Square Games Collection
Formed from the 2003 merger of Square and Enix, this Japanese gaming giant has defined the RPG genre for decades. Known for breathtaking narratives, memorable characters, and cutting-edge visuals, Square Enix's franchises have sold over 300 million copies worldwide.
Golden Age of JRPGs (1987-2000)
Revolutionized gaming with:- Final Fantasy (1987-): Turn-based combat perfected (ATB system)
- Chrono Trigger (1995): Time-travel masterpiece with multiple endings
- Secret of Mana (1993): Pioneered real-time action RPGs
- Xenogears (1998): Philosophical sci-fi epic
3D Era & Global Expansion
Transitioned to 3D with landmark titles:- Final Fantasy VII (1997): 3D pre-rendered backgrounds & cinematic storytelling
- Kingdom Hearts (2002): Disney crossover phenomenon
- Final Fantasy XIV (2010/2013): MMORPG redemption story
Modern Innovations
Continued pushing boundaries:- NieR series (2010-): Experimental narrative structures
- Dragon Quest XI (2017): Classic JRPG modernized
- Forspoken (2023): Magic-based parkour gameplay
Technical Achievements
Industry firsts:- First CD-ROM RPG (Final Fantasy VII)
- First full 3D MMORPG on console (Final Fantasy XI)
- Real-time hair physics (Final Fantasy XV)
Cultural Impact
Beyond games:- Final Fantasy orchestral concerts worldwide
- Kingdom Hearts merchandise empire
- The Spirits Within (2001): First photorealistic CGI film
Legacy
Square Enix remains the standard-bearer for narrative depth and technical ambition in RPGs, blending Japanese artistry with global appeal.1987
RPGThe game that saved Square from bankruptcy and launched one of gaming's most iconic franchises. This NES classic established core RPG mechanics like the job system, turn-based battles, and an epic fantasy narrative.
1988
RPGThe groundbreaking sequel that reinvented JRPG mechanics, following four orphans in their rebellion against the Palamecian Empire. Introduced character progression through skill usage rather than levels, and pioneered narrative-driven storytelling in RPGs.
1990
RPGFinal Fantasy III introduced the revolutionary Job System that became a franchise staple. Four orphaned warriors of light embark on a quest to restore balance to a world threatened by the Cloud of Darkness, with 22 unique job classes to master.
1996
RPGSuper Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars is a 1996 role-playing game developed by Square and published by Nintendo for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. This groundbreaking collaboration blends Mario's platforming world with Square's RPG expertise, featuring an original story where Mario teams with Bowser and new allies to recover seven stars from the villain Smithy.
1995
RPGGroundbreaking JRPG featuring time travel across seven distinct eras, developed by the 'Dream Team' of Hironobu Sakaguchi (Final Fantasy), Yuji Horii (Dragon Quest), and Akira Toriyama (Dragon Ball). Known for its multiple endings, active battle system, and absence of random encounters.
1991
RPGFinal Fantasy IV is a role-playing game developed and published by Square for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. Released in 1991, it introduced the Active Time Battle system and follows the story of Cecil, a dark knight who journeys to redeem himself. The game features five playable characters with unique abilities.
1992
RPGFinal Fantasy V is a 1992 role-playing game developed and published by Square for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. The fifth main installment in the Final Fantasy series, it introduced the iconic Job System that allowed deep character customization through 22 unique job classes. The story follows four warriors chosen by the Crystals to prevent the destruction of their world.
1994
RPGFinal Fantasy VI is a role-playing game developed and published by Square for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. Released in 1994, it is the sixth main installment in the Final Fantasy series. The game features fourteen permanent playable characters, the most of any game in the series, and combines fantasy with steampunk elements in its setting.
1993
RPGRomancing SaGa 2 is an innovative JRPG developed by Square for the SNES. Breaking conventions with its generational system where players guide an empire through centuries of rulers, the game features non-linear progression, intricate skill-based combat, and one of the first 'New Game Plus' modes in RPG history.
1993
Action RPGSecret of Mana is an action RPG that follows a young boy's quest to prevent an empire from conquering the world with an ancient airship. The game features real-time combat, a unique ring menu system, and cooperative multiplayer for up to three players.
1997
Tactical RPGFinal Fantasy Tactics is a tactical RPG set in the war-torn kingdom of Ivalice, featuring grid-based battles and a deep job class system. The game follows Ramza Beoulve as he uncovers a conspiracy during the Lion War, blending political intrigue with fantasy elements.
2000
Action RPGA groundbreaking action RPG set in the medieval city of Leá Monde, blending tactical combat with dungeon crawling. Follow agent Ashley Riot as he uncovers a conspiracy involving cults and ancient artifacts in this mature-themed adventure.
1997
Tactical RPGFront Mission 2 is a tactical RPG developed by Square for PlayStation. Set in 2102, six years after the original, the game follows three intersecting stories during a coup d'état in the Alordesh Republic. Featuring deep tactical combat with customizable Wanzers (mechs), the game introduced new mechanics like the Link System and expanded political storytelling.














