Did you know that FINAL FANTASY X will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2021?

This role-playing game was first released in Japan on July 19, 2001 for the PlayStation 2 and gained many fans thanks to its tactical turn-based combat, incredible production quality, soulful story, and truly unforgettable characters.

Since then, FINAL FANTASY X | Thank You. X-2 HD Remaster for PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Steam has gained the recognition of a new generation of gamers.

In tribute to this true classic set in the 1920s, I would like to highlight some of the things that make this game still noteworthy today.

Listen to me…

1. Its setting is in-Spira-ing

FINAL FANTASY X is set in Spira, and it’s a fascinating place. It’s a fully realized setting, full of different cultures, philosophies, languages, and hairstyles.

Your journey will take you from sunny beaches where you’d love to lie down with a coconut drink, to thundering plains where you might actually be struck by lightning and lie down.

But despite its beauty and wonder, this is no paradise. The threat of monsters is ever-present, and prejudice and inequality are rampant. You’re also constantly plagued by terrifying monsters called Sins, which dulls the game’s shine somewhat.

Still, it’s one of the most memorable settings in RPGs, and one that will stay with you long after you turn off your console.

2. The battle system is tactical and satisfying

The FINAL FANTASY series has long shown that turn-based games can be fast-paced, and this is especially true in FINAL FANTASY X.

Combat moves quickly, but being turn-based still gives you time to think about your strategy and adjust it as needed.

But the true genius of FINAL FANTASY X’s combat system lies in its flexibility. You have a core group that you bring into battle, but you can swap out members at any time.

For example, if you want fast and muscle, you can pick up Auron and wreak havoc on your enemies with his giant sword. Or, if you want something a little more… final, swap him out for Yuna and have her summon a giant dragon or two.

3. The story and characters change in unexpected ways

It’s always hard to talk about the story, because… there are spoilers. But here’s a start…

The official synopsis of the game is: “Final Fantasy, Blackmail to save Shin.”

It’s an accurate description, but it doesn’t reveal how deep the story is. As the adventure progresses, each character undergoes major changes. They (and you) will be tested, their beliefs will be questioned, and they will learn important things about their true nature.

Moreover, this is a game that takes the greatest joy when it pulls the rug out from under you. Every time you think you know where things are going, a new twist or storyline pulls the story in a new direction.

However, it’s not all about the story. Because…

4. There are loads of extra things to do beyond the main path

FINAL FANTASY X has a lot of side activities, some of them quite extensive. It comes down to the game itself.

Take Blitzball for example. It’s a tactical sports simulation that’s like a mix of soccer and basketball. It’s only played underwater. Not only can you play a game of this sport, but you’re also faced with the challenge of building the best team possible, choosing your players from a variety of NPCs you encounter around the world.

And that’s just the tip of a very large iceberg. There are ultimate weapons to find and farm, secret bosses to discover, and more. If you like getting lost in games, rest assured that Final Fantasy X will keep you entertained for a long time.

5. It has some of the best music in the FINAL FANTASY series

Well, here is my personal opinion: Final Fantasy X has the best battle theme in the series.

Now, you may not agree with me on this particular detail (feel free to voice your opinion in the comments section), but it is hard to deny that composers Nobuo Uematsu, Masashi Hamauzu, and Junya Nakano, all credited with the soundtrack of Final Fantasy X, have created something special.

It is a diverse collection of tracks, from the melancholic piano of Zanarkand to the fast-paced and intense boss themes, but each one is an aural pleasure, even if you just listen to the soundtrack album.

If you haven’t played Final Fantasy X yet… hurry up, because it’s a great adventure. Available on PS4, Xbox One, Switch, and Steam as FINAL FANTASY X |. X-2 HD Remaster is also available, as well as a collection including sequels and more!