Final Fantasy IV: The Complete Collection
Publisher: Square Enix
Developer: Square Enix
The fact that some incarnation of Final Fantasy IV is winning any kind of award 20 years after its original release is testament to its strength. The classic RPG was among the first to attempt storytelling on the level that it did, and even after two decades of games coming along with longer scripts, less predictable plot twists, and much higher production budgets, Final Fantasy IV holds up amazingly well. This PSP version improves upon the visuals and music in a way that preserves their original 2D/16-bit charm, but updates them both beautifully. Its gameplay is still engrossing and fun for newcomers and those who’ve already beaten it multiple times.
I get the feeling a lot of people will cite a “weak” PSP lineup as the reason for an enhanced port taking home an award. This is absolutely not the case, as beating out the thrilling games such as Tactics Ogre, Corpse Party, Patapon 3, and Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky is no easy task. The thing is, Final Fantasy IV: The Complete Collection just felt so satisfying to play. Rarely does one feel as content at the end of an adventure as when finishing off FF4: TCC, especially since it combines the original game, all chapters of the sequel, and a PSP-exclusive bonus interlude all on one disc. It leaves a lasting feeling of satisfaction. Even after being constantly exposed to new stuff with orchestrated soundtracks and cutting-edge visuals, Final Fantasy IV is still a standout experience, and the PSP version is hands down the best way to play it.
Runners Up:
- Corpse Party
- Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together
- The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky
- Patapon 3
