Late last year, Square Enix quietly announced that Final Fantasy X|X-2 HD Remaster is coming to the PlayStation 4. The same product was previously released for the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita on the 18th of March in 2014. So is the PS4 version of the remaster worth buying? Let’s take a look at several elements that may factor into your decision.
Quality of Games
Final Fantasy X|X-2 HD Remaster contains two games: Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy X-2. The former is the more recognizable videogame and for good reason.
Final Fantasy X was a landmark entry in the series as it was the first to come out on the PlayStation 2 and the first to feature voice acting. The combat also received an overhaul as the active-time system was replaced with a turn-based system. It also came with an unique leveling system with the sphere grid. So, if you haven’t already played it, the JRPG is definitely worth buying.
Final Fantasy X-2 is not as well known as its direct prequel. Square Enix decided to change up the gameplay with the second game, bringing back the interchangeable class system with dress spheres in addition to the active time battle. It also has a less serious and more campy tone when compared to Final Fantasy X, which turned off some fans of the original. With that said, X-2 is still a solid game that is worth playing if you are a fan of the first game.
International Versions
Even if you play both games, Final Fantasy X|X-2 HD Remaster does contain some extras. The collection includes the International Version of Final Fantasy X in addition to the International and Last Mission Version of Final Fantasy X-2.
Final Fantasy X International Version adds new optional boss battles in addition to Eternal Calm, a lengthy video that tied the first game to the direct sequel. Final Fantasy X-2 International and Last Mission adds two new dress spheres in addition to a new dungeon called Yadonoki Tower and a creature capture feature.
Enhanced Graphics
Square Enix has not yet announce what the improvements will be in the PlayStation 4 version. Final Fantasy X|X-2 HD Remaster already ran at a native 1080p with improved textures on the PlayStation 3. However, it does not have any anti-aliasing at that resolution. Hopefully, the game will run better on Sony’s current-gen console.
With that said, the difference may not be that big enough if you are planning to upgrade from the PS3 to the PS4. On the other hand, going from the PS2 or even the Vita to the PS4 release should be worth it.
PlayStation 4 Exclusive Features
Square Enix also announced that the remaster has some features exclusive to Sony’s current-generation console. Unfortunately, they are limited to system level. So you can expect to use the share button to post screenshots and videos. You may also use the touch pad of the DualShock 4. Still, the difference may not be enough if you already play the two games on the PS3 and/or Vita.
Final Verdict
Whether or not you should buy Final Fantasy X|X-2 HD Remaster depends on your prior experience with Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy X-2.
If you already played the PlayStation 3 version of Final Fantasy X|X-2 HD Remaster, then there aren’t enough reasons for you to buy the PlayStation 4 release, at least not at full price. Owners of the Vita version who want a better looking version may want to upgrade to the PS4, however.
If you never played the originals and/or the remaster releases, then Final Fantasy X|X-2 HD Remaster is an absolute must-buy on the PS4. This is especially true if you are a fan of the JRPG genre. You can preorder the PS4 version, which is coming out later this spring, with this page on Amazon.