Final Fantasy VII Remake’s relationship to the original is complex and a subject of ongoing debate. While retaining the core narrative beats of Midgar and its iconic characters, the game significantly diverges from the source material. This isn’t simply a matter of expanded scenes or added context; the Remake actively reinterprets existing events and introduces entirely new plot points, characters, and motivations.
Key Divergences:
- Expanded Character Arcs: Characters like Cloud, Sephiroth, and Aerith receive significantly deeper explorations of their backstories and internal conflicts, often departing from their established personalities in the original.
- Altered Timeline and pacing: The Remake stretches the Midgar section considerably, slowing the narrative and allowing for more detailed world-building and character interactions, impacting the overall pacing of the story.
- New Story Elements: The introduction of new characters and storylines, such as the expanded role of certain supporting characters and the introduction of entirely new plot threads, fundamentally alter the game’s narrative trajectory.
- Shifting Power Dynamics: The Remake subtly shifts the power dynamics between various factions and characters, resulting in different relationships and outcomes than those presented in the original.
The episodic nature of the Remake further complicates its fidelity. Each installment is designed to function as a self-contained narrative experience while also building towards a potentially vastly different endgame than the original. This multi-part structure allows for greater creative freedom but also makes predicting the final product challenging. The acknowledgment by producer Yoshinori Kitase that future installments will deviate significantly strengthens the case that this is less a strict remake and more of a reimagining — perhaps even a parallel universe version — of the iconic Final Fantasy VII story. Fans should, therefore, approach the Remake series with an open mind, prepared for substantial deviations from their established expectations.
Impact on Gameplay: The changes aren’t limited to the narrative. The shift to a more action-oriented combat system is a significant gameplay departure, impacting the overall experience compared to the original’s turn-based combat. This shift underscores the Remake’s intent to offer a modern interpretation rather than a straight port of the gameplay mechanics.
Does the FF7 remake follow the original?
While marketed as a remake, Final Fantasy VII Remake significantly diverges from its source material, reimagining the narrative through a lens of expanded lore and altered pacing. The most immediate example is the introduction of the Whispers, enigmatic beings actively manipulating events to adhere to the original timeline. This directly impacts key moments; for instance, Barret’s encounter with Sephiroth, which is dramatically altered by a Whisper’s intervention, a scene absent in the original game. Sephiroth’s significantly increased presence throughout the Midgar segment also constitutes a major departure. His early appearances, including a confrontation with Cloud and Barret that fundamentally shifts the narrative flow, defy the original game’s structure where Sephiroth is primarily a looming antagonist revealed through flashbacks and later encounters. This proactive and manipulative portrayal of Sephiroth serves to heighten the stakes and foreshadow the complex narrative shifts to come in future installments, hinting at a more intricate exploration of his motivations and plans. The Remake’s changes aren’t merely cosmetic; they fundamentally reshape character arcs and plot points, prompting speculation about how the established lore will be further adapted and potentially rewritten in subsequent parts.
Can I play Final Fantasy 7 Remake without playing the other games?
Yes, absolutely. While Final Fantasy VII Remake draws inspiration from the original 1997 Final Fantasy VII, it functions perfectly as a standalone experience. Each Final Fantasy title boasts a self-contained narrative, making them accessible entry points for newcomers. You don’t need any prior knowledge of the series’ extensive lore to enjoy the Remake.
Remake’s appeal as a starting point is multifold:
- Modernized Gameplay: Remake ditches the original’s turn-based combat for a real-time, action-RPG system with a compelling blend of strategy and fluidity. This is a significant departure from the original, offering a more accessible and engaging experience for modern gamers.
- Enhanced Narrative: While faithful to the core themes and characters of the original, Remake expands upon the story with new scenes, characters, and plot points. This enriched narrative provides both familiarity for veterans and a gripping experience for newcomers.
- Standalone Story Arc: While part of a multi-part series, Remake concludes its own story arc, providing a satisfying ending in its own right, even without playing subsequent installments (though there is a cliffhanger.)
