Final Fantasy VI

Best: It was the beginning of the emotional, melodramatic storytelling the series is known for

Other than Final Fantasy VII, the sixth game is probably the one I’ve heard most people call their favorite over the years. That’s because it was the point where the series expanded beyond just mechanical mastery and into the character-driven, emotional storytelling we associate with the series to this day. The story of Terra and co. was a watershed moment for the series to become the fantasy operas they are today. That’s true even without the giant, budget-melting cinematic cutscenes we have these days.

Worst: The Cultists’ Tower

The Cult of Kefka’s Tower is one of the most frustrating moments in Final Fantasy VI. Not only is it a trudge through some difficult fights, but it disables certain commands and creates an interesting, but restricting challenge. Sure, there’s some decent loot to be found, but is it worth the frustration?