7 of the mightiest monarchs in Square Enix games
Hail to the King! We celebrate some of the most marvelous monarchs in Square Enix games!-e1zv8fzn9 (1)-0n8r1q3ys.jpg?quality=65)
Being in charge is tough enough, but being a good leader? That requires true strength of character.
Today we’re celebrating some Square Enix’s kings, queens and other rulers who don’t just rule, they freaking rule!
Noctis Lucis Caelum - FINAL FANTASY XV
Noctis is a king without a throne, but the metaphorical crown weighs heavy on his head nonetheless.
A rather wayward young man has a rather laid-back attitude to life. Noctis would prefer nothing more than to spend his days fishing, having fun with his friends and sending sweet messages to his fiancé Lunafreya.
Alas, fate has other plans in store. When the Niflheim Empire invades his city and the reigning King Regis is tragically slain, Noctis is forced to take up the mantle of monarch. But despite support from his friends and allies, Noctis may not be ready for the burden of responsibility that comes with being a king.
Over the course of FINAL FANTASY XV’s epic tale, we see the young hero slowly come into his own and own his new role. It’s not a path without stumbles, but with the help of his friends, Noctis is able to become the King that his people need.
Palamena - Visions of Mana
The kingdom of Illystana has a troubled history. Previous rulers were far from benevolent, creating a state where the wealthy elite flourished at the expense of the poor and downtrodden.
That’s a scenario that Queen Palamena is determined to prevent, as was her will of her father, the previous king. As the current ruler of Visions of Mana’s largest city, she’s determined to run things with fairness and empathy.
She’s also got an eye to the future. Palamena has a younger brother named Ian. Since their parents are no longer with them, she helps him grow into the next generation of ruler and strengthen the foundations of their peaceful kingdom.
Suffice to say, it’s an approach that some wealthier residents don’t agree with.
Still, Palamena is more than capable of dealing with challenges to her rule. She’s clever, politically aware and, if it comes to it, able to solve her most serious problems by kicking them repeatedly in the face.
In short, she’s quite the queen! Now, if only she was as adept at disguises…
Oh Palamena…
Read more:
- Combat with Class: Building Visions of Mana’s brilliant battles
- 10 things you need to know about Visions of Mana
Alexander Highwind Tycoon - FINAL FANTASY V
The King of Tycoon has a lot of responsibilities - to his people, to his daughter Lenna to the Wind Crystal - one of the elemental crystals that govern the world of FINAL FANTASY V.
So, when the wind starts to behave oddly, it’s on him to investigate what’s going on. Sadly, it’s a journey he’ll never return from.
After an initial meeting in the Wind Temple, during which he mysteriously disappears, King Tycoon appears throughout the world, but secretly under the influence of the villainous Exdeath. His mysterious movements lure Bartz, Lenna and the rest of the party into traps and cause them all kinds of trouble.
He’s clearly not in his right mind but when freed, his nobility becomes clear as he makes the ultimate sacrifice for his family and the world.
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Leon - Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven
Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven has a deliciously unique setup for an RPG. Rather than play as one protagonist, you follow successive emperors over the generations and their ongoing war against the fallen Seven Heroes.
That doesn’t mean each Emperor is a completely fresh start, however. Due to the wonders of Inheritance Magic, each ruler retains the skills and memories of the ones before them - even if not related by blood (you get to choose who the next emperor is). It’s an unbroken chain that gets stronger with as their experience builds and the Varennes Empire expands.
But it all starts with Leon - the game’s first playable character. He’s a fine figure of a ruler - brave, devoted to his family and willing to put himself in harm’s way to keep his people safe from the ever-present threat of monster attacks.
He’s shrewd, too. When faced with the powerful ‘Hero’ Kzinssie, Leon makes the decision to use Inheritance Magic so that his inevitable sacrifice can strengthen those who come after.
He may not be around for long in Romancing SaGa 2: Revenge of the Seven, but he leaves a lasting impression in more ways than one.
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Garnet Til Alexandros XVII - FINAL FANTASY IX
Brave, powerful and deeply compassionate, Garnet is everything the Kingdom of Alexandria could want from a queen.
She’s certainly a step up from the previous occupant of the throne. Queen Brahne has become twisted by greed, and uses her kingdoms resources to build weapons of destruction and wage brutal war upon the world of Gaia.
It’s a testament to Garnet’s character that she’s willing to stand up against her mother, be it escaping the castle at the start of the game or returning to try to talk her down from madness before things get out of hand.
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King Mickey - KINGDOM HEARTS series
Mickey is more than just a king in the epic KINGDOM HEARTS saga - he’s also a keyblade master.
As such, he travels the worlds, using his power to battle the forces of darkness and protect the hearts of their residents. He’s also a vital ally to Sora, Donald Duck and Goofy, and provides the three half-pints with direction and advice.
He also offers more practical help. For example, in KINGDOM HEARTS II FINAL MIX, he’ll sometimes take over if Sora falls in battle and let you experience his incredible skill and agility for yourself.
Or, if you’re struggling to hit the beats in KINGDOM HEARTS Melody of Memory, you can call upon Mickey’s power to see you through.
In short, he’s a shining example of a keyblade master.
Read more:
- KINGDOM HEARTS Memory of Melody devs reflect on their favorite moments in the KINGDOM HEARTS series
- KINGDOM HEARTS: Memories of Dearly Beloved with Yoko Shimomura
You - DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake
The world of DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake is full of kings and queens, some benevolent, others… less so. But there’s one ruler who stands head and shoulders above the others: you.
When you enter the city of Romaria, you’ll quickly discover that its crown has been stolen by the despicable bandit Robin ‘Ood. Retrieve this shiny symbol of royal status and you’ll be given a unique reward - the King decides he’s had enough of being in charge and lets you take over.
And so, you’re now the ruler of Romaria - quite the promotion!
Unfortunately, it’s just simply not done to go out adventuring if you have royal responsibilities, so when you’re done basking in the respect and adulation of the people, you’ll have to find the old King and get him to retake the throne. Don’t worry - he’s fine with it.
It’s a short reign then, but a highly memorable one all the same.
Read more:
- DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake: Everything you need to know
- 9 things we learned from Inside DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake
There we have it - seven mighty monarchs who stand as an inspiration to those who would want to rule.
We’re sure you have suggestions of your own, so let us know your thoughts on social media: