There are 16 mainline Final Fantasy games, with numerous spin-offs and related titles, contributing to the expansive overall count.
The question of how many total Final Fantasy games are there is surprisingly complex for fans and newcomers alike. It’s more than just counting numbered titles. The sheer number of spin-offs, sequels, and remasters means the answer isn’t a simple figure, though the main series has 16 entries.
Navigating this vast world can feel like a quest in itself. We will explore the main titles and acknowledge the many other games within this beloved series.
How Many Total Final Fantasy Games Are There?
Figuring out exactly how many Final Fantasy games exist can feel like navigating a giant, magical labyrinth! It’s not as simple as counting one, two, three. The Final Fantasy series is huge, with tons of main games, sequels, spin-offs, and remakes. Let’s dive deep and explore all the different parts of this amazing gaming world to understand just how many adventures there truly are. We’ll take a look at the core numbered titles, the direct sequels, and then venture into the exciting territory of spin-offs and remasters.
The Main Numbered Games: The Core of Final Fantasy
The most straightforward place to start counting is with the main, numbered Final Fantasy games. These are the titles most fans think of when they hear “Final Fantasy.” Each one tells a unique story, with new characters, worlds, and gameplay mechanics (although some elements like summons, chocobos, and crystals often return!). These are usually the big releases, getting lots of attention and often setting the standard for the series. As of 2024, there are sixteen main numbered games, each offering a significant adventure:
- Final Fantasy (I)
- Final Fantasy II
- Final Fantasy III
- Final Fantasy IV
- Final Fantasy V
- Final Fantasy VI
- Final Fantasy VII
- Final Fantasy VIII
- Final Fantasy IX
- Final Fantasy X
- Final Fantasy XI
- Final Fantasy XII
- Final Fantasy XIII
- Final Fantasy XIV
- Final Fantasy XV
- Final Fantasy XVI
This list shows the mainline entries that define the series. These are the games that have shaped the legacy of Final Fantasy, with their unique takes on the fantasy genre. This list of 16 represents the backbone of what many consider the quintessential Final Fantasy experience.
Direct Sequels: Expanding the Story
While most Final Fantasy games tell independent stories, a few have direct sequels that continue the narratives of their predecessors. These games usually feature the same characters and world, picking up where the previous game left off. This lets us further explore our favorite places and relationships. These sequels add to the total count of Final Fantasy games, and provide further adventures in familiar worlds. These direct sequels include:
- Final Fantasy X-2 (sequel to Final Fantasy X)
- Final Fantasy XIII-2 (sequel to Final Fantasy XIII)
- Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII (sequel to Final Fantasy XIII-2)
These sequels are important because they directly carry on story lines, adding new dimensions to already rich worlds. They are often treated as essential experiences for fans who enjoyed their predecessors, even if they sometimes have different gameplay styles. So, we must add these to our count!
Spin-Offs: Adventures in Different Worlds
The Final Fantasy universe is vast, and not every game has to follow the rules of the main series. That’s where spin-offs come in. These games take place in the same universe (or connected ones) as the main series, but often explore different genres or focus on different characters or stories. They might be action games, strategy games, or even rhythm games. These spin-offs let us experience the Final Fantasy world in new and exciting ways. Let’s explore some categories of spin-offs:
Action RPG Spin-Offs
These games often feature real-time combat and a focus on action, while still maintaining RPG elements. Here are some of the notable ones:
- Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles
- Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy VII
- Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII
- Dissidia Final Fantasy
- Dissidia 012 Final Fantasy
- Dissidia Final Fantasy NT
- Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin
- Final Fantasy Type-0
Tactical and Strategy Spin-Offs
These games involve turn-based or real-time strategy, where planning and unit placement are key to success.
- Final Fantasy Tactics
- Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
- Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift
Other Notable Spin-Offs
These are games that don’t fit neatly into other categories but still provide unique experiences within the Final Fantasy universe.
- Chocobo Racing
- Theatrhythm Final Fantasy
- World of Final Fantasy
- Various Mobile Games (like Final Fantasy Brave Exvius and Mobius Final Fantasy)
This collection of spin-offs shows just how far the Final Fantasy franchise reaches. From intense action to strategic battles, these titles give fans countless ways to experience the beloved series. Each adds to the impressive total of Final Fantasy games. It’s important to note that mobile games are hard to count, since there are many, some are no longer available, or the names sometimes change, but they are important additions to the overall picture.
Remakes and Remasters: Bringing the Classics Back
The world of video games is constantly evolving. To keep older titles available to new generations of players, many Final Fantasy games have been remade or remastered. Remakes are often extensive re-imaginings of the original game, sometimes with entirely new graphics, story, or gameplay features. Remasters are usually more straightforward, focusing on updating the graphics and sound of older games to work on modern systems. These titles allow newer fans to experience the classics, and older players to revisit them. Here’s a look at some of the notable remakes and remasters:
Major Remakes
- Final Fantasy III (3D Remake)
- Final Fantasy IV (3D Remake)
- Final Fantasy VII Remake
- Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Remasters
- Final Fantasy I & II: Dawn of Souls
- Final Fantasy IV: The Complete Collection
- Final Fantasy V Advance
- Final Fantasy VI Advance
- Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster
- Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
- Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles Remastered Edition
- Final Fantasy VIII Remastered
- Final Fantasy IX Remastered
The list of remakes and remasters shows that the love for the original games is strong. These projects keep the classics fresh and accessible. They can alter the total number of playable games, because they sometimes are treated as completely new versions, rather than the older version.
How to Count? A Final Tally
So, how many Final Fantasy games are there in total? It’s not just one single number because it depends on how you decide to count. Here’s a breakdown:
- Main Numbered Titles: 16
- Direct Sequels: 3
- Major Spin-offs (console & handheld): Approximately 15
- Remakes & Remasters: 14 (not counting minor ports or variations)
If we add the main games, direct sequels, major spin-offs, and consider remakes/remasters as different experiences, we can easily reach a total of around 48+ or more distinct Final Fantasy games. However, this is still a low estimate, and doesn’t include smaller mobile titles. When we consider mobile games, the total number will easily exceed 50 or 60 games. It is also important to note that some games are part of collections, and counting those adds even more to the tally. The total number of games can also increase because some spin-offs, or older versions of the game may become available on another platform, making another separate entry.
So, the best answer to “how many Final Fantasy games are there?” is: a lot! It’s a constantly growing number as new games get developed. The sheer size and variety of the franchise is what makes it so loved.
The Final Fantasy series is one of the biggest and most influential in the world of video games. With a long history of engaging stories, memorable characters, and unique gameplay, it has garnered a dedicated fan base over many years. The complexity of the series, with its many main titles, spin-offs, sequels, and remakes, reflects the immense creativity and passion that have gone into building the rich universe we know. Whether you’re playing through the original stories or experiencing fresh new takes on familiar characters and themes, there is always something new for fans to enjoy. This ongoing evolution is precisely why Final Fantasy continues to be a popular and beloved franchise around the globe.
Electronic Gaming Monthly's Top 36 Final Fantasy Games & Spin-Offs
Final Thoughts
The Final Fantasy series boasts numerous titles. Counting mainline games, spin-offs, and sequels results in a significant number. Different platforms and re-releases complicate exact counting.
Determining how many total Final Fantasy games are there, varies depending on inclusion criteria. If we strictly consider the main numbered entries, that makes it fifteen games. However, many would argue for including related content. So, there are easily dozens of titles within the universe.
