Final Fantasy V Pixel Remaster – A Masterclass in Job System Design
(Spoilers Ahead!!)
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1. Story & Characters, 2. Gameplay Systems, 3. Visual & Artistic Presentation, 4. Sound & Music, 5. Interface & Controls, 6. Replayability & Content Value, 7. Performance & Technical Aspects, 8. Innovation & Legacy, 9. Final Reflection, 10. Join the Conversation
1. Story & Characters
Narrative Structure:
Final Fantasy V doesn’t attempt to reinvent the wheel with its narrative, but it still manages to deliver a solid and enjoyable journey. The dual-world twist adds a layer of intrigue, and the story maintains a consistent pace throughout—avoiding the mid-game drag that sometimes plagues early RPGs. Compared to its immediate predecessors like IV or VI, the plot may feel more straightforward and lighthearted, but that doesn’t make it any less entertaining. While it doesn’t crack my top four Final Fantasy stories, there’s nothing about the pacing or structure that feels out of place or mishandled.
Tone & Themes:
The game strikes a surprisingly effective balance between its playful moments and emotional punches. Galuf’s antics and comedic timing give the party a lot of charm, making his eventual death hit even harder. It’s a moment that lands well—especially for a game of its time—and stands comfortably alongside other iconic Final Fantasy deaths like Tellah, Auron, and (at least conceptually) Lunafreya, even if some of those were better executed than others. While FFV leans into traditional fantasy tropes, it blends humor, friendship, and sacrifice in a way that gives its simpler story some real heart.
Character Growth:
The main cast—Bartz, Lenna, Faris, Galuf, and later Krile—does undergo character development, though it’s subtle and spread thin across the journey. These characters grow more through their shared experiences than dramatic individual arcs. Faris’s identity reveal, Krile’s inheritance of Galuf’s role, and even Bartz’s gradual shift from drifter to hero all show flickers of growth. Still, their transformations are more tonal than structural, and the game leaves much of their evolution to be felt through gameplay and interaction rather than through overt storytelling.
Villain Impact:
Exdeath is, unfortunately, one of the more forgettable villains in the franchise. While his concept—a sentient tree seeking to return all to nothingness—has a unique flavor, his personality and presence pale when compared to the likes of Golbez, Kefka, or Sephiroth. Even secondary antagonists from later entries, like Barnabas or Annabella from Final Fantasy XVI, leave a stronger impression. Exdeath feels more like a force of nature than a deeply developed antagonist, which makes him serviceable for the plot but far from iconic.
2. Gameplay Systems
Job System:
The Job System in Final Fantasy V is undeniably its crown jewel. It’s vast, flexible, and one of the most creative party-building tools in the franchise. With dozens of jobs and the ability to mix and match learned abilities, it offers near-limitless customization. That said, even with nearly three decades of RPG experience under my belt, I found the system borderline overwhelming. But honestly? I don’t see that as a flaw. Complexity in design often leads to depth in execution, and the fact that this game inspired me to start Bravely Default II—another title built around job synergy—speaks to how compelling the system really is.
Combat Design:
The traditional turn-based combat is made infinitely more engaging thanks to the sheer variety enabled by the job system. Boss encounters are rarely repetitive because your approach can shift dramatically depending on your setup. Want to brute force your way with dual-wielding samurais? Go for it. Prefer a support-heavy setup with time mages and healers? Totally viable. This strategic depth ensures that combat remains fun and flexible, even in the late game.
Progression & Customization:
Ability synergy is the real core of the gameplay loop in FFV. The freedom to equip a secondary ability from a mastered job means you’re constantly thinking about how to build efficient, powerful combinations. While I can't yet compare it directly to Final Fantasy Tactics or Bravely Default (as I’ve only just started the latter), it’s already clear that FFV set the standard. It's a system that invites replayability, rewards experimentation, and ensures every party feels personal.
Exploration & World Map:
Exploration in Final Fantasy V gets the job done, but it doesn’t break new ground. Towns and dungeons are functional and serviceable, though not particularly distinct when compared to Final Fantasy IV. Airships and the shift between worlds add a bit of excitement, but it’s clear the developers prioritized gameplay mechanics over environmental variety. That’s not a knock—it just means the thrill lies in the battles, not the map design.
Optional Content:
While I don’t usually linger on post-game or side content, I made an exception here and went after all 12 legendary weapons before my final showdown with Exdeath. That said, I skipped most of the game’s superbosses like Omega and Shinryu. For completionists, there’s certainly a good amount of optional content, but the game doesn’t pressure you into it. Whether you dive deep or stick to the main path, FFV respects your time.
