Ranking EVERY Final Fantasy Story

In today's video I'll be ranking every main-line Final Fantasy story from worst to best. My top choice might just shock you!
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#FinalFantasy #JRPG #ff
Intro 0:00
14 1:13
13 1:33
12 1:58
11 2:45
10 3:27
9 4:12
8 5:02
7 5:42
6 6:34
5 8:12
4 9:30
3 11:18
2 12:54
1 14:26
Wrap Up 16:22

[@ErekLadd]

Thanks for watching! Don't forget to like & subscribe as well. And remember - this is just my list and my opinion! I'd love to hear from you all so let me know your thoughts!

[@pyguy7]

The pacing of the story in FFX is immaculate. It handles giving out the exposition and lore in small palatable doses so that you never truly feel overwhelmed at any moment. It truly shows excellence in this one area. The aging soundtrack and best turn based combat system also helps a lot too

[@keithtorgersen9664]

The sequels to Crystal Chronicles had some very interesting stories.

[@majikalmcmuffin6258]

L take on ff14 and 11, they are main numbered entries like all the rest with stories no less conventionally told

[@pyguy7]

@@majikalmcmuffin6258 the whole what constitues as a "main numbered" entry and what's a spinoff is really arbitrary. Apparently two MMO's can be considered "main numbered" entries. However Final Fantasy Tactics which for all intents and purposes should absolutely be considered as a main entry for its sheer quality alone surpasses many of the actual numbered entries but the simple fact it doesn't have a number in its title bars it from being a "main" series entry is ridiculous. IMO Final Fantasy Tactics is more of a main entry than either of the MMO's are...

[@jaykknight2248]

My top 5 games story wise would have to be 4, 5, 6, 9 and 10. I don't necessarily love the way 10 goes after the battle with Yunalesca, but the story overall reminds me of Slayers, which i like. I think the themes in 9 are greater than the plot points. 5 has some really great character moments and themes about friendship and strength of character. 5 also had one of the least convoluted twists, which i really appreciate. 4 and 6 are so heavily character driven and straightforward and I will always love them for that.

[@DarkPhoenix89]

IX will always be my #1. A very special game to me growing up. I really liked your top picks. X, VII and VI are very memorable games. Played those to death as a kid.

[@chettonex]

Vivi's identity crisis and character development is simply great. Also best card game of the series as well IMO.

[@vincentmcglessed1183]

​@@chettonexI still didn't fully understand this card game, I like it but randomness just pissed me off sometimes

[@kullerwo]

That's my all time favorite too! MY Top 3 by far are 1. IX 2. VI 3. VII

[@sebastienc.2257]

@@kullerwo That's my top 2. IX and VI are the only 2 games that I will consistently rank that way. Kefka and Kuja.

[@himbaerno1]

9 was my first when it dropped, borrowed it from a friend with the guide and it blew me away. Never had a gaming experience like this before. So many emotions, great characters, music is iconic and that story ...but i still cant decide if its 9 or 10 for me, both hooked me equally. Cheers

[@spenser9784]

FFX is not only my favorite FF story, it’s my favorite story of any game ever. It’s awesome to hear someone who shares my love for it explain and defend it so well. Great video!

[@ErekLadd]

It's very very high on my list of video game stories!! I will always happily praise the game. Super memorable! Thanks for watching!

[@KasumiRINA]

I liked the FFX story first time it was made, in Grandia II... Then again in Tales of Symphonia, where they didn't even bother to make the resident singing-and-dancing-white-mage-girl-sacrificial-lamb-from-corrupt-church-going-on-a-pilgrimage-as-your-main-hero-swordsman-is-tasked-with-escorting-her-to-save-the-world-in-cycle-of-samething look different enough from Elena... ...tho Yuna also looks like any of Nomura sameface brunettes (Tifa, Rinoa, Garnet) cosplaying as her. Colette at least had a more unique weapon instead of being the staff chick. All good games! Just FF has worst of the three combat systems, but it has the best graphics to show... that one same plot... yeah like EVERY ~2000-3 RPG had it.

[@Force-Multiplier]

Same here FFX is *the narrative* for me nothing has topped it since

[@MelancholyRequiem]

Yo, my fellow FFX-mains, how many of us are roughly early 30s? 😅

[@caiomachado4780]

meu jogo preferido da vida, além de ter o melhor sistema de combate, o melhor jeito de evoluir e a melhor história, choro toda vez

[@Dhalin]

I very highly disagree with XIV being a "story you write on your own because it's an MMO" .... XIV's story plays out very much like a _single-player JRPG_ as there are many, many cutscenes with character dialogue and the whole Main Story Questline is one huge cohesive story start-to-finish (with some optional branches off the main path). It is also one of *THE* best stories in all of video gaming I have ever seen, much less within the Final Fantasy franchise. I think not placing it on the ranking does it a great disservice and might give people the wrong impression that XIV doesn't have a traditional story-driven experience that other FF games have when that is entirely the opposite, XIV is designed around its story first, and foremost, and with Trust NPCs, 90% of the whole thing can be done solo unless you really wanna get into the multiplayer aspects.

[@ErekLadd]

Fair enough! I've never really touched it so I am only going based off of what I've seen and the little I've played. So it's not really the best way to judge the game IMO but that's my two cents on it. I *do* really want to give it a shot though. I played it originally back in 2013 and couldn't get into it and never went back. I'm absolutely more than happy to try it out and adjust my opinion. Thanks for writing that!

[@Dhalin]

@@ErekLadd They've recently updated the 1-50 experience, known as "ARR" or "Vanilla" ... they made the quests a bit less... fetch questy, got rid of a lot of filler that had very little impact on the story and condensed a lot of it. That's not to say that it is quick and short, though. It will still take awhile. But if you can get past ARR and get into Heavensward, the story _really_ takes off once you get to Ishgard. And if you can get to Shadowbringers... you'll quickly understand why everybody praises XIV's writing. Don't do any skips, though.... from your very first steps in ARR, they slowly build up a huge epic story that reaches its climax in Endwalker. Skipping any of it will ruin the whole thing.

[@AnotherDaysTruths]

Man is absolutely correct in everything he said about 14! Absolutely a actually ff story worth its own standing​@@ErekLadd

[@Ukaran]

If 11 is excluded, so should 14. Cry more.

[@TheOnceandFutureJake]

​@Ukaran FFXI plays more like a traditional MMO and its story reflects that. FXIV plays like a single player RPG that has multiplayer capabilities.

[@matchboxmatt]

I'm playing through FFVI again, and I don't know if it's that I'm getting older and loss is becoming a more common part of life, but I've been really struck by the theme of loss in the game. Every character has some kind of trauma or grief in their backstory--Locke had lost Rachel, the brothers lost their parents, Cyan his family, Terra never experienced love--and they all react to that loss or tragedy differently. Kefka is the perfect villain not just because he's so unhinged and memorable, but because his existence is tied to the theme of the story: what's the point of anything if everyone is going to die? The entire World of Ruin is essentially the characters answering that question, confronting their trauma, and choosing their reason for living. For many of them, it's their friends. Kefka, on the other hand, falls entirely into nihilism. His reason for living isn't living, it's bringing about its inevitable end.

