Final Fantasy VII Review

Overall Rating

Incredible storyline
Good graphics (for a PSX game)
Innovative 'materia' and magic system
Can be played quickly or can take over 100 hours to complete, depending on play style
Good music

Some may think that the game is too easy

I love Final Fantasy 7! I have had it for over 4 years now, and it's safe to say that I have loved it throughout that time. Although now when we play it we think the graphics are archaic, we must remember that it was a huge leap forward (a multi-disk PSX game was almost unheard of) in both graphics and bringing RPGs into the mainstream. The game includes many FMVs as part of the plotline, and they are too beautiful for words.

The story is very complex, beginning with the mercenary Cloud (whom you control for the majority of the game) and his journey to discover who he is while at the same time saving the planet from the evil ShinRa corporation. It's a bit complicated to explain, but there are plenty of sites that do the plot much better justice than I do here.

The game is an RPG in the sense that you control a party of characters who must fight monsters and enemies in order to survive. The battle screen is traditional Final Fantasy, but the new Materia system (enabling the use of magic in battle) allow a degree of customisation.

The main value of this game is the flexibility. There are many sub-quests and side-stories that, while optional (if you are aiming for a quick-complete game), really add to the plot and character's backgrounds, as well as make them more powerful. There are also many mini-games (the infamous Gold Saucer) and hidden Easter Eggs like extra scenes.

In short, this is a wonderful game that I have enjoyed for a very long time, and will continue to do so well into the future. If you haven't played it, do, you'll be glad you did!

P.S. Because this is an old game, you can often get it very cheap...