However, for those curious about the original:
- The original Final Fantasy VII is a classic RPG with a unique story and memorable characters that many consider one of the best JRPGs of all time. Playing it after Remake might offer a fascinating contrast in gameplay and narrative approach.
- Understanding the original’s context might enrich your experience of the Remake, particularly regarding certain character motivations and plot twists. However, this is by no means necessary for enjoyment.
In short, Final Fantasy VII Remake is an excellent place to start your journey into the Final Fantasy universe. Its compelling story, modernized gameplay, and self-contained narrative make it accessible and enjoyable for both newcomers and long-time fans alike.
Is FF7 Rebirth true to the original?
FF7 Rebirth, much like its predecessor Remake, isn’t a direct, scene-for-scene adaptation of the original FFVII. Instead, it takes the core narrative and characters, significantly expanding their backstories and motivations. Think of it as a “reimagining” – a parallel universe where familiar events unfold with added depth and nuance. Expect significant alterations to the plot structure, introducing new scenes, characters, and even entire plotlines absent from the original. While iconic moments and key plot points remain, the journey to reach them is vastly different, often showcasing expanded lore and world-building previously only hinted at in the original game. Be prepared for substantial changes to side quests and character interactions, enriching the overall experience and providing more context to the established lore. This isn’t just a retelling; it’s a reinterpretation designed to enhance player understanding and engagement with the beloved FFVII universe.
Can you date Tifa in FF7 Remake?
Yes, you can romance Tifa. Locking down the legendary Tifa in FF7 Rebirth is a key objective for many. The Gold Saucer date is a pivotal moment in solidifying your relationship. However, remember, your choices throughout the game impact your relationship with Tifa, so maximizing your chances requires careful attention to dialogue and side quests. Don’t slack on those side missions if you want the best possible outcome. Think of relationship building like a high-stakes PvP match – every interaction is a crucial move. Your success depends on mastering the subtle art of conversation and consistently choosing options that align with Tifa’s personality and desires. It’s not just a simple binary decision; it’s a carefully orchestrated campaign. Neglecting this subtle gameplay mechanic can cost you the win. Don’t get caught unaware. Play strategically.
How faithful is FF7 Rebirth?
So, FF7 Rebirth’s faithfulness? It’s a weird one. Early on, it’s surprisingly close to the original, hitting a lot of those nostalgic beats you’d expect. Think of it as a polished, upgraded version of the PS1 classic for a good chunk of the game. The graphics are insane, the combat’s smoother, and they’ve really fleshed out some side characters and locations. But the further you get into the story – and I’m talking *really* late game – things start to deviate significantly. We’re talking major plot points altered, character arcs completely reshaped, and some pretty bold choices made that will definitely leave fans with strong opinions. It’s not a 1:1 remake like some might have hoped for, and while the changes are initially subtle, they build up into a pretty substantial divergence from the source material by the end. Think of it less as a direct port and more of a reimagining, using the original as a strong foundation but ultimately building something new and different on top.
One thing to note: the materia system is revamped. It’s deeper and more strategic than before, and honestly, that alone makes the combat loop really engaging. Expect some serious min-maxing opportunities there. Also, the character models are gorgeous, but the environments are where they really shine; they’ve outdone themselves on the visual fidelity. If you’re a hardcore FF7 fan, be prepared for some serious emotional whiplash – nostalgia mixed with genuine surprise and perhaps even some disappointment depending on how you feel about their creative liberties. It’s a masterpiece of modern game design, but not the straightforward remake you might have been expecting.
Is Zack alive in FF7 Rebirth?
FF7 Rebirth’s ending strongly implies Zack’s survival, but in a separate reality, a branching timeline, or perhaps even a different plane of existence entirely. His emergence from the misty void during Cloud and Sephiroth’s final confrontation in the Forgotten Capital isn’t just a hallucination; it’s a deliberate, game-changing plot point. This isn’t a simple “he’s alive” situation; it’s a complex narrative hook setting up potential for future titles. Think of it like a boss fight – you’ve defeated the immediate threat, but a powerful new enemy, or an unexpected ally, has entered the arena. The implications for future gameplay are enormous; Zack’s presence radically alters the power dynamics and potential for alternate story paths. Consider the potential for alternate timelines and cross-dimensional conflicts, especially given Sephiroth’s manipulations of time and reality. We’re likely looking at more than just a cameo; expect his survival to have significant consequences on the overarching narrative in future installments. This isn’t about simple survival; it’s about shifting the entire meta-game. The stage is set for a much larger conflict.