[@raisie6334]

That's true. Kefka's role as the antagonist is even better with the theme of loss in mind. Everyone lost something but finds new meaning. Kefka is the one who took everything away but couldn't find meaning.

[@ReZerO100]

the scene with Celes on the island in the world of ruin if Cid dies, damn thats an impactful moment. that kind subject matter in a game released in 1994 was unheard of.

[@KainsAddiction]

FFVI should be #1 on any story tierlist.

[@thecryingweaboo]

@@KainsAddiction Truth be told

[@gonzalomigueles1598]

​@@KainsAddictionoverrated

[@MattrickBT]

Kuja also accomplishes everything he intended to do. He killed Garland, destroyed Terra, sent Gaia into freefall by destroying every kingdom on it. His actions even brought about Necron who threatened to outright erase all of existence, which would've taken everything a step beyond his own plans.

[@doubleecho1980]

FFiV had one of the most memorable moments in any Final Fantasy game too when Rydia returns out of nowhere to save you from Golbez and help defeat him. On my first playthrough I was shocked and amazed

[@LucianDevine]

IV holds a special place in my heart because it was my first ever FF game. I loved the story of Cecil and Kain, and yeah, the sudden appearance and save by adult Rydia is a pretty awesome moment!

[@zeusapollo6504]

The best part was the very beginning when Cecil was still the captain of the Red Wings and the Dark Knight a lot of good stuff happened, like how the killed Rydia's mother the Mist Dragon and walked the long path of redemption by protecting her from the soldiers of his Kingdom of Baron. There was even an assassination attempt at an INN to kill her if i remember correctly. Best main Protagonist ever, and the other cast like Kain and Golbez did well, too.

[@zeusapollo6504]

@@LucianDevine Like it was awesome how Cecil saved young Rydia vs his own soldiers, the game is filled with great moments. And btw my first FF game, too i played the SNES release in the early 90ies had to import the game from the U.S. in Europe, only FFVII was a world wide release another good story game(the J.E.N.O.V.A. part still manages to confuse people, while Sepiroth seems rather bland and straightforward, he just looks cool, basicly).

[@LucianDevine]

@@zeusapollo6504 Yup, Cecil killed the Mist Dragon Rydia's mother was riding on, causing her to fall to her death. Then he accidently burns down her village, but then he prevents Kain from killing her, which is a blink and you'll miss it moment. Titan does Titan things, and Cecil doesn't abandon Rydia, even after she tried to kill him, taking her to town, and you are right that he protected her from the Baron soldiers trying to kill her. Rydia then repays him by saving his life when she could have continued to harbor resentment over causing her mother's death and maybe having abandonment issues or wondering why they didn't come looking for her.

[@yannisv.4914]

Yes you are right. When Rydia comes to help you, this is my favorite moment of the game.

[@msguysmiley]

FFxiv has easily the most elaborate and developed story of the series. It's and mmo but its pure story. Its literally 100s of hours of reading and cutscenes.

[@cerberusleal]

FFXI storyline kicks XIV in the ass

[@PalhacoCapitalista]

yup, also you can play like a single player game with the NPC mechanic, it's even more immersive whilst doing dungeons

[@katiepersons6575]

Emet Selch says otherwise @@cerberusleal

[@fong03]

@@cerberusleal thank you!

[@phisherton]

@@cerberuslealX is still my top, but damn if Chains of Promathia isn't GOATed

[@demus89]

Ive heard that 12 is really underrated. Kindof has the same treatment that 9 had upon release.

[@EngMadison]

I love the gambit system in 12, how fluid the combat is, the world, the side quests...but the story is the weak spot IMO. Not terrible, but a lot of times I remember just going someplace because that's what they said, but not really remembering why. Definitely worth a play though!

[@chaost4544]

The story may have not been the strongest but it more than made up for with one of the best RPG systems in the franchise. It's one of the few games in the series I would recommend solely on the fighting mechanics.

[@tellmewhenitsover]

12 is easily the best "game" via gameplay (ive not played any main series after 13), but falls short on story because of its devolopment troubles. The characters are still super interesting, though woefully under-explored. Its also obvious that most of the story was tacked on to check all the comittee boxes

[@thewinner7382]

12 is garbage. If your Final Fantasy game doesn't have good characters or story then what the hell is the point in a "good battle system"? People saying it's good because of the battle system.... Since when was that ever the point of Final Fantasy?

[@thewinner7382]

​@@chaost4544That's ridiculous. How can a battle system make up for a non existent story or character development? It's not a beat em up.

[@nishquikpops]

As someone who's been dipping their toes into the series over the past few months, this video came out at the right time! I've played 7, 7R, and 16 so far and I'm looking to play 9, 10, and obviously Rebirth this year! (I skipped over the FF9 and FF10 segments bc spoilers haha)

[@ErekLadd]

Can't go wrong with any of them honestly!! Each game is a treasure in it's own right. Super keen for rebirth though!

[@DeadDogInc]

9 is better than 10. The only thing 10 has on 9 is the voice acting, so 10 is technically more immersive. 9 is best FF after 7 😃 You can skip 8. Jk, 8 is great too. Just not on the same level.

[@IndepenisDay]

Play 8

[@josephdodge9406]

Try ff6 its my favorite old school final fantasy

[@yesayawarudu626]

U can try ff 9 and 10. I think Those two is the best ff series.

[@-Denzel]

FFX is also my favorite in terms of story. I love how the story was told in Tydus' perspective. And for me, nothing can top the plot twists which are placed properly on the right moment. Here's my favorite dialogue Fayth: "It's not that you're dreaming. You ARE a dream."

[@sephirothmustdie]

Listen to my story cause this could be my last chance

[@gonzalomigueles1598]

Certainly, both 10 and 7 have the most important twists in the saga but the games do not depend on it, but instead place that point at some climax moment. Behind all the themes that ffx includes, it becomes even more apotheotic the way the summoners refused to let their Zanarkand ideal cease to exist, where among other things Tidus existed as a shadow of his more talented father, who inspires him to action through rivalry. And even in that dream world Tidus was not entirely happy With the dynamic of talent that he had with Jecht. And he always manages to add a lot of drama that Jecht is part Sinh. Although the game tries to leave Jecht as a hero who does not have the best methods, at the same time always leaves Tidus' perspective open

[@alerosan3477]

I love FF X! So much darkness and so much light. Yunaleska's dialogue with the party at the end of the pilgrimage give me the chills.

[@BLa-lq2bs]

Honestly, 10 is probably my favorite too. I love that story so much. It still makes me teary to this day. The fact that you lose Tidus your protagonist is so crazy to me. That’s not truly a happy ending…..

[@ErekLadd]

Definitely not a happy ending but an incredibly impactful one. Tidus has an amazing character arc!

[@nathank2289]

​@@ErekLaddcoming off of Cloud and Squall I couldn't stand Titus. Every time he cried or shouted I wanted someone to slap him. Pulling the uno reverse on Yuna irritated me to no end.

[@A-Dubs398]

FFX will forever be Square's magnum opus.

[@BLa-lq2bs]

@@nathank2289 I actually felt like Tidus was refreshing coming off of Cloud and Squall. I love them, but he was a total breath of fresh air with how upbeat he was. As for Yuna, if we were talking about X-2 I’d be right there with you 🤢 haha. I liked her in 10.

