Nintendo Life writes: "While the game was the second numbered Final Fantasy when it was released in North America back in 1991, it's actually the fourth entry in the series due to the second and third 8-bit releases remaining in Japan at the time. It marked the series debut on Nintendo's 16-bit console and added quite a few new gameplay elements to the mix, namely Square's new Active-Time Battle system, that would greatly increase the game's playability and sense of strategy. Over the years. the game has seen re-releases and remakes on many of the more modern game consoles, including a release on the Nintendo DS system under its correct numerical name Final Fantasy IV, but it's this original Super Nintendo release that still holds a special place in many RPG fans' hearts. So how exactly does this classic hold up?"
Final Fantasy II was an important stepping stone for the series and genre, flaws and all.
How does Final Fantasy II stand by the standards of today? Is it timeless? Or a forgettable entry to an unforgettable franchise?
Gaming Respawn's Gavin Hart investigates
Kazuko Shibuya held a panel and a live drawing at Japan Expo 2019, revealing neat details on Square's early days and Final Fantasy's history.