Final Fantasy VII

Final Fantasy VII, developed and published by Square Enix, stands as a towering achievement in the realm of video games. Released in 1997 for the Sony PlayStation, this iconic role-playing game (RPG) has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry and the hearts of millions of players worldwide. In this comprehensive article by Academic Block, we explore the various aspects that make Final Fantasy VII a timeless masterpiece, examining its groundbreaking narrative, innovative gameplay mechanics, memorable characters, and the lasting impact it has had on the gaming landscape.

The Birth of a Legend

Final Fantasy VII emerged as the seventh installment in the critically acclaimed Final Fantasy series. With the advancements in technology, Square (now Square Enix) sought to transition from 2D to 3D graphics, marking a significant leap forward in the franchise’s visual and narrative capabilities. The game’s director, Hironobu Sakaguchi, envisioned a captivating narrative set in a dystopian world, and with the help of renowned artist Yoshitaka Amano and composer Nobuo Uematsu, the team embarked on creating a game that would redefine the RPG genre.

A Riveting Narrative: A World on the Brink of Collapse

Final Fantasy VII opens with the protagonist, Cloud Strife, a former member of the elite military unit SOLDIER, hired by the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE. Their mission is to thwart the megacorporation Shinra’s exploitation of the planet’s life force, Mako, for energy. As the plot unfolds, layers of political intrigue, personal discovery, and impending catastrophe weave together to form a narrative tapestry that is both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating.

The game’s antagonist, Sephiroth, looms over the narrative as a symbol of malevolence. His enigmatic presence and connection to Cloud create an overarching sense of foreboding, driving players forward in their quest to unravel the mysteries of the world and its characters. The narrative masterfully balances epic set pieces with intimate character moments, creating a story that feels both grandiose and deeply personal.

Innovative Gameplay: Melding Tradition with Innovation

Final Fantasy VII preserves the traditional turn-based combat system that the series is renowned for but introduces groundbreaking elements that set it apart. The introduction of the Materia system revolutionized character customization, allowing players to assign magical abilities and attributes to their characters through Materia orbs. This system not only added depth to the gameplay but also encouraged strategic thinking, as players experimented with different combinations to maximize their party’s potential.

The Limit Break system added an extra layer of excitement to battles. As characters sustained damage, their Limit Break gauge filled, granting access to powerful special moves. This mechanic not only added a strategic dimension to combat but also heightened the emotional engagement, as players eagerly awaited the moment when their characters could unleash devastating attacks.

The inclusion of mini-games and side quests further enriched the gaming experience. From the exhilarating motorcycle chase in Midgar to the serene chocobo breeding and racing, these diversions provided a welcome break from the main quest, showcasing the game’s versatility and attention to detail.

Memorable Characters: From Strife to Redemption

One of Final Fantasy VII’s enduring strengths lies in its memorable and diverse cast of characters. Cloud Strife, the brooding and initially mysterious protagonist, undergoes a profound character arc that explores themes of identity, memory, and self-discovery. The strong supporting cast, including Aerith Gainsborough, Tifa Lockhart, Barret Wallace, and Red XIII, each bring their unique personalities, backgrounds, and motivations to the table.

Aerith’s tragic destiny and her blossoming relationship with Cloud create a poignant narrative thread that has left an indelible impact on players. Tifa’s loyalty and emotional depth add complexity to the storyline, while Barret’s passionate commitment to his cause highlights the game’s exploration of environmentalism and corporate greed. The diverse characters and their interconnected relationships contribute to the emotional resonance that has solidified Final Fantasy VII’s place in gaming history.

Spectacular World-Building: From Midgar to the Lifestream

The game’s world-building is nothing short of spectacular, with the city of Midgar serving as a visual and thematic centerpiece. The stark contrast between the industrial upper plates and the squalid slums below creates a vivid portrayal of class disparity, setting the stage for the broader narrative of environmentalism and social justice. The world of Final Fantasy VII is expansive, featuring diverse landscapes, from the bustling streets of urban Midgar to the serene beauty of the forgotten City of the Ancients.

The concept of the Lifestream, a flow of spiritual energy that sustains life on the planet, adds a metaphysical layer to the narrative. This cosmic force becomes a central element in the struggle against Shinra and Sephiroth, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all living things. The game’s world-building not only provides a visually stunning backdrop but also deepens the thematic resonance of the narrative.

Technical Prowess: Pushing the Limits of the PlayStation

Final Fantasy VII showcased the technical capabilities of the Sony PlayStation, pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible in the late 1990s. The pre-rendered backgrounds, while now considered nostalgic, were groundbreaking at the time, immersing players in a visually stunning and atmospheric world. The in-game character models, though blocky by contemporary standards, conveyed a range of emotions and expressions that were unprecedented.

The game’s soundtrack, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, is nothing short of a masterpiece. The iconic main theme, the haunting melody of Aerith’s Theme, and the adrenaline-pumping battle music all contribute to the game’s emotional impact. Uematsu’s compositions not only complement the narrative but elevate it to a higher plane, creating an auditory experience that remains unforgettable.

Legacy and Impact: Beyond the Screen

Final Fantasy VII’s impact extends far beyond its initial release. Its success played a pivotal role in popularizing Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs) in the Western market, paving the way for future titles to find a global audience. The game’s themes of environmentalism, identity, and the consequences of unchecked corporate power remain relevant, ensuring its continued resonance with contemporary audiences.

The characters of Final Fantasy VII have become cultural icons, transcending the boundaries of gaming. Cloud Strife’s distinct spiky hair and Buster Sword have become symbols of the franchise, and Sephiroth’s ominous presence has solidified him as one of gaming’s most iconic villains. The game’s influence is evident in the numerous spin-offs, merchandise, and even a full-length feature film, “Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children,” released in 2005.