[@nathank2289]

@BLa-lq2bs No I ment how Tidus goes from "what the hell guys, why didn't anyone tell me Yuna was going to die. Screw that we gonna figure something else out!" to "Oh by the way I have to secretly die now, sorry I didn't tell you all"

[@MooglePower]

If there were one story that I could completely forget so I could experience the game again for the very first time, it'd be Final Fantasy X. My favorite FF story, too.

[@ErekLadd]

I'd be happy to put that game in a small few of ones I'd love to forget to re-experience. Great choice!

[@lucasrinaldi9909]

Eww

[@Anthoberries]

That's the best way to describe it. I mean, I still have the same reaction to the ending (bawling my eyes out), but I would love to experience it for the first time again.

[@KT-fi7tm]

Bruh 13 ( specifically lightning returns) is a masterpiece! Deserves the spot under FF3

[@komlat253]

Emo girls are not liked in this community 😂. Only cloud and sqaull can do it.😂. Apparently. Event though she has like the best character development. And the story around the magic and fal ci is amazing. It's so grim and there is no winning in the world of ff13 which makes the 13- 3 ending is amazing.

[@chaseyoung7693]

Final Fantasy X is one of the greatest stories ever told, changed my life

[@ivangasparevic1727]

O boy. FF XII is top three for sure. I mean FFX is my favorite FF game but the story is not better than FFXII. Top five in my opinion are 6,7,9,10,12. Great video. Thanks

[@geraldaumiller1116]

I love your rankings. I think I would switch the top 3 around a little bit. I could do a full ranking but I agree for the most part haha. 6 is my top story wise. Just the fact that so much happens in it. There's so much story with each character and the way the world actually falls apart. You see all the young espers turned to magicite. Like it was just dark, but always realistic. Like for once you didn't just get a chance to save everyone. I really enjoyed it. 1. Ff6 2. FFX 3. Ff7 For my top 3 lol.

[@ErekLadd]

Definitely agree here, FFVI was dark and gritty and most importantly - realistic... I mean aside from magic etc. A lot of what happens in that game could well and truly be something that happens in real life and that's what makes it more impactful in spots. There is no happy ending in FFVI, the world is destroyed by the time the credits roll. That's what makes it great!

[@petermcgraw2957]

I agree with this. Alot of people never played all of them so it's not the best arbitration of ranking

[@CaptainFalchion]

Great list! I haven't played as many FF games yet, but I also would have similar rankings for your top 4, glad to see someone appreciate FF16, 7, and 10! Absolute peak fiction. Many games have put me in the feels, but FF10 is one of the only games that made me physically cry

[@DjimonMoz]

The frustrating thing about FFXIII is that if you take the time to digest every detail plus every bit of lore, you come to realize that it is actually a fantastic story. What went wrong was the subpar storyTELLING. Overall, XIII deserved better execution.

[@ErekLadd]

Yeah, you're right. I'm not really a guy that needs everything handed to me in terms of story but if there's not enough there I can't really get into it and that's my issue with FFXIII. I really want to try again with an open mind!

[@Darkgunbladeknight]

Years ago it seemed tangled to me, but today I even find the way they tell the story in the first game interesting because little by little you connect the dots until you understand what happened. The really bad thing is having to put up with such automated and linear gameplay xD

[@thalesborba]

I honestly like that kind of execution more. Starting intriguing and light-hearted, then the pieces start to connect... I don't know... I like to be surprised

[@femtrooper]

Fantastic rankings! Final Fantasy X was my first FF and I remember thinking it was the greatest thing to ever come out. I couldn't even BELIEVE graphics could be like this in a video game. INSANITY!!! I still haven't beat it because I gave up at Yunalesca...it is a goal of mine to one day go back and beat it!

[@ErekLadd]

Yeah the intro cutscenes alone looked better than real life to me back then. Still look great now!! FFX has an INSANE difficulty spike towards the end especially if you are not prepared for it. IMO easily the hardest Final Fantasy game for that reason alone!

[@mountainmgtow5421]

Femtrooper??? Please, do us all a favor and don't play video games anymore. We need to gatekeep your kind out of our hobbies.

[@domagojkersun9630]

If you find Yunalesca to be hard then don't ever attempt to beat optional bosses in monster arena or dark aeons or Penance (the games hardest boss).

[@rwm4768]

Final Fantasy X was the game that got me back into JRPGs after not really playing them for well over a decade. I got too busy with school and life and such. Even though I played the remaster in something like 2016, I have nostalgia for it because it reunited me with one of my childhood passions.

[@publicenemaplays]

Tough to argue with your choices here. My top 5 would be the same, but maybe shuffled around a bit. FF9’s story centering on grief, loss, and what it means to live is something that’s resonated even more as I get older.

[@ErekLadd]

Totally agree. FF9 hits harder as I age. So many life lessons to be learned in these games!

[@jesusamarillas6359]

Bruh you got me on this one. I respect your opinion, and thank you for taking back so much memories, all of the list we were the same until the 5 places, but I understand that people have different opinions. Thanks for making this video, you took me back to when I played my first ff game, I had around 7 years at that time. Keep it up with your content, I will start watching it! Thanks!

[@xxBG06xx]

FF14 is very much a single player story and may have the best story (especially in the latter stage) of any FF game to date. You may have to participate in 8-man content with others to progress at certain points, but other than that, the majority of the story can be played solo (dungeons included with the Trust [NPC] system). If you take the initial base game "A Realm Reborn" and finish Endwalker base story, all of that ends one big huge story Arc with an actual ending. The big issue of course is that this is a lot of story content. Also, yes, a lot of the side content found through the game adds to the lore and even gets integrated to the main story at times. You like FF stories, you are missing out by not playing FF14, at least for just the story element. My personal list for FF stories, goes like this: -I like FF4, FF6, FF7, FF9, FF10, FF14 and FF16. (Would play again) -FF8 and FF12 are mid ranged for me. -Weakest one for me were FF1, FF2, FF3, FF5, FF13 and FF15 (yes, I watched the anime, movie, etc., but the story was still poorly told, imo). I never played FF11, so I cannot place it anywhere.

[@RogerCh888]

also you can play for free on a trial account up until the end of the second expansion which has a lot of content, depending how fast you go it could take you months to complete just that.

[@albedoasura3872]

Please try FFXIV, its a tall order as it will take you a loooong time to get through the main story but its 100% worth it. If it doesn't take the #1 spot for you I would guarantee its gonna crack your top 3 at least. For me personally its the best FF story I have ever played and I have played them all.

[@ErekLadd]

I will do just that! I’ve heard nothing but good things so I’m more than happy to give it a shot!

[@MaximusLight]

@@ErekLaddWord of warning as someone going through it now, it's pretty hard to get through the base game story because of the amount of fluff and exposition. My understanding is that it gets much better when you get to the expansion story lines but I've been doing a LOT of skimming.

