It took seven attempts but my word did Squaresoft get it right this time around!
Genre: Turn based RPG
Developer: Squaresoft
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
Platform: Playstation One, PC
Learning Curve: Moderate
Last ability: 60-100 hours+
Concept
Where to begin?..........Final Fantasy VII thrusts you into the depressive story of young protagonist Cloud Strife, a confused individual who hopes to emulate his hero and legendary figure, Sephiroth by surpassing him in the Soldier ranks. The story begins with Cloud and his association with a group called Avalanche, who are drastically trying to improve their carbon footprint by destroying Mako reactors in the city of Midgar - to prevent the eventual demise of the Planet. To cut a long story short, with Cloud's initial mission over life still isn't so peachy and his role in preserving the fate of the World becomes clear…..he will have to confront his one-time hero to prevent his companions and the World of Gaia from imminent doom.......and a meteor!
Graphics
The graphics for Final Fantasy VII were cutting edge for a PS One title when the title arrived in 1997. The 3D character models were the first introduced to the FF series and you would think that the developers had been at it for years. The visuals are nothing short of groundbreaking, the FMVs (Full Motion Videos) at the time were as close to life like as we had ever seen despite the cartoon nature of the game. The 3D environments are easy on the eyes and really gives the player a feel for the environment the characters are in. The PS Ones graphical capabilities were pushed to the limit for this massive title and even after more than ten years after its original release FFVII is visually brilliant.
Game play
The storyline is spot on and will keep you engrossed for hours on end…..say goodbye to your life and the concept of time! The game play is diverse and although random battles can be annoying at times, you wouldn't want it any other way as you aim to level up your characters to the maximum. The range of quests is immense and if you are not engrossed in the main story then there's always the Golden Saucer, Chocobo breeding/racing, levelling up, hunting out Ruby/Emerald Weapon, snowboarding, travelling the World in an airship or on a Chocobo and much, much more.
Sound
I can still hear the calming and soothing music that sets the scene in Final Fantasy VII even after all these years. From the lively battle music, the punchy Golden Saucer theme to the sombre music that many FF fans will remember comes amid a serious case of back stabbing (pardon the pun). The music that accompanies Sephiroth is as iconic and brilliant as that of the Imperial March associated with great fantasy villain Darth Vader and really sets him out as a dark and formidable foe. To play a game like FFVII and not only remember the music, but enjoy it after completion is a true testament to this amazing and varied soundtrack.
Lasting Appeal
Not hours, not days, we are talking weeks can be dedicated to complete this mammoth title. Depending on how much you want to level and up and complete side quests, you can make your FFVII experience as long as you want. To complete this game to the bare minimum will take you around 50 hours. If you want to obtain every item, weapon, materia, summon and every little and insignificant achievement then say goodbye to your life because Gaia is your new home!
Overall
I am done with summarising this game it's too big and too darn good for words. I will just say as my closing statement; it's as close to perfect as any game is ever going to be