9. Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020)

Despite the name, Final Fantasy VII Remake isn’t actually a remake. The modernized action RPG takes what was once a small slice of Final Fantasy VII and makes it its own game. As such, its pacing issues become apparent as forced side quest sections elongate the runtime. However, its perfect blend of strategy and action, excellent spin on iconic characters, and willingness to change things up that haven’t aged so well makes it a fresh, nostalgic trip down memory lane…until it’s not.

The ending of Final Fantasy VII Remake was divisive when it came out and has only gotten more fraught after Rebirth makes certain decisions about how to follow it up. But it was a bold declaration about letting go of the past and embracing an unknown future. It remains to be seen if Square Enix will make good on this promise by the end of the trilogy, but as a standalone entry in a larger story, Remake ends on a thought-provoking note. — Kenneth Shepard