Hey, just so anyone looking through the comments is aware. The PC version just released a patch (1.0.4.0) on April 24, 2020 to add the job reset function and the gambit system expansion for up to 3 sets.
@@gatocoomer8015 O shit, I wasted my money on the Xbox version then. I bought it when in came for the PS4 (steelbook edition), then for the Switch and last week I bought them on Xbox (physical) and PC. I prefer the PC because the boosters, I don't want to do again all that grinding that I made when I played on PS2 (200+ hrs), so much grinding for Zodiac Spear, Yagyu darkblade, Yiazmat, etc.
@@MrDusuke True but that one was unfortunate cuz it's right in between my favorite Final Fantasy ever Final Fantasy 4 and everyone else's favorite Final Fantasy 6
I loved this game back on my PS2 and got it again for PS4. It took me a while to build myself the courage to play it again, as I feared my nostalgia was just that.. Nostalgia. But this game, once you get to the Gambits and deciding what you want your characters to do, you really get into it and can get lost for hours. At least, that's how it is for me.
Exactly the same for me. Took me a while to get it again on PS4 after it came out again, after I decided to get it, I got lost again playing it for hours. Fantastic game.
The jobs threw me off big time and is why I think I stopped playing but from this video, it makes you more OP, so I will restart it and it has new game+ nice. I’ve played this game on my ps2 probably like 30 to 40X
i am playing this game right now first time in ps2 with the international edition and i cant believe how wonderfull the game looks and runs, i really cant believe this game was made for ps2 , i say this is the most impresive and powerfull game done in that console , the game runs fine, the load times are not too bad, and the world is big , and all fit in just 1 dvd, is impresive again, a tech miracle from that era .
I absolutely agree, I thought the same thing when I originally got it ages ago. How only one disc? How does it look so good? Do I really need that PS3 coming out soon?
Sadly they mistreated the creator of the Ivalice world so badly during the production of the original 12 and again during Tactics Advance 2 I dont think he wants to ever work with them again. It was then rest of the original 12 team that worked on the remaster.
@@otherprisma7354 basch and ashe were main characters and square execs kept telling him they needed a younger character to relate to. Had to rework things. Forced to add vahn and penello. He got increasingly sick and mentally distressed before stepping away. Yaizmat is in the game as a tribute to his undying commitment to the game.
I remember that there was a SNES emulator that several years ago came up with this "feature" and fortunately others got inspired by it. Once you play certain games with the option of speeding up the game with a button is hard to go back to not using it, especially old JRPG games where you have a lot of scenes with text slowly appearing or ridiculous amounts of back and forth grinding.
I just got my Switch version of FFXII The Zodiac Age today and I am so happy with how it looks and plays. I have a Switch Lite so I can only play in 720p, but it’s so gorgeous and on-the-go, I don’t care. This game has never received it’s due. It’s an epic journey with great characters and story. The fighting system takes a little getting used to, but once you know what you’re doing, it’s a blast. I love my Switch version. I have this on PS2, PS4 Pro, Xbox One X, and Switch. So far, the Switch version is my favorite just because it’s portable. If you’re thinking of getting this game on any console or PC, you can’t go wrong. It belongs in any RPG fan’s library.
I’m just looking for a physical copy. I don’t get games digitally unless they are truly digital only (like Star Ocean: First Departure R. Digital only even in Japan), and are a maximum of 10 GB. But I’ve decided to make XII my second Final Fantasy game after VII.
@@paperluigi6132 good call. I also recommend IX and X/X-2. Ix can be gotten physically through import, just as the VII/VIII collection, while X/X-2 are available physically. But do NOT buy C/X-2 used as the only way to play X-2 is with a download code that comes with them game. There are rumors that one of the imported versions actually has both games on the cart, but I don’t know which version (Japan, Asia, Korea, Europe) this might be. Still, all of them are worth owning and playing. Like you, I have them all physically.
I went with the Switch version purely for the portablility since I like to play games on my lunch hour and I travel for a few hours at a time to see my family once a month. Plus it helped soothe my anxiety that I knew I could respec my characters at almost anytime.
I like the combat, leveling, and gambit system. I wish they'd make this type of combat in more of the games. It's a nice middle ground between action combat and standard RPG faire.
The original PS2 version was almost perfect! Zodiac Age is a classic example of fixing something that wasn't broken! Zodiac Age is average at best! People new to FF12 might like it though!
My husband and I love 12- so incredibly fun to play! We also think the gameplay style should have been brought to at least a few more FFs... 12 felt like a true FF while being a totally new and fun experience.
I love how carefully intricate you're in giving us detailed explaination of the game's difference on different platforms much like what I've seen in your Star Ocean First Departure and Star Ocean First Departure R comparison. Keep it up!
I love this game so much. I know some don't always gel with the story or the gameplay, but the one thing everyone seems to agree on is how strong the art direction is. Because while, yeah, it was really jaggy on the PS2, it was beautiful to look at. So it makes me extremely happy how well that art has held up over the years.
Worth mentioning in TZA they added new themes for all the locations and bosses that originally shared themes with others (e.g. Tchita Uplands has its own new theme instead of sharing the Giza Plains theme). This likely only applied to the Reorchestrated setting though.
