I've played nearly every FF game: I, III, IV, VI - XIII.

Completed: I, III, IV, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X.

The later ones I haven't completed due to time, laziness, or finding another game to play. I find lately I hardly ever finish a game anymore.

Best story: a tie between IV and VII.

I think the first game was a decent spin off of FF as a fighter game. It did tend to stale pretty quick, but overall not a terrible execution. I think part of its downfall is the PSP limitations.

HAHAHAHA I'm a girl.. and I played this with my gay best friend... this brought us the most entertainment.. it was the most... err... flamboyant FF ever.. azalean and orchid powers.. all those colors... It was hilarious...
owned every ff since VII. The best story wise.. it has to be VII.. it skyrocketed RPGs for us as gamers. In fact, my brother installed FFVII in our PS3, (while IMpatiently waiting for the new FF to come out) it was the first time we down-dimensioned, but the game was still awesome. our aunt was laughing at us because she said we were playing family computer... "what..?!"

You really should play FF VI. While I think VII had an awesome story, it can be a bit convoluted and over stretched. VI was a great story with emotional depth as well. If they could somehow port this game over as a 3D game it would be awesome. Will give VII its props for selling the PS at the time.

To get the most out of FF VII story, I say play FF VII Crisis Core. Also very tragic.

VII is definitely the best and most well-rounded