Final Fantasy IV - Easy Type © 1991 Square Company, Limited.
Final Fantasy IV: Easy Type is a rebalanced version of the original July 1991 release. Designed to cater to younger players and those who found the original's difficulty curve overly challenging, it streamlined the combat experience and simplified item management while maintaining the core narrative of Cecil Harvey’s journey.
![Goodies for Final Fantasy IV - Easy Type [Model SHVC-FE]](images/covermini160/61301_1.jpg)
GAME ID: SHVC-FE
Released on October 29, 1991 (Tuesday) in Japan at a retail price of 9,000 JPY.
Rebalancing Efforts:
The Easy Type modifications were extensive. Square rebalanced weapon and armor statistics, lowered the HP values and spell power of enemies, and simplified the item inventory. These adjustments fundamentally altered the game's tactical depth compared to the original standard release.
The Foundation for the West:
This version served as the primary development template for the North American release of the game (marketed as Final Fantasy II). Because the original standard Japanese version was considered too difficult for the burgeoning North American RPG market, the localization team utilized the Easy Type framework to ensure accessibility for Western players.
Aesthetic and UI Tweaks:
Beyond statistical changes, Easy Type featured minor modifications to the user interface and specific item icons to make the game more approachable, reflecting Square's early experiments with difficulty customization to reach a broader, more casual audience.