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FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles
Item: FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresRPG, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Military and Warfare, Single Player

AvailableSep 30, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4

DeveloperCreative Business Unit III

Overview

This dramatic tale of ambition, betrayal, and honor comes to life again with an updated and enriched script with fully voiced dialogue, alongside improved graphics that bring a new level of immersion and playability to the battlefield. Additionally, the enhanced version brings quality-of-life updates like new difficulties, a revamped UI, auto save, and more that make the game more accessible to newcomers.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews for its rich narrative and thematic depth, addressing classism and political intrigue. Critics praise the character-driven story, particularly the arcs of Ramza and Delita, enhanced by new voice acting. However, some highlight concerns about character development's depth and potential confusion from its historical narration style. Overall, despite minor critiques, the game is celebrated as a classic RPG, with a compelling story that resonates deeply with players, solidifying its status as a storytelling masterpiece.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising its rich narrative and thematic depth. Reviewers like XboxEra highlight the exploration of classism and political intrigue, noting how these themes are well-delivered and engaging. RPGamer echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the story's complexity and its resonance with contemporary issues such as class struggle and institutional decay. The character-driven narrative, particularly that of Ramza and Delita, is frequently mentioned, with Digital Chumps and Invader both appreciating the personal struggles intertwined with the broader political landscape. Critics like Forbes and Nintendo Life commend the enhancements made in the Ivalice Chronicles, such as the addition of voice acting, which adds further depth and engagement to the already strong narrative. However, some critiques do surface regarding the story's execution. Nintenduo points out that while the political and dramatic components are strong, character development may not feel as deep when compared to modern RPGs, which could leave some players wanting more. Additionally, Pocket Tactics mentions that the heavy narration, presented as a historical account, can be confusing for players who are not fully engaged, potentially detracting from the overall experience. This suggests that while the narrative is compelling, its complexity and presentation may pose challenges for some players. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles presents a masterful story that captivates players through its intricate themes and character arcs. The majority of reviewers, including Loot Level Chill and NintendoWorldReport, agree that the narrative's exploration of friendship, family, and conflict, coupled with the rich political backdrop, creates an engaging and memorable experience. This collective praise underscores the game's status as a classic within the RPG genre, solidifying its legacy as a masterpiece of storytelling in video games.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles impresses with its deep strategic gameplay, customizable characters, and an intricate job system that invites experimentation. Critics praise its engaging turn-based combat and quality-of-life improvements, enhancing accessibility without sacrificing depth. However, balancing issues, punishing difficulty, and unintuitive mechanics pose challenges, particularly for newcomers. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a compelling experience for tactical RPG fans willing to dive into its complexities.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles has received a largely positive reception from critics, who praise its intricate systems and strategic depth. Reviewers like XboxEra and RPGamer highlight the engaging turn-based combat and high level of customization available to players, emphasizing the game’s focus on party customization and strategic planning. The inclusion of a complex job system, as noted by Digital Chumps, allows players to experiment with character builds, contributing to nearly endless tactical options. Furthermore, quality-of-life improvements, such as pre-battle character positioning and enhanced UI for damage prediction, have been recognized by critics like Nintendo Life and Invader, making the gameplay more accessible while retaining its depth. However, several reviewers have pointed out notable drawbacks in the gameplay experience. RPGamer mentions balancing issues and difficulty spikes that could frustrate players, while Pocket Tactics warns of the punishing difficulty and the stakes involved with permanent character death. Additionally, Digital Chumps and Nintenduo express concerns that some mechanics may be unintuitive for newcomers, potentially hindering their ability to fully engage with the game’s complexities. The need for grinding, as noted by Loot Level Chill, can also detract from the overall enjoyment, especially for those seeking a more streamlined experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles offers a compelling and strategic gameplay experience that honors its roots while incorporating modern enhancements. The majority of reviewers, including NintendoWorldReport and Nintenduo, appreciate the engaging tactical battles and robust job class system, which provide a rewarding challenge for players. While there are criticisms regarding difficulty and accessibility for new players, the positive feedback on the game's depth and strategic options indicates that it successfully captures the essence of tactical RPGs, appealing to both veterans of the genre and newcomers willing to invest the time to master its systems.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles features a charming retro aesthetic with upgraded visuals like 4K at 60 FPS, pleasing fans of the original. Critics praise the vibrant color palette and subtle effects but criticize the mixed execution, noting a disconnect between modern UI and outdated graphics. While nostalgic and appealing, the remaster lacks the polish expected from modern titles, leaving some players wanting more in terms of detail and visual impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