3. Visual & Artistic Presentation
Pixel Remaster Aesthetic:
The Pixel Remaster edition of Final Fantasy V delivers a clean and attractive visual experience. The updated sprite work and background art strike a good balance between nostalgia and modernization, making the game feel right at home on today’s screens. It doesn’t try to reinvent the original style, but rather polishes it—resulting in a presentation that feels both respectful and visually appealing. It looks good, as any remaster should, and it’s a great way to introduce new players to a classic without them bouncing off the retro aesthetic.
Character & Monster Design:
The sprite animations are expressive enough to give each character a bit of flair in battle, but they don’t stand out as particularly iconic within the broader Final Fantasy series. Enemy designs are functional, with some variety and creativity, but nothing that truly sticks with you after the credits roll. They do their job—conveying danger, surprise, or weirdness when needed—but I wouldn’t call them especially memorable.
Spell & Battle Effects:
It’s hard to compare the battle animations to the original version since I haven’t played the original Final Fantasy V in over two decades. Still, the revamped magic and ability effects in the Pixel Remaster feel snappy and clean. They add a nice sense of feedback and progression as your party unlocks stronger abilities. Even without a side-by-side comparison, it’s clear that the visual updates enhance clarity and flow in battle.
4. Sound & Music
Soundtrack:
The soundtrack of Final Fantasy V is nothing short of phenomenal—though that should come as no surprise with Nobuo Uematsu at the helm. From the emotional pull of the world map themes to the tension-building boss battle music, the score consistently enhances the atmosphere. “Battle on the Big Bridge” is an absolute standout, not just for its composition but for how it encapsulates Gilgamesh’s chaotic energy. It’s one of those tracks that transcends the game itself, living on through remixes and appearances in later titles like Final Fantasy XIV.
Remastered Audio:
While I can’t offer a direct comparison to the SNES original—my first experience was through the PS1 version way back in 2001—I can say that the Pixel Remaster’s audio sounds fantastic. The reorchestrated soundtrack feels richer and more layered, giving new life to already legendary compositions. Even without voice acting, the music carries the emotional weight of the story beautifully. It’s a testament to Uematsu’s genius that, decades later, these tracks still hit as hard as ever.
(Note: No voice acting in this version)
5. Interface & Controls
Modern UI Enhancements: Modern UI Enhancements:
The Pixel Remaster menus are sleek, responsive, and incredibly easy to use—exactly what you’d want when constantly juggling jobs, abilities, and gear. Navigating the job system is smooth and intuitive, which is no small feat considering how complex the system can get. The game does a great job of letting you focus on strategy without bogging you down in clunky interface design. It’s one of the more seamless UIs across the classic Final Fantasy remasters.
Platform-Specific Controls:
I played on the Nintendo Switch and had no issues whatsoever with responsiveness or layout. The game feels well-adapted to the platform. As for quality-of-life improvements, I was surprised by how helpful the auto-save feature turned out to be—even though I usually dislike it and tend to disable it when I can. In this case, it saved me more than once, and I’m not sure whether I forgot to turn it off… or simply couldn’t. I avoided the auto-battle function (feels like cheating in a game built around strategy), but I did eventually use the option to disable random encounters—especially during frustrating segments like the Sealed Castle. It’s a bit of a moral tug-of-war, but having the option there helped prevent burnout without forcing a grind.
6. Replayability & Content Value
Game Length:
It took me 51 hours and 3 minutes to complete Final Fantasy V, and I’d say it was time well spent. That runtime includes pursuing all 12 legendary weapons and exploring a good chunk of the game’s optional content—though I didn’t go after every superboss. For players who want to dive deep into the job system and experiment with different party setups, the game absolutely justifies the extended playtime. It’s a longer ride than some of the other early Final Fantasy titles, but it never felt bloated or dragged out.
Replay Potential:
The job system alone is more than enough reason to revisit this game down the line. With so many combinations and strategic possibilities, it practically begs for another playthrough, especially for players who enjoy min-maxing or creating quirky party setups. Even without diving into fan-made challenges like the Four Job Fiesta, the sheer flexibility of the system gives the game tremendous replay value. This isn’t a one-and-done title—it’s a game that rewards experimentation every time you return.
