Final Fantasy VIII

 PlayStation
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1236 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,043 out of 1236
  2. Mixed: 119 out of 1236
  3. Negative: 74 out of 1236
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  1. OwtDaft
    May 10, 2018
    10
    + This is the best game ever made...
    + The story is very epic and has some really exciting moments in the story.
    + The characters have a lot of depth and develop a lot as the game progresses. + Squall starts off been very distant and quiet, you hear his thoughts and concerns and he grows. + Squall is often referred to as 'emo' but Squall isn't loud and whiny at all and is quite the    + This is the best game ever made...
    + The story is very epic and has some really exciting moments in the story.
    + The characters have a lot of depth and develop a lot as the game progresses.
    + Squall starts off been very distant and quiet, you hear his thoughts and concerns and he grows.
    + Squall is often referred to as 'emo' but Squall isn't loud and whiny at all and is quite the opposite.
    + FFVIII is one of the harder Final Fantasy games while at the same time isn't grind heavy.
    + The junction system is very complex and customizable and adds a lot of depth.
    - Magic is consumable. Though it's a necessary function of the junction system, it's not ideal.
    - You have to be aware of how to get the summons before hand as you can miss them.    … Expand
  2. DarkFlamesZM
    Feb 14, 2013
    9
    The story is pretty straight-forward. Unlike other FF games, there is no real good and/or evil. There are just two sides. It had many plotholes, sure, but it was entertaining... until disc 4... then the story really began to hurt my head. Anyway, get an emulator or a PS and give this game a shot, it's worth your time!
  3. Terikan
    Nov 20, 2014
    10
    If Final Fantasy 7 was one for the kids, FF8 was by contrast a story for the adults. The use of different time periods all converging together was something that cinema is still trying to replicate today, 15 years later. Just look at Interstellar. The concepts, themes, dialogue, and character design are all much superior in FF8 than in any other game in the series from 1 all the wayIf Final Fantasy 7 was one for the kids, FF8 was by contrast a story for the adults. The use of different time periods all converging together was something that cinema is still trying to replicate today, 15 years later. Just look at Interstellar. The concepts, themes, dialogue, and character design are all much superior in FF8 than in any other game in the series from 1 all the way until 12 where it was slightly outdone in certain areas.

    Perhaps inferior in certain munchkin gameplay areas, and an absence of overpowering combos, it was really only 7 and 12, and perhaps 9 that allowed sheer craziness in terms of power. I will however still concede that there are moments in several other franchise entries that are simply more fun to play through than in 8.

    The graphics at the time were light years ahead of where 7 was, and it featured a much more immersive world experience. Now the first playstation's 3D graphics look rather bad without extreme AA and other post-effects, but at the time it was amazing. And it's cutscenes were better than any other media form at the time could replicate. I could watch the intro over and over again and not get tired.

    The music of Final Fantasy 8 is the best in the series. There's no room for argument here, it simply is. Admittedly it falls short in energized boss music, but the rest of it is top notch.

    At the time of it's release, the genre was defined by 7. It's demographic was "all those who loved 7". So when that audience was exposed to something so different as 8 was, it was jarring and somewhat wasted on those gamers. It wasn't 7, so it wasn't as good. Most of those gamers never played 6, and most of them would never see any FF as good as 7. And at the time, the trend was the Japanese personalities, cliches, art style, dialogue, convoluted plot, etc. It's understandable that people would like 8 less. It simply wasn't trendy enough. But looking back as older adults, it's clear that it is a better game in many ways. It's graphics, story, characters, all hold up better with it's age than many other games in the series.

    Let's just talk story for a moment. Japanese games are notorious for making no sense and then having you fight in outer space at the end against a monster that has several phases, each crazier than the last. If you love that sort of stuff, great. But for the rest of us, a story that made sense, yet was still deep and full of intrigue, is and was a breath of fresh air. Outside of time-compression hanky panky near the end (which is still mild compared to weirdness in FF10 and FF7), it all makes sense without just being plain weird. Let's face it, even after crisis core, (which parts of it contradict things in ff7), 7's story in regards to cloud still don't really add up. And in 10, he's just a dream? What?

    Right now, there's forum posts full of people arguing back and forth about what actually happened in various FF games. Not so much with 8, and that is an accomplishment in the series.    … Expand
  4. Runa
    Apr 25, 2013
    10
    If the name of this game not be FF8. He can have better critics. Is a nice game and i really like it. The music, character, history... Is the best FF for me with the IX.
  5. Infielozo
    Oct 29, 2013
    8
    Aside from the obvious attempts at character duplication, this game was entertaining enough to keep you going, the story is not the best out there, but it does the Final Fantasy legacy justice. The mini game involving cards is very addictive, unfortunately it eventually becomes tedious with rule changes in different regions until you no longer care for it. The game felt messy at times,Aside from the obvious attempts at character duplication, this game was entertaining enough to keep you going, the story is not the best out there, but it does the Final Fantasy legacy justice. The mini game involving cards is very addictive, unfortunately it eventually becomes tedious with rule changes in different regions until you no longer care for it. The game felt messy at times, direction-wise and the battle system is a little annoying in certain areas, but overall it does great, so this is one to definitely try out.… Expand
  6. Kiatoto
    Dec 27, 2013
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Oh boy, This game... I remember back when I was young.
    When I was 3 my first game was FFVII and FFVIII, what Can I say about this childhood experience? Great! I love this game and everything about it. But, as a great game it does have some flaws.
    1. The Junction is very confusing, but at the mean time you'll get used to it.
    2) the Magic, since I played VII alot, this magic system and the draw system, is too easy, but hey that's my opinion.
    3)You need at least 1,000 exp to go to the next level, it's easy, but it's a pain if you need to level up the weak ones.
    4)once it's done it's done.

