The Final Fantasy series itself is classified as a console role playing game. The player's goal in most of these games is to progress through a set storyline, overcoming progressively difficult challenges along the way. The only way to do this is through "levelling up", or defeating monsters along the way in order for a player's characters to become stronger.

The first three (I, II (Japan only), III (Japan only)) Final Fantasy games were originally released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), the next three (IV, V (Japan only), VI) for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), the following three for the Sony Playstation (PSX) and the latest installments (X, XI, the upcoming XII) for the Sony Playstation 2 (PS2).

Each of the games takes place in a different world with different storylines, but have become more complex gameplay-wise as time has gone on. The games themselves are very simple to pick up and play and are quite enjoyable, but will require some patience as building up levels can, at times, be a tedious process.

XI is different from the others, as it is an online RPG which is also available for the PC. It requires a monthly fee.

Final Fantasy X can likely be found at any video game store, but the others may require more effort in finding. You should check eBay and other auction sites/online suppliers for original copies of the games. It may also be easier to buy re-releases of the games; two compilations were made for the PSX in North America (Final Fantasy Anthology, featuring V and VI, and Final Fantasy Chronicles, featuring IV and another Square RPG, Chrono Trigger);

As well, two re-releases have been released for the Game Boy Advance (Dawn of Souls, featuring I and II, and Final Fantasy IV Advance) with re-releases of Final Fantasy V and VI upcoming as well. Final Fantasy III will be getting a North American release sometime in the future for the Nintendo DS.