Pretty sure this has been the best comparison video I've ever seen. Good stuff, happy that I went with the switch version over the PC which I was slightly regretting on the way home. Never really gave this entry the appropriate amount of time back on PS2 before life got in the way, excited to give it a fair chance now without being solely locked to my tv.
This is by far my favorite FF game. The original ps2 version was great, and although I haven't tried the new versions, I think the original had few, if any flaws.
Thanks for the information, Austin! What I will note is that XII in handheld (1024x576) mode runs at 80% on each axis, same in docked (1536x864). So, this makes it vastly superior to XBC2 in terms of image quality. It is mainly blurry due that that reduction, as well as a post process antialiasing solution to hide jaggies (Digital Foundry). I personally greatly prefer this to many ports we have seen so far, and I'm happy that they didn't opt for dynamic resolutions.
I know I'm a few years late, but I just wanted to point out something cool that I noticed in the remaster: In the original game, there were some instances where the game used a slightly low-poly version of the character's models (you can notice it specially in quickening cutscenes, but I remember it in a few story scenes as well). In the remaster, they were all replaced by the high-quality models. Pretty cool!
I just bought my copy for the Switch yesterday. I hope the PS4 and PC versions also gets the quality of life changes the Switch and Xbox One versions have. But the only thing I wish they added back in all versions of FFXII: TZA is that awesome opening title cinematic the original version have.
Addendum comment - Updated APRIL 23 2020: First, DigitalFoundry confirms FFXII is NOT 1080p on Switch. It is 864p. (For those interested though, FFX IS 1080p) Please check out their video for a better analysis on the technical aspects. It isn't my area of concentration so I won't pretend it is. I shouldn't have stated it so factually. th-cam.com/video/r9IGpIehFmQ/w-d-xo.html Someone has also mentioned in the comments something I left out of the video: The Zodiac Age also lacks the game's opening FMV. But Square did use the 1080p version as a trailer for the game, if you're interested in seeing it here it is. th-cam.com/video/rs4-5DxQKXI/w-d-xo.html 4/23/2020 - The PS4 and Steam versions of FFXII have been updated & now include the job reset feature and multiple gambit sets of the Switch and Xbox One versions as well as the third soundtrack option. Denuvo was also removed from the Steam version.
9:02 Notice the PC version is over 10GB smaller than the PS4, and then the Xbone shaves off a few GB more. Amazing what devs can do with some extra development time.
Glad I waited for 12 years to replay this game again for my switch. The Original PS2 version was an amazing and underrated adventure. Seeing these improvements on the switch makes the game even better, I'm okay with the game being easier since these days games of all types come out more often and time may look long but it's pretty short.
FF XII Is the FF game that i loved playing the most! The original is one of my favorite games! I love the versatility and the customization of jobs and roles and the freedom that the all in one board offered! I went to play the Remastered and was let down by the static an lack of customization of jobs and roles that I could build by myself in the original version.
The PC Steam version, obviously; custom License Boards (get every single license in a single playthrough!), can customise treasure chests and quest rewards (get the useful but lategame Technicks and Magicks early!), can customise each PC's stats and stuff, can use Cheat Engine to manipulate EXP, LP, gil, HP, etc. I found my self-modded version of Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age to be incredibly fun.
The license board reset from the Switch/XB1 versions is available on PC via mod, as well as the New Game + with inventory carryover. There is also an option to have Montblanc give you some extra gil, and another option to acquire all items, magicks, technicks, etc. These are all available via a single mod on PC.
As I said before (ahem), this is quite the turnaround. What was the least likely version of TZA to happen, ended up being the definitive one. Good things come to those who wait.
I'd probably go with the pc version with the original license board mod. I still have my original ps2 version though which I feel is still good enough since I use pro action replay on is to speed it up already.
Well honestly, for a game like this 60FPS will make zero to minimal difference. If the XBox is your preferred platform then by all means but I wouldn't dismiss other options for the sake of framerate alone.
Totally with you man, this is pretty much what i came to hear on this video. Portable is nice but i don't play the switch portable that much, pro controller over joycons any day.
I still have my original copy of FFXII for my PS2. When it released, I was in college. I don't know why I even bother buying the game since I was busy with studying. I never got beyond 3 hours for the game. At lease this time, I may have time to finish what I started.
Thx a lot for the comparison. I have never been a big fan of the FF franchise mostly because I used to hate random encounters (still do) and turn based combat (sometimes I like that now). I loved FF XII because it addressed both issues: you could see enemies from afar and even avoid them and the combat was in real time. I played this one a lot on PS2 and I'll give it a second go on PC. There's a bunch of other PS2 games that would deserve a remaster on PC.
Thank you for the video. It was excellent. I have wanted a Switch for a long time... and with X and XII coming out for the system, and it being so mobile, I'm in! Thanks again for the video!
Wow this is a awesome comparison video. I'll defintely buy the switch to have my FFXii game on the go with all the changes since the original PS2 version ! Very excited but first... let's finish Zelda Link's Awakening :p
FF12 in the ps2 is the hardest and strictest among other version, was such an honor to have been able to finish it back then in the ps4 its very easy, especially with auto save, trial mode, turbo mode and seiteningrat but mistwalker trophy is still a pain in the butt
I own all version and I really like the Xbox one x version, the 60fps is awesome. The only issue for me with the PC version is they never fixed the game for people that have a G-sync monitor.
