Final Fantasy Tactics was very well-regarded as a foray into strategy RPGs at the time of its release. Its success granted two sequels, mobile spinoffs, and opportunities for appearance in crossover titles. However, the franchise hasn’t received a new installment or a remake in quite some time. For those seeking a grid-based strategy RPG with a strong emphasis on character building and team-based tactics, there are various alternative options. Let’s review the 3 best franchises that can give a comparable experience and a great game from each available right now.
Tactics Ogre
Before he helped Square-Enix create Final Fantasy Tactics, Yasumi Matsuno created its ideological predecessor in the Ogre Battle series. The most popular of these games is Tactics Ogre, released in 1995. Over the years, it has seen remakes and re-releases, most recently as Tactics Ogre Reborn on current platforms. For those familiar with Final Fantasy Tactics, the gameplay will feel right at home. Following the story of a lead protagonist, you will form parties of characters with different classes and abilities. A combination of various weapons and magicks creates unique strategy opportunities. All in all, this is truly the most similar experience you can find.
Fire Emblem
Nintendo has its own legendary tactical RPG series in the form of Fire Emblem. With over thirty years of games, many choices are available. One of the more recent titles, Fire Emblem: Three Houses, is perhaps the best tactical RPG on the Switch. The class system is a bit different, with less opportunity to combine abilities from different classes as you can in Final Fantasy Tactics. However, Fire Emblem has its unique rock-paper-scissors combat style with various weapons beating others. This will give lovers of tactical RPGs a deep system to dig their teeth into, along with an excellent military-themed storyline not unlike the Ivalician storyline from Final Fantasy Tactics.
XCOM
For those who love grid-based combat but want to switch genres, the XCOM franchise has long been a staple of turn-based strategy games. Moving to a sci-fi theme, players will control teams of soldiers fighting against an alien invasion. What players lose in having defined main characters they gain in heavily customizable teams of fighters with deep progression systems. The continued military themes will make players feel at ease coming from Final Fantasy Tactics. 2012’s XCOM: Enemy Unknown recreated this franchise for modern audiences with excellent presentation. The learning curve will be steep, but the rewards are as sweet as what fans of the genre have come to expect.
Final Thoughts
There are many great tactical RPGs out there, but there’s a reason Final Fantasy Tactics has stood the test of time in gamers’ memories. Complex maps, excellent storylines, and deep progression systems make that game suitable for those who seek mastery of systems. The aforementioned three games continue this trend by focusing on the same core principles. Those who love moving troops on grid-based maps will find their fill of exploration and strategy as they take on their foes. While we wait to hear if a Final Fantasy Tactics remake is on the horizon, sate your itch for strategy with these three great franchises.
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