20%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

80%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles have garnered a mix of appreciation and critique from various reviewers. Critics like XboxEra and Pocket Tactics highlight the game's retro aesthetic, praising the charming chibi-sprites and expressive character icons that enhance the overall visual appeal. Invader notes the impressive technical upgrades, such as 4K resolution at 60 FPS with HDR support, which contribute to a vibrant color palette that breathes new life into the original design. Additionally, Nintendo Life commends the enhanced clarity and subtle visual effects like sunlight and dust, which help maintain the classic vibe while improving the overall presentation. However, despite these positives, several reviewers express concerns regarding the game's visual execution. RPGamer describes the visual presentation as a mixed experience, where the modern UI contrasts with the retained original graphics, resulting in a functional but unimpressive aesthetic. Digital Chumps and Forbes echo this sentiment, pointing out that while the updated graphics are decent, they lack the crispness expected from contemporary titles and still show signs of being an upscaled PlayStation game. Furthermore, Nintenduo mentions that some remastered 2D art may appear blurry, and Loot Level Chill criticizes the visual style for being less timeless, with some battlefields obstructing views. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles offers a nostalgic yet modernized visual experience that appeals to fans of the original game. While there are notable improvements in clarity and presentation, as highlighted by NintendoWorldReport and others, the graphics do not reach groundbreaking levels, leaving some players wanting more in terms of detail and polish. The balance between nostalgia and modern upgrades seems to resonate well with many, but the mixed opinions indicate that while the remaster has its charm, it may not fully satisfy those seeking a visually stunning experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles shines with a stunning soundtrack and top-notch voice acting that significantly enhance the game’s immersive experience. Critics praise its orchestral quality, though some note it's less catchy than past titles. Overall, the sound design is a triumph that solidifies the franchise’s legacy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game’s impressive auditory experience. Many reviewers, such as RPGamer and Nintenduo, praised the well-composed original soundtrack, emphasizing its orchestral quality and modern sound. The soundtrack is noted for its ability to enhance the game's atmosphere, creating an immersive experience that complements the gameplay. Additionally, the inclusion of full voice acting has been a significant highlight for several critics, including Invader and Loot Level Chill, who noted that it elevates the emotional impact of the narrative. This sentiment is echoed by Nintendo Life, which remarked on how the voice acting makes the story more memorable and engaging. Despite the overall praise, some critics pointed out certain limitations in the soundtrack. XboxEra mentioned that while the music is enjoyable and features memorable tracks, it may not be as catchy as other entries in the franchise. This suggests a potential shortcoming in the soundtrack's ability to leave a lasting impression compared to previous titles. However, this critique seems to be more of a nuanced observation rather than a significant flaw, as the majority of reviews still celebrate the quality of the music. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles are very good, with most reviewers highlighting the positive contributions of both the soundtrack and voice acting. The combination of a well-composed score and stellar voice performances creates a rich audio landscape that enhances the overall gaming experience. Critics like Pocket Tactics and NintendoWorldReport have underscored the immersive qualities of the sound design, indicating that it plays a crucial role in the game's appeal. Overall, the enhancements made in this remake have been well-received, reinforcing the enduring legacy of the FINAL FANTASY franchise.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles has received rave reviews, with critics praising it as a standout feature that enriches storytelling and character depth. While minor criticisms exist regarding specific performances, they are overshadowed by the overall acclaim. This remastered title marks a significant evolution in the game's presentation, making the voice work a highlight that resonates with both critics and players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, with many highlighting it as a standout feature of the game. XboxEra praised the "top-notch" performances that bring characters to life, while RPGamer emphasized how the superb voice acting adds depth to the characters and enhances the narrative experience. Critics like Digital Chumps and Loot Level Chill noted the improvements in the remastered version, with the new voice acting significantly contributing to the storytelling. Additionally, the British accents mentioned by Forbes were seen as a charming addition, further enriching the game's narrative. The consensus is that the voice acting elevates the overall experience, making it a critical aspect of the game. Despite the strong acclaim, there are some minor criticisms that could be noted, although they are less prevalent. While most critics were enthusiastic about the voice acting, specific concerns regarding the delivery or emotional range of certain performances were not widely reported. This suggests that while the majority found the voice acting to be an enhancement, there may be a few isolated instances where critics felt it could have been improved. However, these criticisms are not prominent enough to detract from the overall positive sentiment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles is a significant achievement that enhances the game's storytelling and character interactions. With multiple reviewers, including Nintendo Life and Nintenduo, emphasizing the emotional engagement and depth added by the performances, it is clear that the voice acting is a highlight of this remastered title. The overwhelming positivity surrounding this aspect indicates that it has successfully resonated with both critics and players alike, marking a successful evolution in the game's presentation.