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Final Fantasy III returns with a fresh coat of paint and revamped audio in the Pixel Remaster, offering iOS users a chance to experience the original game in all its retro glory. Serving as the only mainline Final Fantasy title without an official North American release, this 2D take on the third installment brings nostalgia to the forefront with charming visuals and a timeless story.
Compared to its predecessor, Final Fantasy III boasts a more straightforward plot. Players control four youths blessed by crystals, embarking on a quest to combat a great evil. While the characters lack the depth found in the 3D remake, the Pixel Remaster allows players to explore the game's enjoyable world in its original form.
In contrast to Final Fantasy II, FFIII feels more in line with the franchise's standard gameplay. Acting as an upgraded version of the original game, it reintroduces the spell slot system and exudes a tone reminiscent of the first title. With increased complexity, including more special moves and abilities, FFIII sets the groundwork for the job system seen in later releases.
The true innovation in FFIII comes with its job system, a first in the series. Similar to later titles like FFV, players acquire new jobs as they progress, featuring iconic classes such as Red Mage and Summoner. The ability to freely swap jobs without penalties adds a layer of flexibility, almost making FFIII Pixel Remaster the definitive version of the game.
While the job choices lack the variety seen in FFV, FFIII Pixel Remaster compensates by attempting to rebalance jobs for viability. However, there's a noticeable trend towards favoring later jobs over early ones. Despite this, the game's flexibility in job switching is a significant improvement over previous versions.
FFIII Pixel Remaster stands out as the title that received the most attention during the remaster process. Extensive rebalancing, removal of tedious mechanics, and UI enhancements make it feel like the game it was meant to be. The minimap, auto-battle feature, and Quick Save option contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable gameplay experience.
Graphically, the Pixel Remaster introduces updated visuals, although some issues like screen-tearing and odd water effects may be noticed. The new font receives criticism, but it can be easily replaced. The remastered music, however, excels in capturing the essence of the original NES tunes while enhancing their quality.
In conclusion, Final Fantasy III Pixel Remaster emerges as the best version of the game to date. Its modern polish and improvements over the NES and 3D versions make it a standout in the Pixel Remaster series. While it retains the essence of a classic JRPG, the iOS platform makes it more accessible and enjoyable. For those looking to experience a Pixel Remaster title, FFIIIPR stands as a top recommendation, offering a satisfying blend of nostalgia and modern convenience.
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