of the Magister as they battle against the forces of the Dominion of Rubrum.
Conclusion
And there you have it, folks! A comprehensive guide to the connected games of Final Fantasy. Whether you're a veteran of the series or a newcomer looking to dive in, we hope this guide has helped you understand the complex web of connections between these iconic games.
So, which connected Final Fantasy games will you be playing next? Let us know in the comments below, and happy gaming!