I still like/have the original US PS2 release. Still having trouble beating optional Esper with the Dark magic. Last time was able to find/beat Ultima. Took alot of patience. I actually tried using Ultima summon on the Dark summon fight, and of course she died in one hit. LOL.. the special technique skill.
I've put upwards of 2k hours (original PS2 release + PC release) on this game, and it is by-far my favorite game. Back in the day I would spend countless hours grinding for multiple Tournsols This video was also very very informative! Good job and keep up the amazing work!
@@tidus1ph I feel like I had a similar experience. It seemed pretty cool when I first played it, but now XII is one of my favorite video games. The world, the characters, the _music..._ Incredible. Weird how it can take time to fully appreciate something like this, huh?
@@ryo-kai8587 I believe people just don't give 12 a chance it deserves. It was a huge leap going from the beloved FF X battle system into a non turned based system added with 3D exploring. It just doesn't feel like very FF. Not to mention X world building were such masterpiece that going into political setting after that just feels like bad transition. Once you look past that, the game actually holds up very well, it has the core which makes most FF games great.
I have the PS2, PS4, PC, and Switch versions. Personally my favorite is with a PS2 on a CRT, with the Switch version a close second. Portable FF12 is amazing.
Hey now I thought in your last video I watched about FFVII you said that was the only one you were going to do....you sneaky little man you.💙💙💙love the video
I got it on PS4, Steam, and Switch. The perks of staying in bed after a hard day of work and immediate suspension of the game whenever I need to do something made me bought it on Switch.
@Xelthos This is kinda unrelated, but I was _just_ thinking about Mario Wibisono like an hour ago out of the blue, so I have to show some appreciation for your avatar!
Another underrated change for The Zodiac Age on PC and Switch (not sure if they've patched the PS4 ver; haven't checked in a while) is being able to disable auto-camera rotate. Seems like a minor thing but if you like toggling between normal speed and x4 regularly it makes for a smoother experience! And I'm glad you mentioned the mods! The gameplay ones are massive overhauls and add SOOOO MUCH to replay value. The community is really amazing and even at time of posting there's a recently released (few weeks old) hard mode mod for one of the OG gameplay mods Struggle For Freedom. Would also like to give a shoutout to Foreign Lands!
I loved this game so much when it came out, I remember the first time fighting cuchulainn it was the first time in the series where a mid game boss felt like a post game superboss. It forced me to fully understand the gambit and license board system to even have a chance to beat him at a lower level xD
Welp. That Gambit detail sealed the deal on me getting it if I ever nab a Switch. The most frustrating thing about Zodiac Age is not being able to easily switch Gambits for boss fights or certain areas, that shit HELPS
I absolutely adore this game in all its forms, and big kudos to Square for adding more with each rerelease. Hopefully, the PS4 and PC with see those extras patched in
I'm currently playing this on Xbox One and my husband is playing the Switch version. We are enjoying both versions immensely. I never got to finish the original PS2 release and i always regretted that. So this is a real treat for us to replay it with all fo the improvements.
I have the PS4 version, with one of my favorite steelbooks (love those), hell i have the PS2 steelbook still. I hope the new features come out on the PS4 as well, they gotta right? as well as the DQ XI S features eventually... But man i really want the Xbox One version now, new features and 60 fps on my X? that's worth another playtrough, hell i haven't even gone trough the PS4 one yet... so i'm not picking up the game anytime soon but i'll be on the lookout for a cheaper copy, i feel like supporting this game a lot, i can go for switch and PC even.
Kudan dragon quest features exclusive to switch version, just like Japanese dragon quest 11 it did not get the updates that American and European dragon quest 11 got
For anyone wondering I'm playing FFXII TZA PS4 disk on PS5 system and it has option to respec jobs and license points via speaking with Montblanc. Judging from the video this option was not available on the PS4 launch so kudos to Square for caring about QoL features :)
Switch without hesitation. Never want to play a huge rpg tied to the tv ever again, reasons are the drastically reduced playing time and therefore much lower likelihood of finishing, and this version looks up there with all the others so little compromise.
I think FFTA2 is quite good came out after 12 I think, also I really enjoy FF Type-0, don't knock the final fantasy series just yet my friends there's still hope
So for what it's worth for anyone who cares, since he featured the PC Mods on the video -- I just a few days ago released a "TRUE" PS2 license board mod which is different than the one mentioned in the video (that one uses new licences and additional augments and LP costs, mine changes everything to put vanilla). Just throwing it out there.
Wait a minute - I just posted a question about this... Are you telling me that your mod gives the true original experience? If so, that's _amazing,_ and it makes me wanna get it on PC. I've been lamenting the fact that I can't find a remaster with the original freedom and I haven't picked up any other version of one of my favorite games since PS2 for that reason.
Just the license board -- all other changes (many of which are mentioned in the video) are left in tact. There's a LOT of equip and shop changes, etc. But the biggest thing is the maximum of about 1/3rd the HP lore totals and only 5 battle/magick lores, plus no ultimate "FINAL FANTASY" weapons. I did start work on a total conversion mod to PS2 version but there are a lot of issues that crop up (shops especially) so it's on hiatus for now.
@@TerraEpon Nice! I hope you can finish that total conversion one day. I have to admit I'm hesitant to play the overhauled version with how much I love the original. So many people can't stand every character eventually having access to all abilities, but it's one of the reasons I loved the game so much in the first place!