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles impresses with solid technical performance across all platforms, particularly on Xbox Series X with seamless gameplay and HDR support. The Nintendo Switch 2 runs smoothly at 60 FPS, but some reviews hint at minor performance issues. Despite RPGamer flagging balance and difficulty concerns on PS4, critics largely agree: players can expect a polished and enjoyable experience, making this title a must-try for tactical RPG fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles has garnered a largely positive response across various gaming platforms. On the Xbox Series X, XboxEra praised the game for its smooth performance, noting the absence of bugs or crashes, which is a significant plus for players seeking a seamless experience. The inclusion of HDR support further enhances the visual quality, making it a standout title on this console. For the Nintendo Switch 2, multiple critics, including NintendoWorldReport and Nintenduo, highlighted the game's ability to run at 60 frames-per-second with minimal graphical issues, ensuring a stable experience whether in handheld or docked mode. Digital Chumps and Pocket Tactics echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the absence of technical performance issues and the overall smoothness of gameplay. However, there are some criticisms to consider. RPGamer, who reviewed the game on PS4, pointed out issues with balancing and difficulty spikes that could disrupt gameplay consistency, suggesting that while the technical performance is solid, there are gameplay mechanics that may detract from the overall experience. On the Nintendo Switch 2, while most reviews were positive, the lack of specific mentions regarding potential performance hiccups could imply that some critics may have overlooked minor issues or that the performance is not uniformly perfect across all scenarios. Overall, the consensus among critics is that FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles delivers a very good technical performance across all platforms. The Xbox Series X shines with its smooth gameplay and HDR support, while the Nintendo Switch 2 impresses with its stable frame rates and performance in both modes. Despite some minor concerns raised by RPGamer regarding the PS4 version and gameplay balance, the overwhelming sentiment is one of satisfaction, indicating that players can expect a polished experience regardless of their chosen platform.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles shines with its extensive party customization, strategic depth, and job system, boosting replay value for both new and returning players. While critics praise its dual versions and adjustable difficulty, concerns about balancing and grinding may limit its appeal to casual gamers. Overall, it’s a rich experience that encourages strategic experimentation, making it a solid pick for fans of the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its appeal. Many reviewers, such as XboxEra and Nintendo Life, emphasize the extensive party customization and strategic depth of the game, which allows players to experiment with different character builds and tactics. The job system is frequently mentioned as a key feature that enhances replayability, encouraging players to explore various combinations and strategies. Critics like Digital Chumps and Invader also note the inclusion of both the original and HD versions of the game, which provides a fresh experience for both newcomers and returning players. This duality, along with adjustable difficulty settings as pointed out by Nintenduo, caters to a wide audience, further enhancing the game's replay value. However, there are some concerns raised by critics that may limit the game's appeal to certain players. RPGamer points out potential balancing issues that could affect the desire to replay the game, suggesting that not all difficulty levels may provide a satisfying challenge. Additionally, Loot Level Chill mentions that while the character customization and job system offer replay value, the grinding aspect of the game could deter some players from engaging in multiple playthroughs. Pocket Tactics echoes this sentiment by noting that the game's challenge may not appeal to casual gamers, potentially restricting its replayability for those who prefer a more relaxed gaming experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles possesses significant replay value, primarily due to its strategic depth, job system, and customization options. Reviewers like Forbes and NintendoWorldReport highlight the benefits of having both the original and upgraded versions, which adds layers to the gameplay experience. While some concerns regarding balancing and grinding exist, the majority of critics agree that the game offers a rich and engaging experience that encourages experimentation and strategic thinking. This combination of factors positions the game as a compelling choice for both veterans of the series and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its successful modernization of a beloved classic. Reviewers like XboxEra and Digital Chumps highlight the game's rich narrative and engaging gameplay, emphasizing that it stands out as a definitive version of the original. The voice acting has also received accolades, with RPGamer noting its shine alongside the compelling story. Critics such as Loot Level Chill and NintendoWorldReport appreciate the tactical combat and the job system, which are both engaging and creatively designed, making the game a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre. However, there are some criticisms that have been raised regarding the game. Notably, several reviewers pointed out the removal of content from the War of the Lions version, which Invader and Nintendo Life specifically mentioned. While the game is described as a faithful remake, this omission has left some fans feeling that it lacks the complete experience of its predecessor. Additionally, RPGamer and Pocket Tactics noted that there are some gameplay rough edges and outdated elements that may not resonate with all players, particularly those who are less inclined towards challenging strategy games. In summary, the consensus among critics is that FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles is a commendable remaster that successfully modernizes a classic while remaining true to its roots. The overwhelming majority of reviewers, including Forbes and Nintenduo, agree that it is a must-play for both newcomers and returning fans, despite some noted drawbacks. The game captures the essence of the original while offering enhancements that elevate the experience, making it a significant title in the tactical RPG genre. Overall, the positive sentiments far outweigh the negatives, solidifying its place as a beloved entry in the Final Fantasy franchise.

TL;DR

FINAL FANTASY TACTICS - The Ivalice Chronicles is a praised remaster that modernizes the classic with rich storytelling, engaging gameplay, and standout voice acting. Critics laud the tactical combat and job system, marking it as essential for fans. However, some fans are disappointed by missing content from the War of the Lions and note a few gameplay quirks. Overall, it’s a must-play for newcomers and veterans alike, with positives overshadowing the criticisms.

MONSTER

Reviews

93 reviews found

NintendoWorldReport

Sep 24, 2025