    But other than that, This is Impressive, and a Amazing RPG game, the story line is beautiful, and added some romance into it. The game is long as hell and you'll be playing it for at least 100-200 hours to beat it. And the Graphics are amazing for a PS1.Defentely an Amazing game, but VII is 35% better than VIII.    … Expand
  7. banda89
    Dec 31, 2014
    8
    The first FF that I played was this one, and to this day it's the most frustrating one, tedious as all hell, having to draw and create your own magic, it's music is not as good as other FF games but it has it good tracks.
    Story wise it's great, mind you it has some moments when you say REALLY!!! the whole GF mind erasing thing. But the characters are likeable, even Emo Squall, but what    The first FF that I played was this one, and to this day it's the most frustrating one, tedious as all hell, having to draw and create your own magic, it's music is not as good as other FF games but it has it good tracks.
    Story wise it's great, mind you it has some moments when you say REALLY!!! the whole GF mind erasing thing. But the characters are likeable, even Emo Squall, but what makes the story good it's the character development, you see everyone devolop, specially Squallwho evolves from this emo, introverted kid to a respectable and likeable leader who just wants to be with and protect the ones he loves.

    Junction system sucks, don't try to convince me that it's actually good once you get the hang of it, it's not going to happen. And once you understand it, it's OP as f#@K, but I ask myself this question why complicate things, when a simple equip menu would be more efficient (FF IX anyone?) It's more challenging than any of the other PS final fantasies and that's good, IMO VII and IX where a little too easy.    … Expand
  8. Noin007
    Jan 4, 2015
    8
    After VII, I've spent more time playing VIII than any other Final Fantasy. But, it's not a perfect game. A few of the characters are quite obnoxious, the card game... **** the card game. And the magic system is one of the worst in a Final Fantasy title.
    If you're a JRPG lover or Final Fantasy lover this is a must have.
  9. Ryndael
    Jan 4, 2015
    8
    Overall this is my favorite FF in the series.

    Story: 9 - One of the only storylines involving time manipulation that I haven't found multiple plotholes in. Characters: 6 - Squall is my favorite character of any RPG thus far, but the other five playable characters don't have much depth at all other than Rinoa. This is a story about Squall and Rinoa mainly, so the others get pushed    Overall this is my favorite FF in the series.

    Story: 9 - One of the only storylines involving time manipulation that I haven't found multiple plotholes in.

    Characters: 6 - Squall is my favorite character of any RPG thus far, but the other five playable characters don't have much depth at all other than Rinoa. This is a story about Squall and Rinoa mainly, so the others get pushed aside.

    Music: 10 - Some of the best music I've ever heard, favorites would be Man with the Machine Gun and Force Your Way.

    Battle: 7 - The junction system is pretty deep, but it's very tedious having to draw magic from everything. I like that the monsters level up with you, since that means you never have to spend time grinding and can just run through the game if you want.

    Depth: 8 - plenty of sidequests to do, and they all provide more depth to the world in general via backstories and wrapping up some minor plotlines. Also I found the card game a really fun distraction. The card game can provide some really major power boosts too by turning cards into Magic.    … Expand
  10. 6oni
    Oct 15, 2018
    9
    (N)
    i like the concept of GF but It is rare that you are the only one who looks for them and finds
    only squall and d witches have a good design I dont like dat enemies hav infinite magic infinite enemies takes away realism too easy u cant skip summons cutscenes wixth its make d batles anoying(even in his time) nd d summons make a ridiculous damage as in all FFs contradictions nd    (N)
    i like the concept of GF but It is rare that you are the only one who looks for them and finds
    only squall and d witches have a good design
    I dont like dat enemies hav infinite magic
    infinite enemies takes away realism
    too easy
    u cant skip summons cutscenes wixth its make d batles anoying(even in his time)
    nd d summons make a ridiculous damage as in all FFs
    contradictions nd lame quests
    (+)
    step counter
    every 100 hours change the color of time
    gunblade absurd and cool at the same time
    music ,art, color palette
    limits are more interactive    … Expand
  11. Kezian
    Jul 30, 2019
    9
    Final Fantasy VIII is a great game ! Not as much as the previous one tough.
  12. BasilZero
    Jul 26, 2016
    9
    Game: Final Fantasy VIII
    Genre: RPG
    Publisher/Developer: Squareenix/Squaresoft System: Playstation (PSX) Total Score: 88/100 Value Score: 8.8/10 • Story: 10/10 • Characters: 10/10 • GamePlay: 7/10 • Graphics: 8/10 • Sound: 9/10 • Music: 10/10 • Length: 10/10 • Replay Value: 6/10 • Player Value: 8/10 Pros +Great story, setting and characters +Unique battle system that    Game: Final Fantasy VIII
    Genre: RPG
    Publisher/Developer: Squareenix/Squaresoft
    System: Playstation (PSX)
    Total Score: 88/100
    Value Score: 8.8/10

    • Story: 10/10
    • Characters: 10/10
    • GamePlay: 7/10
    • Graphics: 8/10
    • Sound: 9/10
    • Music: 10/10
    • Length: 10/10
    • Replay Value: 6/10
    • Player Value: 8/10

    Pros
    +Great story, setting and characters
    +Unique battle system that brings forth challenge/difficulty that still makes it fun to play without getting frustrated
    +A Card battling mini game which can be played against different characters throughout the game

