Torch Everything!
Remasters of classic Final Fantasy titles are a fairly hit-or-miss bunch. Sometimes you get a version of the original title that’s simply been improved, like the iconic GBA releases of Final Fantasy IV, V and VI, or a reworking that makes some of the more obtuse games more palatable for a modern audience, like the Nintendo DS version of Final Fantasy III. However, there are some Final Fantasy remasters that are almost universally reviled among the fanbase due to the changes they make to the original game’s aesthetic – the Steam versions of FFV and VI. Now, however, it seems that Square Enix are eager to put these blunders behind them and move on to better projects – starting with removing them from Steam.
The Steam version of Final Fantasy VI in particular is controversial among fans for its new sprites and artwork, which look…. well, let’s just say a little different from the original. Here’s a comparison between them, with the original on the bottom:
Both V and VI have had their names changed on Steam to Final Fantasy V (Old ver.) and Final Fantasy VI (Old ver.), with a message added to the descriptions of both: “This game will no longer be available for purchase after July 27, 2021. Instead, please purchase the pixelated remaster version of “FINAL FANTASY V (or VI),” coming soon.”. This could be our first indication of a release date for the upcoming “pixel remasters” of Final Fantasy I-VI, games which have thus far been shrouded in mystery since their announcement at the Square Enix presents E3 event. When are they coming out? What do they look like? What does ”pixel remaster” actually mean? We don’t quite know yet, but July 27th may be a date to keep an eye on.
The Steam remasters of Final Fantasy V and VI are available until July 27th – if you really want to check them out, you’d best get downloading now!