47. Vagrant Story (PS1)
Why on the list?
- Vagrant Story is different from Square's more famous franchise, Final Fantasy. It was praised as unique and progressive because of its focus on weapon-based statistics as opposed to the character-based leveling found in typical role-playing games. The game has also been described as a "real-time strategy role-playing game" due to the unique combination of isometric camera angles, ranged attacks which vary with weapon types and lack of turn-based gameplay.
- The game's deep story was focused on the protagonist's personal life and past, rather than on a world-consuming conflict. Another diference from FF.
- Vagrant Story was highly regarded by critics (GS 9.6/IGN 9.6/Famitsu Perfect 40) and has gained somewhat of a cult following since its release.
- I'd like to mention another less-known Square PS1 game, Xenogears, which just missed the top 50. Choices had to be made 
- Vagrant Story's producer and director Yasumi Matsuno, who also created the brilliant FFXII, is one of the greatest names in the RPG genre. His leave is a great loss for Square.
- FFXII, FF Tactics, FF Tactics Advance and Vagrant Story (all created by Matsuno) are all situated in the world of Ivalice, which is unusual for Square games.
Why not higher?
- Different doesn't necessarily mean better. As much as I love VS, FF will always be nr.1 in my heart.
