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Final Fantasy VII: A Timeless Masterpiece Through the Ages

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Final Fantasy VII, originally released in 1997 for the PlayStation, revolutionized the role-playing game (RPG) genre and set a new standard for storytelling, graphics, and gameplay. Hailed as a seminal work by both critics and fans, its impact on the gaming industry is still felt today. This review will delve into the initial reception of the game, its gameplay and graphical performance, the Android mobile version, the critically acclaimed Final Fantasy VII: Remake, and the notable addition to the franchise, Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children.

**Sneak Peek and Early Reception:**

When Final Fantasy VII was first showcased at gaming conventions, it created an unprecedented buzz.

The game’s preview at events like E3 1996 left attendees in awe. The stunning cutscenes and the ambitious use of 3D graphics on the PlayStation hardware were groundbreaking. Critics were quick to praise Square Enix (then Squaresoft) for its innovative approach, blending CGI cutscenes seamlessly with gameplay, creating a cinematic experience that was unmatched at the time.

**Gameplay Performance:**

Upon release, Final Fantasy VII was lauded for its deep, engaging gameplay.

The Active Time Battle (ATB) system added a layer of strategic depth to combat, while the Materia system allowed for extensive customization of characters' abilities and magic. Players could explore the vast world of Gaia, uncovering its secrets, completing side quests, and engaging with a diverse cast of characters, each with their own backstories and motivations. The game’s narrative, centered around Cloud Strife and his battle against the megacorporation Shinra and the enigmatic Sephiroth, was compelling and emotionally resonant, leading to widespread critical acclaim.

**Visualization and Graphics:**

Final Fantasy VII’s art direction and graphics were revolutionary. The pre-rendered backgrounds combined with polygonal character models created an immersive world that felt alive and vibrant.

The cutscenes, particularly the iconic opening sequence with Aerith in the slums of Midgar and the escape on the motorcycle, showcased the power of the PlayStation and set new benchmarks for visual storytelling in games.

The blend of fantasy and steampunk aesthetics was unique, and the attention to detail in the environments made exploration a joy.

**Android Mobile Version:**

The Android mobile version of Final Fantasy VII, released in 2016, brought this classic to a new generation of gamers. Reviews of the mobile port were generally positive, praising the faithful recreation of the original game and the convenience of playing on-the-go.

The touch controls, while not perfect, were serviceable, and the addition of features like the ability to disable random encounters made the game more accessible to newcomers. However, some critics pointed out issues with the controls and occasional bugs, but overall, the mobile version was a welcome addition to the game’s legacy.

**Final Fantasy VII: Remake:**

The anticipation for Final Fantasy VII: Remake was immense, and Square Enix delivered an experience that exceeded expectations. Released in 2020, the remake reimagined the original’s opening sections in Midgar with stunning graphics, a reworked combat system, and expanded storylines.

**Visuals and Graphics:**

The Remake took full advantage of modern gaming hardware, offering visually breathtaking environments and character models. The detailed recreation of Midgar, with its neon lights and dystopian atmosphere, brought the city to life in a way that was only hinted at in the original.

Character models were meticulously designed, capturing the essence of the original while adding modern refinements. The dynamic lighting, particle effects, and lifelike animations made every scene visually stunning, particularly in high-definition and HDR settings.

**Combat System:**

One of the most significant changes in the Remake was the combat system. While the original used a turn-based ATB system, the Remake introduced a hybrid combat system that blended real-time action with strategic command-based gameplay. Players could switch between characters on the fly, each with unique abilities and playstyles. The revamped Materia system and the ability to slow down time to issue commands added depth and allowed for tactical decision-making during battles. This new approach to combat was widely praised for its innovation and fluidity.

**Expanded Storyline:**

Final Fantasy VII: Remake delved deeper into the story of Midgar, expanding on the characters' backstories and the world they inhabit. New side quests, additional character interactions, and expanded narrative elements enriched the overall experience.

Characters like Jessie, Biggs, and Wedge were given more screen time and development, making their fates more impactful. The Remake also introduced new plot twists and mysteries, keeping long-time fans intrigued and providing fresh content for newcomers.

**Sound and Music:**

The music of Final Fantasy VII: Remake, composed by Nobuo Uematsu and others, was another highlight. The iconic soundtrack was reimagined with full orchestration, enhancing the emotional weight of key scenes.

Familiar tracks like "One-Winged Angel" and "Aerith's Theme" were given new arrangements that resonated with both nostalgic players and a new audience. The voice acting, available in multiple languages, brought characters to life in a way that text boxes never could.

**Critical Reception:**

Final Fantasy VII: Remake received widespread acclaim from both critics and players. Reviewers praised its faithful yet innovative approach, calling it a masterclass in how to remake a classic. The game was lauded for its stunning visuals, engaging combat, and enriched narrative. It was noted for successfully balancing nostalgia with modern game design, making it accessible and enjoyable for both long-time fans and newcomers. The game's commercial success and numerous awards further cemented its status as a milestone in gaming.

**Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children:**

In addition to the original game and its remake, Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children, a CGI film released in 2005, expanded the universe and provided a continuation of the story. Set two years after the events of the game, Advent Children follows Cloud Strife and his allies as they face new threats, including a mysterious disease called Geostigma and the remnants of Sephiroth.