[@dylancrosby6891]

Thankyou so much for ranking X as number 1!! No game ever has had me feeling the way X did, and that's not just in final fantasy, such and underrated game, Telling the story through a character new to the world is the best, and most natural feeling way to build and explain lore in game, we discovered the highs and lows of Spira together with Tidus

[@ErekLadd]

Same! This was such a powerful game for me back in the day. I feel like it made me feel emotions for the first time as a young kid 😂

[@sephirothmustdie]

Except that FF is not an underrated game! Is considered one of the best FF and one of the best PS2 games of all time

[@MelaniAlarcon]

I thought the same, till i played FF14... that DESTROYS YOU

[@evrynmetakn]

Idk why but as a kid i never got through 10. Idk if i wasn’t into the story or if i just played blitzball the whole time. Might have to give it another go. And where would you put tactics on this list if you had to? Thanks for the video!

[@ThymeSplitter]

For FF8, I'm fairly certain the Junction system is part of the story, as it affected the characters' memories of their pasts. Correct me if I'm wrong through, I haven't played in a long time. Edit: Glad ya liked FF5, it's my favorite :)

[@ErekLadd]

Could be true! I honestly can’t remember… Haven’t fully played that game since the early 2000s. But yeah, FFV is great!!! Thanks for tuning in!

[@SebastianFliri]

V is my favorite as well. The list is great. The only thing is, that V would be higher for me. And IX as well. It's because i am into mythos and those games has a lot of things covered on that behalf. I would hesitate butting it on N.1 Story but Final Fantasy X is the most important videogame in my life so far. It was not my first FF but the first i was old enougth i guess. Unfortunatly i don't like the visuall stile of FFXVI at all. I also couldn't get into Game of Thrones (100percent subjective comparison). All in all i found your opinion very interresting. But damn, now i have to see FFXVI, so i can do my own list and put it under FFIX. @@ErekLadd

[@armorvil]

@@ErekLadd You should! I found your ranking very solid and the same as mine... ...except for FF8. There are a ton of neat things the story does which aren't "in your face". I couldn't believe that you ranked ff5 above it for example, haha.

[@superlocgaming5150]

It is a major plot point

[@nathank2289]

Partially. Summons drain the characters memories but are also what gives access to magic. The junction system itself I just how you build your "class"

[@mindlessmeat4055]

Final fantasy 6 is my favorite of all final fantasy games. I would say terra is the main character in the world of balance but that shifts to celes in the world of ruin. The themes of loss in that game are really hard-hitting. The rock bottom depression celes can get on the island is a real tearjerker every time.

[@gonzalomigueles1598]

Cenes is not the protagonist of the second part, she is only the one with whom the world of chaos begins, she is there so that we can begin with another woman that we see helpless and learn to love her in some way. But as soon as you leave the island, each member adds something, demonstrating the importance of the group more than the individual. The game can be passed with only Celes and Sabin, but in a normal run I would include Edgar and Setzer. And up to that point there is no clear role, since everyone contributes to the reason to return to Kefka. Celes wouldn't have done it alone, Sabin is a great addition to the team, Edgar continued to maintain organizations, and Setzer is the one who makes it possible to unite the rest of the team.

[@machinewaves]

Great list. I agree with you regarding ff8 having a jumbled story. I liked it when I was a kid but now that I’m 30 I realized how convoluted the story was. Also, my top 5 ff are 6>9>10>7>16

[@uppernimbus]

Final Fantasy X/X-2 are the ones I wanna play the most because I just love tropical settings and the summer time! I wanna get that double pack on Switch, but preferably the import version which has both games on the cartridge. Epic ranking, love the final thumbnail as well, Erek! It gets a 'righty-o' from me 😏

[@ErekLadd]

I've been wanting to replay those games!! So good. X2 is more fan service than anything else but MAN I loved it as a kid. The opening went harder than it needed to. And yeah, anytime I get a righty-o/10 from UpperNimbus it's a good day!! Thanks for watching dude!

[@uppernimbus]

@@ErekLadd Ayy, no worries 😎

[@vegexxx]

where would you fit FF tactics in this list?

[@ErekLadd]

I haven't played it so I can't speak to it as yet. Just about to start it up for the first time so I will make a standalone video on Tactics in the near future!

[@simbelanger1]

@@ErekLadd Tactics' story is amazing, one of the best in the series. It starts off a bit silly but don't worry it quickly deepens and complexifies itself. Curious to see your thoughts in a later video!

[@willkearney5716]

FFT is pretty much easily #1 for story ​@@ErekLadd

[@superamacrap9897]

Tactics is my favorite Final Fantasy period. I do like 7 out of the mainline though. Something about your first FF that just hits differently

[@FailroadExpress]

Great list. I think FF10 would definitely make my top 5. It would be difficult for me to make a ranking of the stories as it's been a loooong time since I've played some of them. Though, FF7 would probably be my personal number 1.

[@ZETAGeTh]

I discovered this channel tyoday. You got good stuff. I really hope you get more views in the future!

[@jaykknight2248]

I appreciate you giving 5 a special shout out. I completely agree about vivi. I have to say im relieved that 7 was not number 1. I would have ordered some of these differently but it was interesting hearing your take on these

[@ErekLadd]

FFV is really great. Definitely underrated!! VII is great as well, but I don't think it's the best story in the series. Thanks for tuning in!

[@KasumiRINA]

Orphanage stuff in FF8 wasn't near the end of the game it was disk 2, I am not the biggest fan of "experiments to turn us into super soldiers had a side effect of memory loss" thing as well, but somehow Final Fantasy VI, which starts with ti, and Final Fantasy VII, which kinda implies it early on then confirms later, never get criticized for that.

[@ErekLadd]

Hmm. Fair point! I think it's just where it was put into the story. I think the world of FFVI, which is hard to compare with VIII because they're completely different games, allowed for that story to be more impactful in a way? I still love VIII even though it's not perfect. And it's probably a game I'm slightly more nostalgic for than even VII!

[@KasumiRINA]

@@ErekLadd Tina, Cloud and Squall have really similar backstory really, just with different twists on it, and all three games mention memory loss very early on, and then get many flashbacks scenes after: 6 hammers it early on, 7 has Tifa find Cloud with amnesia, 8 is just more subtle about stuff at first (talk with people and read docs ingame to learn), in all cases any Final Fantasy game has so much text and content people get confused and forget a lot. These ones all got science fantasy world with steampunkish tech and normal people not being able to use magic. Magitech, Materia and Para-Magic systems are what allow it in each game... Plus Esper/GF junctions. Tina, Celes & Kefka are part of Magitek program by Gestahlian Empire where they experiment on people using Espers, tho Tina has natural magic due to her also having main girl traits (Aerith an ancient / Rinoa a sorceress / Tina half-Esper). Cloud, Zack & Sephiroth are part of SOLDIER program by Shinra (one just didn't make it), and they got Jenova cells infusions, tho it's separate from the game's Mako-based magic & power system. Squall & co are all SeeDs who get both Para-Magic (think Materia) and junction with Guardian Forces (exact same system from 6 but gives skills and buffs instead of spell learning). Thing people confuse in 7 also is saying "Cloud lies" and that he wasn't at Nibelheim, when in reality, he just misremembers and embellishes... the story is structured like Rashomon, with each participant having a different memory of what happened, the final version being probably closer to reality. Oh and one more thing 8 gets flak for NORG being "out of nowhere". Read the terminal like Quistis tells you. It mentions both side effects of GF use and the two headmasters.

