Best Final Fantasy Game For Beginners Where To Start In The Series

The Final Fantasy series is one of the most celebrated and long-running franchises in video gaming history. Spanning over 35 years, it includes more than a dozen mainline entries, numerous spin-offs, mobile titles, and remakes. For newcomers, this breadth can be overwhelming. With no direct sequels between numbered titles—each telling a standalone story—it’s natural to wonder: where should you begin?

Unlike traditional series that require chronological playthroughs, Final Fantasy games are self-contained. This means you can jump into nearly any entry without prior knowledge. However, not all entries are equally beginner-friendly. Some feature complex mechanics, dated interfaces, or high difficulty curves that may discourage new players.

This guide identifies the most accessible entry point, explains why it stands out, and provides context for other strong starting options. Whether you're new to role-playing games (RPGs) or simply unfamiliar with the franchise, this breakdown will help you make an informed decision and enjoy the magic of Final Fantasy from day one.

Why Starting with the Right Game Matters

Choosing the right first Final Fantasy title isn’t just about enjoyment—it shapes your perception of the genre. A poorly chosen starting point can lead to frustration, confusion, or premature disengagement. Games with archaic controls, opaque progression systems, or punishing difficulty can turn off even enthusiastic players.

On the flip side, a well-designed entry introduces core RPG concepts gradually—turn-based combat, character progression, inventory management, and narrative depth—without overwhelming the player. It balances accessibility with depth, offering intuitive mechanics while still delivering emotional storytelling and strategic gameplay.

According to game designer Naoki Yoshida, producer of several modern Final Fantasy titles, “Our goal with recent entries has been to preserve the soul of the series while making it welcoming to players who may have never touched an RPG before.” This philosophy is evident in how newer games handle tutorials, user interface design, and pacing.

“We want players to feel the weight of their choices, the growth of their characters, and the beauty of the world—not struggle with outdated mechanics.” — Naoki Yoshida, Producer, Final Fantasy XIV & XVI

The Best Entry Point: Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020)

If you're asking where to start in the Final Fantasy series, the strongest answer in 2024 is Final Fantasy VII Remake. Released in 2020 for PlayStation 4 and later updated for PS5 as Rebirth, this reimagining of the 1997 classic combines nostalgic reverence with modern game design.

FFVII Remake transforms the original’s turn-based system into a dynamic, real-time hybrid combat model. Players control one character directly while issuing commands to others, blending action elements with strategic depth. The transition feels natural, even for those unfamiliar with traditional RPGs.

Beyond gameplay, the remake expands on the original’s story, characters, and world. Midgar—a sprawling cyberpunk metropolis—is rendered with cinematic detail, immersing players from the opening moments. The narrative follows Cloud Strife, a mercenary with a fragmented past, as he joins an eco-terrorist group fighting against a corrupt megacorporation draining the planet’s life force.

What makes this ideal for beginners:

• Modern controls and UI: Intuitive menus, contextual prompts, and seamless transitions between exploration and combat.
• Gradual learning curve: Mechanics are introduced incrementally through guided missions and adaptive difficulty.
• Cinematic presentation: High-quality cutscenes and voice acting enhance emotional engagement without requiring lore knowledge.
• Standalone story (so far): While part of a planned trilogy, the first game tells a complete arc within Midgar.

Tip: If you’re playing on PS5, choose the \"Assist Mode\" in settings to reduce combat complexity while learning the system.

Other Strong Options for New Players

While FFVII Remake is the top recommendation, several other entries serve as excellent starting points depending on your preferences.

Final Fantasy X (2001, Remastered 2013–2015)

A longtime favorite among fans and critics alike, Final Fantasy X offers a tightly written narrative centered on Tidus, a star athlete transported to the mystical world of Spira. The game features voice acting throughout—a rarity at the time—and a deeply personal story involving faith, loss, and destiny.

Mechanically, it uses the Conditional Turn-Based Battle (CTB) system, which displays enemy and ally actions in a timeline, allowing players to plan accordingly. The sphere grid progression system replaces traditional leveling, letting players customize character growth.

Available on multiple platforms including PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox, its HD remaster ensures visual clarity and quality-of-life improvements.

Final Fantasy XV (2016)

Originally conceived as Final Fantasy Versus XIII, this title reimagines the series with a road-trip structure, focusing on camaraderie between four young men traveling across a vast open world. Its real-time combat, vehicle traversal, camping mechanics, and day-night cycle create a sense of lived-in realism.

Though criticized for uneven pacing and incomplete content at launch, post-launch updates and the DLC Episode series fleshed out key character arcs. The Royal Edition and Windows port include all expansions, making it a more cohesive experience today.

Best suited for players who enjoy exploration, character bonding, and action-oriented combat.

Final Fantasy XIV (2010, relaunched 2013)

The only massively multiplayer online RPG (MMORPG) in the series, Final Fantasy XIV might seem intimidating at first. But thanks to its exceptional narrative integration and free trial that grants access to all content up to level 60 and the first expansion, it's surprisingly approachable.

