Final Fantasy II (Super NES)
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With the release of Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster only a day away, we wanted to take a trip back in time and see what game critics thought of Final Fantasy II when it first came out. Did this first-generation Super NES role-playing game set a high water mark, or were old school critics disappointed with its easy difficulty? Find out now as we dig through the pages of Nintendo Power, Electronic Gaming Monthly, GamePro and other classic magazines to find out what critics thought of Final Fantasy II at the time.
(NOTE: Although we occasionally cut for length, no other edits are made to the review. Defunct Games does not change any of the wording, grammar or punctuation use. Also keep in mind that our score is the average of all critics at the time, not just the sample that is reprinted on this page. If you still have more questions, I recommend you check out the
Review Crew FAQ, where we address the review guidelines, converting scores, magazine covers and more.)
ELECTRONIC GAMING MONTHLY
(1992 Video Game Buyer's Guide)
"One genre where the S-NES really shines is the RPG. Mode 7 is great here and Square does a spectacular job in using it to zoom in and away from the planet. The quest is huge and also one of the most difficult ever attempted in a video game."
(Best RPG Video Game)
ELECTRONIC GAMING MONTHLY #29
"Square has just redefined what the ultimate RPG should be like. With spectacular Mode 7 effects, outstanding graphics and a quest unequalled in a video game, the latest in the FF series really makes use of all the Super NES has to offer. Easily the best made to date!" -Ed
(9 out of 10)
NINTENDO POWER (November 1991)
"Battles in Final Fantasy II are more interesting than in previous RPGs. You must make snap decisions. The enemies don't wait for you to make up your mind. Square Soft's Final Fantasy II for the Super NES sets a new standard for excellence for RPGs. The story, graphics, play and sound will keep fans riveted."
(4.5 out of 5)
ELECTRONIC GAMING MONTHLY #29
"I'm not into RPGs on any system, but this one isn't that bad. The graphics are pretty cool, especially when you are flying over the land in your airship. The music is incredible and sounds like an orchestra is inside your SNES. If you like these type of games you'll like it, I'm not thrilled." -Martin
(7 out of 10)
GAMEPRO (March 1992)
"Final Fantasy II truly redefines the standards for fantasy adventure games. Silly one-dimensional characters, needless hack 'em combat, and linear gameplay will be things of the past if other RPGs learn a lesson or two from this cart. Final Fantasy II is one small step for Square Soft, and one giant leap for SNES role-playing games." -Monty Haul
(5 out of 5)
ELECTRONIC GAMING MONTHLY #29
"This is a totally awesome RPG. The storyline is actually coherent and the plot moves along with a combination of speaking sequences and battles. Sure, there's plenty of old build up your abilities and move up a level play, but within a framework like this, how can you go wrong! Tasty game!" -Sushi X
(8 out of 10)
REVIEW CREW AVERAGE: 85% -
It should come as no surprise that Final Fantasy II (properly known as Final Fantasy IV in the 21st century) was well liked in the early 1990s. GamePro is the most enthusiastic, awarding the game a perfect score, commending the graphics, story and ambitious scope. Nintendo Power also loved the game, giving the role-playing game an unprecedented 4.5 (one of the highest scores they've ever given). However, not everybody was swayed by Cecil's story. Martin, hater of role-playing games, soured the mood with a so-so 7. And while Ed may have given the game a 9, most of the EGM staff awarded Final Fantasy II an 8. Maybe they'll come around with Final Fantasy III.