[@SebastianFliri]

Memory loss is a way of getting you into the protagonists, because it becomes easier to melt with it and to get emotionally envolved by twists. It was typicall for that age of videogames, i would descrive as romantic period. In mysticism temporary memory loss is seen as essential to prevent you from getting crazy, during transition between realms (see FFV) and to realize who you really are. To get more into the story one could analyze which kind of memory loss the different characters Squall, Cloud, Galuf etc. had.-@@KasumiRINA

[@the757general2]

Disc 3 actually

[@andrewwolff7592]

So happy that FFIX made your top 5! The contrast of the characters of Kuja and Vivi in their grappling with their mortality is just so well done. I just love how all of the characters face the central themes in different ways

[@I_was_a_Bullfrog]

Righty-o, top video mate, always interested in hearing your thoughts on Final Fantasy. It'd be great to hear your opinions on the best spin-off/sequel games.

[@ErekLadd]

Great suggestion!! A spin off video sounds like a good idea to me!

[@nostalgicnicknacks]

Awesome video Erek! I have to say I'm biased towards FF4. ...my go-to story! So many great games. :)

[@ErekLadd]

Fair enough!! FFIV is amazing. Totally blew me away the first time I played it! Thanks for tuning in!

[@ChaosProductionsInc]

FFX will always be the GOAT.

[@SimonAeberhard]

This makes me interested to play all of the FF games that I haven't played yet. :D Thx! Just one thing: I think it really is a pity that you left out Final Fantasy 14! Why? Because many people (maybe even the majority) play it for the amazing story. There are betrayals and plottwists along the way, close people that die, friends that got separated, the fight against the despair in the world, inner fears, political revolution... You know, the whole thing! FFXIV basically cruises through all the previous Final Fantasy stories and introduces them in a new way. I would recommend anyone playing it even though some people might be anxious to play a live action MMORPG initially. :)

[@ErekLadd]

Interesting!!! Well I am keen to give it a shot. It's a game I played on launch but haven't touched since. I might jump in and re-assess my thoughts on it!

[@SimonAeberhard]

@@ErekLadd If you should end up on a European server, let me know :)

[@DuoMaxwell007]

@@ErekLadd yeah just play it for th story beat i and stop until more story comes out... thats what I did... same with FFXI its story is great too

[@dakotawinston7677]

Just the video I was hoping for!

[@JamesSCameron1]

So glad to see ffx #1 and ff7 #2! That is how I would rank them as well! Actually my entire list (except for the ones I haven't played) is the same as yours. Just finished the FFX HD remaster and loved it just as much as I did back during the original release.

[@charlesmccallie7402]

I think a lot more people would like FFX more if they could get their heads around the idea that Tidus ISN'T the main character. He's the viewpoint character, the guy we learn about the world through. Yuna is absolutely the main character of FFX, and her story is amazing.

[@ErekLadd]

Exactly! Tidus represents the player in a way, seeing the world and the characters for the first time at the same time. That's what I think makes it more impactful.

[@risingdawn5259]

Same with XII, a lot of complaints come from Vaan being dull, but he's just the camera really, with which we get to watch the story unfold

[@gonzalomigueles1598]

I don't think it changes the point of view you propose at all, perhaps you have been carried away by the opinion that Tidus is unpleasant, and only possers believe that. The game is the story of Tidus Since he is one of the great individuals dreamed of for the great Zanarkand to have a show, he is a rival with his father, he comes with the pilgrimage to change their vision, and above all there will never be as much drama in seeing Sinh as an entity that destroys as there is seeing it as Tidus sees it, with uncertainty and respect for Auron's words.

[@offthedeepend3996]

Yuna is the central and most important character as far as the plot is concerned. The majority of the story really revolves around her.

[@gamingwhilebroken2355]

Tidus is the main character. A main character is the character in which the audience/player experiences the events of the story through. However, I know what you are trying to convey, that Tidus is not the protagonist. And you are correct, Tidus is not the protagonist that is, as you said, Yuna. A protagonist is the character which drives the plot of the story forward. So they are the character that’s agency results in achievements or failures, it’s the character that’s actions have consequences. I wouldn’t even say Tidus is the deuteragonist, I’d would say that is Rikku and the tritagonist is Auron. That’s all intentional though, Tidus isn’t a person per se (he becomes one through the story). Tidus is Yuna’s Aeon, which is why you can name Tidus but not any of the other characters. He is an Aeon the Fayth summoned for Yuna to give her hope that Yevon had stolen and replaced with false hope. That gives Yuna the will and desire to live (and not be a martyr) and permanently break the cycle of Sin.

[@KingZercules]

X and X2 will always be my favourites. How can you not fall in love with Yuna? The ending of X destroys you, and the ending of X2 fix up! I know people don't like X2 much, but I actually love the different tone, it's a lot more light and funny, compared to the very dark and gloom of X. Together they're the perfect game!

[@IndepenisDay]

Sorry X2 felt like a wannabe game

[@rabidK177Y]

​@jordielpino then you didn't play it much. If you skim the surface it's a cheesy spinoff. If you do the side missions and read the lore it builds upon the original game and the history of Spira beautifully. Also the battle system is one of the slickest in the series. Guys just didn't like it because women were the main characters.

[@Lyu-Phy]

X2 is underrated as fuck.

[@Abdultidus]

X is the GOAT game, X-2 is the most unnecessary sequel OAT, and completely cheapens the powerful and emotionally moving perfect bitter-sweet ending that X had

[@TheMindOfHanif]

@@rabidK177Y shut that shit up. The game sucked, end of story. Im tired of you weirdos saying we dont like games because a women is the main character, when we play games like Horizon, Tomb Raider, Bayonetta, Control.

[@zanis_summers8284]

X was my first and I’m almost upset I did that, because nothing else story-wise has come close. 12 is my favorite, but 10 will ALWAYS hold an extremely special place in my heart.

[@SynthVGguitarist]

Maybe I would have ranked 9 higher, but you described 12's story nearly exactly how I felt. The gameplay, limit system, hunts, locations and the atmosphere made it kind of fun. Still have yet to play anything fully below 7.

[@mieszkowrobel2274]

Dude when FF10 came out...whew life changing

[@ErekLadd]

I know right? Might not have the same impact if someone played it for the first time today but back then? Man. Amazing!

[@dlong3468]

I would drop 15 lower. The base game story was very lacking. I know they tried to correct that in DLC’s but if you release game for full price that doesn’t have a complete story… that’s a big negative for me. I personally would have 9/6 as the best. Both stories are fantastic. I would have 7 right behind them. 7 is my favorite game of all time but the story can get a little convoluted at points especially in regards to Jenova. But I do think 7 does the best job of executing the story.

[@ErekLadd]

Fair enough! I enjoyed FFXV for what it was, definitely wasn’t perfect. I’m glad they’ve added other story bits with DLC, but it should’ve been all sorted for the base game - mostly anyway. Totally agree with what you’re saying about FFVII. Probably my favorite final fantasy but the story does get a bit convoluted at times. Thanks for watching!!

