Final Fantasy IV is a huge leap forward for the series, narratively. Does the story land? Maybe not. But the attempt at telling a more nuanced story with an ensemble cast is a step towards the PS golden era of FF that is interesting to see form here.

The ATB system is something I found to be rather pointless in later entries, but here it works very well. Battles are fast paced, and you really need to use every second efficiently as the timers apply pressure in the later battles.

Narratively, I was surprised at the attempt at a more adult tone here. Cecil is a great lead, and the revolving door cast is generally pretty compelling, though I much prefer being able to stick with a party and develop them across the course of a game. Not knowing whether or not your teammate is about to face a scripted death discourages investing in your party, and I'm glad they did away with this in later entries.

Overall, FF IV is a noted leap forward for the franchise, and one that places in the upper tiers of Final Fantasy games.