I own the ps4 version and i put the switch version on a different hdmi chanel and switched between the 2 to compare and honestly i couldnt see much difference. In terms of resolution, colors and texture quality the switch version looks almost identical to ps4. Whatever compression they made to it is honestly not noticeable on docked mode. The only thing i did noticed is that the switch version has *hint* of softness around the characters that create very small, almost unoticeable jaggies. That i have to get close to the tv and squint to see. This is on a 55" 4k display, mind. So u might say the ps4 version is a bit sharper. But seriously.. Switch looks fantastic and portability is a huge plus
Hey, just so anyone looking through the comments is aware. The PC version just released a patch (1.0.4.0) on April 24, 2020 to add the job reset function and the gambit system expansion for up to 3 sets.
Ps4 got that update too
@@gatocoomer8015 Do you know if save times are any better on ps4 now?
@@BlackAxe101 i don't know sorry. I haven't played the game.
@@gatocoomer8015 O shit, I wasted my money on the Xbox version then. I bought it when in came for the PS4 (steelbook edition), then for the Switch and last week I bought them on Xbox (physical) and PC. I prefer the PC because the boosters, I don't want to do again all that grinding that I made when I played on PS2 (200+ hrs), so much grinding for Zodiac Spear, Yagyu darkblade, Yiazmat, etc.
@@diegomireles Woah, that's amazing.
12 I think is the most underrated of all the Final Fantasy games
X-2 is more underrated, way way more.
XII is definitely underrated too though.
Because is Vagrant Story 2, this is not a Final Fantasy
@@steel5897 Well, X-2 is actively loathed by a large group of people. The people who don't like or aren't interested in XII don't even talk about it.
V is also underated. 12 is the probably the best of the underateds
@@MrDusuke True but that one was unfortunate cuz it's right in between my favorite Final Fantasy ever Final Fantasy 4 and everyone else's favorite Final Fantasy 6
As of today this was patched on Ps4 to include: the job reset function, 2 additional gambit slots per character and ost track.
What about the 60fps tho
Also Are save times still slow ash?
@@ftrunks2k give em another 3 years
I thought I was going crazy! Everything I looked up said you couldn’t change jobs but I literally just did. lol
@@ftrunks2k Astonishing that it didn't, apparently, get a Pro patch.
I loved this game back on my PS2 and got it again for PS4. It took me a while to build myself the courage to play it again, as I feared my nostalgia was just that.. Nostalgia. But this game, once you get to the Gambits and deciding what you want your characters to do, you really get into it and can get lost for hours. At least, that's how it is for me.
Exactly the same for me. Took me a while to get it again on PS4 after it came out again, after I decided to get it, I got lost again playing it for hours. Fantastic game.
The original was good. I didn't know all these people thought it had to be changed.
I still remember spending countless hours powerleveling with Dustia.😂😂😂 Good times!
The jobs threw me off big time and is why I think I stopped playing but from this video, it makes you more OP, so I will restart it and it has new game+ nice. I’ve played this game on my ps2 probably like 30 to 40X
no matter which console ~ FF12 is a masterpiece
@Wayward One it is, and your opinion doesn't matter ^^
@Quan Le Hoang Anh preach ! 👀♥️
A masterpiece is a perfect game ff12 is good but not perfect, perfect is silent hill 1 to 3 or resident evil remake, those are masterpieces
@@ant2901 Silent hill 1 to 3 Perfect?!😂😂😂
n o
the Re Remake is another story but your just talking about your preference ×___×
@@akiinmoonlight79 ok then you are too so can people stop throwing the word masterpiece around
i am playing this game right now first time in ps2 with the international edition and i cant believe how wonderfull the game looks and runs, i really cant believe this game was made for ps2 , i say this is the most impresive and powerfull game done in that console , the game runs fine, the load times are not too bad, and the world is big , and all fit in just 1 dvd, is impresive again, a tech miracle from that era .
I absolutely agree, I thought the same thing when I originally got it ages ago. How only one disc? How does it look so good? Do I really need that PS3 coming out soon?
I do hope they make another Final Fantasy game set in Ivalice again, i love the world and the races.
If you have the money and time, give FFXIV a go.
Also, don't expect anything out of Square Enix. They don't give a crap about what fans want.
Sadly they mistreated the creator of the Ivalice world so badly during the production of the original 12 and again during Tactics Advance 2 I dont think he wants to ever work with them again. It was then rest of the original 12 team that worked on the remaster.
@@LrnecBuma Aww damn, didn't know that! Is there an article relating on what happen?
@@otherprisma7354 basch and ashe were main characters and square execs kept telling him they needed a younger character to relate to. Had to rework things. Forced to add vahn and penello. He got increasingly sick and mentally distressed before stepping away. Yaizmat is in the game as a tribute to his undying commitment to the game.
@@LrnecBuma didnt matsuno work on the tactics ogre remaster? And Tactics Ogre was after that
Speeding x4 gameplay is such a cool feature, it should be in every jrpg. Getting exp never have been so easy and pleasant.