The base campaign (A Realm Reborn) begins with a customizable adventurer caught in a political and magical upheaval. What sets it apart is the quality of its writing—widely considered some of the best in any MMO. Quests aren’t just fetch tasks; they advance meaningful subplots and worldbuilding.

With regular updates, live events, and cross-platform play (PC, Mac, PS4/PS5), it offers ongoing content. However, it requires a subscription after the trial—something to consider if you prefer one-time purchases.

Comparison Table: Beginner-Friendly Final Fantasy Titles

Game	Combat Style	Platform Availability	Story Focus	Beginner Score (1–5)
Final Fantasy VII Remake	Action-RPG Hybrid	PS4, PS5	Eco-dystopia, identity	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Final Fantasy X	Turn-Based (CTB)	PS4, Switch, PC, Xbox	Tragedy, religion, love	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Final Fantasy XV	Action-Oriented	PS4, Xbox One, PC	Bonding, legacy, brotherhood	⭐⭐⭐★☆
Final Fantasy XIV	MMO Real-Time	PC, Mac, PS4/PS5	Politics, war, hope	⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Final Fantasy IX	Traditional Turn-Based	PS4, Switch, PC, Mobile	Fantasy, nostalgia, mortality	⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Games to Approach Later

Some entries, while critically acclaimed, are less ideal as starting points due to complexity, pacing, or dated design.

• Final Fantasy VI (1994): Despite being hailed by many as the greatest in the series, its minimal hand-holding and large cast can be daunting for newcomers.
• Final Fantasy XII (2006): Features the intricate License Board and Gambit system, which automate party behavior but require investment to master.
• Final Fantasy XIII (2009): Linear early sections and slow power progression frustrated some players, though its combat system is deep and rewarding later on.

These are worth revisiting once you’ve built familiarity with RPG mechanics and the series’ tone.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Begin Your Final Fantasy Journey

1. Assess your platform: Determine which console or PC setup you own. Most modern entries are available across multiple systems, but exclusivity applies to FFVII Remake (PlayStation-first).
2. Choose your starting title: Based on your preference—cinematic story (VII Remake), emotional depth (X), open-world travel (XV), or ongoing community (XIV)—select one entry.
3. Enable tutorial hints: Don’t skip explanations. Modern games allow you to re-read logs and combat guides at any time.
4. Play at your pace: RPGs reward patience. Take breaks, explore side content, and let the story breathe.
5. Join a community: Reddit forums like r/FinalFantasy or Discord servers offer spoiler-free advice and fan insights.

Tip: Save frequently and use multiple slots. Many games allow New Game Plus, letting you carry over progress after completion.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Introduction to Final Fantasy

Sarah, a casual gamer who mostly played puzzle and indie titles, had always avoided RPGs, assuming they were too complex. After hearing friends praise Final Fantasy X, she borrowed her partner’s PS4 and started playing.

Initially hesitant during the first few hours in Zanarkand, she found the voice acting and music compelling enough to continue. By the time she reached the desert city of Al Bhed, she was invested in Tidus and Yuna’s relationship. She used the in-game hints to navigate the sphere grid and gradually understood how abilities unlocked.

She completed the game in six weeks, often playing in two-hour sessions. “I didn’t realize a video game could make me cry,” she said. “Now I’m looking into XIII because my friend says the story gets even deeper.”

Sarah’s experience shows that the right entry can transform skepticism into passion—even for those outside the typical RPG audience.

FAQ: Common Questions from New Players

Do I need to play the games in order?

No. Each mainline Final Fantasy game features a standalone story, unique world, and independent characters. There are recurring elements—like chocobos, moogles, and Cid—but these are Easter eggs, not requirements.

Is Final Fantasy VII Remake the same as the original?

It’s a reimagining. The first game covers roughly the first quarter of the original’s plot but expands it significantly with new characters, locations, and lore. It’s designed to be accessible whether or not you’ve played the 1997 version.

Can I play Final Fantasy games on PC?

Yes. Most modern entries—including X, XIII Trilogy, XIV, XV, and VII Remake Intergrade—are available on Steam or Square Enix’s store. Final Fantasy XIV is especially robust on PC with superior graphics and mod support.

Conclusion: Start Where You Feel Drawn

The best Final Fantasy game for beginners is ultimately the one that resonates with you personally. While Final Fantasy VII Remake offers the most polished, modern entry, others may find deeper connection with the heartfelt journey of Final Fantasy X or the evolving world of Final Fantasy XIV.

What matters most is taking the first step. These games are not just about stats and battles—they’re about human stories, moral dilemmas, and worlds rich with imagination. They invite reflection, empathy, and wonder.

💬 Ready to begin your journey? Pick a title, press start, and discover why millions have fallen in love with Final Fantasy. Share your first impressions or ask for advice in the comments below—we’re all adventurers here.