Final Fantasy III

About Final Fantasy III

Final Fantasy III arrived in 1994 as the sixth main entry in the legendary series developed by Square. It stands apart as the final title to use two-dimensional graphics before the franchise shifted to three dimensions. The story breaks tradition by skipping the crystal motif entirely, focusing instead on a conflict between the expansionist Gestahlian Empire and the rebel group called the Returners. Players control up to fourteen characters across four different party configurations in this adventure set in a fantasy steampunk world. You can play this classic single-player RPG on platforms including the Wii U, Super Nintendo Entertainment System, and New Nintendo 3DS.

Gameplay

You manage a party of four characters using the Active Time Battle system where commands appear based on individual timers rather than turn order. Every character possesses a unique ability like Steal or Blitz that defines their combat role. You earn Ability Points in battles to learn new magic spells when you equip specific magicite items. The game requires you to split your cast into three separate parties of four to progress through certain story events before switching between them. Random Desperation Attacks trigger when characters survive with critical health after attacking. Most sessions involve navigating steampunk environments, managing these shifting party compositions, and grinding for resources while the timer bar ticks down each turn.

What Players Think

Data shows a split in how people view this title. Metacritic gave it a 68 out of 100 while IGDB users rated it significantly higher at 94.7 out of 100 based on 733 ratings. The community describes the mood as atmospheric and story-driven with four votes for cooperative play despite the single-player design. Players typically spend dozens of hours completing the main campaign due to the extensive job system. Many note the high completion rates among veterans who enjoy mastering the complex class mechanics. The price point sits around $8.99 on Green Man Gaming, which often drives new players to revisit this specific entry in the collection.

PlayPile's Take

This game works best for RPG fans willing to invest time in learning its intricate job system and managing multiple party structures. It is not a casual experience given the steep learning curve regarding ability points and class combinations. You will unlock over one hundred achievements if you choose to chase 100% completion. The $8.99 price tag makes it an easy buy for collectors or those curious about the series history. Skip this entry if you prefer linear storylines without complex character customization options.

Storyline

Final Fantasy III focuses on a conflict between the Gestahlian Empire conquering the world and a rebel faction opposed to them known as the Returners, taking place in a fantasy steampunk-style world. The Empire has acquired great power by experimenting on captured espers, magical creatures of legend. The Returners seek magical power to fight the Empire on equal terms, and an amnesiac former imperial soldier, Terra Branford, proves key to both sides for understanding magic and espers.