Ikr I think that ease gives me a positive connotation with the battle system just because they're together
@@user-ns3nj1jr8h yooo
@@MGrey-qb5xz It's made by a Japanese company... it's an rpg... it's a jrpg...
no
I remember that there was a SNES emulator that several years ago came up with this "feature" and fortunately others got inspired by it. Once you play certain games with the option of speeding up the game with a button is hard to go back to not using it, especially old JRPG games where you have a lot of scenes with text slowly appearing or ridiculous amounts of back and forth grinding.
I just got my Switch version of FFXII The Zodiac Age today and I am so happy with how it looks and plays. I have a Switch Lite so I can only play in 720p, but it’s so gorgeous and on-the-go, I don’t care.
This game has never received it’s due. It’s an epic journey with great characters and story. The fighting system takes a little getting used to, but once you know what you’re doing, it’s a blast.
I love my Switch version. I have this on PS2, PS4 Pro, Xbox One X, and Switch. So far, the Switch version is my favorite just because it’s portable.
If you’re thinking of getting this game on any console or PC, you can’t go wrong. It belongs in any RPG fan’s library.
I’m just looking for a physical copy. I don’t get games digitally unless they are truly digital only (like Star Ocean: First Departure R. Digital only even in Japan), and are a maximum of 10 GB. But I’ve decided to make XII my second Final Fantasy game after VII.
@@paperluigi6132 good call. I also recommend IX and X/X-2. Ix can be gotten physically through import, just as the VII/VIII collection, while X/X-2 are available physically. But do NOT buy C/X-2 used as the only way to play X-2 is with a download code that comes with them game. There are rumors that one of the imported versions actually has both games on the cart, but I don’t know which version (Japan, Asia, Korea, Europe) this might be.
Still, all of them are worth owning and playing. Like you, I have them all physically.
I have it on my PS4 but I really want to play it on my switch lmfao. I should probably beat it on PS4 first though :/
I went with the Switch version purely for the portablility since I like to play games on my lunch hour and I travel for a few hours at a time to see my family once a month. Plus it helped soothe my anxiety that I knew I could respec my characters at almost anytime.
I still have my day one copy of this game on PS2. It's my favorite Final Fantasy game of all time, and this video has convinced me to replay it on PC.
I like the combat, leveling, and gambit system. I wish they'd make this type of combat in more of the games. It's a nice middle ground between action combat and standard RPG faire.
The original PS2 version was almost perfect! Zodiac Age is a classic example of fixing something that wasn't broken! Zodiac Age is average at best! People new to FF12 might like it though!
My husband and I love 12- so incredibly fun to play! We also think the gameplay style should have been brought to at least a few more FFs... 12 felt like a true FF while being a totally new and fun experience.
I love how carefully intricate you're in giving us detailed explaination of the game's difference on different platforms much like what I've seen in your Star Ocean First Departure and Star Ocean First Departure R comparison. Keep it up!
This was an in depth, extremely informative video. Told me everything I needed to know before trying out this game. Great job.
This is one of my favorite Final Fantasy games. Probably my favorite since 6
I'd have to agree! I loved IX and X as well, but VI and XII really are something special.
I like X but don't love it. I fucking love IX, though
Which is why i`m hyped for FFXVIII
its great, it would've been the best game if Balthier is the mc
@@neku2741 It doesn't really have a main character
I love this game so much. I know some don't always gel with the story or the gameplay, but the one thing everyone seems to agree on is how strong the art direction is.
Because while, yeah, it was really jaggy on the PS2, it was beautiful to look at. So it makes me extremely happy how well that art has held up over the years.
Agreed, FFXII is my favourite simply because of how rich the world of Ivalice is.
Worth mentioning in TZA they added new themes for all the locations and bosses that originally shared themes with others (e.g. Tchita Uplands has its own new theme instead of sharing the Giza Plains theme). This likely only applied to the Reorchestrated setting though.
i think Nam Yensa also had new theme iirc, i remember Nam shared the same theme as Ogir
@@byakugan641 They changed it to the Cerobi Steppe theme in IZJS, and that carried over to TZA.
That's spectacular!
Pretty sure this has been the best comparison video I've ever seen. Good stuff, happy that I went with the switch version over the PC which I was slightly regretting on the way home. Never really gave this entry the appropriate amount of time back on PS2 before life got in the way, excited to give it a fair chance now without being solely locked to my tv.
This is by far my favorite FF game. The original ps2 version was great, and although I haven't tried the new versions, I think the original had few, if any flaws.
Thanks for the information, Austin!
What I will note is that XII in handheld (1024x576) mode runs at 80% on each axis, same in docked (1536x864). So, this makes it vastly superior to XBC2 in terms of image quality. It is mainly blurry due that that reduction, as well as a post process antialiasing solution to hide jaggies (Digital Foundry). I personally greatly prefer this to many ports we have seen so far, and I'm happy that they didn't opt for dynamic resolutions.
Congratulations for this video, it must have been a hard job to compare all these features and get the scenes to show us. Thank you very much!
Stumbled across your channel the other day, I love these version comparison videos. Please keep doing them, I don't care which series you cover.
FF XII, it's my favorite of the series! I will never forget all the hours spent on this amazing game back in the day.
Probably one of the best comparison videos! Clear,Concise, and articulated well! Thanks for making this! :D
Been playing this on Switch all week and by far it is the best platform to play it on in my opinion if all you want to do is play. So good.