**Visuals and Animation:**

Advent Children was widely praised for its stunning CGI animation. The film's visuals were ahead of their time, featuring highly detailed character models and fluid, dynamic action sequences.

The intricate design of environments and the realistic depiction of movement and expressions set a new standard for CGI in film, particularly for video game adaptations.

**Story and Character Development:**

The film delves deeper into the emotional and psychological struggles of Cloud Strife, providing closure to some of the unresolved plot points from the game.

The return of beloved characters, such as Tifa, Barret, and Vincent, alongside new antagonists like Kadaj, Yazoo, and Loz, enriched the narrative. The climactic battles, especially Cloud's showdown with Sephiroth, were highlights that resonated deeply with fans of the original game.

**Critical and Fan Reception:**

Advent Children received mixed reviews from critics but was generally well-received by fans of the series. While some critics felt the story was difficult to follow for those unfamiliar with the game, fans appreciated the continuation of the beloved narrative and the high-quality animation. The film has since become a cult classic, celebrated for its contribution to the Final Fantasy VII mythos.

"Final Fantasy VII Rebirth" is the highly anticipated second installment in the "Final Fantasy VII Remake" trilogy. Building on the success of its predecessor, "Rebirth" expands the story beyond the confines of Midgar, delving deeper into the rich world and intricate narrative that has captivated fans for decades.

The game maintains its high-quality production values, featuring stunning graphics, a revamped combat system, and a more open-world design that allows for greater exploration and immersion. The character development continues to shine, with deeper insights into the beloved characters and their evolving relationships.

Gameplay-wise, "Rebirth" introduces new mechanics and systems that enhance the overall experience.

The battle system is more refined, blending real-time action with strategic elements seamlessly. The integration of new mini-games, side quests, and a more dynamic environment ensures that players remain engaged and invested in their journey. Fans of the original will appreciate the faithful adaptation of key story beats, while new players will find an accessible yet deeply engrossing RPG experience. Overall, "Final Fantasy VII Rebirth" successfully balances nostalgia with innovation, making it a standout title in the series.

**Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII** is a prequel to the classic Final Fantasy VII, originally released for the PlayStation Portable (PSP) in 2007. The game follows Zack Fair, a member of the paramilitary organization SOLDIER, and explores his relationships with other key characters from the Final Fantasy VII universe, including Cloud Strife, Sephiroth, and Aerith Gainsborough.

**Pros:**

1. **Storyline**: The narrative is rich and adds significant depth to the lore of Final Fantasy VII, providing a poignant backstory to the events of the original game.

2. **Characters**: Zack Fair is a compelling protagonist, and his interactions with both new and familiar characters enhance the overall experience.

3. **Graphics**: For a PSP game, Crisis Core boasts impressive graphics, with well-designed characters and environments.

4. **Combat System**: The real-time combat system is engaging, combining traditional RPG elements with action-oriented gameplay.

**Cons:**

1. **Repetitive Gameplay**: Some players may find the mission structure repetitive, with many side missions feeling like filler.

2. **Limited Exploration**: The game is somewhat linear, with limited exploration compared to other RPGs.

3. **DMW System**: The Digital Mind Wave (DMW) system, which influences combat and special moves, can feel random and disrupt the flow of battles.

Overall, **Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII** is a must-play for fans of the Final Fantasy series, offering a compelling story and memorable characters, despite some gameplay limitations.

**Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis** offers a fresh way to experience the expansive world of Final Fantasy VII on mobile devices. The game combines stories from the original game and its related titles—Advent Children, Before Crisis, Crisis Core, and Dirge of Cerberus—along with new content exploring Sephiroth's past. Its unique episodic structure keeps players engaged with monthly story updates.

Visually, Ever Crisis blends the classic Chibi art style for exploration with more realistic character models during battles and cutscenes, maintaining a nostalgic yet modern aesthetic. The environments are detailed, and the soundtrack includes both original tracks and remixes, enhancing the overall experience.

The gameplay features a turn-based combat system using the Active Time Battle (ATB) gauge. Players manage spells and special attacks as the gauge fills, with more powerful abilities requiring a fuller gauge. The combat is designed to be approachable, though it can feel repetitive due to the predictable enemy attack patterns and the necessity to grind for resources.

However, Ever Crisis's gacha mechanics, which focus on weapon acquisition rather than character collection, have been a point of criticism. Players need to draw multiple weapon duplicates to enhance their characters, and while the system is generous, it can detract from the game's immersion and make the monetization feel predatory.

Despite these issues, Ever Crisis remains an enjoyable way to revisit the FFVII universe, with beautiful graphics and a blend of familiar and new story elements.

**Conclusion:**

Final Fantasy VII remains a cornerstone of gaming history. From its groundbreaking debut on the PlayStation to its successful adaptation on Android, the masterful reimagining in Final Fantasy VII: Remake, and the cinematic expansion in Advent Children, the game continues to captivate audiences with its rich storytelling, innovative gameplay, and stunning visuals. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of Square Enix’s creation and its place as one of the greatest RPGs of all time.