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Play the mainline Final Fantasy games in numerical order—Final Fantasy I through Final Fantasy XVI—if you want a straightforward tour of the whole series. That order is a practical recommendation, not a required story chronology: most numbered entries tell self-contained stories, so you can also start with whichever world or style appeals to you. Square Enix’s series page lists I through XVI, and PlayStation says players can jump into most mainline games without first playing the others.
Recommended order for all mainline Final Fantasy games
For a complete run, follow the numbered entries in release-history order:
- Final Fantasy
- Final Fantasy II
- Final Fantasy III
- Final Fantasy IV
- Final Fantasy V
- Final Fantasy VI
- Final Fantasy VII
- Final Fantasy VIII
- Final Fantasy IX
- Final Fantasy X
- Final Fantasy XI
- Final Fantasy XII
- Final Fantasy XIII
- Final Fantasy XIV
- Final Fantasy XV
- Final Fantasy XVI
Square Enix’s official series listing covers the numbered line from I to XVI, while its series history page gives release-history context. PlayStation also counted 16 numbered mainline games in its 2025 guide. Treating numerical order as the best all-series route is a convenient way to follow the franchise’s changing styles—not an order Square Enix requires.
Do you need to play Final Fantasy in order?
No. The numbered games are largely standalone, and the recurring creatures and monsters are series motifs rather than proof that every entry shares one continuous plot. PlayStation’s guide to the Final Fantasy games recommends jumping in wherever you choose, except when a title is an explicit sequel.
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- The games that inspired a generation come to life once more, in the ultimate 2D pixel remaster!
- These games are newly developed remaster editions based on the original titles. Some of the changes and additional elements found in other remakes of these games are not included.
- The Anniversary Edition includes a pixel character sticker sheet.
- Universally updated 2D pixel graphics, including the iconic FINAL FANTASY character designs created by Kazuko Shibuya, the original artist and current collaborator.
- Beautifully rearranged soundtrack in a faithful FINAL FANTASY style, overseen by original composer Nobuo Uematsu.
If you only want to try one game, choose based on the setting, era, or style that interests you. There is no single best starting point established for every player. The series’ mechanics have changed over time: many entries use traditional RPG systems, while later single-player games give players more freedom in encounters and real-time movement.
When story order matters
Follow a game’s own story sequence when you move from a mainline entry into a direct sequel. Play Final Fantasy X before Final Fantasy X-2. For the Final Fantasy VII story, follow the earlier story entries before Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, which PlayStation identifies as a sequel. These exceptions do not make the entire numbered series one connected narrative.
Rank #2
- Universally updated 2D pixel graphics, including the iconic FINAL FANTASY character pixel designs created by Kazuko Shibuya, the original artist and current collaborator
- Additional boost features to expand gameplay options, including switching off random encounters and adjusting experience gained multipliers between 0 and 4
- Beautifully rearranged soundtrack in a faithful FINAL FANTASY style, overseen by original composer Nobuo Uematsu
- Including modernized UI, auto-battle options, and more
- Dive into the world of the game with supplemental extras like the bestiary, illustration gallery, and music player
What to know about Final Fantasy XI and XIV
Final Fantasy XI
Final Fantasy XI is part of the numbered mainline sequence, but it is an online game rather than a typical single-player entry. If you plan to play it, check its current service and access details for your region and platform; those can change.
Final Fantasy XIV
Final Fantasy XIV is also a numbered mainline game, and PlayStation describes it as an MMORPG. Its online format and time commitment differ from playing a single-player RPG, so include it in a complete numbered-series run if that format suits you.
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Rank #3
- Updated and reconstructed visuals to be far more realistic and richly textured vs the original game
- Upgraded models for each character, graphical updates for a more immersive environment
- Estimated gameplay hours: 40 to 50 per title
- Sound: Players will be able to choose between original sound and the new, re-arranged sound
Choosing a version to play
Availability varies by game, edition, platform, and region. Before buying or downloading, confirm that the specific version you want is available on your platform and that it is the edition you intend to play; remasters, remakes, and bundles are not interchangeable with the original releases in every respect.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- CLASSIC RPG COLLECTION: Relive the classic adventures of the first six mainline Final Fantasy games with this definitive collection for Nintendo Switch.
- PIXEL REMASTERED: Enjoy the timeless stories and iconic characters with beautifully rendered 2D pixel graphics and updated gameplay systems.
- BONUS CONTENT: Anniversary Edition includes a pixel character art sticker sheet featuring the heroes and villains from each game.
- MULTI-PLATFORM GAMING: Experience the epic RPG journeys on the go or at home with the Nintendo Switch's hybrid capabilities.
- LEGENDARY SOUNDTRACKS: Immerse yourself in the iconic musical scores that have defined the Final Fantasy series over the decades.
Rank #4
- Game boosts
- - Battle assist - HP and ATB will always be maxed out, and limit breaks are available to trigger at any time.
- - no encounters - Turn on/off battle encounters.
- - speed boost (X3) - Play all scenes at 3X speed.
- the game is now Compatible with full HD (1920 x 1080) display and has implemented all new character models!
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