I know I'm a few years late, but I just wanted to point out something cool that I noticed in the remaster: In the original game, there were some instances where the game used a slightly low-poly version of the character's models (you can notice it specially in quickening cutscenes, but I remember it in a few story scenes as well). In the remaster, they were all replaced by the high-quality models. Pretty cool!
I just bought my copy for the Switch yesterday.
I hope the PS4 and PC versions also gets the quality of life changes the Switch and Xbox One versions have.
But the only thing I wish they added back in all versions of FFXII: TZA is that awesome opening title cinematic the original version have.
Nope, given their track record of SE ports, it's impossible it'll happen.
Yeah it should be there no question about it, its kinda anti climatic to just have the game open to a menu
I'm so pissed at square enix for not going back and increasing the resolution and framerate on the ps4 pro. going to have to rebuy it for the xb1x now
Addendum comment - Updated APRIL 23 2020:
First, DigitalFoundry confirms FFXII is NOT 1080p on Switch. It is 864p. (For those interested though, FFX IS 1080p) Please check out their video for a better analysis on the technical aspects. It isn't my area of concentration so I won't pretend it is. I shouldn't have stated it so factually. th-cam.com/video/r9IGpIehFmQ/w-d-xo.html
Someone has also mentioned in the comments something I left out of the video: The Zodiac Age also lacks the game's opening FMV. But Square did use the 1080p version as a trailer for the game, if you're interested in seeing it here it is. th-cam.com/video/rs4-5DxQKXI/w-d-xo.html
4/23/2020 - The PS4 and Steam versions of FFXII have been updated & now include the job reset feature and multiple gambit sets of the Switch and Xbox One versions as well as the third soundtrack option. Denuvo was also removed from the Steam version.
This.
did they add those missing features for the pc port
@@Coldsilfur4
Performance over portability. Always has been, always will.
Worth mentioning that the UI is still rendered at native 1080p/720p respectively despite that.
hi! there is any new about a patch to include clothes physics and the other new stuff on the ps4 version?
9:02 Notice the PC version is over 10GB smaller than the PS4, and then the Xbone shaves off a few GB more. Amazing what devs can do with some extra development time.
Is it me or Everytime I hear the Main Final Fantasy theme, I always get giddy and have a wide ass smile.
Played the original in PS2, was a blast certainly, should i will try the PC port definitly!
You very English well
@@-thesalemcrow-5941
Not a native speaker, obvious from his name.
Glad I waited for 12 years to replay this game again for my switch.
The Original PS2 version was an amazing and underrated adventure.
Seeing these improvements on the switch makes the game even better, I'm okay with the game being easier since these days games of all types come out more often and time may look long but it's pretty short.
My latest quarantine dream was 30 in the field and 60 in the menus.
FF XII Is the FF game that i loved playing the most! The original is one of my favorite games! I love the versatility and the customization of jobs and roles and the freedom that the all in one board offered! I went to play the Remastered and was let down by the static an lack of customization of jobs and roles that I could build by myself in the original version.
I agree 100%
Dude I love your videos, especially the FF comparisons 👌✌👍
I did prefer the old bestiary illustrations over the 3d models.
Huh
been waiting for this video to drop, you completed it sooner than i thought. proper nice job
What a great video - so much detail must have take a hell of research/editing! FF12 is one of my favourite games
The PC Steam version, obviously; custom License Boards (get every single license in a single playthrough!), can customise treasure chests and quest rewards (get the useful but lategame Technicks and Magicks early!), can customise each PC's stats and stuff, can use Cheat Engine to manipulate EXP, LP, gil, HP, etc.
I found my self-modded version of Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age to be incredibly fun.
The Switch and Xbox additions were patched into the PS4 and PC versions.
The license board reset from the Switch/XB1 versions is available on PC via mod, as well as the New Game + with inventory carryover. There is also an option to have Montblanc give you some extra gil, and another option to acquire all items, magicks, technicks, etc. These are all available via a single mod on PC.
As I said before (ahem), this is quite the turnaround. What was the least likely version of TZA to happen, ended up being the definitive one. Good things come to those who wait.
I'd probably go with the pc version with the original license board mod. I still have my original ps2 version though which I feel is still good enough since I use pro action replay on is to speed it up already.
I think the 3 music options are great to my ears.
One day I hope we see "Which Version of Final Fantasy VIII Should You Play?"
Roses and Wine :) Ironic since most of the other FF ports on Steam are lackluster.
Honestly didn't like the changes done in the remakes of the first era games. Original are the way to go. Except for the remaster of the PS2 games.
Hopefully when it comes to a modern consoles they have the music from the PS1 version.
At the moment, only the ps1 version. The music is horrible in the ports.
@@tidus1ph What about with Roses & Wine?
These videos are super detailed and beyond helpful. Was totally picking this up for Switch until you mentioned the 60 FPS on One X
Well honestly, for a game like this 60FPS will make zero to minimal difference. If the XBox is your preferred platform then by all means but I wouldn't dismiss other options for the sake of framerate alone.
Honestly portability trumps 60fps for me. Specially for a game where 60 fps is not needed at all.
Totally with you man, this is pretty much what i came to hear on this video. Portable is nice but i don't play the switch portable that much, pro controller over joycons any day.
Why would you want 60fps in a rpg? Lmao
Serious question, I really won’t notice the difference in FPS?
