Final Fantasy V – Android Review

Square Enix announced their Pixel Remaster treatment for the first six episodes of Final Fantasy in 2022, promising enhanced graphics on PC, iOS, and Android. Final Fantasy V stands out in Square Enix's flagship saga. Released in 1992 between Final Fantasy IV and VI, it's one of the less reissued games in the series. Despite its unique status, FFV has often been overlooked—until now.

Following the adventures of Bartz, accompanied by his chocobo Boco, FFV introduces Lenna, the princess of Tycoon, and Galuf, an amnesiac old man found at the foot of a meteorite. The narrative takes a lighter tone compared to FFIV and FFVI, with a charm rooted in '90s humor. Despite a lack of epic moments, certain sequences, like the iconic battle on the Great Bridge, maintain the game's appeal.

Beyond its story, FFV's true strength lies in its mechanics, harking back to the franchise's roots. While retaining a semi-active turn-based combat system, FFV introduces a job system that allows dynamic class changes. Jobs don't evolve with experience points but with PC (skill points), providing access to increasingly powerful abilities. The richness of the game system lies in the vast number of possible job combinations.

This edition introduces visual enhancements based on the Super NES version, surpassing even the GBA edition in finesse. Sprites, both characters and enemies, receive meticulous attention, and the re-orchestrated music breathes new life into the iconic compositions. However, the chosen font remains a drawback, deviating from the pixelated experience. Despite this, the bonuses, including a bestiary and artwork gallery, enhance the overall gameplay.

In addition to the graphic overhaul, the game features various ergonomic options, such as an accessible map and an automatic combat option, streamlining gameplay. However, the absence of content from the GBA version, such as new jobs and an additional dungeon, leaves a void.

With its lighter narrative and robust job system, Final Fantasy V retains its original charm through the Pixel Remaster edition. While benefiting from enhanced graphics and a well-crafted soundtrack, the divisive font and missing GBA version content slightly diminish the experience. Nevertheless, the true strength of Final Fantasy V Pixel Remaster lies in making this underrated gem easily accessible to a broader audience.

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