Final Fantasy Tactics Advance

“Final Fantasy Tactics Advance,” a 2003 tactical role-playing video game developed and published by Square (now Square Enix) for the Nintendo Game Boy Advance, is a spin-off of the Final Fantasy series. Although it shares traits with 1997’s “Final Fantasy Tactics,” it is not a direct sequel. In the game, players assemble a clan of characters, deciding their classes, abilities, and statistics, and control their actions on grid-like battlefields.

The narrative centers around four children—Marche, Mewt, Ritz, and Doned—who live in a small town called St. Ivalice. The children are transported to a fantastical realm also named Ivalice after discovering an ancient magical book. The story mainly follows Marche as he endeavors to return to the real world, facing opposition from those he meets in this alternate realm.

Gameplay in “Tactics Advance” involves turn-based tactical battles on a three-dimensional isometric field. Players take on the role of Marche, the clan leader, who must manage his clan’s members and their progression through various missions found in pubs. Unlike in “Final Fantasy Tactics,” characters in this game execute their actions instantly, adding a dynamic pace to combat.

Missions, which are central to the gameplay, vary in nature and purpose. Regular missions often involve the entire party and are crucial for advancing the storyline, requiring Marche’s group to travel to specific locations and engage in battles. Encounter missions involve combat against rival mercenary clans, either through mission purchases or spontaneous meetings on the map. Dispatch missions, which do not involve direct combat, require sending a clan member away to complete specific tasks, temporarily removing them from the party. Lastly, area missions typically involve liberating regions to gain control, which can yield bonuses and discounts at shops, enhancing the strategic elements of managing the clan’s resources and territorial influence.

Through these varied mission types and the deep customization of characters, “Final Fantasy Tactics Advance” offers a rich and engaging tactical role-playing experience.

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