My favourite sountrack from every Final Fantasy game

Today's video games, especially role-playing games, represent one of the ultimate art forms, in my opinion. They combine impressive storytelling, intricate world-building, character development, beautiful visual designs, and, perhaps most enchantingly, original soundtracks with unforgettable melodies. One series that exemplifies this is Final Fantasy, a Japanese RPG saga published by Square Enix that began in 1987 and has captivated audiences worldwide with each new release. As an anthology, its 16 entries share nothing but a name, allowing each game to stand on its own while contributing to the series' legendary status.

Growing up, I quickly fell in love with the Final Fantasy saga. It became an important part of my life—one that continues to inspire me today. It might sound cheesy, but Final Fantasy taught me life lessons, awakened deep emotions within me, and, above all, inspired me.

While some Final Fantasy games might stand out more than others, one thing remains consistent: they all feature outstanding soundtracks. Final Fantasy music is a genre staple, and today, I’ve decided to honor it by sharing my favorite tracks from each main installment in the series. Buckle up and ready your ears!

Final Fantasy I: Matoya's Cave

I’m not extremely familiar with the soundtracks of the first four Final Fantasy games, as I only played them once when I was very young. Still, a few tracks have stayed with me, their melodies catchy and pleasant to listen to. FFI’s "Matoya's Cave" is one such track—a beautiful, soothing theme that plays when you visit the old witch Matoya in her mysterious cave, filled with talking bats, sentient brooms, and countless books.

Final Fantasy II: Main Theme

FFII’s overworld theme might just be the best of the series. It’s a melancholic yet hopeful and sweet track that makes wandering aimlessly through the game’s world feel comforting. The Pixel Remaster version of this track is, in my opinion, the best version to listen to today.

Final Fantasy III: The Dark Crystals

Towards the end of FFIII, the party travels to the World of Darkness to confront the story's main antagonist. My favorite track from the game, "The Dark Crystals," plays in this demon-infested realm. People are often surprised by this choice for such a challenging dungeon, but to me, it perfectly encapsulates the final trial of resilience and willpower that the protagonists must endure to save the world.

Final Fantasy IV: Battle with the Four Fiends

One thing FFIV excels at is battle themes. All of them are iconic, but "Battle with the Four Fiends" stands out for me. This track never fails to inspire me to dive back into the game and take on the four elemental archlords.

Final Fantasy V: Clash on the Big Bridge

FFV introduced a character who would become a series staple: Gilgamesh. Whether an enemy or an ally, Gilgamesh is a name that resonates with any Final Fantasy fan. "Clash on the Big Bridge," the track that plays during a pivotal fight with him, is the game’s best and most fun piece of music.

Final Fantasy VI: Dancing Mad

Choosing my favorite track from FFVI was a daunting task. It’s one of my all-time favorite video games, with a soundtrack that is nothing short of a masterpiece. After much deliberation, I settled on "Dancing Mad," the theme for the final battle against the eccentric antagonist Kefka. Composed by the legendary Nobuo Uematsu, this four-movement classical piece never fails to send chills down my spine. Its demented energy perfectly mirrors Kefka’s madness and the epic scope of the battle. The orchestral version from the Distant Worlds II album is, in my opinion, the best rendition.

Final Fantasy VII: One-Winged Angel

Final Fantasy VII is widely regarded as one of the greatest video games of all time, and its music is a big part of that legacy. After much consideration, I chose "One-Winged Angel" as my top pick. This orchestral masterpiece, also composed by Nobuo Uematsu, is the theme for the game’s iconic villain, Sephiroth. The dramatic choral singing in Latin, paired with the intense orchestration, captures Sephiroth’s malevolent ambition perfectly.

Final Fantasy VIII: The Extreme

FFVIII continues the tradition of incredible final battle themes with "The Extreme." The track begins with a haunting piano intro before launching into an intense beat, perfectly setting the stage for a climactic battle against an overpowered witch who seeks to control time and space.

