Is Final Fantasy Tactics: The Lion War Actually the Best in the Series?

17 May 2024

Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of The Lions

Let's be real: there are few things as satisfying as nailing the perfect flanking maneuver, watching your dragoon rain down justice from the skies, or outsmarting your opponent on the battlefield. But what if I told you there's a game that takes these tactical thrills and injects them into a world of political intrigue, religious fervor, and Shakespearian drama? That, my friends, is the enduring legacy of Final Fantasy Tactics: The Lion War.

Released in 1997 for the original PlayStation, Final Fantasy Tactics (or FFT as the cool kids call it) wasn't your typical entry in the franchise. Instead of fluffy-haired protagonists saving the world from giant meteors (looking at you, Sephiroth), FFT threw you headfirst into the war-torn kingdom of Ivalice. You played as Ramza Beoulve, a young noble who gets swept up in a conspiracy that makes Game of Thrones look like a family picnic.

The game was groundbreaking for a number of reasons. First, the isometric grid-based gameplay was (and still is) incredibly addictive. It wasn't just about brute force; it was about positioning, job classes (more on that later), and exploiting weaknesses. Second, the story was surprisingly dark and mature for a Final Fantasy game. Forget about saving the princess - this was about class warfare, religious manipulation, and the true cost of war.

But the real magic of FFT lies in its timeless appeal. Years later, people are still discovering (and rediscovering) this gem of a game. The complex job system, where you could customize your characters with a dizzying array of skills and abilities, is still the gold standard for tactical RPGs. And the story, with its morally gray characters and shocking twists, remains just as gripping today as it did back in the day.

So, if you're tired of the same old RPG tropes and want a game that challenges your brain as much as your reflexes, I implore you: give Final Fantasy Tactics: The Lion War a try. You might just find yourself losing hours, days, maybe even weeks of your life to its tactical brilliance and storytelling prowess. Just don't blame me when you start seeing isometric grids in your sleep.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Final Fantasy Tactics: The Lion War

Advantages	Disadvantages
Deep and engaging tactical gameplay	Can be very difficult, especially for beginners
Rich and complex story with memorable characters	Random encounters can be tedious
Highly customizable job system allows for diverse playstyles	Graphics and sound design haven't aged as well as other games in the series

Five Best Practices for Conquering Final Fantasy Tactics

1. Master the Job System: This is FFT 101. Experiment with different job combinations to create the ultimate squad. Want a knight who can heal? Done. A ninja who can summon lightning? Go for it.

2. Exploit Weaknesses: Every enemy has a weakness, whether it's a certain element or weapon type. Learn them, exploit them, and watch your enemies crumble.

3. Positioning is Key: This isn't a hack-and-slash game. Where you place your units can mean the difference between victory and a swift defeat. Use height advantage, flanking maneuvers, and terrain to your advantage.

4. Don't Neglect Your Equipment: A well-equipped army is a happy army. Make sure your units have the best weapons, armor, and accessories you can afford.

5. Embrace the Grind: Sometimes you just need to level up your characters or earn some extra cash. Don't be afraid to grind a bit, it'll pay off in the long run.

Common Questions About Final Fantasy Tactics: The Lion War

Q: Is Final Fantasy Tactics difficult?
A: It can be, especially if you're new to tactical RPGs. But with a little patience and strategy, anyone can conquer Ivalice.

Q: What are the best job classes in the game?
A: It depends on your playstyle! But some fan favorites include the Calculator, Ninja, and Time Mage.

Q: Are there any missable characters or quests?
A: Yes, FFT is notorious for its missable content. Pay attention to the story and make sure to recruit all the characters you can!

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Lion War isn't just a game, it's an experience. It's a journey into a world of political intrigue, moral ambiguity, and unforgettable characters. It's a game that rewards patience, strategy, and a willingness to experiment. And most importantly, it's a game that, despite its age, continues to capture the hearts and minds of gamers everywhere. So, if you're looking for an RPG that will challenge you on every level, look no further than Final Fantasy Tactics: The Lion War. It's a timeless classic that deserves a spot in every gamer's library.