Embarking on Pixelated Journeys: A Tour of Square Enix's Finest Gaming Masterpieces

Ethan James 04 Nov 2023

Mention the name Square Enix within earshot to any video game enthusiast, and it’ll most likely trigger a wave of nostalgia and elation. The Japanese-based company has its roots in Square Co., Ltd., a company founded in 1986, and Enix, which originated in 1982; both merged to form Square Enix in 2003. In this union, the world of gaming has been blessed with fantasy experiences with unparalleled narratives, groundbreaking visuals, and impeccable gameplay mechanics. From cult classics to powerful franchises, we take a deep dive into the top Square Enix games and understand why they remain etched in the hearts of gamers worldwide.

Final Fantasy VII: A Legacy Unmatched

There's no talking about Square Enix without heralding the cultural and industry-shifting behemoth that is Final Fantasy VII. This seminal RPG transcended gaming to become a pillar of popular culture, introducing players to the dystopian world of Gaia and the iconic Cloud Strife's battle against the malevolent Sephiroth. Revolutionary graphics for its time, compelling characters, a sweeping story, and Nobuo Uematsu's haunting score converged to make this a game for the ages. Its influence is so enduring that it sparked one of the most anticipated remakes in gaming history, inviting veterans and newcomers alike to experience its magic anew.

Chrono Trigger: Timeless Chronology

The 16-bit era is defined by several masterpieces, but few hold a candle to the innovative Chrono Trigger. Created by a dream team of developers, it featured a narrative woven through time, allowing players to influence past, present, and future to prevent a world-ending cataclysm. Its Active Time Battle system, endearing characters, and multiple endings were groundbreaking, fostering a legacy that has stood the test of time. Its timeless artistry remains a high watermark for storytelling and game design, illustrating Square Enix's role in shaping RPGs as we know them.

Kingdom Hearts: Interdimensional Fantasy

When Square Enix and Disney shook hands, no one could have expected the resulting fusion to be as enchanting as Kingdom Hearts. This series merges the worlds of Final Fantasy and Disney in an action-packed RPG starring Sora and his friends as they battle against the darkness. The melding of familiar Disney nostalgia with Square Enix's signature role-playing depth created an experience both unique and universally appealing – a formula that has spawned numerous sequels and a legion of dedicated fans.

Final Fantasy X: A Story of Love and Loss

Final Fantasy X marked the franchise's first foray into the realm of fully voiced characters and a leap into stunning 3D cutscenes, setting a new standard for the series. It follows the journey of Tidus and Yuna, weaving a story that tackles themes of sacrifice, faith, and destiny. The introduction of the Sphere Grid allowed for unprecedented customization in character development, and the game's emotional narrative and innovative battle system rendered it an instant classic that has moved and wowed gamers across the globe.

Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King

Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King is a testament to Square Enix's ability to respect tradition while pushing boundaries. Featuring a vast, colorful world brought to life by Akira Toriyama's unmistakable art style, this entry in the beloved Dragon Quest series invites players on an epic quest full of charm and character. Its user-friendly yet deep combat system, coupled with a captivating story, represents the JRPG genre at its most polished and accessible, ensuring that both newcomers and veterans are equally enthralled.

Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn

In an unprecedented move, Square Enix turned one of its biggest failures into a rousing success story with Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn. After a disastrous initial release, the game was completely overhauled, emerging as a phoenix from its ashes to become one of the most beloved MMORPGs on the market. With a vast, evolving world, engaging narrative content that respects single-player roots, and a welcoming community, it's not just an impressive game; it's a live service model done right.

Final Fantasy VI: A Steampunk Revolution

Long before the seventh entry took the world by storm, Final Fantasy VI paved the way for what RPGs could be with its intricate plot and ensemble cast, including the compelling antagonist, Kefka. The game's steampunk aesthetic, memorable turn-based battles, and the emotional depth of each character's storyline make it one of the most beloved chapters in the Final Fantasy canon. It represents a pivotal point in gaming where the narrative took on a weight equal to that of gameplay, forming a complete and absorbing experience.

Tomb Raider (2013): A Legend Reborn

The Tomb Raider franchise underwent a dramatic transformation with its 2013 reboot, which rewound the clock on Lara Croft's storied career to her days as a vulnerable survivor on a dangerous island. Square Enix's revitalization of the iconic series merged survival elements with its action-adventure roots, crafting a more grounded and emotionally gripping tale of Croft's ascent from novice archaeologist to hardened adventurer. It's a testament to Square Enix's willingness to boldly redefine a franchise and breathe new life into a legendary gaming icon.

Nier: Automata

Nier: Automata combines Yoko Taro's idiosyncratic storytelling with PlatinumGames' action expertise under the auspices of Square Enix to deliver a hauntingly beautiful dystopian future. Players explore existential questions through the eyes of Androids 2B, 9S, and A2 in a war-torn world. The game's fluid combat, captivating narrative, and multiple playthroughs that peel back layers of its complex story demonstrate Square Enix's strong support for visionary creators, resulting in a game that defies easy categorization and leaves a lasting impact.

Final Fantasy XII: The Ivalice Alliance

Final Fantasy XII brought the high-fantasy world of Ivalice to life with a sweeping tale of politics, war, and resistance. Moving away from traditional random encounters, its gambit system allowed for a more strategic and dynamic combat experience, while its open-world exploration was a bold shift for the series. The Zodiac Age remaster further refined this epic, enhancing its gameplay and presenting its grand narrative and rich world in stunning clarity. It's a showcase of Square Enix's commitment to evolving RPG mechanics while telling mature, intricate stories.

From redefining classic genres to pushing the envelope in storytelling, the games crafted by Square Enix are not just products of their time; they are timeless adventures that continue to define what it means to be immersed in virtual worlds. This diverse portfolio demonstrates their prolific contributions to the gaming world, offering journeys that resonate with fans old and new, time and time again.