Final Fantasy IX: You’re Not Alone

The PlayStation 1 classic FFIX is a beautifully told story with a memorable cast of characters, exploring profound themes such as the meaning of life and the acceptance of mortality. The accompanying OST is one of Nobuo Uematsu’s finest works. "You’re Not Alone" plays during a pivotal and emotional moment near the story’s end, highlighting the power of camaraderie in overcoming despair. It may sound cheesy, but trust me—it’s anything but.

Final Fantasy X: Wandering Flame

Final Fantasy X holds a special place in my heart as my first Final Fantasy experience and the reason I fell so deeply in love with the series. While the game’s story is its biggest selling point, it’s the music that has stayed with me the most. "Wandering Flame," an ambient piece that symbolizes the characters’ desperation, melancholy, and hope, is my favorite. Its soothing melody brings me comfort and relief whenever I listen to it. Instead of sharing the original track, I thought I’d share this beautiful cover by Andre Kane. Enjoy!

Final Fantasy XI:

Sadly, I never had the chance to play FFXI, so I can’t pick a track from an OST I haven’t experienced in-game. I’ll leave this section empty and songless—sorry!

Final Fantasy XII: Eruyt Village

FFXII might get some hate for its new and different design, but I’m not ashamed to say it’s one of my greatest gaming experiences. Its political storyline, ahead-of-its-time gameplay, and incredible OST resonated deeply with me. The zone music, in particular, was superb, making exploration a joy. My favorite track is "Eruyt Village," a melancholic melody that perfectly suits the ethereal and mystical atmosphere of the Eruyt Village. In my opinion, it’s the best village/town theme in any video game.

Final Fantasy XIII: Lightning’s Theme

FFXIII might not be everyone’s favorite, but I enjoyed it immensely. It’s the only game I’ve ever platinumed, which means I spent countless hours immersed in its world and OST. While the soundtrack might not be the most unique, it’s a solid album that’s enjoyable from start to finish. "Lightning’s Theme" is my favorite track, perfectly capturing the essence of the game’s protagonist and my favorite character.

Final Fantasy XIV: Ultima (Orchestral Version)

Alright, this was a tough one—if not the toughest. FFXIV is my favorite game ever, and I’ve spent countless hours enjoying its story, exploring its universe, and listening to its incredible OST. With the most original pieces of any video game, FFXIV’s music is simply sublime, thanks to the genius of composer Masayoshi Soken. Choosing a favorite track was nearly impossible, but I finally settled on "Ultima (Orchestral Version)." This track may be a niche pick, but it resonates with me deeply. The first time I heard it while battling one of the game’s hardest enemies, Ultima in The Weapon’s Refrain raid, I felt something I still struggle to describe with words.

Final Fantasy XV: Omnis Lacrima

FFXV is a bit of an odd case—a game that took a decade to develop but ended up being more divisive than anticipated. While its story, all-male roster of protagonists, and gameplay have been criticized, one thing everyone agrees on is the excellence of its music. FFXV’s OST includes some of the most beautiful songs in the entire saga, so much so that it was featured in Classic FM’s 2024 Hall of Fame for best classical music albums—a remarkable achievement as the first and only video game score to make the list. Among FFXV’s incredible tracks, "Omnis Lacrima" stands out as an orchestral masterpiece. Its majestic Latin lyrics and dramatic overture perfectly set the stage for the epic battles that unfold.

Final Fantasy XVI: To Sail Forbidden Seas

Finally, we arrive at FFXVI, the latest entry in the series. What an incredible cinematic experience this game was. In addition to a well-crafted story and great gameplay, this action-packed game features one of the best soundtracks ever, composed by Masayoshi Soken, the genius behind FFXIV’s OST. With eight discs of pure musical brilliance, from character themes to zone music and boss fight tracks, everything is worth listening to. In my opinion, FFXVI’s best track is "To Sail Forbidden Seas." This powerful piece plays during major battles, beginning with a surge of energy that makes you feel as if you’ve just been pulled into something far bigger than yourself—a battle from which there is no turning back.