[@sephirothmustdie]

I loved this ranking! I would put 9 lower and 6 a little higher because i didn't like 6 that much when i played it! I need to replay it today to see how i much i enjoy it! Awesome ranking from someone who truly cares about FF

[@TCVill]

hey this is a really good video! you gained a sub from me!

[@JMyapiliscious]

Have you played final fantasy tactics?

[@ErekLadd]

Nope not yet!! I’ve just loaded it onto my steam deck to play after I finish replaying XII. Looking forward to it!

[@jaypotter7744]

I disagree with taking the MMOs out, especially 14, which has an amazing story that I'd argue rivals many of the not MMO games. I think 4, 5, 9, 16, 7, and 10 belong where they are but I may shuffle them a bit. I hate to say though 14 would actually be my top. I haven't felt that emotionally attached to multiple story characters in the same way and imo that's what makes a story good.

[@ErekLadd]

Someone else had mentioned that in another comment. I played XIV when it first launched and thought it wasn't super great. I know since then it's had an incredible overhaul so I'm interested to jump back on and see what's what.

[@jaypotter7744]

@ErekLadd You should especially since the free trial includes 3.0 Heavensward and 4.0 Stormblood. ARR is a slog tho. Just power though you won't regret it.

[@MelaniAlarcon]

same, totally agree, and i played X and other FFs

[@glenneclipsegsx]

Well done. I’m pretty much in the camp that ff4 was the story that started my love affair and it’s a great story and I grew up playing everything through 10. I did have 25hrs into 12 but like you said the best of final fantasy is the first 10 games hands down. I’ll have to get into the newer games and give them a shot.

[@dragoonfirestorm1171]

While I can agree the newer games have more fleshed out stories than the originals, I really think FF4 has a lot more going on thematically than some of the other games and should be ranked in the top 4 for sure. It wasn't just Cecil's transformation, but the sacrifices some of the team made, the plot twists and the betrayal of Kain and how evil kept getting the upper hand.the story really hits hard.

[@zeusapollo6504]

But Cecil's path to redemption was certainly the main part, why FFIV was a great story. The only issue i had with it, was that it ended once he became that Paladin. The story was brilliant as long as he was the Dark Knight, that was the sweet spot of the story. Other characters were also interesting like Kain, Golbez and Rubicant. They were all very conflicted and not 1 dimensional.

[@Skunktrain42]

I mostly agree with these rankings. I would put 13 lower because while the first three games were basic, they were at least coherent. I'd put 9 at the top; it's simply the best.

[@ErekLadd]

Makes sense! I can't argue with 9 being higher though, such a great story and a great game!

[@ramirofernandez1765]

I agree! Specially the first part of the game, how it presents the characters and the life in Alexandria in particular, it feels really live and pure fantasy.

[@kirbymaster5]

The moment in FF4 when all the presumed dead characters come back. I thought that was so hamfisted that surely it must have been a feature exclusive to the GBA version I was playing and not reflective of the actual canon. I later learned to my dismay that I was wrong.

[@ErekLadd]

Right? Pretty much ruins the emotional impact of those moments!

[@ZEE-mu2ng]

Would like to hear your opinion on non-mainline FF story ranking too, like Type-0, the world of FF, tactics etc. Mine is Lightning return. Really feels like the end of the world. Edit: I can't enjoy the story of FFX because I already know Yuna not gonna die. The BGM in the final chapter (when player walks on the long road) to the Zanarkand scene did hit me a bit, feels like Yuna's journey (and her life) is about to end (err which she doesn't because she is still alive in X-2) Speaking of the story Also if someone mind explains, I don't understand the part when the parties decide to rescue Yuna wedding? They go there and end up as hostage. Yuna could be successfully transcending Seymour if they didn't show up.

[@MidgarsFlowerGirl]

Love your videos!!

[@ErekLadd]

Thanks!!!! Really appreciate that!!

[@mattponce3837]

The moment you put ff13 so low is when I clocked out. Goodnight

[@komlat253]

Fr . Then he but ff16 number 4 haha😂.like what ? It's a games where literally only 2 characters matter . The only not important character in 13 is saze and fang unfortunately .

[@itswillyo5]

X i agree truly is the best story ff story. Its such an amazing idea to have the main character's (Yuna) story told through the eyes of a side character. Excellent writing and an excellent tear jerking ending

[@ErekLadd]

Couldn't agree more!! Thanks for watching!

[@gamingwhilebroken2355]

FYI, Yuna is the protagonist but Tidus is the main character. The main character is the character in which the audience/player experiences the plot of the story through. The protagonist is the character that’s actions push the plot forward. It’s also not a new idea, in To Kill a Mockingbird, the protagonist is clearly Atticus, but the main character is Scout.

[@PandaBearXVI]

Interesting list and your reasonings were sensible and thought out. Personally, I'd rearrange a few things, but I found myself agreeing with most of your takes. I'd put VII at the top and IX at 2. Also, I'm glad you gave XVI the recognition it deserves! It has some great characters and a compelling story (even if it stumbles a bit near the end).

[@user-eg3zn8mc8i]

This is a great list. I personally would swap 7 and 10 but I could make a great argument for both. All FFs are great but 6, 7 and 10 are just iconic. Appreciate the love for 16 too, I loved it.

[@Justice17]

My personal list 1. Ff7 2. Ff6 3. FF10 4. FF8 5. FF4 6. FF9 7. FF15 (I think this could have been top 3 if it didn’t go through development hell) 8: FF5 9. FF2 10: FF1 (solely based off nostalgia and foundation) 11. FF3 (this is like a worse version of 1 but with more content and classes) The rest don’t matter as far as I’m concerned

[@ErekLadd]

Saddest part of the list is that you're right about 15. Could've been so much better :(

[@gonzalomigueles1598]

I am playing the XV and something makes me believe that it had bad press and today it is impossible to find someone who has played it without bias and authentically. There are a lot of complaints about the DLC and the movie, but that's no argument about the main game, in fact those materials can be ignored. I'm still going on the trip to Altissia, for now It clearly seems to me to be the best experience in final fantasy, given that the ancients reward its antiquity for its aesthetic history and setting.

[@sg4456]

When it comes to XIII, I love the characters and how they are quite human in the ways they react to what's going on around them. They don't mesh with each other right off the bat, so they argue, disagree on which actions to take, and split up when they have different paths in mind. They develop and come back together over the course of the game. It's nice to see certain dynamics like Hope/Lightning and Hope/Snow. And ah, Hope is my favorite character in the whole series because of how he grows throughout the story, and seeing him all grownup in the sequel made me so happy. But the story of XIII is definitely very convoluted, probably the most of the whole franchise (which has several convoluted stories), so I can't really fault those who don't enjoy it. Having an in-game ultimania is nice, but some of that information could have been spoonfed at some points in the story. Maybe not as lengthy exposition (because that's weird), but part of casual or intimate conversation.

[@feiitogaming]

Lol, my list looks pretty much the same, except FF7 is my No 1. 😊 Great video, Erek - really entertaining.

