The lights are on
The Final Fantasy series has been around for nearly 25 years, and over that time has developed its own internal mythology. However, many elements that fans associate with Final Fantasy aren’t original creations; they are inspired by historical tales and myths from around the world. From summons to characters to weapons, the series has too many nods to detail each one separately – but this list summarizes some of the coolest references drawn from a variety of cultural traditions.
HyperionIn Final Fantasy: The name of the gunblade used by Squall’s rival, Seifer Almasy, in Final Fantasy VIII.
Origin: According to Greek mythology, Hyperion was one of the twelve titans who were overthrown by Zeus and the other gods of Olympus.
GilgameshIn Final Fantasy: A popular recurring foe/summon known for having multiple arms and wielding a variety of swords. Featured most prominently in Final Fantasy V.
Origin: Gilgamesh was a legendary Sumerian king who reigned over 4500 years ago, and the subject of an ancient literary work called The Epic of Gilgamesh.
SephirothIn Final Fantasy: The fan-favorite antagonist of Final Fantasy VII, built up as a peerless warrior with god-like power.
Origin: The word Sephiroth (or Sephirot) is drawn from Kabbalah, where it refers to the group of 10 attributes through which God is revealed.
CaladbolgIn Final Fantasy: The Celestial (i.e. “ultimate”) weapon wielded by Tidus in Final Fantasy X.
Origin: In Irish mythology, Caladbolg is a two-handed sword that can cleave mountains and kill entire armies.
MasamuneIn Final Fantasy: A blade that first appeared in the original Final Fantasy (as “Masmune”), and is frequently among the most powerful weapons in an entry.
Origin: The name refers to the legendary Japanese sword-maker, Masamune, who is regarded as one of the finest (often the finest) in history.
CúchulainnIn Final Fantasy: Cúchulainn, the Impure, is an optional poison-elemental Esper players can summon in Final Fantasy XII.
Origin: Though the name has several spellings, Cú Chulainn was a hero in Irish myth who would fly into an indiscriminate frenzy in battle.
BahamutIn Final Fantasy: The name Bahamut appears in all numbered Final Fantasy entries, usually as a powerful summoned monster with the form of a dragon. You can see a video history of his appearances as a summon here!
Origin: According to Arabic myth, Bahamut is a fish so massive and wondrous that humans are unable to comprehend its sight.
OdinIn Final Fantasy: A summoned monster appearing in multiple Final Fantasy entries. His attack usually involves a chance to instantly kill opponents.
Origin: A god from Norse mythology. Many other aspects of this legend, like his six-legged horse (Sleipnir) and his spear (Gungnir) also appear in Final Fantasy games.
FlanIn Final Fantasy: Pudding-like enemies typically resistant to physical attacks.
Origin: Psych! It’s just a stupid dessert.
Share your favorite mythological references from Final Fantasy in the comments below!
Email the author Joe Juba, or follow on Twitter, Facebook, and Game Informer.
I love all the history and fast associated with these games! It's really awesome and really creative.
Cool read, That Jerk Joe Juba.
Did not know those facts.
I always found the Genomes from FF IX to be an interesting reference to the Human Genome.
These examples don't even begin to show the outside influence that has shaped and molded FF.
When I played FFXI, I would look up the names of rare monsters or unique weapons and most of them are connected to mythology and legend from places all over the world.
Final Fantasy is dope.
This was cool to read but I think the only one I didn't know was Chuchulain and Bahamut. I love history and mythology XD
Tonberry.
Think that one is self explanatory...
My top FF mythological creature is Hope's lack of a personality.