Does FF7 Remake carry over?
So, the big question: does your FF7 Remake save carry over to Rebirth? The short answer is a big fat no. You’re starting from scratch. No weapons, no gear, no Materia, and, crucially, no character levels. Think of it like a completely fresh playthrough. This is intentional, by the way, not a bug. Square Enix is clearly aiming for a different experience, a more streamlined narrative.
Why the fresh start? There are a few theories floating around. Some suggest it’s to allow for a more balanced difficulty curve across multiple parts of this multi-part game, and to potentially introduce new mechanics or systems that wouldn’t work with transferred save data. It also lets players experience the opening parts of the game again without being overpowered, potentially bringing different aspects into focus.
This isn’t necessarily a bad thing though! There are some upsides to consider:
- Replayability: It forces you to re-engage with the initial story and character development without relying on the muscle memory of your previous play-through.
- New Strategies: With a fresh slate, you can experiment with different Materia combinations and combat styles. Maybe that build you always wanted to try will finally shine!
- Appreciation of Improvements: Rebirth is, after all, a new game with improvements and changes compared to Remake. Starting fresh lets you experience these fully.
Things to Remember:
- This applies to all save data, regardless of difficulty.
- Any trophies or achievements earned in Remake will remain separate from Rebirth.
- Don’t worry too much about the “lost progress” – it’s a new game with a refreshed experience.
Does FF7 Remake change the story?
FF7 Rebirth isn’t a simple remaster; it’s a substantial reimagining of the original Final Fantasy VII storyline. While retaining the core narrative, it significantly alters the pacing and presentation. Expect a more linear experience compared to the episodic structure of the Remake. This linearity is achieved partly through major story adjustments and a rearrangement of events.
Key changes include expanded roles for several key characters. Yuffie, Cid, and Vincent, previously supporting characters, have significantly larger roles with expanded backstories and earlier introductions. This affects not only their individual arcs, but also how their narratives intertwine with Cloud’s journey, creating a richer, more interwoven plot. Be prepared for altered character motivations and relationships, leading to different interpretations of familiar scenes and events. Expect plot points to unfold differently, influencing your overall understanding of the FFVII universe and its established lore.
For those familiar with the original, these alterations will be striking. The game isn’t just about adding new content; it’s about recontextualizing existing material. Understanding this fundamental shift in approach is key to appreciating Rebirth’s narrative ambitions. Players should anticipate a re-evaluation of established character dynamics and the overall narrative pacing—a deviation that enhances the impact of emotional beats and character development, but may also feel jarring to long-time fans expecting a direct replication.
In short: Expect a fresh perspective on a classic story, with key plot points, character arcs, and relationships redefined to support a more streamlined, narratively focused experience. This isn’t just a retelling; it’s a reinterpretation.
Is it okay to play FF7 remake before the original?
So, you’re wondering if you should play the original FF7 before the Remake? It’s a totally valid question! Many jump straight into the Remake because, let’s be honest, the original’s graphics are…well, they’re a product of their time. The gameplay mechanics can also feel a bit clunky compared to modern standards.
However, playing the original *first* gives you a HUGE advantage. The Remake builds heavily on the original’s narrative. You’ll get a much deeper understanding of the characters, their motivations, and the overall world. Think of it like this: the Remake adds layers of nuance and detail, but the original lays the foundation. Skipping it is like watching the sequel to a movie you’ve never seen – you’ll get the basic plot, but you’ll miss a ton of the emotional resonance and intricate storytelling.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Play the original first for:
- A richer understanding of the characters and their relationships.
- A more complete appreciation of the narrative twists and turns in the Remake.
- Discovering the iconic moments and themes that made FF7 a legend.
- Play the Remake first for:
- A more modern and accessible gameplay experience.
- Stunning visuals and a re-imagined Midgar.
