'Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age' remasters a PS2-era classic

By Danny Cowan Published June 6, 2016

A remastered and upgraded version of the PlayStation 2-era RPG Final Fantasy XII will launch for the PlayStation 4 worldwide in 2017, publisher Square Enix announced today.

The upcoming re-release, titled Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age, will feature visual enhancements in addition to a gameplay-expanding “Zodiac Job System” that was previously seen only in Japan.

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Originally released in 2006, Final Fantasy XII was the last PlayStation 2 entry in Square Enix’s flagship RPG series, following up on Final Fantasy X, X-2, and a port of the MMORPG Final Fantasy XI. Final Fantasy XII shifted the series’ traditional turn-based gameplay in a new direction, allowing players to set up automated actions for their teammates in battle, among other innovations.

2007’s Japan-exclusive reissue Final Fantasy XII: International Zodiac Job System expanded on these unique combat mechanics, giving players access to twelve different License Boards and new tactical options. Other improvements featured in International Zodiac Job System include controllable guest party members, an option to double the game’s speed, and a “Trial Mode” that challenges expert players with a series of 100 consecutive battles.

Square Enix notes that all of the additions featured in International Zodiac Job System will make the jump to the PlayStation 4 for The Zodiac Age.

Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age follows up on a number of reissued Final Fantasy games from Square Enix in recent months, including Steam PC ports for the PSone series entries Final Fantasy VII, VIII, and IX. Remastered versions of Final Fantasy X and X-2 are also available for the PlayStation 4, PS3, PS Vita, and PCs.

Along with improvements ported over from International Zodiac Job System, the upcoming The Zodiac Age will also feature remastered audio, an autosave function, and trophy support. A release date for Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age is not yet known.

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