Quote Originally Posted by Ralz View Post
But, its up to you. I haven't used Monk yet, but it seems like he can't learn magic, ever, so screw him. Also, Red Mage has been watered down in later remakes, and he can't learn the better spells, so screw him, too. I suppose a full team of Red Mages who differ in spell uses might be useful, but I don't know.
A few comments to make on this:

1. Magic is not necessary to beat the game. End of story. Yes, some of the magic is very beneficial and can help you get through some tough situations a little easier; however, there is no reason to shun the Monk simply because of a lack of magic. The same complaint could then be placed on three of the other classes because the Fighter and Thief learn magic so late (and by the time they get those spells most of them aren't very useful), as well as Red Mage, who has limited access late in the game.

Red Mage has been watered down how, exactly? I ask sincerely, since the "newest" remake I've played is the PS1 version on the Origins disc. Red Mage has never had access to later spells, nor heavy equipment. His balance is phenomenal in the early parts of the game, but it tapers off about the time you complete Gurgu Volcano, Ice Cave, and gain access to the class change from the Castle of Ordeals.

That being said, here is my opinion on the most balanced party:

Fighter - Swords and heavy armor will help carry you from the first battle to the last battle. He is your front-line attacker and the one you pray the monsters hit each round for 1 damage. He is your well-rounded melee powerhouse, and there is always a spot for one of these in any party.

Monk - Twelve levels or so of suckage will make things rough until about the Earth Cave. Take the time to build some levels early on; this will pay off because you power your Monk as well as gain gold to supply the other three party members. This guy will be your first Haste for most of the game, and will be a nearly-free member of your party. By the end of the game, the ability to do 8+ hits per round with his attack will be devastating to all the monsters in the way. In my opinion, he becomes your best offensive weapon by the time you meet Kraken, if you do it right.

White Mage - Her healing is great from start to finish. There are some nice little party buff spells that most people ignore. She also tears apart the undead with her Harm spells (name may differ in other versions). Early on her damage with a Hammer is respectable, too, even if a little inaccurate.

Black Mage - Haste. Haste. Haste. Haste. Haste. This is the ONLY reason I recommend this guy, really. Sure, the nukes are incredible. Yes, it feels good to wipe out a screen of Frost Wolves with one spell. He dies very fast and, without the magic, is a waste of a spot. He certainly could be swapped out, but for a well-rounded party the magic is invaluable. Especially that one spell. Use it on your two melees at the start of EVERY boss fight. Period.