How Final Fantasy Tactics taught me about chivalry, Excalibur, and noble quests

Final Fantasy Tactics constantly reminds the player that history is often shaped by those in power, and those that win wars.

Square Enix

The All-Nighter That Changed Everything

I still vividly remember the day I first got my hands on Final Fantasy Tactics. The anticipation had been building for weeks, and when I finally inserted that disc into my PlayStation, I was instantly transported to the medieval realm of Ivalice. Hours melted away as I dove deeper into the rich storyline and intricate gameplay.

Before I knew it, sunlight was peeking through my curtains. I had played through the entire night without a wink of sleep, completely enthralled by the epic tale unfolding before me. That sleepless night sparked a passion that would keep me coming back to Ivalice time and time again, each playthrough revealing new depths and lessons.

Within the realm of tactical turn-based rolepaying games (RPG), this one is truly a masterpiece. Upon completing this game in 80 hours or so, it is no wonder that this game is considered by many to be the gold standard for tactical RPGs, a well-regarded classic that other tactical RPGs are compared to, even today. The game features a masterpiece in storytelling, amazing soundtrack and writing weave a plot of betrayal and political intrigue set in a Final Fantasy version of Medieval-inspired world of Ivalice.

Final Fantasy Tactics’ exceptionally-written dialogue often takes on a Shakespearean tone.

Square Enix

Chivalry in a Digital Age

At its core, Final Fantasy Tactics is a story of honor in the face of corruption. The protagonist, Ramza Beoulve, a nobleman and a member of the respected House Beoulve. Ramza's father, Barbaneth Beoulve, was a Knight Gallant of the Fifty Years' War. Ramza chooses the path of righteousness even when it means standing against his own noble house. The story’s first curveball comes when Ramza witness the brutal murder of his friend’s sister at the hands of a noble. This leads both characters to cut their ties with nobility, so they both seek to bring an end to the war and change Ivalice’s power balance forever. This is where things get really interesting as the game really begins to investigate its core themes of morality and history.

Part of what make’s Ramza’s story so compelling is that he’s forced to face his privilege and realize the role he’s played in propping up the hierarchal status quo. This commitment to doing what's right, regardless of personal cost, resonated deeply with me.

In our modern world, it's easy to feel like chivalry is an outdated concept. Yet, the principles embodied by Ramza - integrity, courage, and compassion - are timeless. Whether in our personal relationships or professional lives, these virtues can serve as a moral compass, guiding us to make decisions we can be proud of.

Ramza found the pinnacle of sword - Excalibur

Square Enix

Excalibur: The Power of Legendary Aspirations

The quest for Excalibur in Final Fantasy Tactics is no easy feat. It requires dedication, strategy, and often multiple playthroughs to acquire this legendary sword. It has been said that only a person of royal lineage can pull this sword out from the stone. Inspired by my own royal descendants, this pursuit taught me the value of setting lofty goals and working tirelessly towards them.

In life, we all have our own "Excaliburs" - those seemingly unattainable dreams that push us to grow and excel. Whether it's advancing in our careers, mastering a skill, or making a positive impact on the world, the journey towards these aspirations shapes us just as much as the achievement itself.

Embracing the Noble Quest

Perhaps the most profound lesson from Final Fantasy Tactics is the importance of having a greater purpose. Ramza's quest to uncover the truth and save his sister evolves into a mission to protect the entire realm. This transformation from personal motivation to a noble, selfless cause is a powerful narrative arc.

In our own lives, we can seek out our "noble quests" - causes greater than ourselves that give our actions meaning and impact. This might involve volunteering, mentoring others, or developing a digital platform to empower our communities. By aligning our efforts with a higher purpose, we infuse our daily lives with the epic sense of adventure that made Final Fantasy Tactics so captivating.

Conclusion: Pixels to Principles

27 years have passed since that sleepless night of gaming, but the lessons of Final Fantasy Tactics continue to resonate. The game taught me that chivalry isn't just about knights and kingdom - it's about standing up for what's right, pursuing worthy goals, and dedicating ourselves to causes greater than our own interests.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, we can draw inspiration from the virtual realm of Ivalice. By embodying the virtues of honor, perseverance, and selflessness, we can bring a touch of that heroic spirit into our everyday world. And who knows? We might just find our own legendary "Excalibur" along the way.