Final Fantasy: Who Is The Best Character From Each Game?
13. II - Minwu
Final Fantasy II thankfully did away with the blank slate characters of its predecessor by interweaving the personal stories of its heroes with the overarching narrative. The trio of Firionel, Maria and Guy are far from inspiring creations, however.
The handful of rotating fourth party members that join the trio as their quest progresses are much more interesting - Gordon is a self-loathing coward who overcomes his personal demons to take his place as the rightful ruler of the rebellion against the game's evil empire, whilst Leon is the brother of Maria who has turned to the dark side and never makes it clear if he fully embraces the philosophy of the Emperor he serves or not.
Minwu sticks out just above them all, serving as the party's first companion and going out heroically (as many characters do in what is one of the franchise's darkest entries) as he gives his life so that they might gain access to the ultimate magic.
He and three other characters that die during proceedings were given greater prominence in the 'Soul Of Rebirth' side-story that has accompanied almost every remake of the game, taking a leading role as they complement the efforts of their living counterparts by engaging the light side of the mysterious Emperor.