The beloved Final Fantasy series is currently on sale, with the Anniversary Edition of Final Fantasy I-VI Collection reduced to just $55 at both Amazon and Walmart. This deal saves you $20 off the usual price and applies to the PS4 version, which conveniently works on the PS5 too. As a nice bonus, the package includes a sheet of enchanting Final Fantasy character sprites. Initially released on PS4 and Nintendo Switch in October, the collection was priced at $75.
This classic bundle features the Pixel Remaster versions of the first six core Final Fantasy games. If you remember, Square Enix initially released a physical edition last year, but the limited copies flew off shelves in no time. Thankfully, the recent re-release made the Anniversary Edition widely available at major retail stores. Let’s not forget that these are genuine physical copies, with all the games present on either the Switch cartridge or PS4 disc.
For those curious about what’s inside, the Anniversary Edition covers the Pixel Remasters of these iconic titles: Final Fantasy I (originally on NES in 1987), Final Fantasy II (NES, 1988), Final Fantasy III (Famicom, 1990), Final Fantasy IV (SNES, 1991), Final Fantasy V (SNES, 1992), and Final Fantasy VI (SNES, 1994). Each game has enjoyed a significant facelift, boasting revamped graphics and audio enhancements. The original pixel art is respected, while the series’ legendary composer, Nobuo Uematsu, ensured the rearranged soundtracks maintain their magic. Players have the choice to enjoy either the new or classic music versions, both of which shine in their own right.
Square Enix has added various quality-of-life updates to the collection. Features like quick save, customizable text fonts, experience multipliers, auto-battle options, and even the ability to turn off random encounters make these games more accessible than ever. Plus, there’s an engaging in-game bestiary, illustration gallery, and a music player filled with beloved tunes.
If you’re leaning toward the Nintendo Switch version, unfortunately, the discount isn’t as generous, but you can still purchase it for $71.49 on Amazon. Alternatively, for $69.49, you can opt for the original edition, which has sleeker cover art, minus the sticker sheet and the big ESRB box and Anniversary Edition branding.
The Pixel Remasters initiative kicked off by Square Enix debuted on PC and mobile in the summer of 2021. It covered the three 8-bit Final Fantasy games and wrapped up with Final Fantasy VI in February 2022. Following that, the collection made its way to PlayStation and Switch last year, and most recently to Xbox Series X|S in September.
It’s noteworthy that Final Fantasy III stayed a Japan-exclusive until it got a 3D remake for the Nintendo DS, whereas in North America, long-time fans might remember the acclaimed Final Fantasy VI as Final Fantasy III. You can dive into these classics in any sequence you prefer, but it’s truly fascinating to witness how the series morphed from its 8-bit roots on the Nintendo Entertainment System to the more polished 16-bit aesthetic on the Super Nintendo.
For fans of retro Final Fantasy art, FF Dot: The Pixel Art of Final Fantasy is a must-see. This beautiful hardcover book spans 280 pages and dives deep into the striking artwork that, especially with the advent of Pixel Remasters, has proven timeless.
For those keen on exploring more, we’ve rounded up additional Final Fantasy art, lore, and reference books that deserve a place on your shelf. This includes the Final Fantasy 7 Remake: Material Ultimania Plus, set to release on November 19.
Also available is the Final Fantasy Ultimania Archive Volume 1, which focuses extensively on the first six games. It offers 336 pages filled with concept art and insights from designers and artists who breathed life into these games, now conveniently compiled into one package. Both Ultimania Archive Volume 1 and Final Fantasy 7 Remake: Material Ultimania are eligible for Amazon’s buy one, get one free book promotion, available until November 16.
