Which Final Fantasy game introduced the Job System?

The Final Fantasy game that introduced the Job System was Final Fantasy III. Released for the Famicom in Japan in 1990, it let the four protagonists change between specialized jobs rather than remaining locked into one character class.

Jobs such as Warrior, Monk, Black Mage, Thief, Dragoon, and Summoner gave characters different equipment, abilities, and battle roles. Switching jobs consumed capacity points earned after battles, while job proficiency improved as characters continued using a chosen role. This system became one of the series’ defining customization mechanics.

Final Fantasy V is a common source of confusion because it dramatically expanded the concept. Its version added ability points, transferable job abilities, and a much larger range of classes, making it more flexible and prominent. Final Fantasy Tactics later built an entire tactical RPG around jobs, while Final Fantasy X-2 used a related dressphere system, but neither introduced the original Final Fantasy Job System.