    Cons
    -Junction system may make people not want to use magic spells so to a certain extent takes away one aspect that many people love about the FF series
    -Quick Time Events (QTEs) which can be annoying at a few points in the game
    -Some cutscenes are done with the in-game sprites/visual which makes it look out of place
    -Enemies scale in level depending on party lv average
    -You upgrade equipment by trading items which can at times be annoying to find and end up being fetch quests
    -You have to complete certain conditions or do a multiple answer test to increase your ranking to make money/gil instead of the traditional fight enemies and win money method    … Expand
  13. iKen
    Apr 13, 2020
    9
    Played on PlayStation.
    Gameplay: GREAT.
    Story: GREAT.
    Graphic: GREAT.
    Music/Sound: GREAT.
    Dialogue: GREAT.
  14. KingDevil999
    Feb 19, 2017
    9
    The final fantasy with the protagonist i like the most, Squall is one of the best protagonists in the final fantasy series, he is way better than Tidus, better than Zidane(still like Zidane a lot) in a way and pretty much equal to cloud, the party is also memorable whoever i think if there were more humanoid characters like VII and IX would have been better, but still an epic story withThe final fantasy with the protagonist i like the most, Squall is one of the best protagonists in the final fantasy series, he is way better than Tidus, better than Zidane(still like Zidane a lot) in a way and pretty much equal to cloud, the party is also memorable whoever i think if there were more humanoid characters like VII and IX would have been better, but still an epic story with many memorable moments, one of the gems of the PS1 era, i personally think the two characters that fell flat were Rinoa and Seifer, Rinoa could have been an better heroine and Seifer is an boring character that i don't know why he is in the story to tell the truth, if you like classic JRPGS and Sci-fi with military settings, this is your game.
    Also want to thanks square for actually removing the supposed ''love triangle'' that was originally meant to be in the game, it would only bring the story down, wouldn't help at all and likely be boring to watch    … Expand
  15. Andante
    Jul 7, 2022
    10
    One of the best games ever created by man and possibly my all time favourite game soundtrack. I consider this game a diamond, a piece of genius
  16. Ardalan1
    Jan 26, 2023
    10
    Such an amazing game. The story, characters, world, music, and gameplay. It all works perfectly and I didn't even notice that I have spent 100 hours on this game. 100% recommend it.
  17. Kai82
    Nov 8, 2020
    8
    A good RPG that I enjoyed but has also much stuff that I hate. The prequel Final Fantasy 7 was a huge commercial success and also by fan acclaim so we all were curious what to expect next. Square did not play it safe and made many innovations except from the core turn based style. It is set in a different world and follows Squall Leonhart. He is a trainee in Balamb Garden were he isA good RPG that I enjoyed but has also much stuff that I hate. The prequel Final Fantasy 7 was a huge commercial success and also by fan acclaim so we all were curious what to expect next. Square did not play it safe and made many innovations except from the core turn based style. It is set in a different world and follows Squall Leonhart. He is a trainee in Balamb Garden were he is trained to be a SEED (=Mercenary / Agent / Soldier / Hired Hand / Problem Solver chose one if you like as there is an overlap). The beginning or introduction is his graduation exam. It is also the story of his classmates as they are drawn into something that will escalate into a far greater conflict and can change the world. It has political plots, power-struggles and the characters have much to endure or solve. The story itself is engaging and has some good twists but also some really bad ones. Same goes with concepts and ideas used in this game. Some are awesome and really interesting while others fail. It uses Guardian Forces (GF) a character can equip. These grant him/her powers like summoning them (You will do this very very often) access to abilities like draw (collect magic spells from enemies), use these as magic spells and link spells to stats to improve them, gain resistance or the spell effect at attacking. On paper this sounds interesting and it is so. However this has its limit. It takes forever to get the max number of spells especially early on and if you use linked spells you decrease your stats (Can later use an ability to transform some items into spells but it does not help much). The GF work well and level up, gaining new abilities and skills for you. There are some great combinations and later you can use items to forget and add new abilities. There are of cause some hidden once and you must draw some from enemies (boss battles) that can be missed. The GF are basically your only efficient method of dealing damage until you can raise your stats. Even the previous almighty Ultima spell is not that strong here. Also while I am at it. The game levels your enemies with your progress. You can actually get weaker by leveling up. If I would play the game again I would try to stay at the lowest possible level because linking spells to your stats gives a bigger bonus than leveling up in relation. You can do this with an ability that prevents random encounters and by transforming enemies into cards (Quetzalcoatl a GF you have at the beginning can learn it at the start of the game). An alternative would be to learn GF abilities that increase your stats at level up. I did this with 4 abilities onto a single character separately (Other party members were knocked out to not waste the level up bonus for them). While the later gives you huge advantages it is still weaker than a level 15 character with strong spells linked to the stats. Then there is a card game as side activity. I really enjoyed it and the struggle to get the best cards (GF and characters). However the rules can change from region to region and some are terrible. The random hand weakens you as your cards are chosen random and the plus rule destroys your numerical advantage but can also help you to humiliate much stronger opponents. Like I said the game is great but some ideas are not done well in all areas. Also you don't earn money through defeating enemies directly. You are an employee of Balamb Garden and get a salary. You can improve it by fighting many battles, tests or finishing some quests. I is difficult to stay at low level by avoiding fights and get a huge salary (decreases with no battles / too less fighting). While I am at it I give you some more advice. You get an item at graduation and should safe before you open it! Leveling up and linking abilities are critical as described above and I advice staying at a low level. Read a FAQ for missable content as some GF are missable. Use spells for linking that you do not use. Also you can increase the summoning damage by button pressing (Many overlooked this learnable feature). Back to the game. The graphics have improved drastically from the prequel and the soundtrack is great. I like the intro but must say that the “Eyes on me“ song gets repetitive after a while. I will also warn you about the protagonist. He is somehow socially awkward and you will often be annoyed by his behavior. However I enjoy his and Rinoas story;-). Overall this is a great game that hits more than it misses. I can argue that for everything it did well it added also something bad. Not the best Final Fantasy and not the worst. Liked many ideas that were never used again in follow up games. Try it if you like but be warned.… Expand
  18. evokings
    Apr 7, 2019
    10
    this game was awesome back in the day, wish they would remake it with modern graphics and all vary entertaining I loved the story, the music, and for the day the graphics were really nice, and some of it even holds up today, mainly the cut-scenes, but I have fond memories of this game.
  19. SalemSlade
    Apr 30, 2021
    10
    A lot of people missed the point of this game which is life is morally grey. Everyone wanted a stereotypical badguy you follow throughout as the hero.. Instead the badguy shifts and changes given the situation. Even goodguys become badguys. The point is to question authority, motivations, dogma, even memory to become better instead of being a complete tool and regretting it.
  20. EpicLadySponge
    Apr 24, 2016
    9
    It's games like these you have to keep looking aware of and because this is the first game I gave a Final Fantasy game a score that's not a 10, it's going to be different but this is unique like the other installments subsequent to this game.
  21. perkjl
    Jan 4, 2016
    8
    Highly underrated in my opinion. The battle system sticks out from the other FF entries and tries to do something a little more original than the traditional FF norm. It has it's flaws, but overall good. The world feels a bit more cheerful and not so depressing compared to FFVII's Midgar. Also, the visuals are some of the best on PSX, especially the blending of FMV's during gameplay. VeryHighly underrated in my opinion. The battle system sticks out from the other FF entries and tries to do something a little more original than the traditional FF norm. It has it's flaws, but overall good. The world feels a bit more cheerful and not so depressing compared to FFVII's Midgar. Also, the visuals are some of the best on PSX, especially the blending of FMV's during gameplay. Very cool! Underrated music and game in general.… Expand
  22. Barnes1987
    Mar 19, 2017
    9
    Quality game that will keep you going for weeks. One of the best Final Fantasy games with a step up in graphics from the previous game. Well worth a play through if you have the original Playstation.
  23. Sha2n
    May 9, 2023
    10
    A unique work, one of the best to date. This game will definitely enter the top, created by a diverse, experienced, versatile and not envious gamer. A legend for a real dreamer. From Gabranth with Love.
  24. GamecubeLover
    Aug 3, 2016
    10
    I played this game and has amazing visuals and one of the best gameplay mechanics ever seen. Final Fantasy is my 5th favorite video game series and for good reasons.
  25. iandbz1
    Nov 30, 2016
    10
    MY #1 favourite game of all time! Honestly I cannot get enough of this. It was the first Final Fantasy I played so yes I am always going to be a bit nostalgic. even after this long, I completely enjoy it any time I set it up for another run through of it. For a PS! game I was stunned with the graphics. Those summons looked so good and still hold up well today. Yes I know it may be a bitMY #1 favourite game of all time! Honestly I cannot get enough of this. It was the first Final Fantasy I played so yes I am always going to be a bit nostalgic. even after this long, I completely enjoy it any time I set it up for another run through of it. For a PS! game I was stunned with the graphics. Those summons looked so good and still hold up well today. Yes I know it may be a bit harder than some games to get your head around at first, but if you do and let that happen, it is a mesmerising gaming experience. Yes 7 was more popular and it is a great game too, so are many of the others, but 8 is often overlooked. If you give this a chance it is hard not to see the appeal of this game. Think it is time I start another run through of this now!… Expand
  26. Lime_Lioness_
    Jan 15, 2017
    9
    FFVIII has a Solid story line with the most realistically written cast of characters of the series.
    The Battle and Leveling systems, The Draw and Junction systems. are easy to take advantage of and can be easy to make your party very over powered early in the game.
    The graphics and Music are phenomenal with characters designed by Tetsuya Nomura and amazing composed soundtrack by Nubuo    FFVIII has a Solid story line with the most realistically written cast of characters of the series.
    The Battle and Leveling systems, The Draw and Junction systems. are easy to take advantage of and can be easy to make your party very over powered early in the game.

