What are the Best Final Fantasy Spin-Off Games?

For over three decades, the Final Fantasy series has captured the hearts of gamers around the world. This is thanks to its wonderful worlds, gripping stories, and unforgettable characters. While the mainline series has been the primary focus, Square Enix has also ventured into the realm of Final Fantasy spin-off games. This offers fans unique and exciting experiences even outside the now-15 mainline entries. 

In this article, we will embark on a journey to uncover some of the greatest Final Fantasy spin-off games. These are the games that have left a mark on the gaming space without bearing the traditional numbering system. Yes, they may not always be the greatest representations of the Final Fantasy series. However, they certainly fit right in. 

Why Are There Many Final Fantasy Spin-offs?

Here are a few reasons we can think of why Square Enix made several Final Fantasy spin-off games:

1. A way to expand their universe. The Final Fantasy series has become famous for its expansive stories and lore. Creating spin-off games further expands their reach. Additionally, it gives them the chance to experiment and try out new things without derailing the momentum of their mainline games. This freedom often leads to more innovative gameplay systems and fresh takes on familiar elements.
2. To serve different platforms and the growing fan demand. Final Fantasy spin-offs have been developed for various gaming platforms, including handheld consoles, mobile devices, and even arcade machines. This ensures that fans of the franchise can enjoy their favorite series using any gaming system they have at their disposal. Furthermore, spin-offs allow developers to cater to specific fan requests, such as revisiting beloved characters, exploring untold stories, or offering unique gameplay experiences.
3. Brand recognition and financial success. Final Fantasy is a globally recognized and commercially successful franchise. By releasing spin-offs, Square Enix can capitalize on the brand’s fame and leverage the established fan base to drive sales. Even if spin-offs may not achieve the same level of success as the mainline titles, they still contribute to the overall financial success of the franchise.

With that out of the way, here are our picks for the six best Final Fantasy spin-offs available today.

Final Fantasy Tactics (1997)

Final Fantasy Tactics is one of the most celebrated spin-offs in the franchise. It takes players on a tactical role-playing adventure set in the land of Ivalice. With its complex job system, deep political plot, and strategic battles, the game offers a refreshing take from the traditional Final Fantasy formula. As players guide the main character, Ramza Beoulve, through a treacherous journey to uncover a conspiracy, they are immersed in a world of political intrigue and personal sacrifice. 

The game’s deep story, morally complex characters, and challenging gameplay have earned it a special place in the hearts of fans and critics alike. Final Fantasy Tactics is so loved by Final Fantasy series fans that they have constantly pleaded with Square Enix to make a modern remake of it. Sadly, the game developer remains quiet about it. Only saying that the team that could remake the great Final Fantasy spin-off is still busy doing something else.

Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII

With the superb success of the Final Fantasy VII property, it certainly feels like a no-brainer to make a Final Fantasy spin-off out of it. To the credit of Square Enix, they did. Masterfully at that, if I may say. Delving into the rich lore of Final Fantasy VII, Crisis Core serves as a prequel to the beloved PlayStation classic. The game follows the story of Zack Fair, a member of SOLDIER, and sheds light on the events leading up to the original game. As players witness Zack’s journey of self-discovery and friendship, they are treated to an emotionally charged narrative that explores themes of identity, loss, and sacrifice. 

Unlike the original Final Fantasy VII, this game has a dynamic real-time combat system. Better yet, it is accompanied by beautiful visuals and a mesmerizing soundtrack. All these add a layer of excitement and intensity to the gameplay. All these further immerse players in the world of Final Fantasy VII. While Crisis Core was exclusively available for the PlayStation Portable (PSP), those interested may now dive into this great Final Fantasy spin-off using their newer systems thanks to its remaster version that released late last year.

Final Fantasy Type-0 (2011)

A departure from the traditional fantasy setting, Final Fantasy Type-0 presents a darker and grittier world known as Orience. As part of Class Zero, a group of students wielding magical abilities, players engage in fast-paced action combat and navigate a complex web of political intrigue and war. 

The game tackles several mature themes. Furthermore, it offers multiple playable characters that have branching storylines. It provides an immersive experience that sets it apart from its counterparts. With its gripping narrative, intense gameplay, and a sense of urgency in the face of doom, Final Fantasy Type-0 delivers a unique and charming spin-off adventure.

Final Fantasy Tactics Advance (2003)

Final Fantasy Tactics Advance takes players on a fun journey through the world of Ivalice yet again. While not a direct follow-up to the highly successful Final Fantasy Tactics, this game serves as its spiritual sequel. Yes, it has certain flaws, but in our opinion, it lives up to the billing as the next Final Fantasy Tactics game. Take note, that isn’t easy to do. Final Fantasy Tactics Advance is a delightful spin-off that captures the hearts of both new and veteran players.

Following the story of a young boy named Marche, who finds himself transported into a magical book, the game offers a charming blend of turn-based strategy and exploration. Players recruit and customize their party members, engage in tactical battles, and unravel the secrets of the world. Doing so, they are enchanted by the game’s delightful art style, memorable soundtrack, and compelling tale of friendship and self-discovery. 

Dissidia Final Fantasy (2008)

Dissidia Final Fantasy is a fighting game that brings the series’ iconic heroes and villains together in epic battles. Players can engage in thrilling one-on-one combat, using unique abilities and summoning powerful entities known as eidolons. The game’s spectacular visuals, deep combat mechanics, and rich roster of characters spanning the entire series create an exciting and nostalgic experience for fans. 

Dissidia Final Fantasy serves as a celebration of the series’ history. It allows players to witness epic clashes between their favorite characters in beautifully designed arenas. Who wouldn’t want to see series favorites such as Cloud and Squall duke it out? Perhaps a clash of iconic villains such as Sephiroth and Kefka? Dissidia Final Fantasy is truly a fever dream for any Final Fantasy series fan. And for the most part, it serves its purpose as an excellent fan service spin-off game. 

Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles (2003)

For our last entry, we have a multiplayer-focused Final Fantasy spin-off. Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles takes players on a cooperative journey through a vibrant and magical world. Set in a post-apocalyptic era, the game follows a group of adventurers on a quest to collect Myrrh. A precious resource that protects their villages from the poisonous miasma. 

This Final Fantasy spin-off game takes the gaming prowess of the Game Boy Advance to its absolute limits. So much so that gamers found things they otherwise thought the system isn’t capable of doing in this game. Nevertheless, Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles separates itself from the rest of the Final Fantasy series games by focusing more on teamplay rather than the traditional great single-player experience. Back then, this was the game that brought series fans closer than ever in a co-op setting. After all, they have Dissidia to do the battles.