With nearly four decades of history and more than a dozen mainline entries, Final Fantasy remains the crown jewel of the JRPG genre. But which titles do critics actually consider the very best? A recent ranking based on aggregate critic scores has resurfaced the age-old debate among fans — and while longtime players may think they already know the answer, the list still holds a surprise or two.
How the Ranking Works
The list pulls from aggregated review scores, the same methodology sites like Metacritic use to rank games across platforms. While fan opinions often differ wildly from professional critics — especially when it comes to divisive entries like Final Fantasy XIII or Final Fantasy XV — review scores remain one of the most objective ways to measure how a game was received at launch.
The Top of the Mountain: Final Fantasy IX
Perhaps the least shocking revelation is which game sits at the summit. Final Fantasy IX, Square’s love letter to the fantasy roots of the series, holds the highest aggregate score of any mainline Final Fantasy title. Released in 2000 on the original PlayStation, IX traded the sci-fi leanings of VII and VIII for a charming, storybook world — and critics adored it. Its memorable cast, including the thief Zidane and the melancholic black mage Vivi, is still widely regarded as one of the strongest ensembles in franchise history.
The PlayStation Powerhouse
Unsurprisingly, the PS1 era dominates the upper tier of the rankings. Final Fantasy VII, the 1997 masterpiece that introduced millions of Western players to JRPGs, remains one of the highest-rated entries ever thanks to its cinematic storytelling, the iconic Materia system, and one of gaming’s most infamous plot twists. Final Fantasy VIII, despite polarizing fans with its Junction mechanics, also earned strong critical praise for its ambitious visuals and romantic storyline.
Final Fantasy X and the Voice Acting Revolution
Final Fantasy X, the series’ PS2 debut, stands alongside the classics with similarly stellar scores. As the first Final Fantasy to feature voice acting and a fully 3D world, it was a technical landmark in 2001. The Sphere Grid progression system and the emotional journey of Tidus and Yuna continue to earn it a place near the top of nearly every ranking, critical or fan-made.
Fan Favorites That Made the Cut
Final Fantasy XII and the beloved Final Fantasy VI — home to Kefka, arguably gaming’s greatest villain — also rank among the series’ critical high points. XII’s politically charged story and open-ended Gambit combat system were ahead of their time, while VI’s opera scene and ensemble narrative set a storytelling standard the series still chases today.
Where Modern Entries Land
Newer releases like Final Fantasy VII Remake and Final Fantasy XVI earned respectable scores in the high-80s range, proving the franchise still commands critical respect. However, none have yet dethroned the classics — a testament to just how towering the achievements of the late ’90s and early 2000s were. The ongoing Final Fantasy VII Rebirth saga and FFXIV’s acclaimed expansions suggest the gap could close in the future.
Relive the Classics Today
The good news for newcomers is that most of these acclaimed titles are readily available on modern platforms. Final Fantasy VII, VIII, IX, X, and XII all have enhanced ports on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. If you’re looking to jump into the highest-rated Final Fantasy games, you can grab Final Fantasy game keys and Steam gift cards at TURGAME.com at competitive prices — the perfect way to experience the titles critics crowned as the best in the series.
Do you agree with the critics, or does your personal ranking tell a different story? One thing is certain: few franchises can spark a debate quite like Final Fantasy.
Source: DualShockers – 10 Best Final Fantasy Games According to Critics’ Scores