A great game. Need I say more?

User Rating: 9 | Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII PSP
Crisis Core is an action rpg set before the events of Final Fantasy VII. You play as Zack Fair, a member of the elite SOLDIER organization under the Shinra corporation. Zack is a likable character, he is optimistic and cheerful. Totally opposite of Clouds attitude. As Zack, you get to play through the events leading up to FF7. There are some familiar faces like Cloud, Sephiroth and Aerith but, the story will mostly revolve around Zack and a couple of new characters. Genesis and Angeal are the new characters. Sure we never heard of them in the original game but it turns out they play an important role in the events before FF7. If you have any questions about Cloud and the lead up to FF7, it should be answered in Crisis Core.
Gameplay: The game plays pretty well. You will be running around fighting enemies in real time, not turned based like in the traditional FF games. You can equip Materia which allows you to cast magic spells but hacking and slashing your foes will usually get the job done. The game is a little to easy to me, so most players shouldnt have a problem playing through. The story is a little on the short side, not like the traditional 40 hour story but then again, its a handheld. The only thing I find negative is the DMW (Digital Mind Wave). The DMW is like a slot machine showing the characters you have met along with numbers. This slot machine is totally out of your control and you have to depend on it to level up. So you can do all the fighting you want but it wont earn you a level up. But if you dont level up, sometimes the DMW will provide other bonuses. such as total healing or a cool attack move that will do heavy damage. The DMW is also important later in the game.
Graphics: The graphics are great. One of the best Ive seen on the PSP and the CG cutscenes are even more amazing. Lots of detail on the character models and the hair of course. The graphics actually almost look like a PS2 game.
Sound: The soundtrack is awesome. It features rock and roll battle music as well as remade FF7 music. sound effects are great, especially when two swords collide. The voice acting is sometimes good sometimes bad.
Overall I think this is one of the best psp games made and defiantly among the best of the FF7 compilation. If your a fan of FF7, then you should give it a try.