Final Fantasy Tactics: Beginner’s Guide for the Ivalice Chronicles

I’ve been playing Final Fantasy Tactics for nearly three decades, and with the new Ivalice Chronicles release, I wanted to share some words of wisdom for newcomers diving into this legendary tactical RPG.

Now, let me be clear, this isn’t a step-by-step walkthrough or a “perfect build” guide. Half the fun of FFT is experimenting, discovering, and making the game your own. What I want to do here is give you a solid foundation so you can enjoy the game without getting overwhelmed.

1. Experiment with Jobs Early and Often

Your characters unlock new Jobs as they level up. Each Job comes with unique skills you can learn, and you can even mix-and-match skills across Jobs once they’re unlocked.

There’s no “wrong” way to do this, so don’t be afraid to experiment! Switching Jobs often not only keeps things fun but also gives you more flexibility as your team grows.

2. Healing Is Your Lifeline

Never underestimate healing. Potions and Phoenix Downs are essential, especially in the early game.

• I recommend giving most characters “Item” as their secondary ability.

• White Magic is also excellent if you prefer mages.

• Keep healing accessible and items well stocked, you’ll thank yourself later.

3. Chemists Can Throw Items

Chemists have a special perk: they can throw Potions, Phoenix Downs, and more at a distance. This makes them lifesavers on the battlefield…literally.

4. Undead Enemies Hate Healing

Here’s a classic tip: using a Phoenix Down on an Undead enemy will instantly K.O. them. Likewise, any healing spell or item will damage the Undead instead of healing them.

5. Don’t Skip Squire Skills

The Squire Job might seem basic, but it has two must-have abilities:

• JP Up – Increases Job Points earned, letting you unlock skills much faster.

• Move +1 – Extra movement is always useful, no matter what Job you’re in.

6. Shared Job Experience

Even if you don’t have every character in the same Job, they’ll still passively earn Job Points when others are training in it. For example, if one character is a Squire, the rest of your team will slowly gain Squire JP too. This means you don’t have to grind every Job on every character individually.

7. Upgrade and Equip Constantly

Every time you visit a town, check the shop for new gear and items. Equipping your party with the latest weapons, armor, and abilities makes a huge difference. Also, after Job levels increase, check if you’ve unlocked new Jobs; you might be surprised by what opens up.

8. You Can’t Stack the Same Ability Types

Characters can only equip one ability from each slot (Reaction, Support, Movement, etc.). So if you have Move +1 and Treasure Hunter, you’ll have to choose one. Plan wisely because there’s no doubling up!

9. Zodiac Compatibility

Every character has a Zodiac sign, which affects how effective they are against allies and enemies.

• Good compatibility: better healing and stronger damage.

• Bad compatibility: weaker healing and reduced damage.

You don’t need to obsess over this to succeed, but it’s a neat detail that can explain why some battles feel easier (or harder) than expected.

10. Difficulty Isn’t Too Harsh (At First)

I’ve been playing on the hardest setting, and honestly, it’s been easy so far. I recommend at least “Normal” (Knight) difficulty. The game does ramp up later, but early on, it’s very forgiving.

Bonus Tips: Ramza’s Tailwind

Ramza’s unique Squire ability Tailwind boosts a teammate’s Speed. If you’re not attacking on a turn, use Tailwind—it’ll both strengthen your party and earn you extra JP.

Final Thoughts

The Ivalice Chronicles remaster is a fantastic way to experience this classic. The voice acting, quality-of-life updates, and presentation shine, even if I wish it leaned a little harder into the challenge of the original. (Yes, I miss the iconic death screams and “Job Circle” too.)

Still, it’s an amazing package that captures what makes Final Fantasy Tactics special: freedom, experimentation, and strategy.

If you’re just starting out, I hope this guide helps set you on the right path. And if you’ve got questions—drop them below. This game has been my jam for nearly three decades, and I love talking about it.

Stay tactical,
Vincent

p.s. I’m a game designer. We make card games and TTRPGs, with FFT being one of my hugest influences. If you’d love to learn more, be sure to explore this website or check the link below.