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The early 2000s saw the rise of the PlayStation 2 and the continued popularity of the Final Fantasy series. Games like Final Fantasy VI, VII, VIII, IX, and X/X-2 achieved critical acclaim and remain fan favorites to this day. Amidst these titans, Final Fantasy XII emerged, a title that, while well-received, carved its own distinct path. Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age, a remastered version for the PlayStation 4, further refines this unique experience.

A Novel Combat System

Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age stands out for its innovative Active Dimension Battle (ADB) system. Departing from traditional turn-based combat, ADB allows real-time control over characters, enabling movement, attacks, magic, and item usage within the battle environment. This departure may have alienated some purists, but it offers a dynamic and engaging experience. Players can strategically position their characters, evade attacks, and interrupt enemy actions, adding a layer of tactical depth not present in earlier titles.

The Gambit system further enhances ADB. This feature allows players to program specific actions based on various conditions, such as an ally’s health falling below a certain threshold or an enemy applying a specific status effect. Gambits automate responses, allowing players to focus on broader strategy and positioning. While setting up effective Gambit combinations requires planning, the payoff is a highly customizable and efficient combat experience. This innovative system laid the groundwork for future Final Fantasy titles, including Final Fantasy XV.

Refined and Enhanced Features

The Zodiac Age introduces significant improvements to the original Final Fantasy XII. The License Board system, which governs character progression, has been overhauled. Instead of a single, expansive board, each character now chooses two from twelve distinct job classes, each with unique weapons, abilities, and progression paths. This change provides more focused character development and allows for greater strategic party customization.

Two new features stand out: Trial Mode and Turbo Speed Mode. Trial Mode offers 100 stages of increasingly difficult battles, providing valuable rewards and a challenging test of player skill. Turbo Speed Mode allows players to accelerate gameplay, significantly reducing the grind often associated with JRPGs, particularly helpful when combined with the Gambit system.

Visual and audio enhancements further elevate the experience. Improved resolution, lighting, and shadow effects give the game a modern feel, while the remastered soundtrack and 7.1 surround sound support provide a richer auditory experience. Players can even switch between the original and remastered soundtracks.

A World of Political Intrigue

Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age is set in the world of Ivalice, a land rife with political conflict and warring nations. The narrative focuses on themes of war, political maneuvering, and complex international relations, a departure from the more personal or world-saving narratives of other Final Fantasy games.

The world of Ivalice is vast and filled with secrets and dungeons to explore. While not a fully open world, its scale and intricate design offer ample opportunities for discovery and adventure.

Not Without Flaws

Despite its strengths, Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age has some shortcomings. The inability to respec License Points can lead to frustration if players make suboptimal choices. The narrative, while thematically unique, can feel slow-paced and lacking in impactful moments. The protagonist, Vaan, can also feel overshadowed by his companions.

Conclusion

Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age offers a unique and engaging RPG experience. Its innovative combat system, refined features, and politically charged narrative set it apart from other entries in the series. While not without flaws, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses, making it a worthwhile experience for both long-time fans and newcomers to Ivalice. This remastered version successfully revitalizes a classic, offering a fresh perspective on the Final Fantasy formula.