Final Fantasy I & II: Dawn of Souls

 Game Boy Advance
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 79 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 55 out of 79
  2. Mixed: 21 out of 79
  3. Negative: 3 out of 79
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  1. gm101
    Feb 26, 2012
    10
    After some time, I decided to try out the FF games in order, so I got the first two, and I must say, I'm impressed. FF1 had some excellent RPG gameplay, while a little hard for a newcomer like me. And for its time, was truly revolutionary. Sure the plot wasn't the best, but this was done at a time when Square was about to be bankrupt, so that's forgivable. FF2, which was done after theAfter some time, I decided to try out the FF games in order, so I got the first two, and I must say, I'm impressed. FF1 had some excellent RPG gameplay, while a little hard for a newcomer like me. And for its time, was truly revolutionary. Sure the plot wasn't the best, but this was done at a time when Square was about to be bankrupt, so that's forgivable. FF2, which was done after the first Final Fantasy was a success, ended up being an even better game. Excellent plot, more excellent gameplay, and a much more balanced difficulty. I'm proud to say that I am now a Final Fantasy fan. Overall Score: 9.5, which rounds up to 10.… Expand
  2. BlogDog123
    May 25, 2011
    10
    This game is beast. I mean, you get TWO graphically enhanced versions of the first TWO Final Fantasy games? Just be prepared for a challenge; Final Fantasy is no walk in the park.
  3. TheDoodFrankWak
    Nov 29, 2017
    8
    Final Fantasy Dawn of Souls is the definitive version of the original titles. It makes everything look, sound, and feel better than the original NES version of the game. However, this version doesn't do much to fix the issues this game has had for 30 years. These are very grind heavy titles that suck a lot of the fun out of the game by making you fight wave after wave after wave afterFinal Fantasy Dawn of Souls is the definitive version of the original titles. It makes everything look, sound, and feel better than the original NES version of the game. However, this version doesn't do much to fix the issues this game has had for 30 years. These are very grind heavy titles that suck a lot of the fun out of the game by making you fight wave after wave after wave after wave... You get it. this game is well worth the time, just know you're going to go a little insane with the little fights in between dungeons and story progression. The cutscenes are a cool addition that gives the game a bit more life, though I still for the life of me can't get over the fact that the airship is just a plot device to split you off from certain sections of the world... I really wish this game had more convenience and rewarding with things like the airship. Still a good game… Expand
  4. KevinW.
    Dec 28, 2004
    0
    this game suks big time, it was easier than the old pokemon games, nentendo has robed us of 25.99$
  5. agentbinky
    Oct 5, 2020
    6
    Classic game revamped, made more tolerable by a dial-down of difficulty for the main game. All the difficulty is in the new optional dungeons, as is most of the best in slot loot. I found it quite annoying to collect!
  6. Antares_A
    Oct 31, 2018
    6
    FF 1
    Pros : Extra end game cotent with the Shrines
    Cons: Battle is unballanced and bad and elements are useless (Exept DIA).
    FF 2
    Pros: Great Story about rebeling against the Emperor and very cool progressing system
    Cons: It's very boring at the start and also most of the enemies are weak just like FF 1.
  7. DavidS.
    Dec 7, 2005
    8
    An excellent game, with great music, but the excessive random battles can be a headache. Square has done us a favor to us by reviving this classic with the ability to save anywhere.
  8. D-izzlejony
    Jan 4, 2005
    8
    The places to go are sort ove difficult to find some times.
  9. AnnS.
    Jul 29, 2005
    10
    Wonderful fun. A perfect introduction for those new to the Final Fantasy games.
  10. DanielG.
    Dec 8, 2004
    10
    Final Fantasy Dawn of Souls is an excellent game. They've upgraded the graphics and sound tweaked the game so that all the annoying flaws are absent, like when you'd select an enemy to attack and then someone else would finish them off and you would attack nothing. How long has it been since Nintendo actually had a traditional Final Fantasy game on their systems, even if it is a Final Fantasy Dawn of Souls is an excellent game. They've upgraded the graphics and sound tweaked the game so that all the annoying flaws are absent, like when you'd select an enemy to attack and then someone else would finish them off and you would attack nothing. How long has it been since Nintendo actually had a traditional Final Fantasy game on their systems, even if it is a remake. It's one of the best RPGs of all time and like the Bible of console rpging. If you've never played it, heck even if you have, go school yourself on the games that started it all. I know I'm crossing my fingers for more Final Fantasy gaming where it belongs, on the NINTENDO!… Expand
  11. AustinW.
    Jan 26, 2005
    7
    TOO many monsters.
  12. KrisK.
    Jul 21, 2006
    9
    Two games in one plus a spin-off of the second game= TONS of play time. I highly reccomend it.
  13. TtotheDubbaD.
    Dec 17, 2004
    10
    Incredible amount of fine-tuned gameplay (80+ hours), purely addictive and light years better than the over-rated golden sun games, which are derivative and uninspired. You MUST buy this if you like RPGs and own a GBA (and it looks incredible on the DS screen)
  14. KendylKlownfish
    May 1, 2011
    9
    Final Fantasy I & II: Dawn of Souls isn't the best looking port on a GBA, however, it is an excellent reboot of the two games that started it all. Pros: The GBA is far more common than the NES; excellent for quick-play value; fantastic remixed visuals and soundtrack; it's a pure, old-school turn based RPG. Cons: A lot of modern gamers will find it to be outdated.
  15. ohaiKendyl
    May 23, 2011
    9
    Final Fantasy I & II: Dawn of Souls are unfortunately, a bit dated. However, it's nice to revisit the two RPGs that started it all. Pros: Re-polished visuals, soundtrack, and features; simple, but refreshing gameplay; fantastic value. Cons: After playing tons of RPGs since the FF origins, Dawn of Souls feels a bit dated.
  16. oblivion2011
    Jul 3, 2011
    8
    Being a non-FF gamer, I feel like i would have enjoyed the original game similar to this one (with the exception of the "Soul' expansions). The "level-up" mechanics of the 2nd game were very unique and interesting to work with. And the 1st game utilizes the variety of classes, while keeping the plot untouched (and fairly good plot at that). And not as much unnecessary grinding, compared toBeing a non-FF gamer, I feel like i would have enjoyed the original game similar to this one (with the exception of the "Soul' expansions). The "level-up" mechanics of the 2nd game were very unique and interesting to work with. And the 1st game utilizes the variety of classes, while keeping the plot untouched (and fairly good plot at that). And not as much unnecessary grinding, compared to the other games.… Expand
  17. BasilZero
    Oct 10, 2012
    8
    If you haven't played Final Fantasy 1, this is your best chance as this is the best version out there. With a improved appealing appearance and design, incredible music, fantastic gameplay battle system and a whole new bunch of extras never seen before, this is the game you must get. Whether you are a old FF fan who played Dawn of Souls/Origins/Original or haven't played FF1 or a new fan,If you haven't played Final Fantasy 1, this is your best chance as this is the best version out there. With a improved appealing appearance and design, incredible music, fantastic gameplay battle system and a whole new bunch of extras never seen before, this is the game you must get. Whether you are a old FF fan who played Dawn of Souls/Origins/Original or haven't played FF1 or a new fan, this game is worth every single coin. Final Fantasy 2 Dawn of Souls is truly worth the experience. If you are a huge fan of the Final Fantasy series, this game should be played by all fans, if you are a RPG fan in general but not a huge Final Fantasy fan, take this game with caution as it is actually best suited for those who have a lot of time and patience to grind.… Expand
  18. MW1AA2Gs
    Aug 28, 2013
    9
    Two near perfect games roled into one on only one Game Boy Advance cartridge much better then having to buy them both seperatly on the Playstation Portable or IOS.
  19. sebastianali
    Sep 25, 2021
    8
    FF1 and 2 Dawn Souls are along with the PSP port, the best ways to play these titles HANDS DOWN. They introduced a lot of quality of life changes, new content, beautiful graphics, remixed soundtrack, balanced gameplay, etc... And they also bundled it with two games! So this is basically a remake of two games in one for the GBA, Very impressing i would say.
    I still prefer the PSP port for    FF1 and 2 Dawn Souls are along with the PSP port, the best ways to play these titles HANDS DOWN. They introduced a lot of quality of life changes, new content, beautiful graphics, remixed soundtrack, balanced gameplay, etc... And they also bundled it with two games! So this is basically a remake of two games in one for the GBA, Very impressing i would say.
    I still prefer the PSP port for its superior gameplay, visuals and even more content, but the GBA version is still a very special port that is worth checking out. Overall, one of the best games in the console.    … Expand
  20. Arfon
    Dec 12, 2020
    9
    Brilliant RPG games. I never played any FF game before this one, and now I'm a fan of the series! These two games are very accesible for newcomers like me, but it also has some challenges. Both stories are pretty nice, you'll have a lot of fun with these two games. Super addictive gameplay and great soundtrack. And most importantly, it has glorious GBA graphics, what else do you need?
  21. KeybladeHero_05
    Jun 29, 2023
    8
    Final Fantasy 1 & 2 for the GBA is amazing and the game I put most of my time on was FF2. The first time I've beaten FF2 was magical and I was shocked that there is a extra story mode and some small features that is only on the GBA version.

