The difficulty of ranking the most iconic Final Fantasy summons can be a tall order. Because, frankly, all of them are awesome in their own right! Whether called Espers, Guardian Forces, Eidolons, Eikons, or Aeons in their respective games, all of them are powerful, devastating, and memorable. Their existence has always brought fans excitement whenever there is another iteration of a Final Fantasy game.
While the list doesn't include all these fantastic entities, we have selected what we think are the most iconic. While the others are good in utility and character, the popularity behind these eight summons has defined the franchise we know today.
8. Alexander
To start this with a bang, how about a sentient fortress? Suppose Alexander being an actual fortress wasn't enough to include it as one of the most iconic Final Fantasy summons. In that case, its Holy-based attack, Divine Judgement, is a devastating move that quickly obliterates its enemies.
First appearing in Final Fantasy VI as an Esper, it appears throughout the franchise as a force of good. Its most memorable appearance is in Final Fantasy IX as an Eidolon, where it protects the kingdom of Alexandria against the dragon and fellow Eidolon, Bahamut. The valiant Eidolon's defence of the Kingdom of Alexandria was a high point in the story and is considered one of Alexander's most memorable iterations in the franchise.
7. Yojimbo
Among the franchise's most iconic summons, perhaps none is as cool as Yojimbo. It appeared in Final Fantasy X and X-2 as an optional Aeon and graced Final Fantasy XIV for special events. So how did this mysterious Ronin become so popular despite appearing for just three games?
It could be because of its unique use in combat, where the player has to pay Yojimbo a certain amount of money for it to perform. Yojimbo answers only to the Gil paid to it, and the fatter the check, the better the results!
Paying Yojimbo large amounts of money will make it perform Zanmato, a devastating sword slash that can cleanly kill enemies, even bosses, in one hit!
6. Carbuncle
Carbuncle proves size does not matter to become one of the most iconic Final Fantasy summons. It doesn't even have to be destructive, too. While its contemporaries usually look fearsome or intimidating, Carbuncle subverts this qualification by being probably one of the most adorable summons in franchise history!
The small summon, often adorned with pretty stones, is ultimately a force of good in any of its appearances. Once summoned, Carbuncle casts Reflect on a party, protecting players from magic damage and deflecting it back to its source! The defensive powers Carbuncle harnesses also ensure that the spell lasts longer than the average cast.
5. Ramuh
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While Ramuh hasn't appeared consistently in the franchise, most fans remember this summon by associating it with a devastating lightning spell.
Taking the appearance of a wizened old man with a long beard, an ornate robe, and a staff, Ramuh casts lightning from the heavens with a spell called Judgement Bolt. This furious power can easily level the playing field in the summoner's favour, especially if their enemies are weak against lightning.
4. Bahamut
One of the mightiest summons in the franchise; perhaps nothing could compare to the sheer power of the dragon king Bahamut. While this fearsome creature can be summoned to a player's side in most games, in some versions, it also occasionally appears as an enemy.
As for its power, any Final Fantasy fan would know that no living thing could survive the receiving end of Bahamut's Megaflare!
3. Phoenix
Possibly the most powerful force of good among the most iconic Final Fantasy summons, Phoenix's blazing fire can be devastating for its foes and a blessing for its allies. Its ability, Rebirth Flame, can clear enemy lines while reviving fallen party members, making this summon an invaluable addition to your team.
This legendary bird has been in the series since the start, but it wasn't until Final Fantasy V that Phoenix was made available as a summon. Since then, this mythical creature's warmth is always welcome in the summon roster, especially with the resilience it brings.
2. Shiva
The elegant ice queen Shiva first appeared in Final Fantasy III and has been a mainstay since. Shiva also stands out among its peers for its appearance. It usually appears as a beautiful woman with light blue or pale skin and long flowing hair, a departure from the intimidating features of most Final Fantasy summons.
Do not be fooled by her beauty, however. Shiva's devastating Diamond Dust can be bone-chilling for its enemies. Its power can be so devastating that one of the most fearsome summons in the game is afraid of Shiva! This leads us to...
1. Ifrit
Apart from its appearance as a mighty bipedal goat with the facial features of a lion and exceptionally long horns, Ifrit is often described as a primal entity. Representing the destructive force of fire and flames, its ancient power can truly scorch its enemies beyond recognition. Ifrit first appeared in Final Fantasy III and, like Shiva, has stayed in the numbered games since its introduction.
In most Final Fantasy games, Ifrit is the first fire summon the player can recruit to their party. With its Hellfire ability as a decent damage dealer in the game's early phases, distinct appearance, and powerful abilities, it is no wonder that Ifrit is considered one of the most iconic Final Fantasy summons that ever graced the franchise.
But let's face it—with the creativity behind every summon in the franchise, all of them can contend as the most iconic! Their unique features and fearsome abilities have helped shape Final Fantasy into the beloved franchise it is today.