8 Best Parties In Final Fantasy Games

Let’s be real: this party is the most iconic. Whether it’s Cloud’s enigmatic past, Tifa’s emotional complexity, or Barret’s fiery leadership, the group dynamic is deep and ever-changing. Throw in fan-favorites Aerith, Red XIII, and Vincent Valentine, and you have a cast that defined an era.

From a game perspective, the Materia system allows for virtually any character to be constructed in a freeform way, but the personalities and relationships are the ones that bring this party all the way to the best of the best status. And for those of you who loved the original and managed to somehow miss out, Square Enix released Final Fantasy VII Rebirth last year.

2. Final Fantasy X – Tidus, Yuna, Auron, and the Guardians

The Pilgrims of Yuna in Final Fantasy X are among the most coherent and emotionally nuanced groups in the series. Tidus’ status as a foreigner permits the player a window into the rich culture of Spira, and Auron’s stoicism and Lulu’s pragmatism help contextualize Yuna’s religiously motivated quest.

This party is perfectly balanced in battle too, with defined roles and synergy, Wakka’s ranged attacks, Rikku’s item-based trickery, and Kimahri’s versatility round things out beautifully.

3. Final Fantasy VI – Terra, Celes, Locke, and the Ensemble Cast

Final Fantasy VI features one of the largest and most diverse parties within the series. With 14 playable characters, including a moogle (Mog), a yeti (Umaro), and a ninja prince (Shadow), you have the ability to tailor your main party to suit your preference.

But it’s not variety, it’s the character between all the characters. Terra and Celes both have strong character arcs of identity and redemption, Locke brings heart, and characters like Edgar and Sabin bring humor and loyalty. The depth of this cast alone makes FFVI a classic favorite.

4. Final Fantasy IX – Zidane, Garnet, Vivi, and Steiner

This crew captures the magic of the classic games in the series while adding its own charm. Zidane’s playful heroism, Garnet’s royal struggle, Vivi’s heartbreaking existential journey, and Steiner’s comic rigidity make for one of the most lovable casts around.

Gameplay is supported by a well-defined class and role assigned to each character, in traditional FF style, that adds to the vintage, well-balanced party sensation. FFIX is an homage to FF, and this party makes sure the message comes loud and clear. Not only that, but a teaser has been recently announced for a remake!

5. Final Fantasy XV – Noctis, Gladiolus, Ignis, and Prompto

My personal favorite (mainly due to Prompto), this game meets us with a party which quite literally is one of brotherhood. Noctis’ open road trip-like endeavors, along with his three companions, are refreshing, backed with campfire discussion, night-hunting, and photography.

Despite it being boys only, the atmosphere is filled with banter, camaraderie, and growth. In battle, every party member has a specific function, and synergy is the name of the game! Especially in how each and every one of the other bros plays to the party. Ignis’ strategic support, Gladio’s tank role, and Prompto’s… well, Promptoness and hair that a few say that “looks like a Chocobo’s butt feathers”.

6. Final Fantasy IV – Cecil, Rosa, Kain, Rydia, and Edge

The plot of Final Fantasy IV is the first in the series to feature rich, character-driven storytelling. Cecil’s evolution from dark knight to paladin is legendary, and Kain’s internal conflict, Rosa’s devotion, and Rydia’s emergence from child to summoner add great depth.

This game was also the first to feature the Active Time Battle system, and the ever-changing roster of the party makes the battles seem new. By the time you assign the last five, you are actually an old battle team.

7. Final Fantasy VIII – Squall, Rinoa, Zell, and the SeeD Squad

Where Final Fantasy VIII’s junction system is polarizing, Squall’s party of SeeD cadet comrades is unmistakably iconic. The game becomes deeply invested in character psychology, especially through Squall’s character development and his crush on Rinoa.

Every character, from the hot-headed Zell to the cold Quistis, has distinct motivations and charm. The low-key friendship is there, and it cuts deeper with every playthrough.

8. Final Fantasy XII – Vaan, Ashe, Balthier, Fran, and Company

The Final Fantasy XII party stands out for political sophistication and mature themes. While Vaan was a player-inserted character, the real leads are Ashe, the hard-as-nails princess, and Balthier, the heart-and-wits-of-gold sky pirate.

The gambit system gets everyone at the party to feel tactical and customizable. This isn’t a party of pilgrim buddies; it’s a fellowship of friends ensnared in the gears of war and empire, and it’s great.

Final Thoughts

This series is never just about the fighting and the summons; it’s about the people you’re fighting with. These parties summarize why the series is so beloved: iconic characters, touching storylines, and heartbreaking unity. Whether you’re a lover of retro pixel sprites or cool cinematic presentation, there’s a party here that’s cemented its place in RPG history.