Steam Deck has transformed the way players enjoy gaming. It offers portable PCs that can handle even the most demanding titles. If you're a fan of the Final Fantasy series, this is the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of these iconic games.
The Final Fantasy series offers various gameplay styles, from nostalgia for classics to action-packed adventures. Steam Deck makes these experiences more accessible than ever.
This guide explores the best Final Fantasy games playable on the Steam Deck. We'll discuss how these games stand out for portable play based on various sources, community opinions, and players' experiences.
Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, this list will help you pick the perfect title and which Roman Numeral is best for your next gaming adventure.
Best Final Fantasy Games Playable On Steam Deck
Here are the best Final Fantasy games you can play on Steam Deck:
1. Final Fantasy IX
Final Fantasy IX is the most classic in the series, known for its return to the franchise's medieval fantasy roots. The game departs from the futuristic themes of its predecessors, which embrace a world filled with castles, airships, and mythical creatures. They also feature a classic Active Time Battle (ATB) system, allowing players to engage in strategic and turn-based combat.
The characters have distinct roles and unique abilities, such as Zidane’s thievery or Vivi’s mastery of black magic. Characters can also learn abilities by equipping specific weapons and armor, which adds depth to the game's progression. FF9 also includes engaging mini-games like Chocobo Hot and Cold and the Tetra Master card game, which provide enjoyable diversions.
With its combination of vibrant, pre-rendered backgrounds and charming character designs that aged gracefully, FF9 is regarded as one of the greatest entries in the series. Its heartfelt story, endearing characters, and timeless charm captivate new players and longtime fans. The game is accessible to modern audiences while preserving the magic that made it a masterpiece.
2. Final Fantasy VII
Final Fantasy VII is one of gaming history's most iconic and influential titles. Released in 1997, it revolutionized the RPG genre by introducing cinematic, complex storytelling with driven narratives. It's a mix of sci-fi and fantasy elements, combining unforgettable characters and a compelling plot, making it a timeless classic.
The game blends traditional turn-based combat with a creative Active Time Battle (ATB) system, keeping players engaged with real-time decision-making. It has the stand-out feature of the Materia System, which allows players to customize abilities, skills, and magic through magical orbs called Materia. There are iconic mini-games like Chocobo Racing and Snowboarding as well.
Final Fantasy VII was groundbreaking, with 3D character models, pre-rendered backgrounds, and cinematic cutscenes that set new standards for game storytelling. It remains a must-play for its lasting legacy in the gaming world.
3. Final Fantasy XIV Online
Final Fantasy XIV Online is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that has become one of the most successful and beloved titles in the Final Fantasy series. It's a global phenomenon known for its rich storytelling, expansive world, and community-driven experiences, solidifying its place in the MMORPG genre.
The game features a character creation system that allows players to choose different races and classes, such as Mages, Paladins, Warriors, Healers, and more. FFXIV's standout feature is its community focus, which offers a deep social experience with Free Companies (guilds), Cross-World Linkshells, and FATEs (large, open-world events), encouraging teamwork and interaction. Players can also craft, gather, and tinker with house systems, adding non-combat activities for those who prefer laid-back gameplay.
4. Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster
Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster is a remastered edition of two of the most beloved titles in the Final Fantasy series. It brings classic RPGs to modern platforms with enhanced visuals, new features, and updated audio, making it suitable for newcomers and long-time fans of the games.
The game features stunning visuals, high-definition character models, backgrounds, and cutscenes, significantly improving the graphics compared to the original PlayStation 2 versions. It also includes fully voiced dialogue for both Final Fantasy X and X-2, which was not present in the original release. Players can enjoy additional content from the International Version of Final Fantasy X, which features extra bosses and dungeons, as well as the Last Mission for Final Fantasy X-2.
The remaster preserves the originals' core gameplay and emotional depth while enhancing the experience for modern audiences. It is an essential title for fans of the series and those new to these iconic games.
5. Final Fantasy
Final Fantasy is the original groundbreaking RPG. In the late 1980s, it introduced various concepts that helped establish the archetype of JRPGs, which became the series' trademark.