[@ErekLadd]

Can't go wrong with FFVII at number one!!! Out of them all it's still my favorite though! Thanks for tuning in dude :)

[@madkaiser4887]

Good list, all fair assessments for each of them. No complaints here, and with that then, RIGHTY-O 😉

[@ErekLadd]

I’ll never live it down 😂

[@4504595]

I was thinking to myself "please don't rank FF12 low and site that there isn't a solid "main" character".... oh well.

[@ErekLadd]

Sorry!!! I'm going to replay it again here to see if I might change my mind on it. Thanks for tuning in!

[@4504595]

@@ErekLadd it’s an excellent political drama… maybe deserves to be a step or two higher (in my opinion of course). I feel like a was a bit of a jerk after seeing your reply 😩😅

[@spenser9784]

⁠​⁠@@4504595 I think I would have enjoyed 12 much more if Basch had been the main character. I’ve always felt like the story drifts off a bit after Raithwall’s tomb. The game’s first act seems the strongest.

[@4504595]

@@spenser9784 I think you’re probably right about the first act being the strongest. But I don’t think seeing some of the beginning of the story through Vaan’s perspective is a bad move. If we had seen it through Basch’s viewpoint, we’d just be stuck in a cage until Vaan and crew rescue him. Given the story that they had, I think it’s told quite well and from a perspective that ties everything together nicely (plot points are revealed at the right times, etc..). I’ve always thought that it was unfair to hate on Vaan just because Basch, Balthier (or any others) are more enjoyable characters overall. And that always seems to be the criticism of 12 for some reason.

[@KasumiRINA]

@@4504595 I honestly can't tell Vann from Tidus at all, and from Zidane most of the time, they're SLIGHTLY different from Cloud, all of them are very similar Final Fantasy anime blonde bishonen protagonists with varied levels of hair spikiness)))

[@MagicMerlin688]

What about final fanrasy tactics?

[@HyouVizer]

Numbered entries only it seems, other wise including spin-offs too the vid be twice as long at least.

[@christianjadot4459]

FFT is the only "spin off" that should be ranked with the main games, it's just that good. Also the "bad guy" succeeds , if you consider him the bad guy.

[@nathanwood7660]

new sub. keep it up

[@ErekLadd]

Much appreciated, thank you!

[@danceswithchihuahuas]

Excellent list. Love, a 30 Year Fan I may have opinions that develop further than yours in directions (hard Sakaguchi effect believer) but I agree with everything you said

[@alenezi989a3]

Just how is 16 your number 4, the I don't care about the combat changes, the story is just so bad it literally doesn't commit to anything neither the story nor the characters do anything and I can't believe you rated it higher than 9 one of the best FF games.

[@ErekLadd]

Sorry! Just my opinion :)

[@alenezi989a3]

@ErekLadd yeah of course, I was just surprised XD

[@djidaane7864]

bro this dude ranked 15 above 12 and 8 lmao don't expect anything @@alenezi989a3

[@DipreG]

Absolutely love your list. I don't agree with it 100%, but I can see the reasoning behind the placements!

[@danabuu]

FFX, just hits different from other Final Fantasies. The ending has destroyed many souls and left an ocean of tears in its wake. Those words "I LOVE YOU" mi(BLOWN)nd. Dope list btw bro! My Top 5 FFs: 1. X 2. X-2 3. Xlll-2 4. Xlll 5. Xlll-3

[@MelaniAlarcon]

Man, i played many FFs, but FF14 deserves to be THE BEST story out there. The characters and villians writing is just BRILLIANT

[@justinc882]

Good list, I think 7 is too high. The story often makes little sense and is pretty meh (in my opinion) compared to other games in the series. But I get it, it stuck more for other people.

[@Sackula]

Yeah, sort of an unpopular opinion, I agree. I think the plot is a pretty cool idea, but the story itself is pretty poorly translated, so it’s kind of a weird mess. As such, 7 does very little for me, despite having super high expectations when I was younger, but 7 Remake actually vindicates me completely, and is exactly what I wanted from 7 when it originally came out.

[@justinc882]

@@Sackula Ya every game hits different for different people. I know lots that love 7 and I like it, but it's probably my 5th or 6th best in the series. For me the story was weird, i thought Cloud and Seph were mid as pro/antagonists. They look cool but that's about it for me. I think it's carried by the characters looking cool and the r34/political career of one Ms Lockheart . As for the remake, idk it hasn't clicked with me. I'm not a fan of the combat and I think I'm just kind of over FF7. They've spent so long focusing on that one game that I just don't care anymore. Kind of the same feeling I'm getting with P5 just not AS bad yet.

[@gonzalomigueles1598]

Yeah, all the possers have something to say about 7, but it plays in other leagues along with Some respect for the 6 that is close to him, and the others is debatable. To give an example, the 4th cringes and only manipulates sentimentally with false sacrifices and situations that lose all credibility, serving neither to develop Cecil as a protector and paladin nor to belittle his efforts to protect, since everyone returns in the end... The plot of the moon.... Many pieces glued together... and Nothing concrete. Although it is respected for being the first FF that brought a lot of history, but it must be left there, it is exaggerating to put that one, 5, even 6 and 8 next to 7 or X

[@gonzalomigueles1598]

​@@justinc882You shouldn't mix being a jerk with how the reception of games behaves. In 1997 you weren't even born and there wasn't that level of internet, plus magazines focused more on tricks For Lara. Croft. That you play completely dissociated is not the fault of the game, but I suppose that less dense stories cut into small pieces are more enjoyable for you, you are within your rights but It's not objective at all. 7 and X are tier S and the rest is debatable

[@justinc882]

@@gonzalomigueles1598 I'm not sure where I was being a jerk but whatever. I was born in 82 and played these games at launch. 7 is a good game that is horribly overrated. The story, pro/antagonist are better in other FF games. 6,9, x and arguable 4 (though there's wonkyness here that I agree with you on) are better games than 7. If you include tactics 7 is the 5th/6th best in the series. The problem is FF7 fanboys can't acknowledge the funkiness in the game and insist it must be the best because reasons. If you love 7 and think it's the best game ever great happy for you. But that doesn't mean everyone else has to agree

[@tteft]

Interesting rankings. Good to see you. Love the games though.

[@grimscolopendra]

Happy to see another fellow lover of FFX. Most underrated FF in my opinion.

[@Maxbeedo2]

XIII made me like XII's story (and world) more. XIII did a terrible job making you care about saving the world since you never really got to interact with it (and the characters were unlikable anyway), whereas XII's was excellent at that. Not everyone enjoys the political angle and I didn't at first either, but it holds up well. Which game does this describe?: You control one handsome noble blessed with special magical power, betrothed to a hot female love interest since childhood, whose kingdom gets conquered and their dad dies early on, who is the "chosen one" that gets dragged along by the omnipotent villain who WANTS the noble to grow in power until such time as they arbitrarily become powerful enough to kill the villain. Answer: Both XV and XVI. For that reason, I can't see any reason XVI could ever be above XV. It copies XV to an insane degree while trying to force in Game of Thrones elements and failing badly at it. You could easily argue both are wish-fulfilling teenage fanfics, where the main character is a hunky guy that is given everything for free and wins for no reason other than the villain allowing it, and thus I rank both pretty low. Your top 3 are also my top 3 though!

