Final Fantasy games are lovable for their lovable characters, immersive plots, and the way they make us believe we can travel to magical worlds where we can save the day.
But the beloved RPG series also has a knack for breaking players’ hearts with tragic deaths, bleak stories, and games that end with a whimper.
From the Branded in Final Fantasy 16 to the very end of Final Fantasy 15, these stories feature unforgettable moments that illustrate the heartrending history behind iconic games in the series. Some of these moments are somber, others are downright heartbreaking, but all of them strike a chord.
Final Fantasy 16: The Branded
The tragic lives of the Branded in Final Fantasy 16 illustrate the game’s somber story. Magic-wielding citizens of the kingdom of Lucis are now worthless slaves, having been branded with their respective magic’s glyph. While some of the branded are lucky enough to be taken in by the Crystal Braves, others live in fear – and if they’re discovered, they face execution.
Final Fantasy 9: The War of the Lions
Freya’s devastating journey through the ruins of her hometown, Burmecia, after Alexandria’s attack is a powerful political statement about the effects of war. Freya’s heartbreaking lament for her lost love, Desh, and the loss of countless Burmecians evokes a sense of tragedy and injustice.
Final Fantasy 4: The Twins’ Sacrifice
Palom and Porom’s sacrifice in Final Fantasy 4 is an unforgettable moment that highlights the consequences of war. When the twins realize they must turn themselves into statues to halt the walls’ progress, they leave their friends behind with a heavy heart, knowing they won’t be able to say goodbye.
Final Fantasy 14: Heavensward
Heavensward introduces Haurchefant Greystone, a close friend to the game’s main cast who meets a tragic end. During the Vault of Ishgard dungeon, Haurchefant is critically wounded and must be left behind, leaving him at the mercy of the Djinn. Haurchefant’s death is a shock to fans, as he had been a loyal companion throughout the game.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake
The ill-fated battle to save Sector 7’s plate from crashing down creates a gut-wrenching scene of death and destruction. The Remake’s opening moments highlight the main cast’s bond, creating a strong emotional connection to the protagonists. But when the plate gives way and sends Cloud and his team plummeting to their doom, the player is left in genuine distress, with the loss of their close friends etched on their faces.
Final Fantasy 15
The death of Lunafreya in Final Fantasy 15 is a dramatic and somber scene that is accompanied by a visually spectacular dream sequence. After her lover, Noctis, fails to use the Ring of the Lucii to save her, Lunafreya passes away, leaving Noctis genuinely distressed. But the real heartbreak comes after Lunafreya’s death, when the player sees a vision of the happy life they could have had together, complete with a child.
Final Fantasy 5
Galuf’s passing in Final Fantasy 5 is a touching moment of genuine distress, as Galuf’s granddaughter, Krile, witnesses his death. As Krile attempts to use her special ability, Wish, to save Galuf, she realizes that it is too late – but her tearful attempt to save her grandfather from death is a moving moment that leaves the player feeling genuinely sad.
Final Fantasy 10
The bittersweet ending to Final Fantasy 10 sees the breaking of Spira’s cycle of death, but at a cost. After the defeat of Sin, protagonist Tidus fades away, leaving Yuna heartbroken. The resulting cutscene features a flashback of Laguna proposing to Raine at her grave, leaving players confused as to whether this is the same Raine or Tidus’s mother – but the emotional impact of the scene is undeniable.
Final Fantasy 8
Final Fantasy 8’s surreal and emotional ending features a scene that leaves players captivated. The party arrives at the gateway to the afterlife and encounters the spirits of their dead companions. As the party bids farewell to their friends, the player is left wondering who will be the next to fade away – but then all of the dead characters reappear, including the long-dead antagonist, Sorceress Adel.