Doesnt matter, it's such a good game that you should play whatever version you can get your hands on
The most underrated and the latest good final fantasy
Lastest?
Opinion
Latest?
@@Ponaru or last.
The most underrated FF is XIII, really. The internet bandwagon would like you to believe it's the worst game ever. Worse than E.T. even.
Really glad a subbed when i watched your ff7 video yesterday
This was super helpful
I still have my original copy of FFXII for my PS2. When it released, I was in college. I don't know why I even bother buying the game since I was busy with studying. I never got beyond 3 hours for the game. At lease this time, I may have time to finish what I started.
Thx a lot for the comparison. I have never been a big fan of the FF franchise mostly because I used to hate random encounters (still do) and turn based combat (sometimes I like that now). I loved FF XII because it addressed both issues: you could see enemies from afar and even avoid them and the combat was in real time. I played this one a lot on PS2 and I'll give it a second go on PC. There's a bunch of other PS2 games that would deserve a remaster on PC.
Thank you for the video. It was excellent. I have wanted a Switch for a long time... and with X and XII coming out for the system, and it being so mobile, I'm in! Thanks again for the video!
People like to talk trash about this game but they don't realize and appreciate the sheer production quality that went into this treasure.
This is the first of only two Final Fantasy games I played all the way through and beat.
Wow this is a awesome comparison video. I'll defintely buy the switch to have my FFXii game on the go with all the changes since the original PS2 version ! Very excited but first... let's finish Zelda Link's Awakening :p
Thanks for making this. I bought the ps4 version, and I wasn't aware that there was a pc version available.
One thing I cannot get enough of is that wonderful soundtrack.
Final Fantasy XII Rhinoplasty Age
FF12 in the ps2 is the hardest and strictest among other version, was such an honor to have been able to finish it back then
in the ps4 its very easy, especially with auto save, trial mode, turbo mode and seiteningrat but mistwalker trophy is still a pain in the butt
I own all version and I really like the Xbox one x version, the 60fps is awesome. The only issue for me with the PC version is they never fixed the game for people that have a G-sync monitor.
Samurai is this still true up to today do you know? Gsync issues
I last played this on a PS2 emulator on PC, good to see it actually got released on PC now, might have to pick that up after I finish X. Thanks!
I still like/have the original US PS2 release. Still having trouble beating optional Esper with the Dark magic. Last time was able to find/beat Ultima. Took alot of patience. I actually tried using Ultima summon on the Dark summon fight, and of course she died in one hit. LOL.. the special technique skill.
I've put upwards of 2k hours (original PS2 release + PC release) on this game, and it is by-far my favorite game. Back in the day I would spend countless hours grinding for multiple Tournsols
This video was also very very informative! Good job and keep up the amazing work!
Riley Barnes To 100% this game it only takes around 30 hours right?
@@sheriffaboubakar9720 No idea, but like i said its BY -FAR my favourite game :)
The switch version actually uses a dynamic resolution, which is impressive to say the least if you thought it was native 1080p and 720p respectively.
This was great. Thank you!
I played the original on the PS2 and really just couldn't get into the gameplay. Maybe I'll give it another try on the Switch
Never appreciated it when I was young. But now, it's one of the best. Gameplay is rich and so many things to do but in a good way.
@@tidus1ph I feel like I had a similar experience. It seemed pretty cool when I first played it, but now XII is one of my favorite video games. The world, the characters, the _music..._ Incredible. Weird how it can take time to fully appreciate something like this, huh?
Try it now, the remaster is leaps and bounds better than the OG ps2 version
@@ryo-kai8587 Probably because I was young. I never understood how politics works so the story didn't work for me.
@@ryo-kai8587 I believe people just don't give 12 a chance it deserves. It was a huge leap going from the beloved FF X battle system into a non turned based system added with 3D exploring. It just doesn't feel like very FF. Not to mention X world building were such masterpiece that going into political setting after that just feels like bad transition.
Once you look past that, the game actually holds up very well, it has the core which makes most FF games great.
Thanks for this incredibly well done comparison. You helped me decide which version to buy (PC).
I will get this on Switch but I'm going through FF X and FF X 2 first. Maybe next year then!
I have the PS2, PS4, PC, and Switch versions. Personally my favorite is with a PS2 on a CRT, with the Switch version a close second. Portable FF12 is amazing.
This game ages like wine.
Hey now I thought in your last video I watched about FFVII you said that was the only one you were going to do....you sneaky little man you.💙💙💙love the video
Loving the switch version, mainly cause portablity is the biggest asset for me.
I got it on PS4, Steam, and Switch. The perks of staying in bed after a hard day of work and immediate suspension of the game whenever I need to do something made me bought it on Switch.
@Xelthos This is kinda unrelated, but I was _just_ thinking about Mario Wibisono like an hour ago out of the blue, so I have to show some appreciation for your avatar!
Another underrated change for The Zodiac Age on PC and Switch (not sure if they've patched the PS4 ver; haven't checked in a while) is being able to disable auto-camera rotate. Seems like a minor thing but if you like toggling between normal speed and x4 regularly it makes for a smoother experience!
And I'm glad you mentioned the mods! The gameplay ones are massive overhauls and add SOOOO MUCH to replay value. The community is really amazing and even at time of posting there's a recently released (few weeks old) hard mode mod for one of the OG gameplay mods Struggle For Freedom. Would also like to give a shoutout to Foreign Lands!