The original game is simple by today’s standards, yet remains influential because it introduced many RPG staples, such as party-based combat, character classes (or jobs), and an expansive overworld map. It quickly gained popularity, becoming known for its rich storytelling, memorable characters, and expansive worlds.
While it may seem outdated by modern standards, its legacy paved the way for the expansive series that would follow.
6. Final Fantasy III
Final Fantasy III is the third installment of the series, marking several significant innovations for the franchise. It introduces gameplay mechanics and features, including a job system that allows players' characters to change classes throughout the game. The job system has become a key feature for various Final Fantasy games, including Final Fantasy V and the Final Fantasy Tactics series.
While it may not be as well-known as later entries in the series, it is an essential chapter that offers players a mix of classic turn-based RPG gameplay and innovative mechanics. Its introduction of the job system and deep combat mechanics laid the foundation for many features that would define the Final Fantasy franchise in the years to come.
7. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion
Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion is a remastered edition of the action RPG Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII. It brings the prequel to the legendary Final Fantasy VII to modern platforms with enhanced graphics, updated mechanics, and a re-recorded soundtrack. The game blends action and RPG elements, with players controlling Zack to battle various enemies in real time.
The remaster updates the combat system with quality-of-life improvements such as streamlined controls and faster-paced mechanics. It features Digital Mind Wave (DMW), a slot-machine-like mechanic that triggers bonuses and special abilities during combat, such as limit breaks, summons, and stat boosts.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this title is an unforgettable blend of action, storytelling, and nostalgia that enriches Final Fantasy VII's legacy. It is more than just a remaster—it's a reintroduction of one of the most poignant stories in the Final Fantasy franchise.
8. Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is an enhanced and expanded version of Final Fantasy VII Remake. It offers improved graphics, additional story content, and faster load times.
The Intergrade improved the visuals with 4K resolution, ray tracing, and enhanced texture and lighting, bringing the bustling city of Midgar to life with unmatched details. The game also supports Performance Mode for 60 frames-per-second gameplay, ensuring a smoother and more immersive experience.
With enhanced visuals, additional story content, and next-gen optimizations, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is not just a retelling but a reimagining of a beloved classic. It captures the spirit of the original while boldly expanding its narrative and scope, solidifying its place as one of the most celebrated RPGs of its generation.
9. Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age
Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age is a remastered version of Final Fantasy XII with updated graphics, a re-orchestrated soundtrack, and gameplay improvements, including the Zodiac Job System.
The Zodiac Job System allows players to assign each character two distinct job classes, such as Knight, Black Mage, or Machinist, from a pool of twelve options. It offers deep customization that tailors to the player's preferred playstyle. They improve the original by including a fast-forward mode for quicker exploration and grinding, an auto-save feature, and updated UI elements.
With a masterful remaster that revitalizes one of the series' most ambitious entries, The Zodiac Age offers longtime fans and newcomers a chance to experience a high point in the Final Fantasy franchise.
10. Final Fantasy VI Pixel Remaster
Final Fantasy VI Pixel Remaster is a modern reimagining of the classic Final Fantasy VI. It updates the original game with enhanced pixel art, various quality-of-life improvements, and a reorchestrated soundtrack while retaining the charm and depth of the original.
FFVI features turn-based gameplay, utilizing the Active Time Battle (ATB) system. It also features updated pixel art graphics that preserve the classic 16-bit aesthetic while modernizing character sprites, environments, and visual effects.
Final Fantasy VI Pixel Remaster's crafted update to a timeless masterpiece captures the emotional depth, complex characters, and innovative gameplay. It made the original a standout in the Final Fantasy series while enhancing it for modern audiences. Whether revisiting this classic or experiencing it for the first time, this remaster is a must-play for fans of RPGs and storytelling.
That concludes our list of the best Final Fantasy games on Steam Deck, which feature unforgettable stories, iconic characters, and groundbreaking gameplay. If you're looking for other lists, check out our top mobile games or Roblox games!