This game, somehow, is simultaneously an amazing game and a rough take on the start of the Final Fantasy series. Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin defies most of the conventions of the franchise it's a part of. There's no exploration of any towns, nor are there many characters to share meaningful interactions with. The world-building is also at a minimum, opposite of the rich surroundings and stories crucial to the Final Fantasy franchise. That being said, despite the notable flaws aligning it with the series as a whole, very few games are as utterly perfect when it comes to gameplay. Every second spent in one of the game's many vibrant, unique areas is an absolute joy, as you can essentially customize your play style in whatever way you see fit. Guns, axes, hammers, swords, lances, magic -- there's a host of different "jobs" players can occupy that all feel drastically different from one another.

Additionally, the game's mechanics work hand in hand to offer the most optimal experience imaginable. You're able to parry an enemy's attack to gain the upper hand, and some specific attacks even allow players to absorb an enemy's skill and use it against them. This leads to satisfying moments where you could absorb one enemy's elemental attack and immediately use it against an enemy that's vulnerable to it. Each enemy also has a special takedown animation, making you feel powerful as you triumph over your foes. The boss encounters are the perfect tests of skill, and it's here where you'll be able to exploit specific context-sensitive weaknesses if you're able to find them. If you do, it makes each fight feel like an epic back-and-forth with new ways to come out on top. The story is immensely silly, with over-the-top voice acting, and despite the overall intrigue within the plot, the characters aren't quite deep enough to make the most of its premise. But Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin is a great time that will keep players invested from beginning to end.