Remake and Reimagining: A New Chapter Unfolds

In 2020, Square Enix released “Final Fantasy VII Remake,” a reimagining of the original game that brought the world of Gaia to a new generation of gamers. The Remake expanded on the narrative, looking deeper into character backstories and introducing a real-time combat system that retained the essence of the original while modernizing the gameplay. The Remake, while divisive among purists, introduced the beloved world of Final Fantasy VII to a new audience and sparked renewed interest in the classic title.

Controversies revolving around Final Fantasy VII

While Final Fantasy VII is widely celebrated as a classic and groundbreaking game, it has not been without its share of controversies. Here are some notable controversies that have surrounded Final Fantasy VII:

Aerith’s Death: The death of Aerith Gainsborough, one of the main characters, caused significant controversy and emotional turmoil among players. Many were shocked and saddened by the sudden and unexpected nature of her demise. The controversy stems from the decision to kill off a major character, a departure from traditional storytelling in video games at the time.

Localization Changes: The localization of Final Fantasy VII involved several changes to adapt the game for a Western audience. Some alterations in character dialogue and cultural references raised concerns among purists who preferred a more faithful translation. Changes included altering character names, adjusting cultural references, and modifying certain scenes to be more palatable to Western audiences.

Character Design Choices: The character design of Tifa Lockhart, one of the main characters, drew criticism for her exaggerated proportions and suggestive costume. Some argued that it perpetuated unrealistic and objectifying portrayals of female characters in video games. However, others defended the design as a product of the artistic style prevalent in the gaming industry during that era.

Graphics and Technical Limitations: While groundbreaking at the time of its release, the graphics of Final Fantasy VII, particularly the blocky character models, have become a source of criticism in retrospect. Some players find it challenging to engage with the dated visuals, leading to calls for remakes or remasters with updated graphics.

Spin-Offs and Compilation Controversies: The various spin-off titles and additions to the Compilation of Final Fantasy VII, such as “Dirge of Cerberus” and “Crisis Core,” have faced mixed receptions. Purists argue that some of these additions deviate from the original game’s tone and narrative, leading to a fractured and inconsistent expanded universe.

Remake Changes and Controversies: The release of “Final Fantasy VII Remake” brought both excitement and controversy. Changes to the narrative, particularly in the later stages of the game, divided fans. The decision to make the Remake a multi-part series also raised concerns about the overall vision and pacing of the project.

Pacing and Disc 3: Some players have criticized the pacing and structure of the game, especially during Disc 3. The open-world exploration aspect that characterized Disc 1 and Disc 2 gives way to a more linear progression, which some players found less engaging. The narrative focus and urgency of events during this portion of the game have been subjects of debate.

Porting Issues: As the game has been ported to various platforms over the years, some versions have faced criticism for technical issues, including graphical glitches, audio problems, and control scheme challenges. Players have expressed frustration with these issues, particularly in ports to newer consoles or PC platforms.

Cloud’s Crossdressing Scene: One memorable scene involves Cloud crossdressing to infiltrate a brothel. While this was initially controversial due to its unconventional nature, it has also been praised for challenging gender norms and providing a unique and memorable moment in the game.

What to expect in future from Final Fantasy

New Mainline Titles: Square Enix has a history of developing new mainline entries in the Final Fantasy series. Fans can anticipate announcements and releases for future numbered titles, each with its own unique world, characters, and gameplay mechanics.

Diverse Platforms: Final Fantasy games have traditionally been released on a variety of platforms, including consoles, PC, and mobile devices. Future titles may continue this trend, ensuring accessibility for a broad audience.

Innovative Gameplay Mechanics: Final Fantasy games often introduce innovative gameplay mechanics to keep the series fresh and engaging. Fans can expect new twists on traditional RPG elements, creative battle systems, and evolving exploration mechanics.

Advanced Graphics and Technology: As technology continues to advance, future Final Fantasy titles will likely showcase cutting-edge graphics and take advantage of the capabilities of next-generation gaming hardware.

Continuation of Successful Spin-Offs: Successful spin-off titles, such as “Final Fantasy Tactics,” “Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles,” and “Final Fantasy Brave Exvius,” may receive sequels or new iterations. These spin-offs often explore different genres and gameplay styles.

Storytelling and Narrative Depth: The Final Fantasy series is renowned for its intricate and emotionally impactful storytelling. Future titles will likely continue to deliver compelling narratives, exploring diverse themes and character arcs.

Global Appeal and Cultural Influences: Final Fantasy has a global fanbase, and future games are expected to appeal to a wide audience. The series often incorporates diverse cultural influences, and this trend may continue in upcoming titles.

Collaborations and Cross-Media Projects: Square Enix may explore collaborations and cross-media projects, including tie-ins with other forms of entertainment, such as films, anime, or merchandise. These initiatives help expand the reach of the Final Fantasy brand.

Online and Multiplayer Experiences: Given the success of online multiplayer experiences in games like “Final Fantasy XIV,” future titles may incorporate online features or multiplayer components to enhance player engagement.

Remasters and Remakes: Square Enix has demonstrated a willingness to revisit and enhance classic titles with remasters and remakes. Fans can expect continued efforts to bring beloved Final Fantasy games to modern platforms with updated graphics and features.

Final Words

Final Fantasy VII stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in video games. Its rich narrative, memorable characters, innovative gameplay, and technical achievements have secured its place in the pantheon of gaming classics. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, and new generations of players discover the magic of Midgar, the legacy of Final Fantasy VII will undoubtedly endure, inspiring future game developers and captivating the hearts of players for years to come. Please provide your views in comment section below to make this article better. Thanks for Reading and Game On!