The Final Fantasy games in order run from Final Fantasy I (1987) to Final Fantasy XVI (2023), but you do not need to play them that way. Almost every numbered entry has its own world, cast and story, so you can start with whichever one appeals to you.
The exceptions are a handful of direct sequels and the Final Fantasy VII remake project. Below you will find the full release order, the games that do connect, and the best places to start.
Final Fantasy games in release order
These are the mainline, numbered games with their original release years in Japan:
- Final Fantasy (1987)
- Final Fantasy II (1988)
- Final Fantasy III (1990)
- Final Fantasy IV (1991)
- Final Fantasy V (1992)
- Final Fantasy VI (1994)
- Final Fantasy VII (1997)
- Final Fantasy VIII (1999)
- Final Fantasy IX (2000)
- Final Fantasy X (2001)
- Final Fantasy XI (2002), an online game
- Final Fantasy XII (2006)
- Final Fantasy XIII (2009)
- Final Fantasy XIV (2010, relaunched as A Realm Reborn in 2013), an MMORPG
- Final Fantasy XV (2016)
- Final Fantasy XVI (2023)
Outside the numbered list, the series also has the Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy, spin-offs such as Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles (2025), and new standalone RPGs like Final Fantasy Resonance.
Do you need to play Final Fantasy in order?
No. Final Fantasy IV does not continue the story of III, and XVI has nothing to do with XV. What connects the series are recurring ideas rather than plot: crystals, chocobos, moogles, summons, airships and a character named Cid in almost every game. Knowing earlier entries makes those nods more fun, but it is never required to follow the story.
The Final Fantasy games that are direct sequels
Final Fantasy VII and its remake
Final Fantasy VII has its own mini-saga. The remake project retells and expands the 1997 story across three games: Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020, now sold as Remake Intergrade), Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (2024) and Final Fantasy VII Revelation, which Square Enix has announced for spring 2027 on PS5, Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S and PC. Play Remake before Rebirth. The original 1997 game and the prequel Crisis Core are optional but add context.
Final Fantasy X and X-2
Final Fantasy X-2 picks up two years after X and follows Yuna. Both are sold together in the Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster, so play X first.
The Final Fantasy XIII trilogy
Final Fantasy XIII continues in XIII-2 and ends in Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII. Play them in that order.
The best Final Fantasy to start with
- Final Fantasy X: a classic turn-based adventure with a clear structure and an easy-to-learn battle system.
- Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade: modern action-RPG combat and the series' most famous cast. Continue with Rebirth.
- Final Fantasy XVI: a mature, fully action-based story for players who prefer real-time combat.
- Final Fantasy VI Pixel Remaster: the best way to see what made the 2D era special.
- Final Fantasy IX: a warm, fairy-tale adventure that celebrates the whole series.
If you like retro pixel art but want something new, Final Fantasy Resonance is a standalone HD-2D RPG that needs no prior knowledge.
Where to play the main games (checked October 2026)
Final Fantasy I to VI are available as Pixel Remasters on PC, PS4, Switch, Xbox Series X|S and mobile. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is on PS5 and PC, and reached Switch 2 and Xbox on June 3, 2026. Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD, XII The Zodiac Age, VIII Remastered and IX are on PC and most current consoles, while XVI is on PS5 and PC. Store lineups change, so check your platform's store before buying.
Common mistakes when starting Final Fantasy
The most common is starting with a sequel, such as X-2, XIII-2 or Rebirth, which assume you know the previous game. The second is forcing yourself through Final Fantasy I and II first: they are historically important but the oldest and most basic. Start with the style you enjoy and branch out from there.
FAQ
Do I need to play Final Fantasy XI or XIV?
No. Both are online games with their own stories. If you are curious about the MMO side, read our guide on whether Final Fantasy XIV is worth playing.
Should I play the original Final Fantasy VII before the remake?
It is not required. The remake is built to be enjoyed on its own, although fans of the original will catch more of its twists.
Which Final Fantasy is the easiest for beginners?
Final Fantasy X for turn-based combat, and Final Fantasy XVI for action combat. XVI also includes accessories that simplify combat for newcomers.
