21. Final Fantasy X (2001)
Down from 16th, in many ways this feels like the last of the more traditional Final Fantasy games but if that's the case it will end up being a wonderful one. With only two equip slots the game remained a surprisingly customizable experience. Level ups on the sphere grid let you do whatever you wanted with your characters and the ability to control what charged overdrives turned them into more of a strategic choice. The new summon mechanics turned them into a more fluid battle experience with the ability to use them in multiple ways. The interesting addition of moves having a visible effect on the turn order in battle allowed you to plan for your opponents actions (and let enemies be a little stronger). It would be difficult not to fall in love with the story and characters as they wind through the world looking for a way to bring peace to its shores. The change in setting from traditional games also causes this to be what I believe is the most elegant of the Final Fantasy worlds to date.
Primarily an RPG player but have interest in any game that will make me think.