- A potentially less intimidating entry point to the series.
Ultimately, the “best” order depends on your priorities. But if you value a deep, immersive story and want to fully appreciate the Remake’s additions, tackling the original first is the way to go. It’s a bit of a time investment, but trust me, it’s worth it!
Pro-Tip: Consider emulators if you want to play the original on modern hardware. They offer enhanced resolution and other quality-of-life improvements. Just make sure you only use ROMs of games you own!
Why did Cloud forget Zack?
Cloud’s amnesia regarding Zack is a cornerstone of Final Fantasy VII‘s narrative, deeply impacting his character arc. Zack’s death, occurring in the weeks before the game’s opening, wasn’t a simple off-screen event. He perished protecting Cloud from Shinra’s relentless pursuit following their escape from captivity. This wasn’t a minor skirmish; it was a brutal, desperate fight against overwhelming odds, leaving Zack fatally wounded. This traumatic experience profoundly affected Cloud’s psyche. The sheer scale of the loss, coupled with the physical and psychological trauma he endured, resulted in a significant memory alteration, a coping mechanism that essentially erased Zack from his conscious mind. It’s crucial to note that this isn’t a simple case of forgetting; it’s a deeply ingrained repression, a subconscious act to protect himself from the unbearable pain. This selective amnesia is a powerful plot device, fueling Cloud’s identity crisis and setting the stage for his journey throughout the game. The later exploration of this trauma, particularly in Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, adds further layers of complexity and heartbreak to their bond, highlighting the profound sacrifice Zack made and the lasting impact it had on Cloud.
The depth of Cloud’s amnesia isn’t merely a narrative shortcut; it’s a crucial element revealing the psychological toll of war and trauma. The gradual piecing together of his memories, triggered by specific encounters and events, is central to his development as a character. Understanding the context of Zack’s sacrifice and the resulting amnesia is fundamental to appreciating Cloud’s journey and the emotional core of Final Fantasy VII‘s story.
Is Final Fantasy 7 remake connected?
Yes, Final Fantasy VII Remake is connected to other games in the Compilation of Final Fantasy VII. Specifically, Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII serves as a crucial prequel, deeply enriching the Remake experience.
Crisis Core explores the backstory of Zack Fair, a SOLDIER operative and a pivotal figure whose story significantly impacts Cloud Strife’s journey in Final Fantasy VII and its Remake. Understanding Zack’s experiences provides invaluable context for Cloud’s character development and motivations.
Key connections include:
• Zack’s relationship with Cloud: Crisis Core details their bond, explaining Cloud’s acquisition of the Buster Sword and shedding light on the events leading up to and following the Nibelheim Incident.
• Sephiroth’s rise to power: The game offers a deeper understanding of Sephiroth’s early ambitions and actions, illuminating the events that set the stage for his ultimate goal.
• Genesis and Angeal: These SOLDIER members’ stories add layers of complexity to the overarching narrative, impacting events in both Crisis Core and the Remake.
• The origins of various plot points: Many seemingly unrelated events in Final Fantasy VII are directly linked to events detailed in Crisis Core, creating a more comprehensive and satisfying narrative experience.
Playing Crisis Core before or alongside Final Fantasy VII Remake significantly enhances your understanding and appreciation of the game’s characters, their motivations, and the overall plot. It provides a richer, more complete picture of the Final Fantasy VII universe.
Did Sephiroth date Aerith?
So, did Sephiroth and Aerith date? The short answer is: no, not canonically. The story’s a bit messy, though. Early designs had them looking similar, leading to initial concepts of them being siblings. That got scrapped.
Then, they were retconned into former lovers. Think about it – Aerith’s recognition of Cloud as a former SOLDIER is partially fueled by her memories of Sephiroth. It’s a subtle connection hinting at a shared past.
But here’s the kicker: Zack Fair. Late in development, they decided Aerith’s *first* and true love was Zack. This completely changed the dynamic. The Sephiroth/Aerith connection became more of a lingering, melancholic memory, a ghost of a past relationship rather than a central plot point.
- Important note: This shift in Aerith’s backstory significantly impacts how players interpret their interactions. Sephiroth’s obsession with her takes on a different meaning considering Zack’s prior place in her life.
