Final Fantasy Tactics stands the test of time as one of the most revered entries in the series. It’s celebrated not only for its intricate strategic gameplay but also for its unflinching exploration of political themes. The game captivates players with a richly woven narrative about fantastical kingdoms, conspiracies, power dynamics, historical truths, and the harsh realities of class conflict.
As I dove back into this iconic title with the recent release of The Ivalice Chronicles, I was reminded that beneath its grand themes lies a humorous delight in throwing stones at characters you can’t stand—even those who might be on your side. This simple act encapsulates the game’s mix of strategy and social commentary.
The Throw Stone Ability: A Strategic Tool
In the early stages of Final Fantasy Tactics, the Throw Stone ability is a fundamental skill you encounter. It’s one of the first abilities gained by the Squire class, allowing characters to hurl rocks at enemies or allies alike. While it doesn’t pack a powerful punch, it allows you to take action on a unit’s turn, which is crucial in the game’s tactical combat.
Character Progression and Job Points
Character progression in Tactics revolves around gaining experience points and job points. Experience points raise a character’s general level, thereby enhancing their stats. Job points serve as a currency to unlock new abilities in various jobs, a term Tactics uses for the classic Final Fantasy classes such as Knights, Archers, and Mages. Action matters here; your characters earn points only when executing major actions like attacks or spells—not merely moving on the battlefield.
As characters progress, they can select abilities from different jobs, allowing for a unique multiclassing system. Maximizing XP and job points becomes a strategic necessity. You want everyone involved in battles, not just your heavy hitters. So, if a character can’t reach an enemy or is focused on support, having them Throw Stone ensures they remain relevant, keeping the tactical efficiency intact.
Throw Stone as a Class Struggle Symbol
One of the most interesting aspects of the Throw Stone ability is its indiscriminate targeting. Friends and foes alike can be targeted, allowing for minor damage in exchange for valuable points. The efficiency argument can quickly lead to using this ability on your underperforming allies.
Take Argath Thadalfus, for instance—a character who players love to hate. Early in the game, you meet Argath, who is initially rescued by the main characters, Ramza and Delita. In the backdrop of Ivalice’s political turmoil, Argath stands out as a noble who looks down on the common folk, despite having faced his own family’s disgrace during the recent wars. His arrogance is palpable, and his motives are selfish, which makes him a prime target for your Throw Stone strategy.
Why Throw Rocks at Argath?
As players navigate the early chapters, they come to understand Argath has no empathy for the struggles of the commoners who fueled the war. His disdain culminates in moments of tension with Delita, who is himself a commoner and faces Argath’s mocking remarks head-on. The lowly Squire ability to throw stones at Argath underlines a sense of class solidarity, making it more than just a tactical maneuver—it feels like justice.
Whenever you’re in a skirmish, don’t hesitate to hurl stones at Argath. It amplifies the sense of camaraderie among your characters, as you collectively rebel against their odious attitudes. It’s a form of resistance, and it feels oddly satisfying to chip away at the facade of superiority he boasts.
On one hand, you must survive the tactical encounters, but on the other, you shouldn’t forget the fun involved in dealing retribution to a dislikable character. After all, when everyone can unite against a character like Argath, the experience becomes a shared one, weaving deeper into the fabric of Ivalice’s unsettling class struggles.
Why is class struggle a recurring theme in Final Fantasy Tactics? The game shows us that societal hierarchies can be challenged through collective action, even if it manifests through comedic stone-throwing moments.
So, next time you pick up Final Fantasy Tactics, remember: throw those rocks, not just for the strategy, but for the class solidarity it represents. Every pebble you toss at Argath not only earns you points but also reinforces your commitment to a more equitable narrative in Ivalice.
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