Final Fantasy Tactics

"The first Final Fantasy game I ever played."

I always had wanted to play a Final Fantasy game, but I never was able until recently. You see, I had an N64 instead of a PS1, I had a Genesis instead of a NES or SNES. Sure, I could have gotten a portable version with my Game Boy, but I only used my Game Boy for long car rides, so I had only 2 or 3 games. Then I finally got a PS2. Years after that event, I picked this game up for no apparent reason. I like Strategy games, and I wanted to play a FF game, so why the hell not. I played it and loved it. I was blown away by the great story, astounded by the unique system of jobs and the battle system. The characters all seemed so real. This story has everything, love, hate, revenge, sadness. This game opened the door to the Final Fantasy world to me. Since then I have played many, my favorite of which is the orginal Final Fantasy. This one is easily second, however.

And now, my poem to my good friend:

I have finally found you Final Fantasy Tactics! When I saw you on the shelf, I picked you up, without hesitation, and purchased you. You are one of my greatest friends, you and I have created many memories, memories that will not ever fade away. I am glad, to be united I hope, that the memories we can always create memories that give us even one-millionth of when I bought you. It's good to have you , Final Fantasy: Tactics.

Graphics--10/10
This was also on of the first games that had good graphics for the PSX. I mean, really good. Not just in one area, but good all over. Now, the graphics may not seem like much at all, but you must remember this is PSX technology. For the Playstation's power capabilities, this game exceeds expectations. The graphics are vibrant, there are many different colors, and the environment is fully 3-Dimensionl. One would think with all of this, there would be massive loading times. This is the furthest statement from the truth that could ever be uttered. The loading times are so small, they are almost non-existent. With great rendering of all characters, many different battle areas, and overall some of the best graphics the PSX has to offer, graphics is awarded a 10 out of 10.

Sound/Music--9/10
The music in this game is great. With some nicely written, powerful pieces, this game stays with the epic feel of the Final Fantasy series. The music changes from intense battles, to humorous cutscreens. It fits in perfectly with the game, and would be great to download and just listen to for fun. The music in the game really can get your blood flowing. The sound effects aren't bad, but there is so few of them. There are different sound effects for swords and bows, but that is about the extent. Every sword sounds the same, regardless of what specific sword it is. The deaths are the same way. Males, Females, and Monsters all sound the exact same way. It is sad, that they did not elaborate more on the character voices. Still great, just limited by the mediocre sound effects, 9 out of 10.

Controls--9/10
The controls are pretty good. However, they are just good. They get the job done, and nicely, I may add. But there isn't anything spectacular about them. This is a strategy game, so all you are doing is selecting items, weapons, attacks, etc. You also can rotate the camera, zoom in, and zoom out. Those are all pretty cool features. I really can't say much else, simply because there isn't much else to say. The controls are good, they get the job done, but they aren't spectacular. This game came out prior to Dual-Shock being used, so they do not do anything. But what could they do? Nothing, really.

Gameplay--10/10
Square was probably taking a risk when they first thought up this game. It is a Final Fantasy game, yet it is similar to no other Final Fantasy game (not counting Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, of course). This is a strategy game, and one of the best there is. I believe it comes in with Fire Emblem, and Advance Wars. Those are two of the best Strategy games out. They also are exclusive strategy games, and Final Fantasy is not. So, for this game to stand up to, and possibly surpass those, is a grand accomplishment. Now, true Final Fantasy fans will play any Final Fantasy game. However, for the more casual fan, they may be scared away by the fact that this isn't a conventional RPG. If you are one of those people, fear not! You will not be disappointed in the least bit, with this game. The story is gripping and heart-wrenching, the characters each are unique, and the battle system is extraordinary. I think Strategy games are extremely awesome. This one follows the trend, and is extraordinary. So as you can plainly see, the good obviously outweighs the “bad”. Truly a classic game, in every sense. This category easily earns a perfect score.

Replayability--10/10
This game can be played over many times and never get old. While it is true, the story doesn't change, and there is no multiple endings, it still doesn't get old. The reason being, there are so many jobs to choose from. You can make it challenging, and use all weak jobs, or you could be a powerhouse, and be all warriors. It is up to you, you control it all. There are some instances, which the game can be slightly altered. Like, certain characters can die, or they can join you. It all depends on your skill. This is one game, that gets better with age. Another 10 out 10.

This game is really great. It is unlike no other game, and is made by one of the greatest companies of all time. If you own a PSX or PS2, and still play these old classics, I recommend you getting this game. If you can find it, that is. When you do find it, it won't be much, though. The battle system is great, as are the graphics, characters, and overall the entire game. I cannot find multiple flaws with this game. Sure, I can find maybe one or two minor flaws, but that does not matter. For any fan of Final Fantasy or any fan of strategy games, you will indeed like this game. I purchased this game for 5 dollars. It was one of the cheapest games I have ever purchased, but nonetheless, it is one of the greatest. The game has even spawned a second Tactics game in "Final Fantasy Tactics Advance". They are not related storywise, but if you love the series as I do, you will pick that up as well. Now, if you will please leave me and my baby to some alone time.

So, Final Fantasy Tactics, I am only so glad that you are home. I am sure you missed me, just as I have missed you. Well, let us remember the good times, and let us create new memories. Memories that will last us a life time (or at least until you break). Let us pray that noting happens to you, or dire consequences will ensue.

*inserts Final Fantasy Tactics into PS2*

It's orgasmic. =p

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 03/13/06