- Consider this: The developers likely saw the sibling relationship as too close, and the former lover angle created more narrative complexity and emotional weight for both characters.
It’s a fascinating look at the development process and how initial ideas can drastically change. The resulting ambiguity allows for different interpretations, adding layers to both Aerith and Sephiroth’s character arcs. Ultimately, their past relationship is hinted at, but never fully explored in a straightforward, definitive way.
- Early concept: Siblings
- Revised concept: Former lovers
- Final concept: Zack is her true love; Sephiroth’s connection is a past memory.
How faithful is FF7 Rebirth to the original?
FF7 Rebirth’s faithfulness to the original is a complex issue. While it broadly follows the plot beats of FF7, it’s less a direct remake and more a reimagining. Think of it as a “parallel universe” take on the story.
Key Differences:
- Reordering of Events: The game significantly reorders and recontextualizes events from the original, often blending together elements from different points in the original timeline.
- Expanded Lore: Rebirth delves much deeper into the lore of the Planet and Sephiroth, fleshing out aspects only hinted at in the original.
- Character Development: Existing characters get expanded backstories and new perspectives, leading to different character arcs than those seen in the original.
- New Gameplay Mechanics: The combat system is significantly overhauled, shifting away from the original’s ATB system. This changes the pacing and strategy.
The Whispers: The game’s narrative acknowledges these changes through the introduction of the Whispers, beings that attempt to maintain the original storyline. Their presence creates conflict and tension, essentially embodying the struggle between adhering to the established canon and forging a new path.
Overall: Expect a familiar story with significant alterations. It rewards familiarity with the original but isn’t strictly necessary to enjoy the game. Be prepared for unexpected twists, expanded lore, and a fresh take on familiar characters and scenarios.
Does anything transfer from FF7 Remake to Rebirth?
No Save Data Transfer Between FF7 Remake and Rebirth
While Final Fantasy VII Rebirth directly continues the story from Final Fantasy VII Remake, your save file from the first game will not carry over. This is a deliberate design choice by Director Naoki Hamaguchi.
Why no transfer?
- Independent Game Balancing: Each game is designed with its own balanced difficulty and progression systems. Transferring save data would significantly impact the intended gameplay experience in Rebirth.
- New Player Accessibility: The lack of save transfer allows new players to jump directly into Rebirth without needing to play the first game.
- Story Focus: While building upon the established narrative, Rebirth features significant plot developments and narrative shifts, making a clean start beneficial for both returning and new players.
What *does* carry over?
- Story Knowledge: Your understanding of the events and characters from Remake will significantly enhance your experience with Rebirth.
- Character Familiarity: You’ll already be acquainted with Cloud, Aerith, and the rest of the cast, allowing you to focus more on the new narrative elements.
Important Considerations for Rebirth:
- Start Fresh: Embrace the opportunity to experience Rebirth with a fresh perspective and character builds.
- New Systems: Be prepared for potentially new or refined combat mechanics, abilities, and progression systems unique to Rebirth.
Can you romance Aerith in FF7 remake?
Yeah, you can totally romance Aerith in Rebirth. Forget the clumsy dialogue wheel from the original; this “Bonds of Friendship” system is way more nuanced. It’s not just handing out flowers and hoping for the best – it involves actual meaningful interactions and choices that deeply impact your relationship with her and others. Think of it as a branching narrative tree, with some paths leading to more intimate scenes than others. Getting her best ending is a grind, though – requires keen observation and making specific choices throughout the game. Don’t expect things to unfold like a linear visual novel. There’s a lot of subtlety and the romantic subtext is handled much more maturely this time around. Prepare for some serious emotional investment if you’re aiming for that perfect ending with Aerith. It’s going to be worth the effort though; the payoff is significant.
Is it better to awaken Tifa or Aerith?
Let’s cut the crap. The “better” choice between Tifa and Aerith in “Rough Waters” during “Escape to the Surface” is entirely dependent on what you’re after. The game’s a bit manipulative there.
