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TheFinal Fantasyseries has depicted several distinct worlds with fully realized lore over the years, but there are a few consistent elements that have become staples across the games. Iconic features include magic element names, characters named Cid, and one especially recognizable recurring element, a cute mascot called Moogles, which has become a hallmark ofFinal Fantasyas a whole.
Moogles were first planned forFinal Fantasy 2before being cut. Making their official debut in 1990’sFF3before sitting outFF4, they have since become a staple of the series after reappearing inFF5. While they may not have appeared inFF10orFF15as proper characters, they were referenced in folklore, dolls, and costumes. The designs of Moogles have evolved alongside the aesthetic changes of the games, and some versions of the concept remain more fondly remembered than others.
S Tier - The Cutest and Most Memorable Mascots
Final Fantasy 6
This is when Moogles truly gained a significant role beyond just being cute creatures, asFinal Fantasy 6’s Mogis the first playable example. This iteration also introduced the closed-eyes motif, a cute and defining feature which lives on in most other interpretations since.
Final Fantasy 9
On top of retaining their most iconic look, aside from looking more fuzzy, Moogles are straight-up central parts of this title, serving roles like save points and shopkeepers. While the Mog of this title isn’t directly playable, her close connection to Eiko allows for a lot of representation.
A Tier - Important and Unique Takes on Moogles
Final Fantasy 12
In the world of Ivalice, Moogles were totally redesigned to resemble anthropomorphic rabbit people. This diverged heavily from previous versions, but their new lore stands as well-developed via memorable characters like Montblanc and the species' advanced technological skills.
Final Fantasy 14
With a streamlined Moogle design that leans into their chibi look, this MMO features deep lore integration with its take on them. With examples like its own Montblanc and even a Moogle mount, there’s hardly a shortage of fan service for Moogle lovers here.
Final Fantasy 7
In the original release ofFinal Fantasy 7, Moogles were memorable despite mostly appearing as toys and mascot figures, likeFF7’s artificial Cait Sith. Minor changes like lacking pom-poms separate them, but this was more of an alternative representation of Moogles overall.
Final Fantasy 11
Moogles had important roles related to MMO mechanics inFinal Fantasy 11, like player housing, managing events, and weapon augmentation. The cute look was directly translated from the 2D games, made them a friendly sight in the game’s impressive presentation at the time.
B Tier - Simple but Charming Moogles
Final Fantasy 13-2
After being largely absent in the firstFF13, a new version of Mog makes a major appearance as Serah’s companion. There is a lot of charm throughout this updated design, mostly from its Mog Clock wand and the crystal pom-pom which allows it to float.
Final Fantasy 16
Though making a relatively small appearance with just one representative, Nektar ofFinal Fantasy 16’s Bounty Hunt Board, the sole Moogle of this title is an adorable questgiver who takes after theFF14look.
Final Fantasy 5
Directly improving on their debut design inFF3with more detail, this game also gave Moogles more lore and a greater role for the first time.
Dissidia Final Fantasy
The Moogles of this spin-off are based on theirKingdom Heartsappearance, a recognizable design featuring a large nose.
Final Fantasy 3
While the original appearance of Moogles lacked the refinement and detail that came later, it maintains a cute simplicity.
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles
With a chunkier, fuzzier look in these spin-off titles, which feature mini-games like Moogle Paint, these creatures are a memorable part of a lesser-known experience.
Final Fantasy 8
Minimog, the only Moogle in the title, had an unprecedentedly feline design. This discrepancy makes their sheer obscurity in-game seem unjustified.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake/Rebirth
The humanoid, koala-like Moogles in these games have not been received warmly. With other HD games managing to have cute versions of their own, theuncanny Moogles ofFinal Fantasy 7 Rebirthare easily the most unappealing of the franchise.