    The graphics and Music are phenomenal with characters designed by Tetsuya Nomura and amazing composed soundtrack by Nubuo Uemetsu. FFVIII makes a unforgettable journey that will positively stick with you for your money's worth in a good classic.

    While for Hardcore fans the realistic art styles and feel of the game's cast may have been a turn from FFVII
    Final Fantasy VIII offers more interaction with the cast and makes sure no one is left out of the story.

    The game play may confuse some at first but as said before it becomes much easier and much more addictive.    … Expand
  27. GreenSkullRider
    Jan 29, 2017
    10
    Mientras el mundo alaba lo que fue final fantasy 7 terminan omitiendo lo que significo final fantasy 8. para mi y muchos el mejor Final Fantasy de todos los tiempos, la historia de Squall, Rinoa, Zell, Irvine, Quistis, Selfie, Laguna, Seifer, etc etc es una oda grandiosa a las grandes novelas, una historia apasionante, de amor, venganza, olvido, de todo. las cinematicas de los G.F. SonMientras el mundo alaba lo que fue final fantasy 7 terminan omitiendo lo que significo final fantasy 8. para mi y muchos el mejor Final Fantasy de todos los tiempos, la historia de Squall, Rinoa, Zell, Irvine, Quistis, Selfie, Laguna, Seifer, etc etc es una oda grandiosa a las grandes novelas, una historia apasionante, de amor, venganza, olvido, de todo. las cinematicas de los G.F. Son brutales, o acaso alguien ha olvidado a Diablo? no. un juego que necesita un remake para que las nuevas generaciones disfruten de la mejor aventura de Square.… Expand
  28. marcelus
    Mar 17, 2017
    9
    As VII even as VI. You got to respect this was generational one of the Final Fantasy games that made people get interested in the franchise back in 1999. I played this game back then in Japanese all the way through CD4 then in english and then in spanish. The game protagonist may not be the best but the ride is full of lovely NPC's, the world is very beaituful and it has one of the bestAs VII even as VI. You got to respect this was generational one of the Final Fantasy games that made people get interested in the franchise back in 1999. I played this game back then in Japanese all the way through CD4 then in english and then in spanish. The game protagonist may not be the best but the ride is full of lovely NPC's, the world is very beaituful and it has one of the best Soundtracks on the whole FF story. Told even by people who didn't like it as an RPG much.… Expand
  29. mugsy
    May 9, 2020
    9
    Better than FF7 for me. It was a huge graphical leap and characters actually looked like real people which adds to the immersion unlike the LEGO figures from FF7
  30. Orcman66
    Jul 13, 2017
    10
    As an RPG lover, Final Fantasy VIII is my highest rank to measure how good a RPG game is. it has an extremely catchy story and playability, great characters, Cool GF's (Guardian Forces), you will fall in love with Rinoa or Quistis (if you are a dude), and will enjoy every detail of this awesome game. The real pleasure of this game is to finish it with 100% of completion to really enjoyAs an RPG lover, Final Fantasy VIII is my highest rank to measure how good a RPG game is. it has an extremely catchy story and playability, great characters, Cool GF's (Guardian Forces), you will fall in love with Rinoa or Quistis (if you are a dude), and will enjoy every detail of this awesome game. The real pleasure of this game is to finish it with 100% of completion to really enjoy everything this game will have to offer. Very advanced and complex for the time this game was released, and still haven't played any game as good as this one, not even another final fantasy. A piece of art in videogames.… Expand
  31. Necroatoan
    Jul 10, 2017
    10
    Final Fantasy 8 is the best stand alone story line in the series. Many of the other games required additional sequels to fully develop their story, but Final Fantasy 8 was self contained, with minimal plot holes comparatively. The story was amazing, but the ending seemed rushed. Triple triad was the best mini game of any Final Fantasy. Additionally Squall is my favorite protagonist of theFinal Fantasy 8 is the best stand alone story line in the series. Many of the other games required additional sequels to fully develop their story, but Final Fantasy 8 was self contained, with minimal plot holes comparatively. The story was amazing, but the ending seemed rushed. Triple triad was the best mini game of any Final Fantasy. Additionally Squall is my favorite protagonist of the series. Combat was fun once you had drawn all the magic you needed, but it is a shame that you could not cast that magic. Fortunately for me, I prefer limit breaks over magic, but I can see how the combat system annoyed many. The music was of course amazing, my favorite being Laguna's Battle Theme. Overall this game like the other great Final Fantasy titles had philosophical and symbolic parallels that are profound even today.… Expand
  32. Leontorres7
    Nov 13, 2018
    10
    Legendary game, play it, this game changed my life for good, all I have for this game is LOVE.
  33. SolarConker
    Jan 21, 2019
    10
    This game is amazing and I love it to bits and is a worthy successor to FF 7
  34. coldnorth89
    Mar 11, 2019
    10
