Final Fantasy is a name that resonates with gamers of all ages worldwide. This Japanese role-playing game series, developed and published by Square Enix, has captured hearts since its inception in 1987. With its captivating storylines, intricately designed characters, and immersive gameplay, Final Fantasy has created a place of its own in the world of video games. This article aims to delve deeper into the universe of Final Fantasy, revealing ten interesting facts about this beloved series.
1. The Name's Origin
The name "Final Fantasy" was born out of the financial struggles faced by Square Enix. The company was on the brink of bankruptcy, and they believed this game to be their final attempt at success, hence the name.
2. Each Game Is A Standalone Universe
Unlike many series, each installment of Final Fantasy is a standalone story with a unique universe and characters. However, they all share common elements such as Chocobos, Moogles, and certain character names.
3. The Longest Final Fantasy Game
Final Fantasy XII holds the record for the longest single-player game in the series, with an average completion time of 60-70 hours for the main story alone. Including side quests and extras, the game can take up to 120 hours to finish.
4. Final Fantasy VII's Groundbreaking Success
Final Fantasy VII was the first in the series to use 3D graphics and full-motion videos. This innovation led to its immense popularity, selling over 10 million copies worldwide, making it the most popular game in the series.
5. The Series' Impact on Pop Culture
The series has left a significant impact on pop culture. References to Final Fantasy can be found in various movies, TV shows, books, and music. It has even made its way into academic studies and research.
6. The Existence of a Final Fantasy Museum
Given its global popularity, it's not surprising that there's a museum dedicated to the series in Japan. The museum showcases various artifacts, including original artwork, costumes, and props from the games.
7. The Final Fantasy Concerts
Final Fantasy's music, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, has gained so much popularity that it has led to numerous concerts worldwide. These performances usually feature orchestras playing the game's iconic music scores.
8. The Expansive Lore and Literature
Final Fantasy's expansive lore has led to the creation of various related literature. This includes novels, manga adaptations, and strategy guides, providing fans with more ways to explore the series' universe.
9. Final Fantasy's Pioneering Role in Esports
Final Fantasy XIV was one of the first MMORPGs to introduce an official PvP tournament, making it a pioneer in the world of Esports. The game hosts an annual competition known as the Feast Championship.
10. The Costliest Final Fantasy Game Production
Final Fantasy VII Remake is the most expensive game in the series to produce. The game required a huge budget due to its high-quality graphics, voice acting, and music score, reflecting the series' commitment to quality.
In conclusion, Final Fantasy is more than just a game series; it's a cultural phenomenon that has shaped the gaming industry and left an indelible mark on pop culture. These ten intriguing facts offer a glimpse into the depth and breadth of the Final Fantasy universe, a testament to the game's enduring popularity and influence.