How Much Was Final Fantasy 7 When It Came Out?
Released in 1997, Final Fantasy 7 was a groundbreaking role-playing game that revolutionized the industry with its 3D graphics, deep storyline, and memorable characters. But have you ever wondered how much this iconic game cost when it first hit the market? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of Final Fantasy 7’s release and provide the answer to this burning question.
Initial Release
Final Fantasy 7 was first released on January 31, 1997, in Japan for the PlayStation console. The game was developed by Square (now Square Enix), a renowned Japanese video game developer, and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. At the time of its release, the PlayStation was a relatively new console, having been launched in 1994.
Release Price
So, how much did Final Fantasy 7 cost when it was first released? The answer is:
¥9,900 (approximately $75 USD)
This price was relatively affordable for a game of its caliber, especially considering the PlayStation’s popularity in Japan. The game’s success was largely attributed to its engaging storyline, memorable characters, and impressive graphics, which set a new standard for RPGs.
International Releases
Final Fantasy 7 was later released in North America on March 7, 1997, and in Europe on September 7, 1997. The game’s international releases were slightly more expensive than its Japanese counterpart, with prices ranging from:
- $49.99 in North America
- £49.99 in the United Kingdom
- DM 69.99 in Germany (approximately $43 USD)
Comparing Prices
To put these prices into perspective, here’s a comparison with other popular games released around the same time:
| Game | Release Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Final Fantasy 7 | $49.99 |
| The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time | $39.99 |
| GoldenEye 007 | $39.99 |
| Resident Evil | $49.99 |
As you can see, Final Fantasy 7 was priced similarly to other high-profile games of the time. Its relatively affordable price helped it sell over 11 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling games of all time.
Re-releases and Remasters
Over the years, Final Fantasy 7 has been re-released in various forms, including:
- Final Fantasy VII International (1998): A revised version with additional content and updated graphics.
- Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children (2005): A CGI film sequel.
- Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020): A full-scale remake with updated graphics and new story elements.
These re-releases have allowed new generations of gamers to experience the game, with some versions available at a lower price point than the original release.
FAQs
Q: Was Final Fantasy 7 a commercial success?
A: Yes, Final Fantasy 7 was a massive commercial success, selling over 11 million copies worldwide.
Q: Is Final Fantasy 7 still popular today?
A: Yes, Final Fantasy 7 remains a beloved game, with a dedicated fan base and continued popularity through re-releases and remasters.
Q: Can I still play Final Fantasy 7 on my original PlayStation?
A: Yes, the original PlayStation version of Final Fantasy 7 is still playable on the console.
Q: Are there any differences between the Japanese and international releases?
A: Yes, the Japanese version has some minor differences, including additional dialogue and altered character designs.
Q: Can I play Final Fantasy 7 on modern consoles?
A: Yes, Final Fantasy 7 is available on various modern consoles, including the PlayStation 3, PlayStation Vita, and Nintendo Switch.
Q: Is Final Fantasy 7 a good starting point for new players?
A: While Final Fantasy 7 is a classic game, it may not be the best starting point for new players due to its aged graphics and gameplay mechanics.
Q: Is there a PC version of Final Fantasy 7?
A: Yes, a PC version of Final Fantasy 7 was released in 2012 as part of the Final Fantasy VII PC Release.
Q: Is Final Fantasy 7 a challenging game?
A: Yes, Final Fantasy 7 has a moderate level of difficulty, with some challenging boss battles and puzzle-solving elements.
In conclusion, Final Fantasy 7 was released in 1997 at a price of ¥9,900 (approximately $75 USD) in Japan, and its international releases were slightly more expensive. Despite its relatively affordable price, the game’s impact on the gaming industry was significant, and it remains a beloved classic to this day.