Final Fantasy IV - The Complete Collection – A Faithful Return with New Features

Originally written in the previous iteration of this blog on Feb. 10, 2011.
Updated: April 3, 2025

Looking back at Final Fantasy IV: The Complete Collection on the PSP, it felt like a true return to the roots of the original game — a perfect blend of nostalgia and modernization. The updated 2D visuals, refined mechanics, and additional content made it a standout release, offering what felt like the definitive version of Final Fantasy IV. While I initially didn’t play it to completion, I’ve since beaten the main game, and it genuinely feels like an enhanced version of the classic, complete with thoughtful quality-of-life improvements.

The graphical update is one of the biggest highlights. Rather than adopting the full 3D approach of the DS remake, this version stays faithful to the original SNES aesthetic while adding finer details, smoother animations, and subtle environmental effects. The result is a game that retains the charm of its classic presentation while feeling fresh and polished. Spell effects, for example, have been enhanced with slight 3D elements, making key moments stand out more than ever.

But what makes this collection even more special is that it doesn’t just stop at Final Fantasy IV. It also includes Final Fantasy IV: The After Years, the direct sequel, now with the same visual enhancements. Considering that The After Years was originally locked to pre-iOS/Android flip phones¹ and later released on the Wii Shop Channel, its inclusion here makes it far more accessible, especially with its improved translation and updated mechanics. The package also introduces Final Fantasy IV: Interlude, a short, exclusive chapter meant to bridge the gap between the two games. While Interlude doesn’t add much to the overall story, it’s a nice bonus that makes the collection feel like the most cohesive way to experience the Final Fantasy IV saga.

One of the most striking additions is the full-motion video (FMV) opening, taken from the DS remake and running smoothly at 30fps. While FMV intros were more common in later Final Fantasy releases, seeing it integrated here alongside the remastered 2D visuals adds a cinematic touch. The collection also includes a data install option, reducing loading times and making the overall experience much smoother.

On the gameplay side, The Complete Collection introduces several refinements that streamline the experience without compromising the original challenge. Auto-battle speeds up encounters, a second green bar on the ATB gauge now indicates spell-casting times, and using tents on the world map is as simple as pressing Select. There are also minor combat tweaks, like Porom’s Cry inflicting Confuse on all enemies and Mystery Eggs inheriting resistances from whatever they hatch into, making battles slightly more strategic.

Localization improvements further refine the experience, blending elements from the Final Fantasy IV Advance script with terminology from the DS remake — for example, Summons are now referred to as Eidolons. These adjustments also carry over into The After Years, making the dialogue feel more polished and consistent across all three entries.

However, what really lingers with me is The After Years itself. While I appreciate its inclusion and improvements, I can’t help but feel that Square Enix could have done more with it. One of the branching story routes leaves the ending somewhat open, almost as if it were setting up for another sequel — yet nothing ever came of it. Given how Final Fantasy IV remains one of the most celebrated entries in the series, it feels like a missed opportunity. A proper follow-up expanding on that lingering thread, or even a modern reimagining of The After Years, could have been fascinating.

Beyond the core games, The Complete Collection offers extra features like an Art Gallery showcasing Yoshitaka Amano’s work and a Music Player featuring both the original and arranged soundtracks. While Square Enix has a reputation for frequently re-releasing their older titles, this one feels like a genuine celebration of Final Fantasy IV, delivering the most polished and comprehensive version to date. Whether you’re a longtime fan or experiencing it for the first time, this collection is an excellent way to dive into one of the most beloved RPGs of all time.