    The first Final Fantasy i played. Together with VII and X they are the best games in the series atleast in my opinion. The Story is great. The graphics were revolutionary for the standards of 1999. The battle system is a bit complex and its probably the reason why not everyone likes this game as much as for example VII or X. But this game has so many things that compensates it. Like theThe first Final Fantasy i played. Together with VII and X they are the best games in the series atleast in my opinion. The Story is great. The graphics were revolutionary for the standards of 1999. The battle system is a bit complex and its probably the reason why not everyone likes this game as much as for example VII or X. But this game has so many things that compensates it. Like the minigame Trible Triad for example. If you are a Rpg fan this game is a must have in your collection.… Expand
  35. Dingytheman
    Dec 13, 2019
    10
    Most epic story in a videogame ever with a superb soundtrack to match. I played it some 19 yrs ago during Christmas holidays. This game pulled me into its world like no other before or after. Loved every moment.
  36. Jaggythistle
    May 23, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is one of the most underrated Final Fantasy's, My first final fanastu was VII which I loved and still replay over and over 20 years later but Final Fantasy VIII is by far my favourite mostly because of its unique Junctioning and drawing magic system, it makes you earn your strength, well as long as you don't manipulate the queen of cards to gain tons of magic early game but if you play the game like its supposed to be you'll fall in love with the game play and storyline even with Squall being a wee emo dude it's still an amaaizng story this is an absolute must try.… Expand
  37. ArcCoat
    Jun 11, 2019
    9
    My real rating is 9.5
    This is one of my top final fantasy games.
    Unlike most players, I actually enjoyed the battle system A LOT. It looks bad and confusing at first, but once you understand how it works, it can become very fun and addictive, you even start looking forward to battles. The story is excellent, I really enjoyed it. The one thing that lowered the score for me (it could    My real rating is 9.5
    This is one of my top final fantasy games.
    Unlike most players, I actually enjoyed the battle system A LOT. It looks bad and confusing at first, but once you understand how it works, it can become very fun and addictive, you even start looking forward to battles.
    The story is excellent, I really enjoyed it.
    The one thing that lowered the score for me (it could easily have been a 10) was the fact that the character development was a little bit lacking. The characters seem a little bit superficial sometimes, but nothing to cry over, really.    … Expand
  38. Mahmoudragheb
    Dec 14, 2022
    10
    My number 1 game The most underrated due to the complexity and beauty of it's story
    Love it in every aspect and wish to see a remake
  39. ElObjetivo89
    Aug 17, 2022
    10
    La pieza central de la excelsa etapa de la saga en la primera Playstation. Otra obra maestra que se queda para siempre en el corazón del jugador.
    A nivel jugable cuenta con detalles mejorables, como el quizá excesivo peso de los GF y el tener que ver sus animaciones completas con cada ataque. El sistema de absorción de magias a mí no me gusta demasiado, aunque eso es criterio personal.    La pieza central de la excelsa etapa de la saga en la primera Playstation. Otra obra maestra que se queda para siempre en el corazón del jugador.
    A nivel jugable cuenta con detalles mejorables, como el quizá excesivo peso de los GF y el tener que ver sus animaciones completas con cada ataque. El sistema de absorción de magias a mí no me gusta demasiado, aunque eso es criterio personal.
    Nomura diseña en este juego y demuestra su enorme talento en dicho campo.
    Uematsu es un genio en plena forma.
    Un juego para la historia.    … Expand
  40. Robert88
    Nov 19, 2021
    9
    Great characters , amazing story , a lot of exploration and customization , the game mechanics are very detailed but can be overwhelming if the tutorial is not read properly though once you get the gist of what you are doing it’s a great system that takes time and patience to understand .(the tutorials in final fantasy 8 are extremely , extremely long .. the junction system you canGreat characters , amazing story , a lot of exploration and customization , the game mechanics are very detailed but can be overwhelming if the tutorial is not read properly though once you get the gist of what you are doing it’s a great system that takes time and patience to understand .(the tutorials in final fantasy 8 are extremely , extremely long .. the junction system you can literally read books about that gameplay mechanic alone ! … it can be overwhelming and complicated but simple when you get the basic idea ..all In all final fantasy 8 is a near perfect game I would give it a 10 .. way too much going on and way too people to fit in one story..… Expand
  41. DarkFireUmad
    Mar 19, 2020
    9
    De verdad, ojalá no tuviese su sistema de combate tan limitado y su nefasto sistema de enlaces, porque si no sería uno de mis juegos favoritos. Me ha encantado la progresión que hace Squall a lo largo del juego, brutal.
  42. Sitheral
    Jun 14, 2020
    9
    Its hard to be a Final Fantasy game right after Final Fantasy 7. But 8 with all its weirdness and flawed junction system is still incredibly interesting rpg that stands on its own. Together with 9, these three are always a joy to boot, full of content and clever ideas.
  43. JimPickens
    Sep 8, 2021
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. After finishing a game I like to see the general consensus, I find it helps to put my own opinions into words, as do these reviews, and I was shocked to find Final Fantasy VIII was a highly controversial game, and while I empathize with many criticism's given, I have to disagree that FF8 is anything but a masterpiece in story telling.

