Originally released by Square Enix for the Super NES in 1991 as Final Fantasy II, this game is now known as Final Fantasy IV Advance for the Game Boy Advance, a standout title among 90s handheld consoles.
Rediscovering this classic RPG, I found myself immersed in its nostalgic story, recalling adventures I thought I had forgotten.
While the gaming world has evolved with 3D ports introduced for platforms like the Nintendo Switch, mobile devices, and PCs, along with updated 2D graphics for the PSP, the charm of the original 2D sprite version remains intact.
TL;DR – Final Fantasy IV Advance GBA: Nostalgic, Foundational, and Flawed
- This GBA version of FFIV preserves its legacy as the franchise's narrative turning point with better translation and tighter pacing.
- The cast and story introduced character-driven drama that later RPGs would refine, despite some emotional fake-outs.
- The soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu and sprite-based visuals hold nostalgic charm, though FFVI is more visually impressive.
- Gameplay introduced the ATB system and strategic variety via fixed party rotations, but requires heavy grinding in spots.
- Replay value is boosted by New Game Plus and optional post-game dungeons, making it a worthy (if dated) entry point to FF’s golden era.
Even though Final Fantasy IV is an older game, it still attracts both long-time fans and new players. It is a must-play for anyone interested in the history of RPGs. Its timeless gameplay and compelling narrative still evoke enjoyment years after its initial release.
The Table of Contents
How Final Fantasy IV Advance (GBA) Shaped RPG History
Final Fantasy IV is often heralded as a foundational title in the RPG genre. Final Fantasy IV had a
rich story and strong character growth. This was different from earlier games like Final Fantasy and Final Fantasy III. Its narrative still feels meaningful today.
The strong cast of characters and their connected relationships improve the story. This makes it more relatable as it explores themes like loss, betrayal, sacrifice, and redemption.
In its GBA version, this game also improves upon the previous translation flaws found in the Super NES release. This version is a must-play for those seeking a classic RPG experience.
Final Fantasy 4 Advance Story and Character Depth
Final Fantasy 4 GBA Characters & Storytelling Themes
Final Fantasy and Final Fantasy III had bare-bones stories; the cast of characters didn't even have names! And while Final Fantasy II's story was a bit more elaborate (named characters fighting an ominous empire), it was still quite simple by today's standards, and the game featured probably the least popular (and least RPG-like) gameplay of any early Final Fantasy title.
Which brings us to Final Fantasy IV. This story reminds me of a Final Fantasy story, especially for those who started playing with Final Fantasy VII on the PS1.
The sizable array of player characters and nemeses have relatively developed personalities and relationships, the story features surprising (and occasionally ridiculous) twists, and explores themes of loss, betrayal, cooperation, sacrifice, redemption, and an internal battle between good and evil in each of us.
Final Fantasy IV Advance: Emotional Highs and Misses
However, the story is not without its faults. Many characters seemed to die by sacrificing themselves for their group, only to later be revealed as still alive. This happened with Edward,
Yang, Porum, Palo, and Cid.
You could arguably add every single protagonist in the final battle to this list (wiped out then brought back by the faith and strength of their absent friends), but since that happens right away, it's not in the same category for me as the many, MANY situations in which Final Fantasy IV gives you a heroic death scene, then several hours later is like "Oh yeah, that wasn't for real."
I know he jumped out of an airship strapped to a bomb that then exploded, but he didn't die from that. He just got a little hurt. The game undermines some of its own emotional power in these scenes.
Overall, the story and character personalities in this game are not as developed as in later Final Fantasy games. This makes it less enjoyable to revisit compared to a game like Final Fantasy 6 Advance.
As I mentioned earlier, this game is the base for everything that followed. Even though it has some rough spots, it’s fascinating to see where the real Final Fantasy story began.
Soundtrack & Graphics Review of Final Fantasy IV Advance
Final Fantasy 4 GBA Soundtrack: Nobuo Uematsu’s Work
It should come as a surprise to no one that Final Fantasy IV sports an excellent Nobuo Uematsu soundtrack. Many of the core themes are here already, and the game features several good exclusive tracks as well.
It's not my top favorite Final Fantasy soundtrack, but it's certainly a good one. It's impressive to see what Uematsu could create in 1991 with the limits of SNES technology.
Final Fantasy IV Advance Visuals – Then vs. Now
Final Fantasy IV Advance graphics are what you'd expect from Super Nintendo (or, in the case of Final Fantasy Advance, GBA) sprite technology. Not terrific, not awful. I didn't dislike looking at the game, but the graphics weren't what I'd call rewarding in today's gaming age.
Final Fantasy VI, designed for the same system, uses the technology available in a more advanced way. This makes its graphics look better over time. For me, the graphics of Final Fantasy IV are just okay. The nostalgia adds to the experience, and there aren’t any big problems with the visuals. While it may not look great by today's standards, it's not a negative for me.