Post-Game Content:
There’s no real post-game content in Final Fantasy V—no bonus dungeons, hidden epilogues, or new game plus modes. What exists after the credits is purely self-imposed: optional superbosses you might have skipped, or challenge runs where you test the limits of the job system. While that might seem like a gap to modern players, it fits the era the game comes from. The replayability comes not from what the game gives you after the finale, but from how creatively you engage with it before and during the journey.
7. Performance & Technical Aspects
Performance:
On the Nintendo Switch, Final Fantasy V (Pixel Remaster) runs flawlessly. I didn’t encounter a single instance of frame rate drops, long loading screens, or stuttering. Transitions between battles, menus, and overworld exploration are smooth across the board, making the experience feel polished and reliable from start to finish. It’s exactly what you’d hope for from a remaster of a classic—faithful in design, but modern in performance.
Bugs or Glitches:
I experienced no bugs, crashes, or technical hiccups during my entire playthrough. Job-switching, ability assignments, and battle transitions all worked as intended without any strange behavior or inconsistencies. In a genre where even minor glitches can interrupt the flow of gameplay, Final Fantasy V’s clean execution stands out. It’s a stable, well-optimized port that lets the systems and story take center stage without any distractions.
8. Innovation & Legacy
System Innovation:
The Job System in Final Fantasy V is nothing short of iconic. It didn’t just define this entry—it left a lasting mark on the entire RPG genre. Its flexibility and depth inspired countless successors, from the Bravely Default series (which I’m currently playing) to tactical RPGs like Fire Emblem: Three Houses. Even within the Final Fantasy franchise, the influence is unmistakable, particularly in Final Fantasy XIV, where job switching and role mastery are central to the gameplay loop. FFV’s approach to class-based customization paved the way for future RPGs to reward experimentation without sacrificing structure.
Series Placement:
While it doesn’t quite reach the emotional highs or narrative complexity of Final Fantasy IV or VI, Final Fantasy V still holds its own as a mechanically rich entry. In my personal ranking of the mainline titles, I’d place it 9th—not because it’s lacking in quality, but because the bar in this series is incredibly high. It’s a different kind of experience: less dramatic, more systems-driven, and anchored by a strong core of gameplay innovation.
Classic vs. Modern:
Even in today’s landscape of visually stunning and narratively dense RPGs, Final Fantasy V holds up remarkably well. In fact, I’d argue it outperforms both Final Fantasy VIII and XV, the only two mainline games I’ve never finished—and that says a lot. There’s a timeless charm in its design, and the Pixel Remaster helps smooth the edges without altering the essence. For newcomers raised on modern entries, FFV offers a refreshing return to form, showcasing the strength of gameplay-first design without feeling outdated.
9. Final Reflection
Personal Experience:
Having played the original over two decades ago, I knew what to expect going into Final Fantasy V. So while there weren’t many surprises, the game still managed to challenge me—particularly in some of the later boss fights. Exdeath, in both of his forms, put up a solid fight, though I wouldn’t call Neo Exdeath the hardest boss in the series. Personally, I found Chaos from Final Fantasy I and Cloud of Darkness from Final Fantasy III to be far more punishing. On the emotional side, two moments stood out: Galuf’s death, which carries genuine weight thanks to his role as both comic relief and grandfather figure, and Krile’s quiet admission of loneliness during the ending—a rare, subdued note that lingers well past the credits.
Standout Features:
If there’s one feature that defines Final Fantasy V, it’s the battle system. The Job System, ability synergy, and tactical flexibility are the game’s identity. It’s what gives the game its replay value, its challenge, and its enduring legacy. No other mechanic in the game leaves as strong an impression, and for good reason—it’s one of the best systems Square ever designed.
Recommendation:
Final Fantasy V is a must-play for retro RPG fans, Final Fantasy collectors, and anyone who enjoys the freedom of crafting unique party setups. If you thrive on gameplay depth and love experimenting with team compositions, this is the game for you. It may not have the most groundbreaking story or iconic villain, but what it offers is a masterclass in systems design that still holds up in today’s gaming landscape.
10. Join the Conversation
What’s your favorite Job combination in Final Fantasy V?
Do you agree that the Job System makes the game worth replaying?
Which boss gave you the most trouble during your playthrough?
Where would you personally rank Final Fantasy V among the mainline Final Fantasy titles?
Did Galuf’s death or Krile’s ending moment hit you emotionally?
If you've played both, how do you think Final Fantasy V compares to Bravely Default or Final Fantasy Tactics?
Have you ever tried the Four Job Fiesta challenge? How did it go?
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