    Final Fantasy VIII tells the story of one loner 17 year old Squall Leonhart, a character full of angst and anxiety, he is a student mercenary at Balamb Garden, a school that teaches children to fight apparently, look FF8 is weird and it's not really about the story, it's about the characters, so if you don't mind, that's what I'LL focus on too. Apart from Squall we have Seifer, Kingdom Hearts fans will recognize him as the loudmouth jock with his two cronies Raijin and Fuujin, and yeah that's about right, he regularly gives out to both Squall and my son, Zell, I love Zell. Along for the ride is also Quistis, the professor with a confusing name, Selphie the character with the poorly aged name, Irvine, my husband, and finally Rinoa, the love interest and central character in terms of the big picture, because she is a sorceress, which is a big thing in FF8. Where the game shines isn't its big bombastic world threatening story like with Final Fantasy 7, or it's large ensemble cast like Final Fantasy 6, its about Squall and his relationships, and I think that's why so many can't get behind this game, they don't relate to Squall or simply don't like him, and if you don't like Squall, admittedly the game has little else to offer you.

    Squall is a difficult person, he's quiet, full of angst, and when he actually does open his mouth, it's usually to dismiss the conversation or to say something spiteful, but throughout the game we get little thought bubbles for Squall, showing us that he's really a deeply troubled young man, rife with anxiety and self doubt. A little ways into the story the characters believe a main character to have died, and while everybody else grieves, Squall sits alone quietly contemplating if they'd grieve for him, or if they'd even care. Later in the story he starts to open up, particularly to Rinoa, it's sweet, I think it's why their relationship works so well, Squall needs somebody to be his anchor, and Rinoa does that for him, they don't even like each other at first, but slowly they realize they're exactly what each other needs, Squall isn't afraid to call Rinoa out when she's acting like a brat and Rinoa keeps Squall grounded, and while it means Zell, Selphie and Irvine take a bit of a back seat, I think it's in service of a love story worth focusing on, which is something I find hard to find in media, video games especially.

    The actual story is... weird, it's about time travel and can be confusing, but what I have surmised is this. There once was an orphanage owned by a man named Cid and his wife Edea, there they housed the main cast we follow in the game, which was later turned into Garden, where the students were trained as SeeD's, the mercenaries that Squall is part of, the reason for this is because Squall went back in time to tell Edea she needs to create SeeD's so Squall can be strong enough to kill the main villain Ultemecia, this is a paradox, Squall can only go back in time to tell Edea to create SeeD's because of SeeD's existence but SeeD's can only exist because Squall went back, but there aren't just plot holes, there's contrivances too. Everybody forgets they grew up together because of the Summons in this game, Guardian Forces, and the GF's drain their memory, but Irvine remembers because he doesn't use GF's, why didn't Irvine say anything? He was embarrassed because he thought he was the only one who remembered... ok sure Irvine. It does give a cool little "OH" moment when you realize Irvine choked when going to shoot Sorceress Edea because he knows she's their old caretaker, but everything else is just weird and contrived. So time travel aside, Squall and Co. have to kill Sorceress Ultemecia to save the world or something, it doesn't matter, they succeed and the final shot is of Squall finally smiling, it's a sweet ending.

    Junction System is weird but just pay attention and it'll click eventually. That's all I wish to say about the Junction System at this moment in time.

