edited by: Laura Karahalis 8/27/11
Though the title has been out for a while now, this release deserves belated praise. As nearly an exact port of the Nintendo DS release, Square Enix’s Final Fantasy III for iPhone marks the 2nd English release of this particular game in the series and the only smart-phone release to date.
Graphics & iPhone interface: Using the same 3D engine as the DS version, the iOS port utilizes Apple’s super high-resolution Retina display making textures, 3D models, and backgrounds sharp and crisp with vivid color. The graphics are not really the sensory overload that most games nowadays but on the iPhone the graphics are clearly superior to the Nintendo DS’s adaption of this original NES (Nintendo Entertainment System) game previously only available in Japan.
Though some App Store* reviews complain that the game doesn’t take advantage of iPhone’s user interface controls. For a game port like Final Fantasy, the on screen analog stick that can be manipulated anywhere on the screen seems to work just fine.
Just like the DS version, movement on the world map can be a tiny bit glitchy at times even on an iPhone 4. With its speedy 1Ghz A4 it’s likely you’ll not want to be playing it on any version of the iPhone 3G or even an older iPod touch.
Gameplay: Battle actions are controlled using a simple touch screen button based interface. Alternatively, you can also tap on the enemy to execute the default attack. Unlike Square Enix’s previous ports to the iOS, the buttons are now big enough for someone with normal sized fingers to press accurately. There is even a “Run Away” button that replaces button combinations that allowed players to flee random battles on other gaming platforms.
What makes this game great compared to other role-playing games (RPG’s) on iOS is the definitive job system that allows players to learn new abilities and advance their characters from the starter job sets. Other advanced jobs unlock as you play the game. There are also secrets that unlock through quests, including a hidden advanced job. The story line will have you playing for hours and unlocking all the secrets and abilities will double the typical play-time.
Verdict: As a great port of an already excellent game, Final Fantasy III for iOS is a must buy for hardcore fans of the series even at the somewhat steep price of $15.99 at the App Store*. While it is a remake of an older game, with the improvements made specifically for use on Apple’s popular iOS devices it is really only a little overpriced for the market. Had the game not taken advantage of Retina or lacked an iPad version the price would be far too high for a mobile phone game.
*The App Store can be accessed through your iOS device or through iTunes. Standard data/messaging charges may apply.
notaboutwebkittens 