The simple truth: Picking Tifa biases the game towards triggering her unique scene. Picking Aerith does the same for her. It’s not a guaranteed outcome, but it significantly increases your chances. Think of it as weighted probability, not a binary choice.
- Tifa Route: Prioritizes a specific interaction tailored to her character arc and relationship with Cloud. Generally leans towards a more action-oriented, emotionally charged scene.
- Aerith Route: Focuses on a different aspect of the story, highlighting her healing abilities and compassionate nature. Offers a calmer, more reflective scene, but equally crucial to understanding her character.
Pro-Tip: Don’t get hung up on “missing out”. Both scenes are valuable to the overall narrative. A dedicated player will eventually see both, either through multiple playthroughs or exploiting save-state manipulation. This isn’t a branching path permanently locking you out of content; just an early game nudge to the narrative.
Beyond the Scene: The immediate impact on the battle against Abzu is negligible. The difference in outcome is almost entirely confined to the cutscene triggered. Focusing on maximizing combat effectiveness is a different strategy altogether. Choose wisely based on the specific scene you want to experience first, not battle efficiency.
Does FF7 Remake cover the whole game?
Final Fantasy VII Remake: Part 1 of 3 – Understanding the Scope
The Final Fantasy VII Remake you purchase is a complete game in itself, offering a substantial and polished experience. However, it’s crucial to understand its place within the larger narrative. This is only Part 1 of a planned 3-part series, focusing primarily on the events unfolding in Midgar.
What’s Included: The remake significantly expands upon the original game’s Midgar section, adding new characters, storylines, and gameplay mechanics. Expect a deep dive into the city’s intricate political landscape and the relationships between its inhabitants. While the core story beats remain, expect significant deviations and additions that reshape familiar scenes.
What’s Left Out: A vast portion of the original Final Fantasy VII’s story, beyond Midgar, is omitted from this first installment. The world map exploration, numerous side quests, and a significant number of characters and story arcs are saved for future parts.
Think of it this way: Imagine the original FFVII as a feature-length movie. This remake is like an extended director’s cut focusing solely on the first act – greatly expanding upon that act, but still only covering the beginning of the overall narrative. The subsequent parts will complete the full story.
Key takeaway: While a “full game” in terms of content and polish, the Final Fantasy VII Remake is only the beginning of a multi-part reimagining of the original classic. It’s a fantastic starting point but doesn’t encompass the entirety of the original’s storyline.
Can you date in FF7 Remake?
Romance in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, much like its predecessor, hinges on your interactions with potential romantic partners. The game doesn’t explicitly feature a traditional dating mini-game, but your choices and engagement throughout the narrative significantly influence the outcome. This primarily manifests in the Gold Saucer date nights, notably in Chapters 8 and 12.
Key Differences from the Original: While the core concept remains similar to the original FFVII, Rebirth likely refines the system. Expect more nuanced interactions and potentially more opportunities to build rapport with specific characters. The exact mechanics of influencing romantic interests aren’t fully detailed yet, but expect subtle choices and actions to accumulate, leading to different date night scenarios.
Characters Involved: While details remain scarce, it’s highly probable that the primary romantic options will largely mirror those from the original game. This suggests Cloud’s relationships with Aerith and Tifa will be central, offering multiple potential romantic paths dependent on player choices. The development team may also introduce some surprises or subtleties, given the expanded narrative scope of Rebirth.
Impact on the Story: The choice of romantic partner in Rebirth may not fundamentally alter the main plot, but it will heavily shape Cloud’s emotional arc and specific cutscenes. These personalized moments will likely delve deeper into Cloud’s character and his relationships, providing a more impactful and emotionally resonant experience.
Gold Saucer Date Nights: These are the critical moments showcasing the romantic subplot. The specifics of each date night scene will differ based on your chosen romantic interest. Expect unique dialogue, animations, and overall atmosphere tailored to each character. These dates aren’t simply cosmetic; they offer crucial insights into Cloud’s emotional state and his connections with his companions.
- Chapter 8 Date: Likely an introductory date, setting the foundation for future interactions.
- Chapter 12 Date: Potentially a more significant date, offering greater depth and potentially hinting at future developments.