[@ErekLadd]

Fair points! I think I really just need to try and immerse myself in the world of XIII. My problem with games now in my older age is that I need to be in the right frame of mind to digest them. Whereas when I was a kid I'd play anything. Quite literally stars have to align now for me to settle into a game if you know what I mean! And yeah, XVI does echo XV a lot now that you say that - didn't consider prior. I just preferred the execution of the story more than XV. With XVI I couldn't wait to see what was next, whereas with XV I just kinda cruised along until the credits. Thanks for the comment!!

[@KinzuNight]

I don't know 10 for me was a massive let down after 6,7,8, and 9. 10 was the end of FF games as we knew them and every one of them since has mostly been a very straight forward linear experience. I'd place 12 higher as it is one of the best ones at building its world beyond just the characters.

[@danielramsey6141]

Thank You! This list I feel encapsulates my Feelings on the Main Series of games! As I feel FF10, FF9, FF6, FF7, FF15, and now FF16! Are some of the finest Square Games to ever hit the Consoles at the turn of the Century, from early 2000s onto now, these games leap in quality in ways I barely knew was possible! That’s especially true for 15 and 16, as these games have reached a Cinematic quality that rivals a lot of Squares early ambitious feats from their movie, Final Fantasy the Spirits Within (in name only, but the goal was still the same).

[@Not.Giuseppe]

Okay, I have to know. Define what you believe, "character development", is. Clive Rosfield never developed. Clive started out as an honest, noble knight (shield), and that persisted through the entire game, his character never developed. Do you mean buying abilities? A lot of characters buy abilities, that is not character development.

[@ErekLadd]

Clive's character development has nothing to do with buying abilities. Seeing his growth from his younger days to right up until the credits was great! From an outcast to savior. Him learning to come to grips with his calling, his reality and what is at stake when it comes to saving the world or not was pretty compelling to me anyway! He is a noble sheild for sure, but I think his embracing of being Ifrit and experiencing loss allows him to accept his fate in a way. Feel free to disagree but that's just where I'm at with it anyway. Thanks for tuning in!

[@KaminDom]

No one talks about FFVIII. It deserves a place above FFV and FFIV for sure. Maybe even higher. Why FFVIII is so unpopular?

[@ClapperSfromMOOEYBUENO]

Bro FFV beating XIII, XII, VIII means to mean you know exactly what you are talking about 😂 i came to this video like “here we go FFV is going to be rank 13” but YOU UNDERSTAND 🙏🏽😭😭

[@ErekLadd]

I absolutely LOVED FFV!!!!! Really surprised me!

[@TheGunmanChannel]

Good list Ladd

[@ErekLadd]

Thanks!!

[@Zafire063]

For me, a great story needs: World building, lore, and politics. I 100% agree that X and VII do this the best, and they would be my top two picks for story as well. There is an entire section of the game in FFX dedicated to flashbacks, and a bunch of Jecht Spheres where you can learn even more about the adventures Braska and Co. They had this guy that would give you long ass speeches about the history of the area you were in, too! FFX even has it's own sport, which is amazing, and I think it's the only game they ever tried this in. Spira really did feel like a real world, it was incredibly well done. I would have a hard time ranking X over VII though, but I agree it's definitely close, and could definitely argue that it should be. I agree with all your bottom picks too, as I didn't get much from 12 & 13 either. I honestly don't even remember the last boss battle in FF12. Some of the sidequest bosses were far more memorable. The gameplay in FFXII was actually pretty fun, but the story was forgetful. I would rank FFXVI over FFVI. I played FFVI kind-of late in life, so the story never really felt as magical as I'm sure it did for some. I'm definitely not denying it's a good story, but I don't feel it's better than XVI. So I'd just swap those. To be real though, your top four picks are the same as mine! You mostly agree with me, and I was finding myself nodding in approval as you named them off. The only thing I strongly disagree with was that FFXV was a good story. I didn't like it that much. Barely above FF12 to me. I would put FFVIII a few places higher too, as I felt the story had a solid foundation but started falling off somewhere around disc 3. Good list!

[@villacrestomas4]

Hey 13 have better story than 15!

[@lewis9s]

VII and X are easily the best stories in the series, but I love VI and IV’s plots a lot too.

[@flumreviews4691]

It's crazy to me how good the graphics on FFX were, mainly the cut scenes. I've gone back in my adult life to watch those cut scenes to make sure they were as good as I remember and to see if they hold up to modern graphics....and to be honest they really do. I can't believe how well they hold up even by today's standards.

[@mismismism]

My rankings are basically the same as this, and the statement the stories got rickety after 10 is exactly how I feel. 14 has been the only one that reached the levels of that kind of Golden age between 6 and 10 but that's an MMO so it's different. I hope 17 comes and gives us another heavy hitter, 16 seemed like a step in the right direction story wise(I'm not a fan of the combat though) so I'm rooting for them to pull out another story that hits in the 10 did for me.

[@MakoTenseii]

XIII was great. I feel like you're just repeating the journalist talking points with it.

[@ErekLadd]

Sorry! I just couldn't get into it back then and even now.

[@unclemonkey1977]

This list lost all credibility with me when you put 16 above 9.

[@ErekLadd]

Sorry!

[@Johan87577]

16 story is pretty generic too. I don’t understand how so many blindly praise it.

[@CarlosJimenez-pz1dq]

@@ErekLaddcheck your brain bro , that list was hot garbage XD

[@mdmatt2632]

I’m happy for the people who liked it but 16 for me was such a disappointment

[@alexinaboxx]

Disagree. 16’s story was phenomenal and is still with me. Just because it used genre troupes reused in other entries or media doesn’t say anything about how it was executed. It has its flaws but any FF can be torn apart by critique, especially from KZbinrs/streamers who get overhyped. I could criticize 9 all day long.

[@dakotawinston7677]

I-XII, so far I completely agree! Let’s keep this up!

[@Juggernaut561]

Have you tried or heard about FF1 Renaissance? Great fan made version worth checking out.

[@ErekLadd]

I've heard about it but not tried! I'm going to put together a video on it and my experience with it once I try it out. Thanks for watching!

[@bonanzabrandon6877]

FF7 Remake trilogy is going to need it's own spot on this list by the time everything is said and done. It's so different from the original.

[@ErekLadd]

Totally agree!

[@crimsonraen]

Thanks for the video! I definitely agree with the first few you added to the list. The top five though, are different for me. I started with 6, (as III on SNES), and it will always be my number 1. Following that are probably 7, 9, 10, 15.. I haven't played 16 yet. Never finished 12 or 13 'cause I couldn't get into them. 8 also wasn't my favorite, oh well. I did enjoy 10, but when it first came out, I was really frustrated at the complete lack of open world, and just how linear it was. Oooooh well.

[@MikeBNumba6]

FFX is my fav video game of all time. Yes it has its flaws, but no other game to this day maybe outside of Last of US got me in the feels. Plus the visuals, soundtrack, characters, setting (Zanderkand looks so cool), and moves was just awesome.

[@pitonto16]

Happy to see X in the #1 spot

[@FrancisTDM]

I liked your tier list, it's similar to mine :) My fav is FF9, but in terms of story I think FF7 and FF10 are the best (didn't play FF16 and I'm currently playing FF6)