Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age is a remastered edition of the classic 2006 PlayStation 2 RPG, Final Fantasy XII. Released in 2017 for PlayStation 4, and later for other platforms, this version enhances the original with updated graphics, a re-orchestrated soundtrack, and the Zodiac Job System, which was previously exclusive to the international version of the game. The Zodiac Age invites players to experience the rich tapestry of Ivalice once more, with additions that refine and modernize its core elements while staying true to the story and gameplay that captivated audiences over a decade ago.

Story

Set in the magical world of Ivalice, Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age weaves a tale of political intrigue, war, and personal growth. The story begins with the small kingdom of Dalmasca caught in the crossfire between two great empires, Archadia and Rozarria. With its king assassinated and its princess presumed dead, Dalmasca is annexed by Archadia, leaving its people in despair.

The narrative follows Vaan, a young street urchin from Dalmasca’s capital, Rabanastre, who dreams of becoming a sky pirate. His life takes a dramatic turn when he stumbles upon a daring heist orchestrated by Balthier and Fran, two sky pirates with their own mysterious motives. Vaan’s journey soon entwines with that of Princess Ashe, the true heir to the Dalmascan throne, who is determined to reclaim her kingdom and free her people from Archadian rule.

As the story unfolds, players are introduced to a colorful cast of characters, each with their own motivations and backstories. The game skillfully balances personal narratives with the overarching political drama, creating a rich and immersive world. Themes of freedom, loyalty, and destiny resonate throughout, making the story both engaging and thought-provoking.

Main Characters

• Vaan: The spirited protagonist with dreams of adventure, who grows from a naive youth into a courageous fighter.
• Ashe: The determined princess fighting to restore her homeland’s independence.
• Balthier: A charming sky pirate with a mysterious past and a sharp wit.
• Fran: Balthier’s loyal partner, a Viera with a deep connection to nature.
• Basch: A disgraced knight seeking redemption for crimes he didn’t commit.
• Penelo: Vaan’s childhood friend, who supports him on his journey and dreams of a better future.

Gameplay

Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age introduces players to a unique blend of real-time combat and strategic planning. The game’s Gambit System allows players to pre-program characters’ actions based on various conditions, providing a sense of customization and control over the flow of battle. This system can be as simple or complex as the player desires, offering both accessibility for newcomers and depth for veterans seeking a challenge.

Combat System

The combat in The Zodiac Age is a departure from the traditional turn-based system seen in earlier Final Fantasy titles. Instead, it employs an Active Dimension Battle (ADB) system where battles occur seamlessly in the game world, without transitioning to a separate battle screen. Players can freely move their characters and issue commands in real-time, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.

The Zodiac Job System

One of the most significant additions in The Zodiac Age is the Zodiac Job System. This feature allows players to assign two distinct jobs to each character, expanding their abilities and strategic options. With twelve jobs to choose from, ranging from classic Final Fantasy roles like Black Mage and White Mage to new options like Machinist and Uhlan, players can tailor their party to suit their playstyle.

Exploration and Side Quests

The world of Ivalice is vast and filled with secrets to uncover. Players can explore diverse environments, from bustling cities to treacherous dungeons, each rendered in stunning detail. The game also offers numerous side quests and hunts, providing opportunities to earn rare items and powerful weapons. These optional activities enrich the player’s journey and encourage exploration, adding depth and replayability to the experience.

Graphics and Sound

Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age takes the already impressive visuals of the original game and enhances them for modern hardware. The remastered graphics deliver sharp textures, improved character models, and vibrant environments, bringing the world of Ivalice to life like never before. The game’s art direction, which blends fantasy with a touch of realism, remains a standout feature, immersing players in its distinctive aesthetic.

Soundtrack

The music of The Zodiac Age is another highlight, featuring a re-orchestrated soundtrack that elevates the game’s emotional impact. Composer Hitoshi Sakimoto’s score is masterfully crafted, blending sweeping orchestral pieces with thematic motifs that perfectly capture the game’s epic scope and intimate moments. Players have the option to switch between the original and re-orchestrated soundtracks, catering to both nostalgic fans and those experiencing the game for the first time.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its original release, Final Fantasy XII was lauded for its ambitious scope, innovative gameplay mechanics, and mature storytelling. It received critical acclaim and numerous awards, solidifying its place as a landmark title in the Final Fantasy series. However, some players were divided over its departure from traditional turn-based combat and its complex narrative.

The Zodiac Age addressed many of these concerns by refining gameplay mechanics and enhancing the overall experience. The inclusion of the Zodiac Job System offered a new layer of strategy, while quality-of-life improvements, such as faster game speed and autosaves, made the game more accessible to modern audiences. As a result, The Zodiac Age received widespread praise for its successful updates and faithful preservation of the original’s core elements.

Community and Influence

The Zodiac Age has cultivated a dedicated fanbase, with players appreciating its deep gameplay systems and rich world-building. Its influence can be seen in subsequent RPGs that adopted similar real-time combat systems and open-world exploration. The game’s legacy endures as a testament to Square Enix’s ability to innovate within a beloved franchise while respecting its roots.

Conclusion

Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the original game, revitalized for a new generation. With its compelling story, innovative gameplay, and stunning presentation, The Zodiac Age offers a definitive experience that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers. Its impact on the genre is undeniable, inspiring future RPGs to explore new gameplay possibilities while maintaining the narrative depth and character development that define the Final Fantasy series.

In summary, The Zodiac Age not only preserves the legacy of Final Fantasy XII but enhances it, ensuring its place as a beloved entry in one of gaming’s most iconic franchises. Whether you’re revisiting the world of Ivalice or experiencing it for the first time, The Zodiac Age is a journey worth embarking on.