Is Final Fantasy 12 good? This question has been debated among gamers for years. Some argue that it’s one of the best Final Fantasy games ever made, while others find it to be a disappointment. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the game’s story, characters, gameplay, and more to help you decide for yourself whether or not it’s worth playing.
Final Fantasy 12 is a single-player role-playing game developed and published by Square Enix. It was released in 2006 for the PlayStation 2 and has since been ported to the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
Story and Characters
Final Fantasy 12’s story stands out from its predecessors with its intricate political plot, complex characters, and exploration of themes like war, fate, and free will. The narrative follows Vaan, a young orphan who seeks revenge for his brother’s death, and Princess Ashe, the rightful heir to the Dalmascan throne.
As they join forces to fight against the invading Archadian Empire, they uncover a web of conspiracies and alliances that shape their destiny.
The characters in Final Fantasy 12 are equally well-developed, with distinct personalities, motivations, and relationships. Vaan’s initial desire for vengeance gradually evolves into a quest for justice, while Ashe’s struggle for her kingdom reveals her strength and resilience. The supporting cast, including Balthier, Fran, and Basch, adds depth and humor to the story, creating a memorable ensemble.
Gameplay and Combat System, Is final fantasy 12 good
Final Fantasy 12 introduced a new and innovative combat system that departs from the traditional turn-based style. The Active Dimension Battle system allows players to control their characters in real-time, issuing commands while they move around the battlefield. This dynamic combat system adds a layer of strategy and requires players to adapt to changing situations.
The License Board system also provides a unique character progression mechanic. Instead of leveling up, players earn License Points that can be used to unlock new abilities, spells, and equipment for their characters. This allows for a high degree of customization and flexibility in building the party’s strengths.
World Design and Exploration
Final Fantasy 12’s world of Ivalice is vast and diverse, offering a wide range of environments to explore. From the bustling cities of Rabanastre and Bhujerba to the lush jungles of Giza Plains and the icy peaks of Mt. Bur-Omisace, the game presents a rich tapestry of landscapes and hidden secrets.
The game encourages exploration with its non-linear structure. Players are free to choose the order in which they visit locations, and many side quests and optional areas reward exploration with valuable items and character development.
Graphics and Visuals
Final Fantasy 12’s graphics were cutting-edge for its time, showcasing detailed character models, stunning environments, and impressive special effects. The game’s use of real-time cutscenes and facial animations brought the characters to life and enhanced the storytelling experience.
The game’s art style is a blend of realistic and fantasy elements, creating a unique and memorable visual experience. The character designs by Akihiko Yoshida are particularly notable, giving each character a distinct and expressive look.
Soundtrack and Audio
Final Fantasy 12’s soundtrack is a masterpiece composed by Hitoshi Sakimoto. The music seamlessly blends orchestral and electronic elements, creating a dynamic and immersive soundscape that complements the game’s themes and settings.
The voice acting in the game is also top-notch, with each character’s voice perfectly capturing their personality and emotions. The English voice cast in particular delivers standout performances, bringing depth and nuance to the characters.
Reception and Impact
Final Fantasy 12 received critical acclaim upon release, with reviewers praising its innovative gameplay, compelling story, and stunning graphics. It was nominated for numerous awards and won Game of the Year from several publications.
The game’s success solidified its place in the Final Fantasy franchise and had a significant impact on the RPG genre. Its combat system and character progression system became a model for future RPGs, and its world design and storytelling continue to inspire developers today.
FAQ Overview: Is Final Fantasy 12 Good
Is Final Fantasy 12 a good game?
Yes, Final Fantasy 12 is a good game. It has a great story, characters, and gameplay. It’s not perfect, but it’s definitely worth playing if you’re a fan of the Final Fantasy series or JRPGs in general.
What are the best things about Final Fantasy 12?
The best things about Final Fantasy 12 are its story, characters, and gameplay. The story is well-written and engaging, the characters are well-developed and relatable, and the gameplay is fun and challenging.
What are the worst things about Final Fantasy 12?
The worst things about Final Fantasy 12 are its graphics and voice acting. The graphics are dated and the voice acting is sometimes wooden.