Summary
In the years since the release of the 1987 original, theFinal Fantasy serieshas become a staple not just ofJRPGsbut of gaming as a whole. The series is marked by a particular design philosophy that unifies the games beyond the mechanical, delving deep into the realms of the thematic and visual.
Despite the disparate continuities and settings that are introduced across this expansive corpus, these games all still share a common core of ideas, extending from enemies and friends to technology and classes. In this way, Final Fantasy sets itself apart from its contemporaries to craft a unique and instantly recognizable whole.
8Cid
Need A Ride?
Whenever you play a Final Fantasy game, there’s a good chance you’ll run into a character named Cid. The original version of Cid was first introduced in 1988’s Final Fantasy 2, and since then has gone on to appear in the bulk of the franchise at large, including in remakes of the original game.
In Final Fantasy 2, Cid is an airship captain, a trait he would commonly share with his later incarnations. These disparate Cids often serve as inventors, so keep your eyes on the sky.
7Tonberry
What’s Cooking?
Originally debuting in 1992’s Final Fantasy V, the Tonberry enemy has become a staple of the franchise’s bestiary. These diminutive creatures, with their small lizard-like stature and large blank yellow eyes, will slowly advance towards your party with lantern and kitchen knife in hand.
Even though they’re visually charming, they can be quietly dangerous, so you must watch your back, because these guys pack a punch. If caught unaware, they can deal massive damage to unsuspecting party members.
6Crystals
Clear As Crystal
Nothing says “fantasy” more than giant floating crystals. Crystals are a common design element that feature in almost every Final Fantasy game, ranging from an insignificant background aesthetic to the namesake of an entire subseries, in the case of 2003’sCrystal Chronicles.
Across the series, crystals serve as conduits for the elements, as the basis for advanced Magitek technology, and as the source of myths and magic. Many of the games' plots revolve entirely around crystals, linking their fate with that of the world at large.
5Mages
Dance, Magic Dance
Magic is a staple in RPGs in general, and the Final Fantasy series is no different, where three of the character archetypes derived from the original game are the trio of Black, White, and Red Mages. Black Mages specialize in offensive spells, White Mages in healing, and Red Mages as a versatile jack of all trades.
Each of these original incarnations bears a distinct appearance that would become a staple of their respective schools. These archetypes would go on to feature in the series at large, defining how magic can be utilized by players.
4Summons
With Friends Like These
In addition to magic and physical attacks, most games in the Final Fantasy series feature the ability to summon powerful creatures in some capacity as a function of their battle system. These creatures, simply referred to as summons, first featured in Final Fantasy III and became a staple of the series' combat mechanics.
Certain specific characters will have the ability to summon forth a variety of creatures to help aid you in battle. These feature some of the most iconic and fantastical creatures of the series, such as the Garuda and Bahamut.
3Cactuar
On The Run
There is perhaps no enemy more iconic to the series than the humble Cactuar. Sporting an energetic stance, vacant eyes, and a makeshift hairdo formed by an outcropping of needles, the Cactuar was first introduced as an enemy in 1994’s Final Fantasy VI, and it’s not hard to see why they quickly became a favorite among fans.
The relatively simple silhouette renders them instantly recognizable even to those who aren’t familiar with the series, and while the designs may differ somewhat according to their appearance, the core ideas of this creature stay the same.
2Moogles
Your Friendly Companion
If there was ever a true mascot for the Final Fantasy series, you’d be hard-pressed to find one more befitting for the role than Moogles. These cuddly creatures are a longtime companion of the series, debuting in 1990’s Final Fantasy III.
Why the appeal? Perhaps it’s because, with their round, fuzzy outline, friendly demeanor, and small pink wings, the Moogle is as goofy as it is endearing, and as friendly as it is marketable. It’s no wonder why they appear so frequently.
1Chocobos
It’s Finger Lickin' Good!
Rather than horses, as are common inmost other fantasy settingsas a means of transportation, the archetypal mount of the Final Fantasy series is the iconic Chocobo. These large, typically yellow birds somewhat resemble chickens in their appearance, but don’t let that fool you.
Chocobos are invaluable companions that will dutifully ferry you across land, sea, and sky. These creatures are so popularly associated with Final Fantasy that they gained their spinoff series of entries,including racing and mobile games.
