Final Fantasy XII

Final Fantasy XII (PS2, 2006) reinvents the series with its gritty, political storyline and Gambit system, which lets you program AI routines for seamless, strategic combat. Set in the war-torn world of Ivalice, you lead a band of rebels (including the charming rogue Balthier and the determined Vaan) through sprawling, open-ended zones teeming with secrets and colossal Hunts. Its MMO-like freedom and mature tone—a far cry from teen heroes saving crystals—divided fans but aged brilliantly. The Zodiac Age remaster later polished its rough edges.