The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) is one of the most iconic gaming consoles of all time, and it's home to a plethora of beloved games. Among these, Final Fantasy II is often considered one of the best titles in the series, with its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the SNES version of Final Fantasy II, specifically the Rev A release, which was later released in North America. We'll delve into the game's story, characters, and gameplay, as well as discuss its age rating and how it compares to other games in the series.

Storyline

Final Fantasy II is set in a fantasy world called Gaia, where four crystals have been stolen by the evil Empire, led by Emperor Gestahl. The protagonist, Firion, joins forces with his childhood friends Maria and Guy to embark on a quest to defeat the Empire and retrieve the crystals.

Throughout their journey, the party encounters various allies and enemies, each with their own unique abilities and motivations. Along the way, they discover that the Empire's intentions are far more sinister than initially thought, and that the fate of Gaia hangs in the balance.

Gameplay

Final Fantasy II features a turn-based battle system, where players take turns making attacks and using magical spells to defeat enemies. The game also includes an experience point (EXP) system, which allows characters to level up and improve their stats.

One of the standout features of Final Fantasy II is its job class system, which allows each character to choose from several different classes at the start of the game. These classes determine a character's strengths, weaknesses, and abilities, allowing players to tailor their party to suit their preferred playstyle.

Characters

The cast of characters in Final Fantasy II is diverse and well-developed, with each member bringing their own unique personality and motivations to the story.

Firion is the protagonist, a brooding and introspective warrior driven by a sense of duty. Maria is a skilled healer with a compassionate heart, while Guy is a hot-headed but loyal fighter. Other notable characters include Palom and Poromas, two winged creatures who serve as the party's mounts, and Cid, a gruff but lovable engineer.

Age Rating

Final Fantasy II was originally rated M for Mature by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in North America, due to its suggestive content, brief violence, and some mild profanity. This rating applies to the Rev A release, which is identical to the original Japanese version of the game.

In contrast, other games in the Final Fantasy series have received more lenient ratings over the years, with many titles receiving a T for Teen (Teen) or E10+ (Everyone 10 and older) rating. However, Final Fantasy II's mature themes and content have made it a classic among fans of the series.

Comparison to Other Games

Final Fantasy II is often compared to other games in the series, particularly its predecessors and successors. While opinions may vary, many fans agree that FFII is one of the best entries in the series, with its engaging story, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics.

In contrast, Final Fantasy I is often seen as a more straightforward RPG experience, while Final Fantasy III features a unique job class system similar to FFII. However, FFIII also lacks the game's mature themes and complex storyline.

Legacy

Final Fantasy II has had a lasting impact on the gaming industry, influencing countless other RPGs and games that followed in its footsteps. Its innovative gameplay mechanics and engaging story have made it a beloved classic among fans of the series, while its mature themes and content have cemented its reputation as one of the most adult-oriented games in the franchise.

In recent years, Final Fantasy II has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with many modern gamers rediscovering the game's charms. The Rev A release, which was later released in North America, is now considered a rare and highly sought-after collector's item among fans of the series.

Conclusion

Final Fantasy II on the SNES is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its engaging story, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics. Its mature themes and content have made it a beloved favorite among fans of the series, while its impact on the gaming industry cannot be overstated.

If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding RPG experience, Final Fantasy II is an excellent choice. With its rich storyline, complex characters, and addictive gameplay, this classic title is sure to delight both new and veteran gamers alike.

Ratings Comparison

| Game | ESRB Rating | | --- | --- | | Final Fantasy II (Rev A) | M for Mature | | Final Fantasy I | E for Everyone | | Final Fantasy III | E10+ |

Note: The ESRB ratings listed above are based on the original releases of each game in North America.

Recommendation

If you're a fan of RPGs, fantasy games, or just looking for a classic gaming experience, Final Fantasy II is an absolute must-play. With its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics, this timeless title is sure to captivate audiences of all ages.

Whether you're playing on the original SNES console or modernizing with a remake or port, Final Fantasy II is a game that will continue to thrill and challenge gamers for years to come.