Final Fantasy Tactics Advance (Game Boy Advance, 2003)

First off, this game is not what youd immediately believe a game with the label Final Fantasy on it to be. This is a re-release of the version that came out on PSone also called Final Fantasy tactics. It's different in many ways from other Final Fantasy games, which for the most part have held a more traditional RPG aspect to them.

The main difference here is that this game tends to focus itself much more heavily on the strategy and planning of moves aspects, and less so on the story element and character development. Fans of other games in this series should be aware of that going into this game that there are such differences, and those expecting a typical Final Fantasy game will be surprised and may leave playing this game a little less satisfied with the experience, which in of its own right as a game is a worthy purchase, but it you like the elements of the more traditional RPG's of the Final Fantasy series, this may not be the game for you.

However, anyone who does consider themselves fans of the strategy genre and don't mind the not so plot driven gameplay, somewhat repetitive and drawn out nature of this game and are willing to dive into a seemingly overwhelmingly deep combat schematic and lack of much development as far as the inner workings of the party members, then who's to say you won't enjoy this game. Again, just take what the intent of the game to those who play it into consideration. Those familiar with the series in general may wish to borrow a friend's copy or rent it if possible before investing the full asking price of the game.

Again this is not to say this is not a great game by any means, as what is there is done well, it does meet standards of the Final Fantasy label, with nice graphics, sound, and well done playability, all taking into consideration the platform its on and the type of game this is. Some may see the 4/5 rating I'm giving this too high, and some too low, but here's ultimately how I came about it: on its own as far as this game goes, it really isn't that bad, but the expectation most players have for a game with the name Final Fantasy attached to it just doesn't seem to be met by this game, especially when you consider the other great games released in this series.