Final Fantasy VIII Remastered

It's easy to see why Final Fantasy VIII is considered one of the series' most divisive entries, but its story and gameplay systems remain unique 20 years after its original release. Final Fantasy VIII Remastered has its flaws -- the draw system is still a total pain in the arse -- but there's a magic and atmosphere to Squall's often mental adventure that's incredibly endearing. This is a PlayStation classic given a new lease of life, and it's still way more interesting than the majority of Japanese RPGs hitting our consoles today.

This is easily the most skippable entry of all the mainline Final Fantasy games on the Switch right now, but if you find yourself to be a fan of either the Final Fantasy series or the JRPG genre, Final Fantasy VIII Remastered proves to be a release that’s certainly worth your time

The best way to play Final Fantasy VIII, and there's nothing a patch or two can't fix.

Final Fantasy 8 Remastered is the best way to experience the JRPG classic, but some aspects of the game haven't aged well.

Final Fantasy VIII is worthy of another playthrough, and new players will appreciate the assists, but the remaster doesn't provide enough difference to constitute buying if you already own the original.

The developers have slightly improved the graphics, so unlike the FFVII port, Final Fantasy VIII Remastered can be played without tears. Unfortunately, the animation and backgrounds are the same as in the original and looks very outdated. Anyway it is same great game capable to captivate on tens hours interesting history, classical mechanics and approach to development of skills. Especially if played on the Nintendo Switch's small screen, which smoothes out most of the roughness.

Final Fantasy VIII isn’t without its flaws, and it spreads them fairly evenly across story, mechanics, and pacing. Happily, the speed boost on offer in the remaster fixes the pacing, which effectively papers over the cracks in the grind-heavy mechanics. What you’re left with is a fun, somewhat silly, and beautiful RPG. And on Nintendo Switch, you can play it anywhere. This really is the best way to play Final Fantasy VIII.

Final Fantasy VIII is the favourite instalment of yours truly. Its story is consistent and powerfully emotional, the characters relate well and the way they meet up makes sense.

Final Fantasy VIII Remastered doesn't live up to its name and only really succeeds in making Final Fantasy VIII playable on current systems.

The story and characters are still engaging, the score sounds as beautiful as ever, and the art design looks impressive.