Remakes are always tricky, especially if you are remaking something as classic as Final Fantasy Tactics. There are expectations to meet, but fortunately, Square Enix is up to the challenge.

Ahead of its September 30 launch, we got to play almost two hours of Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, and while it’s practically the same legendary game from before, the additions and upgrades make for a more immersive and accessible experience.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles Hands-on Preview

Before diving in, players are given the option to choose between the original and enhanced versions of the game. For purists seeking an unfiltered, nostalgic experience, the classic edition delivers. However, based on our hands-on session, the enhanced version clearly stands out as the definitive way to play.

Our preview session was split into two parts. The first focused on the game’s opening moments, beginning with the introductory cinematics leading up to the first encounter. From the outset, the developers’ intent is unmistakable. The addition of voice acting and a reworked script significantly elevates the narrative’s emotional impact. The opening scene was genuinely spine-tingling, especially for those who hold fond memories of the original. The voice performances, particularly during the tense exchange between Agrias, Gafgarion, and Ovelia’s captors, added a new layer of gravitas to the storytelling.

Visually, the changes in Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles are subtle, which speaks volumes about the original’s timeless art style and character design. While the graphical updates may not be immediately apparent, the revamped user interface offers a cleaner, more modern presentation. That said, the crisp UI set against the pixelated backdrop can feel slightly jarring.

Gameplay-wise, the first encounter served primarily as a tutorial, with Ramza being the only controllable character while the rest were AI-driven. This segment introduced several quality-of-life enhancements, including a fast-forward feature that accelerates battle animations, a welcome addition for a turn-based RPG where certain actions can take time to resolve.

The second half of the demo showcased a more advanced combat scenario, with Ramza joined by three additional party members. We opted for a balanced lineup comprising a White Mage, a Monk, and a Summoner, covering both melee and magical roles. The battlefield featured varied terrain elevations, which occasionally made camera placement tricky. Fortunately, the newly implemented “Tactical View,” a top-down perspective, proved to be a great addition for tactical purposes.

Class archetypes remain true to form in Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles. The Monk continues to be a formidable melee unit with self-healing capabilities, while the Summoner retains access to iconic summons like Ramuh, Titan, and Ifrit. Familiar jobs such as White Mage and Black Mage return, alongside niche favorites like Geomancer, Orator, and Mystic.

No discussion of Final Fantasy Tactics would be complete without acknowledging its legendary soundtrack. The Ivalice Chronicles preserves this legacy, now enhanced with full voice acting that breathes new life into its epic narrative. While Japanese voice work often sets the benchmark, the English cast here delivers a commendable performance that complements the game’s tone beautifully.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles may show its age in certain areas, particularly in controls and visuals, but the thoughtful enhancements and refinements make it a compelling way to revisit a timeless classic.

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is coming to PS4, PS5, Xbox Series, Switch, Switch 2, and PC via Steam on September 30, 2025.