Nintendo Entertainment System · 1990
Final Fantasy III
A turn-based RPG where four Warriors of Light switch between 23 jobs to restore balance to a crystal-protected world.
- Publisher
- Square
- Format
- Cartridge
- Genre
- role-playing video game
- Released
- 1990
01
Overview
The story follows four orphaned youths chosen by the Wind Crystal to defeat the Cloud of Darkness and restore the world's balance. The job system lets each character switch between 23 classes, from Onion Knight to Sage and Ninja, using capacity points earned in battle. The game features a large overworld map, four elemental crystals, and turn-based combat that automatically targets the next enemy after a kill.
02
Why it matters
Final Fantasy III was the first title in the series to sell one million copies, confirming the commercial viability of Square's RPG formula. Its job system became a defining mechanic in the franchise and influenced later turn-based RPGs.
03
The physical edition
A complete Famicom edition typically includes the original box, instruction manual, and game cartridge. Regional variations may include different inserts or packaging materials, so verify edition-specific contents before purchase.
04
Playing it today
The Famicom cartridge requires a Famicom console or a Famicom-to-NES adapter to play on a standard NES. The game is in Japanese; English fans can find fan translations or play the DS or mobile remakes for a localized version.