    I kinda understand on why people hate FF2 but for me, it was the best FF game of all time.
  22. Asspull
    Jul 1, 2022
    4
    I am afraid of playing retro RPG game because there is no hint to show where to go next place . FF1 is actually I talking about . totally waste of my time . I don't even what to level up , and the money had been 999 999 . the Earthgift Shrine unlock screen is very confuse . I had try try try try try .. and failed , wrong secret way
  23. Yojimbo2015
    May 5, 2023
    9
    The graphics may be a little quaint by today's standards but these games are stone cold classics of the genre and are still hugely enteratining. Add the ability to save at any point and you have an old school RPG that's perfect for portable gaming.

Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Best Game Boy Advance Game of 2004
10
#10 Most Discussed Game Boy Advance Game of 2004
19
#19 Most Shared Game Boy Advance Game of 2004

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 40 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 40
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 40
  3. Negative: 1 out of 40
  1. Weekly Famitsu
    88
    9 / 9 / 9 / 8 - 35 platinum [Vol 814; 23 July 2004]
  2. GMR Magazine
    90
    It's refreshing to look back on the genesis of the world's most popular RPG.
    Read full review
  3. GBA Central
    80
    An essential RPG purchase on the GBA. Yes the games are dated by todays standards, however, the high quality updates to the music and visuals go a long way to remedying this, and even with relatively simplistic gameplay, Final Fantasy 1 and 2 are vintage turn based RPGs at their very best.
    Read full review
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