I loved this game so much when it came out, I remember the first time fighting cuchulainn it was the first time in the series where a mid game boss felt like a post game superboss. It forced me to fully understand the gambit and license board system to even have a chance to beat him at a lower level xD
Welp. That Gambit detail sealed the deal on me getting it if I ever nab a Switch. The most frustrating thing about Zodiac Age is not being able to easily switch Gambits for boss fights or certain areas, that shit HELPS
nice video! 👍
i'm simple man i loved FFXII bought it on all systems.
It's been exactly 12 years, now is the time I picked this game up again
Best remaster of all time, I love the Zodiac Version.
Very good review, everything was to the point and pertinent. Well done.
I absolutely adore this game in all its forms, and big kudos to Square for adding more with each rerelease. Hopefully, the PS4 and PC with see those extras patched in
I'm currently playing this on Xbox One and my husband is playing the Switch version. We are enjoying both versions immensely. I never got to finish the original PS2 release and i always regretted that. So this is a real treat for us to replay it with all fo the improvements.
I have the PS4 version, with one of my favorite steelbooks (love those), hell i have the PS2 steelbook still. I hope the new features come out on the PS4 as well, they gotta right? as well as the DQ XI S features eventually... But man i really want the Xbox One version now, new features and 60 fps on my X? that's worth another playtrough, hell i haven't even gone trough the PS4 one yet... so i'm not picking up the game anytime soon but i'll be on the lookout for a cheaper copy, i feel like supporting this game a lot, i can go for switch and PC even.
Kudan dragon quest features exclusive to switch version, just like Japanese dragon quest 11 it did not get the updates that American and European dragon quest 11 got
This is what ive been looking for, nice review and comparison video.
I just noticed that your end card in all these FF comparison videos says “subcribe” and not “subscribe”.
I'm going for the PC version. TY for the video :3 greetings from México
So if I liked Xenoblade Chronicles 1 and The Last Story, you think I would like this game?
Joseph Stramandinoli yep
Just started playing/replaying it for PS4, first time since PS2, where I never beat it. Zodiac Job System makes a world of difference
lol i finished the game like 5 time when im 12 years old
I love my switch 😍❤️
For anyone wondering I'm playing FFXII TZA PS4 disk on PS5 system and it has option to respec jobs and license points via speaking with Montblanc. Judging from the video this option was not available on the PS4 launch so kudos to Square for caring about QoL features :)
I would love for Switch or PS4 versions to get that OST music option!
I'm pretty sure the Switch version has the OST option.
Great Content! Looking forward for your comparison of Final Fantasy VI versions.
Switch without hesitation. Never want to play a huge rpg tied to the tv ever again, reasons are the drastically reduced playing time and therefore much lower likelihood of finishing, and this version looks up there with all the others so little compromise.
Best version of final fantasy in my opinion, the battle system, and the open-world were mind-blowing the first time I played it on PS2.
The last great Final Fantasy period.
Agree
I think FFTA2 is quite good came out after 12 I think, also I really enjoy FF Type-0, don't knock the final fantasy series just yet my friends there's still hope
Hell yes, and I never finished it
i dunno man i think type 0 hd and 14 make pretty decent case for themselves
FF14 shits all over this.
hey, really big fan of these port comparison and review videos.
So for what it's worth for anyone who cares, since he featured the PC Mods on the video -- I just a few days ago released a "TRUE" PS2 license board mod which is different than the one mentioned in the video (that one uses new licences and additional augments and LP costs, mine changes everything to put vanilla). Just throwing it out there.
Wait a minute - I just posted a question about this... Are you telling me that your mod gives the true original experience? If so, that's _amazing,_ and it makes me wanna get it on PC. I've been lamenting the fact that I can't find a remaster with the original freedom and I haven't picked up any other version of one of my favorite games since PS2 for that reason.
Just the license board -- all other changes (many of which are mentioned in the video) are left in tact. There's a LOT of equip and shop changes, etc. But the biggest thing is the maximum of about 1/3rd the HP lore totals and only 5 battle/magick lores, plus no ultimate "FINAL FANTASY" weapons.
I did start work on a total conversion mod to PS2 version but there are a lot of issues that crop up (shops especially) so it's on hiatus for now.
@@TerraEpon Nice! I hope you can finish that total conversion one day. I have to admit I'm hesitant to play the overhauled version with how much I love the original. So many people can't stand every character eventually having access to all abilities, but it's one of the reasons I loved the game so much in the first place!
One of my favorite games of all time!! Just got the switch version and can’t wait to play it
I bought the Switch version recently but I still love the ps2 version (nostalgia).
I own the ps4 version and i put the switch version on a different hdmi chanel and switched between the 2 to compare and honestly i couldnt see much difference. In terms of resolution, colors and texture quality the switch version looks almost identical to ps4. Whatever compression they made to it is honestly not noticeable on docked mode. The only thing i did noticed is that the switch version has *hint* of softness around the characters that create very small, almost unoticeable jaggies. That i have to get close to the tv and squint to see. This is on a 55" 4k display, mind. So u might say the ps4 version is a bit sharper. But seriously.. Switch looks fantastic and portability is a huge plus