It is one thing to be a hardcore gamer, it is another thing to work in the video game industry, and it is yet another to be a fan of a video game franchise. Andy Myers, a member of the Windows Phone team over at the Windows Phone Blog, is actually a self-proclaimed (and deserving of the title) expert on Final Fantasy.
Myers’ dedication and love for the Final Fantasy franchise started on Final Fantasy IV on Super Nintendo. With that game, his love for the RPG genre and Final Fantasy games started. His love of the games even landed him a job in the video game industry. What makes Myers the best person to provide tips for Final Fantasy on the Windows Phone? About 10 years ago, Myers wrote the official player’s guide for Final Fantasy I on Game Boy Advance. That version of Final Fantasy I on Game Boy Advance is essentially the same as the Windows Phone version.
Myers thought there would be no better opportunity than now, with the release of Final Fantasy on the Windows Phone just last month, to provide some quick tips on getting started with Final Fantasy on the Windows Phone.
Tips for getting underway
If you’ve never played an RPG before, Final Fantasy I is a great place to start. You’ll begin the game by choosing a class for each of your four party members. It’s hard to go wrong here, but as a general rule, have at least one Warrior (for offensive strength) and one White Mage (for healing).
Most mobile games tend to reward you for doing things quickly, but Final Fantasy is a game that’s best when you’re taking your time. Explore the town before heading out into the overworld. Stock up on potions from the item shop, and make sure your party members are well equipped. Once you’re ready for battle, don’t just run straight to the first dungeon. Walk around a bit, get into some battles to level up your party members. When you’re low on health, just hop back into town and rest at the Inn.
Random battles in the overworld are a staple in the Final Fantasy series.
Before heading into the game’s first dungeon, the Chaos Shrine, make sure to buy the white-magic spell Diaand the black-magic spell Sleep from the magic vendors in town. Dia will be effective against the undead enemies of the Chaos Shrine, while Sleep will work particularly well against Garland, boss of the Chaos Shrine. Just cast Sleep on him using a Black or Red Mage, and then go to town on him with your fighters.
Unlocking the secret slider puzzle
Alright, now for the fun stuff.
Final Fantasy I has a secret puzzle you can play to earn items—you just need to know how to find it. Not too far into the game, you’ll encounter some pirates in the town of Provoka. After you beat them, the captain will give you their ship. While sailing in the ship, hold one finger on the right side of the screen while tapping on a different spot on the screen. Tap about two dozen times, and the puzzle will unlock. Here’s a little demo: http://youtu.be/ckbQJjBqccI
The faster you complete the puzzle, the greater the reward. Finishing in less than 2 minutes earns you a slightly better item. If you can pull off the heroic feat of finishing the puzzle in less than 30 seconds, you’ll get a very valuable item called X-Potion.
Final thoughts
Hope that helps get you started. I’d love to hear your favorite Final Fantasy moments or tips. And if you find yourself stuck or have a question about the game, post a comment and I’ll see what I can do.
Meantime, happy questing!
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