The Sky: The Art of Final Fantasy Book 2

The Sky Book Two contains Amano's sketches and paintings for Final Fantasy IV (1991), V (1992), and VI (1994), depicting characters such as Cecil Harvey, Rydia, Bartz Klauser, Lenna Charlotte Tycoon, Faris Scherwiz, Terra Branford, Locke Cole, Sabin Rene Figaro, Shadow, Setzer Gabbiani, Celes Chere, and, of course, Mog (among many others!). Bonuses include Amano's art for the 1994 Final Fantasy Grand Finale CD and the 1994 Pinball Mandala series, and advertisement lithographs of the 1999 Final Fantasy Collection exclusive watch.

After having a very pleasant experience with the first book of The Sky re-release, I couldn’t wait to see book two.  To be totally honest, my excitement is primarily based on the fact that it’s another piece of Final Fantasy that I could get my hands on.  Although Book Two of The Sky collection may not be new to the fandom in general, it’s a brand new treat for me and one that I was very ready to jump into.

Once again, we are given a book packed full of spectacular art from start to finish.  Anyone who knows Final Fantasy knows the quality of beautiful artwork that comes along with it.  In the event you don’t, you’ll get to see almost 300 pages of the kind of illustrations from Yoshitaka Amano that makes the series so visually amazing.  As with the first book, this is a fantastic way to reinforce the love fans already have and break future fans into the world.

The next book in this artistic journey through Final Fantasy was just as gorgeous as the first.  Even if you don’t know the games at all, having a look at an art book like this is still worthwhile.  This collection covers Amano’s artwork for games IV, V and VI within the main titles of the series.  I particularly enjoyed seeing his illustrations for the adorable Mog characters, which if you aren’t familiar with you’ll instantly fall in love with.

If you sadly missed out on the original box set or slipcase set, this is a really nice chance to pick it up fresh.  Granted, even if you have it in one of those formats, getting it in easy to carry digital format couldn’t be a bad thing.  No matter the case, I’m certainly happy to have been able to see this and totally can’t wait for the last one.

For more on The Sky: The Art of Final Fantasy or other Dark Horse books, check out Dark Horse Comics.

The Sky: The Art of Final Fantasy Book Two will be available 11/5

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.