Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles Remastered Edition

Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles Remastered Edition from 2020 brought the original 2003 game back to life, this time on Nintendo Switch and other modern platforms. Square Enix, working with studio Arika, completely reworked the graphics, controls, and online features so the game would work without the legendary nightmare of linking a GameCube to several Game Boy Advance units via special cables - a way of playing that was practically required in the original version.

The remaster replaced the original local multiplayer with a full online co-op mode for up to four players, which fundamentally changes how the game is played - the original version was nearly unplayable without physically present friends and a pile of handhelds. New side quests were also added, along with full voice acting for key characters and a revised item and crafting system, which were either missing or worked differently in the GameCube version. The atmosphere of traveling with a fragile chalice of magical myrrh that protects villages from poisonous fog has been preserved, but the game's pacing and overall accessibility were noticeably simplified for a new, broader audience that never experienced the original on GameCube. The controls were also completely redesigned for a modern gamepad instead of the GameCube controller and Game Boy Advance, eliminating the need to switch between two different displays that the original version required. Players can also choose to play solo with AI companions, which was a far more complicated option in the original for technical reasons.

Why play it: The remaster is the ideal entry point for players who have only heard about the original Crystal Chronicles but never had the chance to get hold of four Game Boy Advance units and the cables needed to run it in full co-op setup.