How Does Expedition 33 Compare to Final Fantasy VI?

As I’ve posted about previously on this blog Final Fantasy VI is my favorite game. So how does Expedition 33 compare to Final Fantasy VI?

Well, the numbers would tell you Expedition 33 is better. And honestly, for most people in today’s day and age that is true. Final Fantasy VI still has a wave of nostalgia on its side though.

What Makes Expedition 33 Better Than FFVI

First, the 3D graphics and full voice acting make it much easier to be invested in the story. New games just have it better that way.

The combat system is also more refined. The active time battle system (ATB) Final Fantasy VI utilizes was amazing for its time. But once again, 30 years of refinement has allowed game developers to create even better systems.

Also, no random encounters. They can be pretty fun, but when you just want to get somewhere they’re annoying.

Expedition 33 also has a unique, fresh story that the industry hasn’t seen before. Final Fantasy VI still has some great twists, but at the end of the day it is just another story fantasy story about saving the world from an evil man.

What FFVI Does Better Than Expedition 33

I will say that Final Fantasy VI still has a better story than Expedition 33, but just barely. Expedition 33 was just a little too depressing for me. While Expedition 33 is largely just a tragedy, major theme of FFVI is about finding hope and reasons for life in the midst of tragedy. At the end of the day, it just leaves you with a better feeling.

I also missed the final fantasy VI magic system in combat as well. It felt like something powerful and unique. I just didn’t get that vibe as much from most of the moves in Expedition 33.

The story also has more replayability as well. Once you know the reality of the painting, a major driving factor of Expedition 33’s story is lost. There is no more mystery you’re trying to discover.

The Verdict

This is a hard decision to make. But I’m going to say that Expedition 33 is indeed a better game than Final Fantasy VI. This now makes it my number one game of all time.

That doesn’t mean both games can’t be enjoyed though. Final Fantasy VI is still a game I will be returning to. And I will keep playing Expedition 33 for its super fun combat system.