    Gun to my head, I can't say FF8 is the best Final Fantasy game, nor the best PS1 era Final Fantasy game, but it's a damn good one, a touching love story, an interpersonal journey of learning to be ok and a pretty fun story if you don't think too hard about the time travel. Overall I love this game, and it's one I highly recommend, even if I'm forced to acknowledge its shortcomings, I love it all the same.    … Expand
  44. KyleATC87
    Jun 20, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I admit I am biased but this is my favorite game of all time. The junction system allowed the game to be as easy or difficult as I wanted. The combat was fun and rewarding. The story spoke to me like nothing every has. Squall slowly opening up over time to his friends as leadership is thrust upon him. The romance between Squall and Rinoa was cute and grew on me over time as they went on this epic journey to save the world. The cockpit scene in the Ragnorak even 20+ years still gives me chills. I could go on and on but this is a game I play every year and it never gets old.… Expand
  45. Onlyclassicvg1
    Jun 24, 2020
    8
    s un videojuego de tipo RPG desarrollado por Squaresoft en 1999 para el sistema PlayStation, aunque posteriormente salió una versión para PC. Es la octava entrega de la serie de videojuegos Final Fantasy y el primero en contar con un tema musical cantado para el juego. El juego costó en total para su realización unos tres mil millones de Yenes en Japón. A solo trece semanas de haber sidos un videojuego de tipo RPG desarrollado por Squaresoft en 1999 para el sistema PlayStation, aunque posteriormente salió una versión para PC. Es la octava entrega de la serie de videojuegos Final Fantasy y el primero en contar con un tema musical cantado para el juego. El juego costó en total para su realización unos tres mil millones de Yenes en Japón. A solo trece semanas de haber sido lanzado al mercado, Final Fantasy VIII acumulaba más de 50 millones de Dólares en ventas en los Estados Unidos.1​ Esta octava entrega de la serie a diferencia de la anterior, usa personajes enteramente realistas dejando parcialmente de lado los elementos fantásticos de la serie y es también uno de los pocos títulos que se aleja del esquema de… Expand
  46. DavieSl
    Oct 25, 2022
    10
    My favourite Final Fantasy and by far the best.
    Can still get lost in it's story after all these years.
  47. Rafarodfer
    May 18, 2023
    9
    An epic storyline accompanied by incredibly endearing characters, this game features a battle system that may not steal the spotlight but still delivers numerous enjoyable and strategic moments when facing challenging bosses.
  48. darknightserg
    Jul 3, 2020
    10
    Game of the year for 1999. Outstanding graphics and set pieces. Best soundtrack for the final fantasy series up to the psone era. Tons of locales and bosses. Love Squall.
  49. Mustachio
    Jan 13, 2021
    10
    Great story, great characters. The best FF in my opinion. I loved it from start to finish.
  50. nunosergiopais1
    Nov 1, 2020
    10
    alem do final fantasy x este final fantasy viii foi dos melhores....ainda até hoje que excelente e saudades
  51. sadsneaky
    Mar 26, 2021
    8
    the story is very good but the junctioning is very confusing and the world feels dead
  52. hector_bcn98
    Oct 31, 2022
    8
    Un sistema de materias y farmeo que arruina lo que podría haber sido una excelente secuela. Se queda en un notable, ya que los personajes tampoco están a la altura de lo que se venía. Que no se me malinterprete, es notable, deseo un remake, pero no es el nivel de VII y IX. La villana es un lolazo de manual.
  53. Dom007
    Mar 10, 2021
    10
    This is my 6th favourite final fantasy game and the fact I'm still giving it 10 says how good it is. The storyline is certainly on the weaker side in terms of final fantasy standard mainly because of how confusing it is, but it's still great because of its usual strong cast of characters. Although again it's probably not as good cast wise as 4,6,7,9 or 10. I also want to mention itsThis is my 6th favourite final fantasy game and the fact I'm still giving it 10 says how good it is. The storyline is certainly on the weaker side in terms of final fantasy standard mainly because of how confusing it is, but it's still great because of its usual strong cast of characters. Although again it's probably not as good cast wise as 4,6,7,9 or 10. I also want to mention its opening because it's on par with 6,7 and 9 for being the best opening in the series.
    The combat is certainly better paced than its predecessors, it doesn't feel overly slow or overly fast and it flows surprisingly well.
    Visually it's also superior to its predecessors especially in character design.
    The soundtrack is also brilliant even if I prefer 4,6,7,9 and 10 because of personal taste.
    The futuristic setting is really nice and whilst I definitely prefer the worlds of 4,6,7,9 and 10 I still like it because of this reason.
    The one thing I found to be pretty decent in FF8 was its side content which I found to be very strong.

    Overall whilst this game has some issues and certainly takes some steps back from 7 it's still a great game and one that should not be missed out on.    … Expand
  54. soahknam
    Feb 19, 2022
    9
    Right now, my review is based on my memories, as I played final fantasy viii when I was 16. at the time this game was spectacular. its gamplay is very good, the visuals and history and its music is the best. you can't die without having played this gem.

