FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is the best iteration of Final Fantasy Tactics yet. Its phenomenally creative job system, engaging gameplay, and gripping storytelling make it top of the list for anyone wanting a good strategic RPG. Best yet, it perfectly encapsulates what TRPGs should be, even with its handful of quirks.

If you recognize Final Fantasy Tactics - The Ivalice Chronicles as a labor of love, and the result of a desire to perfect an already formidable RPG, this release is a major achievement. It's not definitive, but there's no question that it's the best way to experience a seminal title in the tactics genre. Certainly, it could have opted for more graphically impressive visuals, but it opts for faithful over brave--classic over contemporary. And I'm good with that. The job class system remains a standout, and the plot–as heavy as it is–stands as one for the ages. There is no better time to hop on a Chocobo, and delve into an RPG of and for history. One of the most replayable Square Enix games has never been more worthy of the title.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is basically the dream remaster I’ve always wanted for the game. I’m sad it couldn’t be the perfect version for everyone, but what is here makes it certainly the perfect version for me. Everything I cherish in my favorite strategy game is better than ever, and I’m so happy to see them do justice to it. What was truly so important for me, though, is for Ivalice Chronicles to be able to deliver this game’s thematically dense narrative for modern audiences. Tactics was always a raw reflection of our real world and politics, and I’m glad Ivalice Chronicle feels like it has met the moment. I’ve spent years feeling that I’ve been unable to properly convey why this game is so special to me. Even now, I’m left with the feeling that there’s just so much more to say to do the game justice. I can only hope that this problem will infect a whole new generation of people who fall in love with Ivalice Chronicles.

Yes, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles cuts content from the War of the Lions version, and it's a shame. However, put this one issue aside, if you can, and you've got a fantastic — and fantastically thoughtful — revamp otherwise. Meaningful QoL changes meld with delicate gameplay nips and tucks, CPU enemy tune-ups, and a smoother-flowing experience overall to deliver a game that's pretty much impossible to knock. Fans will be fully absorbed into the story all over again, enjoying the new flow of the narrative and experiencing the whole thing so wonderfully well-acted. Newcomers, who're less likely to be bothered by the missing content, well, they can just get busy lapping up one of the all-time great tactical RPGs looking and playing better than ever.

Final Fantasy Tactics is still the brilliant tactical role-playing game I thoroughly enjoyed playing at the end of the ‘90s. This new and updated HD remaster in the form of The Ivalice Chronicles is a welcome addition, especially for newer players, but it’s the original game that makes this collection so very special.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is a masterful remake that captures everything fans loved about the 1997 classic while modernizing it for today. With richly written characters, deep political intrigue, and addictive turn-based combat enhanced by smart quality-of-life improvements, it’s a strategy RPG that feels timeless. The dual option to play the original or the upgraded version, plus vibrant visuals and voice acting, make this the definitive way to experience Ivalice. A few omissions from War of the Lions are noticeable, but they don’t stop this from being one of the best tactical RPG revivals to date.

Even if you're not familiar with tactical RPGs, The Ivalice Chronicles will draw you in. The battle system remains at the top of its class; the new interface and voice acting bring this classic experience into 2025.

This is the best way for newcomers to experience the game for the first time, or for longtime fans to enjoy it all over again. It’s worth noting that the War of the Lions version is still available on PS Vita as well as on Android and iOS devices. Unfortunately, the price is still quite steep on those platforms, so waiting for a discount on The Ivalice Chronicles might be the best way to play Tactics nowadays.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles brings the granddaddy of tactics to a whole new audience, and it's still bloody brilliant.

A remaster that knows exactly what it’s doing and who it’s for. Fans of the original game will find enough improvements and new features here to justify returning to explore Ivalice, while newcomers who’ve never experienced the title now have the best possible opportunity to discover one of the greatest benchmarks in the tactical genre.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles Review – The classic tactical RPG returns with modern visuals, refined strategy, and rich storytelling.

The core of Ivalice Chronicles holds up well despite its origins being almost three decades old. The protracted conversations in which the player is merely a listener will not be to everyone’s taste but they contain enough hooks to carry you to the next taxing battle.

Experience anew the tactical RPG masterpiece with enhanced visuals, voice acting, and epic battles. Lead your army through the rich world of Ivalice.