Final Fantasy IV GBA Gameplay & Battle System Guide
How Final Fantasy 4 GBA Introduced the ATB System
Overall, I'd have to rate Final Fantasy IV's gameplay as just barely worth returning to. It's undeniably rudimentary compared to the later games, but on the other hand, like with storytelling, it lays the groundwork for what makes the later games even greater.
Final Fantasy IV introduced the iconic Active Time Battle (ATB) system, which sped up battle and added an often illusory but exciting sense that you needed to hurry and make decisions on the fly.
Final Fantasy's turn-based combat is at the center of the game. You have character classes that you cannot change, along with special abilities. You can have up to five characters in a battle, and there are twelve characters you can play. The game also includes common features like a world map, towns, dungeons, airships, and summons, which make it enjoyable.
Difficulty, Grinding & Strategy in Final Fantasy IV Advance
On the minus side, I set down the game for months on one occasion when, maybe two-thirds of the way through the game, I reached a mandatory boss (Asura and Leviathan) that I was
woefully under-prepared to defeat.
I wound up having to spend hours grinding before being able to get back to the story, and it left a bad taste in my mouth. This tedious experience reminded me of the grinding in Final Fantasy Tactics PSP, where the need for leveling up can often interrupt the flow of the narrative.
After that initial setback, I didn't have to stop my progress for long grinding sessions anymore. However, I felt less patient about the many hours of battles still ahead."
One good thing about the game was how it made you change your party members often. This meant you had to adjust your strategy based on the characters and skills you had at the time. That kept the battles relatively fresh through most of the game (my complaint above about my one soul-crushing grinding session notwithstanding).
The game automatically chose your party members for you. This meant you did not have to worry about picking a less effective team. I also enjoyed the variety of settings (which, to avoid spoilers, I'll just refer to as Over, Under, and Way Over), bosses, and even vehicles (which include airships, hovercraft, airships that can CARRY hovercraft, and, shall we say, a super airship).
Is Final Fantasy IV Advance Replayable? Side Quests & More
GBA Final Fantasy IV: New Game Plus & Side Quests
I sometimes wished save points were more plentiful, but on the other hand, there was some
enjoyable tension in trying to forge through a dungeon without running out of MP (and then health) before I could reach the next save point, so those two balance each other out for me.
At first, I felt let down by the few side quests available. However, in the second half of the game, more side quests appeared. This included optional dungeons that offered great armor, summons, and other rewards.
Final Fantasy IV Advance includes an early version of New Game Plus. After finishing the game, players can unlock a new dungeon for more gameplay. There is a strange theme where many NPCs you interact with just start dancing. What's that about?
Final Fantasy 4 GBA vs Other Versions: Which to Play?
No matter which version you choose, Final Fantasy IV is a game that has lasted over the years. It is definitely worth playing if you enjoy this type of game and can handle an older RPG style.
Final Fantasy IV Advance in 2025: Is It Still Worth Playing?
We rate Final Fantasy IV Advance a 7.2 out of 10 — a respectable ★★★½ on our retro RPG scale.
Our Final Verdict on Final Fantasy 4 Advance (GBA)
All aspects of the game, from story and gameplay to sound and graphics, feel a bit dated, but on the other hand, they're all really well-designed. Even though later Final Fantasy games are better, this one is still enjoyable. You can really feel like you are part of RPG history while playing it.
For players who want modern graphics and features, there are Nintendo DS, mobile gaming, PC, and even Nintendo Switch versions available. These updated versions include voice acting, mini-games, and various enhancements.
The mobile gaming version even offers an Easy mode for those who want to experience the game without being slowed down too much by combat.
FAQs – Final Fantasy 4 Advance (GBA Version)
How long does it take to beat Final Fantasy IV on GBA?
- It typically takes around 30 hours for a main story + extras playthrough.
- Grinding can significantly add time—expect 4–5 additional hours if you're under-leveled before reaching the Town of the Summonses.
- Aim to be at least level 48–50 by that point to avoid unnecessary frustration.
Is Final Fantasy IV Advance worth it?
- For RPG fans, yes — it’s a solid classic with nostalgic charm.
- There are many versions of Final Fantasy IV, so choose the one that best fits your preferences.
- Casual players might find the GBA version a bit dated, but newer ports may offer a more modern experience.
What are the standout features of Final Fantasy IV: The After Years?
- Final Fantasy IV: The After Years continues the story with new characters, evolving party dynamics, and episodic gameplay.
- Yes, I'd prefer to play the sequels: Final Fantasy IV Interlude and Final Fantasy IV The After Years instead of revisiting the Game Boy Advance version.
When was Final Fantasy IV Advance released?
- Final Fantasy IV Advance was released for the Game Boy Advance in December 2005.
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