    GAMEPLAY: 9
    STORY: 9
    MUSIC: 10+
    VISUALS: 10

    PERSONAL SCORE >> A JEWELL
  55. SuperClaudio64
    Feb 28, 2021
    10
    Il Mio Final Fantasy Preferito. Trovo che questo gioco abbia la migliore storia d'amore tra tutti i giochi che ho giocato, ha una trama molto fantasy e particolare, un ambientazione scolastica molto ben scritta e un concetto di favola ricreata in tempi moderni molto affascinante. Inoltre ha il migliore minigame tra tutti i Final Fantasy (Adoro il Triple Triad). è facilmente il mio secondoIl Mio Final Fantasy Preferito. Trovo che questo gioco abbia la migliore storia d'amore tra tutti i giochi che ho giocato, ha una trama molto fantasy e particolare, un ambientazione scolastica molto ben scritta e un concetto di favola ricreata in tempi moderni molto affascinante. Inoltre ha il migliore minigame tra tutti i Final Fantasy (Adoro il Triple Triad). è facilmente il mio secondo gioco preferito di sempre.… Expand
  56. lSAGGERl
    Mar 3, 2021
    10
    La mejor banda sonora de todos los Final Fantasy sin ninguna duda. Graficos impresionantes en la época. Buena historia y jugabilidad buena. Los enemigos escalaban segun tu nivel lo que daba un reto muy nivelado. No bastaba con farmear y subir de nivel como en otros. Obra maestra.
  57. ArthurWinters
    Jun 26, 2021
    9
    It had the potential to be the best Final Fantasy in history, but the storyline from the middle onwards takes a bad turn, falling into some banality. But it remains a videogames' icon, an exciting journey that a surprise for you will forget, a bubble full of love, both in the characters, both in the art design and both in the gameplay. it's the kind of game that you love to madness evenIt had the potential to be the best Final Fantasy in history, but the storyline from the middle onwards takes a bad turn, falling into some banality. But it remains a videogames' icon, an exciting journey that a surprise for you will forget, a bubble full of love, both in the characters, both in the art design and both in the gameplay. it's the kind of game that you love to madness even recognizing its flaws.… Expand
  58. CloudStrife05
    Aug 24, 2021
    9
    Very well done across 4 discs. Squall could take some getting used to but over all it was a very enjoyable game.
  59. LordPakos
    Sep 7, 2021
    10
    For me this game represent the best time of my life, and the feelings i had with this masterpiece will be forever locked in my heart. A must play.
  60. Jattaman
    Sep 30, 2022
    8
    Bellissimo e appassionante JRPG.
    Bella trama, grande longevità, colonna sonora fantastica.
  61. Zeon1982
    Jun 15, 2023
    10
    I loved FF8. People who say it's not as good as FF7 are wrong. FF8 has a special place in my heart. The story, characters and the music make this game a work of art.
  62. Gal0_Ninja
    Feb 1, 2022
    8
    O forte do jogo são os seus personagens, todos eles são bem carismáticos e suas interações uns com os outros é divertida e possui uma história de amor muito bonita assim como a trilha sonora. Porém o roteiro é um tanto confuso, e a mecânica dos summons, apesar de ser interessante, sua dependência acaba descaracterizando os personagens mecanicamente e acaba tornando o combate sem graça.
  63. albericegames
    Feb 20, 2022
    10
    Jogo praticamente beira a perfeição!
    Merece levar nota 10 em todas plataformas
    Nesse game você tem vontade de saber da vida de todos personagem, sendo mundo aberto a partir de um tempo podendo explorar onde você quiser.
  64. THOUSANDEYEKAii
    May 5, 2023
    9
    The first Final Fantasy I ever played on PS1 in 2000. Great game but the worst of the mainline PS1/2 games.
  65. Kyweaver16
    Jan 24, 2023
    10
    I could stock magic four hours on end. Nothing is more fun than junctiong Curaga to my health stat.
  66. perrypulus
    Mar 13, 2022
    8
    One of my earliest FF games and I finished it approx. 20 years later. The music is extremely good. The scores are also good. The GFs make the game huge and keep it interesting in battling with enemies
  67. Gingercrisis
    May 11, 2022
    9
    One of the best rpg games of all time, it has a great story. I hope you will like. This one is more similar to current rpgs than others of the time.
  68. Tidu
    May 22, 2022
    9
    A lone wolf, Squall is my man! GFs are fun and graphics took a step forward from VII. Top 5 FF for me. And btw, LOVED the Triple Triad!
  69. trinovatic
    May 4, 2023
    9
    Juegazo, la historia no es mala, pero pudo estar mejor, el primer cd es brutal pero siento que los últimos dos van un poco en debacle, hay muchos guinazos y coincidencias pero me sacan un poco de onda, pero en general por fumada que este la historia aun asi me encantó, el gameplay no es una basura como muchos dicen, no me molesto lo de extraer magias pero tambien se extraña el sistema deJuegazo, la historia no es mala, pero pudo estar mejor, el primer cd es brutal pero siento que los últimos dos van un poco en debacle, hay muchos guinazos y coincidencias pero me sacan un poco de onda, pero en general por fumada que este la historia aun asi me encantó, el gameplay no es una basura como muchos dicen, no me molesto lo de extraer magias pero tambien se extraña el sistema de materias del 7, de lo que si no fui muy fan fue de enlazar las magias con mis atributos, te obligan a no gastar magias y es un poco molesto, en general es un buen juego, se arriesgaron bastante con los cambios pero eso es lo que se aprecia. Por último quiero destacar la banda sonora, pensé que después del 7 no encontraría algo a la altura y lo esta, tremendos temazos.… Expand
  70. AtomosFabian
    May 11, 2023
    10
    Final Fantasy VIII es una gran aventura con muchos giros y una historia increíble, la banda sonora es espectacular, cinemáticas espectaculares y el diseño artístico está impecable, un juego que te marca y guardas en tus recuerdos para toda la vida.
  71. GuiBio
    Dec 29, 2022
    10
    Nostalgic and my first JRPG, played for so many hours. It was before the great internet times.
  72. LastResource
    Jan 14, 2023
    10
    worth it and glad to play this game again. so much memories and nostalgia within this eighth game in the series.
  73. Pmstz
    Jan 30, 2023
    9
    Excellent Final Fantasy.
    Masterpiece.
    +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
  74. aaronnmp96
    Jan 30, 2023
    8
    My first Final Fantasy, the only bad thing I can say is the gameplay, but it still has a lot left
  75. Magical_Viktor
    Apr 30, 2023
    9
    Существуют просто Зло и Большое Зло, а за ними обоими в тени прячется Очень Большое Зло. Очень Большое Зло, Геральт, это такое, которого ты и представить себе не можешь, даже если думаешь, будто уже ничто не в состоянии тебя удивить. И знаешь, Геральт, порой бывает так, что Очень Большое Зло схватит тебя за горло и скажет: «Выбирай, братец, либо я, либо то, которое чуточку поменьше»Существуют просто Зло и Большое Зло, а за ними обоими в тени прячется Очень Большое Зло. Очень Большое Зло, Геральт, это такое, которого ты и представить себе не можешь, даже если думаешь, будто уже ничто не в состоянии тебя удивить. И знаешь, Геральт, порой бывает так, что Очень Большое Зло схватит тебя за горло и скажет: «Выбирай, братец, либо я, либо то, которое чуточку поменьше»
  76. shydxath
    May 19, 2023
    10
    my fav final fantasy game, the story and the characters are it made me fell so clode to it that even made me cry, should play it
  77. Squallleon
    Jul 1, 2023
    10
    This is by far my fave game of all time a must play. Has a unique story with well developed characters. A deep and compelling plot. And the game play is awesome with a really good lineup of summons, limit breaks, magics and weapons. Monster designs are awesome too. And by far the best romance done in a video game. This game was so epic for me that it still holds a special place for me.This is by far my fave game of all time a must play. Has a unique story with well developed characters. A deep and compelling plot. And the game play is awesome with a really good lineup of summons, limit breaks, magics and weapons. Monster designs are awesome too. And by far the best romance done in a video game. This game was so epic for me that it still holds a special place for me. Don’t think another game will come close. I used to have hopes that versus 13 would come close but that game just took a whole new direction. This game should get a remake a well done one. That would be the day!!… Expand
  78. lizardkingg
    Jul 21, 2023
    8
    Loved the story & characters. Huge graphical upgrade from FFVII, but I can't help to feel like FFVII was so brilliant it made this feel subpar. Still, a really good game.
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Awards & Rankings

9
#9 Best PS1 Game of 1999
1
#1 Most Discussed PS1 Game of 1999
3
#3 Most Shared PS1 Game of 1999

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 24
  3. Negative: 1 out of 24
  1. GMR Magazine
    90
    Things were more "real" this time around. [Feb 2003, p.97]
  2. Gamestyle
    80
    Unfortunately while the game is graphically superior to FFVII, in terms of setting, story and controls it lags way behind.
    Read full review
  3. Absolute Playstation
    98
    Spanning four discs, this is a massive RPG. You can try and skate through it in 50 hours but can easily spend over a 100 hours playing if you decide to take on all of the side games, collect all of the Cards and experience all there is to experience from this game.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »