Square Enix has officially announced what fans have hoped for years: "Final Fantasy Tactics" is receiving a complete remake. Announced at Sony's latest State of Play event, the classic tactical RPG is returning in a new iteration called "Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles," coming out on September 30 on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.
This is not merely a remaster. The video game giant is presenting two in one: the much-loved classic game (with the revamped War of the Lions translation) and a completely rebuilt current version with voice acting, improved graphics, UI updates, and new story content.
The Return of a Tactical RPG Masterpiece
"Final Fantasy Tactics" initially hit the PlayStation in 1997, gaining cult popularity for its profound strategic gameplay, complex storylines, and lush world-building in the Ivalice world. Although it's had re-releases, such as the PSP and mobile platforms, the original title has otherwise been out of reach for the modern console crowd—until now.
With this remake, Square Enix seeks to update the original while retaining its essence. According to Engadget, this would bring the tactics to a new generation of gamers while providing fans with a nostalgic return to greatness.
What's New in The Ivalice Chronicles?
The long-awaited remake is finally happening. The new set will contain the classic mode, where you can play the game in its original condition with better performance and War of the Lions localization.
If you want to maximize your gameplay with the remake, play the updated version with the following perks we've never seen before:
- Full voice acting for key characters.
- A reimagined interface that's optimized for contemporary consoles.
- High-definition, smoother visuals without sacrificing the original look.
- Longer storylines and character development, expanding the Ivalice lore.
Square Enix says the improvements have been carefully designed to make both versions feel like their own, whether you're a new player or a seasoned strategist.
From Rumor to Reality: Years in the Making
According to IGN, speculation regarding a Final Fantasy Tactics remake first started in 2021 when it made an appearance in a leaked Nvidia GeForce Now database, which included several unannounced titles.
Many of those entries, including other Square Enix games, have surfaced over the years to be genuine.
Despite series creator Yasumi Matsono denying in 2023 that there were any plans to remake the series, it would appear that secrecy was at the heart of this shock announcement. Fans can now cease second-guessing and begin preparing for their return to the war-torn world of Ivalice.
Tactical Gaming Through a Different Lens
Thanks to its dual-version strategy, "Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles" has the potential to be one of the most important strategy RPG releases of the year. Bringing nostalgia, contemporary design, and Square Enix's passion for storytelling and mechanics might signal a resurgence for the console tactical genre.
Deep in your heart, if you want to relive the epic tale of Ramza Beoulve or discover it for the first time, you can just play this remake right away, a few months from now.
