Square Enix has been busy porting classic Final Fantasy games to mobile platforms over the last few years. A highlight of the developer's ports has been its work with Final Fantasy IV (Final Fantasy 4).
In 2008, Square Enix ported Final Fantasy IV to the Nintendo DS. The port featured updated 3D graphics and cut scenes featuring fully voiced dialogue. Final Fantasy IV for Nintendo DS proved popular with fans and critics. The title received enough positive remarks that Square decided to create versions of the updated game for Playstation Portable and iOS.
Now, the developer is bringing the game to Android. The 3D port of Final Fantasy IV has just launched in the Google Play Store. Priced at $15.99, the title is available on Android 2.3.3 and up.
Final Fantasy IV currently holds a four and a half star rating in the Google Play Store. Reviewers praise the port for its solid touch controls and gripping voice acting. Many reviews also report that the higher than usual price is worth it. They say the lengthy campaign makes it a worthwhile purchase.
The game takes place in an alternate reality version of earth. Final Fantasy IV follows main character Cecil Harvey as he attempts to stop an evil sorcerer from collecting magical crystals that have the potential to destroy the world.
The game adds to the Final Fantasy portfolio on Android. The Google Play Store already features ports of Final Fantasy, Final Fantasy II and Final Fantasy III. The original Final Fantasy and its direct sequel are available for $7.99. Final Fantasy III is available for purchase in the Google Play Store for $15.99.
Square Enix had a unique localization process when it released the original Final Fantasy IV in the United States. The game was launched as the fourth title in the franchise in Japan in 1991. However, the it was only the second title in the series to be launched in North America.
By 1991, Square Enix had yet to release Final Fantasy I and Final Fantasy II in the US. The lack of sequels led the company to title Final Fantasy IV as Final Fantasy II in the States.
It wasn't until the re-releases of the game that US fans began to call the fourth title in the series Final Fantasy IV. After its original launch on the SNES, the series was eventually ported to the original Playstation in 1997.
Along with the mobile ports, Squares Enix is also working on a re-release of Final Fantasy VIII. Reports say the re-release will launch on Steam later this year.
Check out a trailer for Final Fantasy IV for Android below.
