I could write a million essays about Final Fantasy: Tactics. In addition to having one of the best stories of a Final Fantasy game (think Game of Thrones-style politics with more magic), it’s also one of the best examples of game mechanics that could stand entirely on their own. With such a simplistic yet detailed, watercolor-esque aesthetic, battles play out like extended chess matches with RPG mechanics stringing them together. Movement, preparation, even directional facing of each of the many units in the game are absolutely crucial to success in this game. Many games have attempted to recreate the tightly-paced dance that is the average battle in Tactics, but few have succeeded outside of its sequels.
Advertisements