Final Fantasy VIII

Square

Rank: #2 / 10
Released: 1999
Studio: Square
Genre: video game with LGBT character, role-playing video game

At a glance

Final Fantasy VIII is a role-playing game set during a war between Galbadia and Dollet. Squall Leonhart, a disciplined academy figure, and Seifer, his hot-headed rival, are drawn into events involving Rinoa Heartilly and a sorceress influencing powerful people in Galbadia. The story also follows the mysterious connection to Laguna Loire, a Galbadian army soldier. This Windows version includes Magic Booster, which can be activated from the launcher to add 100 of each listed spell to the player’s inventory. It also includes Chocobo World, playable from the launcher after starting the game and fulfilling its requirements. Steam lists single-player play, achievements, full controller support, gamepad recommendation, keyboard-only option, DualShock support, Steam Cloud, Remote Play on phone and tablet, and Family Sharing. The developer is Square and the publisher is Square Enix. The Steam release is listed for Windows and has an age rating of 13.

Who it is for

It suits players interested in a single-player role-playing story about wartime conflict, Squall’s party and a sorceress. Windows players who want controller or keyboard-only options and launcher-accessible additions may also find it a fit.

What is good

Includes the Chocobo World game.
Magic Booster can add 100 of listed spells.
Supports full controller and DualShock controls.
Steam Cloud and Family Sharing are listed.

What to know first

Listed for Windows only.
Single-player only.
Steam age rating is 13.

Verdict

Final Fantasy VIII centers on a conflict involving Squall, his companions and a sorceress, with Laguna’s role also part of the story. The Windows release adds launcher-based features and supports both controller and keyboard-only play.