Final Fantasy VII Remake -- Spaghetti Mage

 

There are many entries in the Final Fantasy series, but Final Fantasy VII stands out as one of the most memorable. I highly enjoyed playing the remake.  While its been quite awhile since playing the original 3-disc game, I struggled to remember aspects of the original story.  The way the remake moves along with the story is incredible, and the characterization of the characters is strong.  I enjoyed dialogue with Aerith, Tifa, and Barret.  The theme of struggle between those trying to fight evil corporate dictators reminded me of Cyberpunk themes; this theme seemingly becomes more relevant and truthful every year.

The first half of the game is pretty good, but the story moves along slowly, and the sidequests can seem a little extraneous.  After a certain event happens in the game though, the plot picks up.  The story sticks very closely to the original, but the introduction of the whispers adds a new twist to the game which becomes apparent towards the end with the final confrontation with Sephiroth.  Cheap plot twist? Maybe.  But I think it works out great, and allows the writers to have freedom to explore the story in a new way.  

It took awhile for me to get completely used to the combat.  It would be cool to see an option for the traditional turn-based combat.  I honestly don't think it would get in the way of the story.  I also would have liked to see Jessie and other Avalanche characters as playable characters.  Some of the bike fighting seemed a little contrived and clunky.  Red XIII definitely needs to be playable in the next game.

Overall, I think this is one of the best games I've played in awhile.  Final Fantasy VII Remake succeeds in its ability to retell a classic story.  The end is a little confusing, but there are a lot of youtube commentary videos, analyzing and speculating about the ending.  Has fate truly changed? Especially for Aerith and Sephiroth? What does the scene with Zach portend? Final Fantasy VII Remake covers only part of the original game, but the new FFVII series is scheduled for at least 2 more games.  I can't wait to see where the next game takes Cloud and the crew.