Is it Worth Playing Final Fantasy 7?
Final Fantasy 7, released in 1997, is one of the most iconic and beloved games in the Final Fantasy series. With its engaging story, memorable characters, and groundbreaking graphics, it’s no wonder why many gamers still hold it in high regard. But is it worth playing in today’s gaming landscape? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of playing Final Fantasy 7 and help you decide whether it’s worth your time.
The Story and Characters
Final Fantasy 7’s story is widely regarded as one of the best in the series. The game follows the journey of Cloud Strife, a former member of an elite military unit known as SOLDIER, as he joins an eco-terrorist group to stop a powerful corporation from exploiting the planet’s life force. The story is full of twists and turns, with complex characters and themes that explore the consequences of scientific progress and the importance of human relationships.
The Gameplay
Final Fantasy 7’s gameplay is a mix of exploration, combat, and character development. The game features a unique battle system, known as the "Materia" system, which allows characters to combine different elements to create powerful spells and abilities. The game also has a deep character customization system, allowing players to develop their characters’ abilities and stats.
The Graphics and Soundtrack
Final Fantasy 7’s graphics and soundtrack are still impressive today. The game’s pre-rendered backgrounds and CGI cutscenes were revolutionary for its time, and the soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu is still widely regarded as one of the best in the series.
Pros and Cons
Here are some of the pros and cons of playing Final Fantasy 7:
Pros:
- Engaging story with complex characters and themes
- Innovative battle system and character customization
- Groundbreaking graphics and soundtrack
- Classic gameplay that still holds up today
- High replay value with multiple endings and side quests
Cons:
- Graphics and sound may seem dated to modern gamers
- Some players may find the battle system and character customization complex
- The game’s pacing can be slow at times
- Some characters may seem underdeveloped
Is it Worth Playing?
So, is it worth playing Final Fantasy 7? If you’re a fan of the Final Fantasy series or classic RPGs, the answer is a resounding "yes." The game’s engaging story, innovative gameplay, and groundbreaking graphics make it a must-play for anyone interested in the genre.
For New Players:
If you’re new to the series or RPGs in general, you may want to consider playing one of the more modern Final Fantasy games first. However, if you’re interested in experiencing the game that helped shape the RPG genre, Final Fantasy 7 is still worth playing.
For Retro Gamers:
If you’re a retro gamer looking for a nostalgic experience, Final Fantasy 7 is a great choice. The game’s classic gameplay and graphics will transport you back to the 90s, and the game’s story and characters still hold up today.
For Modern Gamers:
If you’re a modern gamer looking for a challenge, Final Fantasy 7 is a great choice. The game’s innovative battle system and character customization will provide hours of entertainment, and the game’s high replay value means you’ll have plenty of reasons to come back and play again.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Final Fantasy 7:
Q: Is Final Fantasy 7 still worth playing?
A: Yes, Final Fantasy 7 is still worth playing, especially for fans of the series and classic RPGs.
Q: What is the best way to play Final Fantasy 7?
A: The best way to play Final Fantasy 7 is on the original PlayStation or through the PC port. The game’s graphics and sound are still impressive today, and the game’s classic gameplay holds up well.
Q: Is Final Fantasy 7 too difficult?
A: Final Fantasy 7 has a moderate level of difficulty, with some challenging boss battles and puzzles. However, the game also has a high replay value, with multiple endings and side quests to complete.
Q: Can I play Final Fantasy 7 on my modern console?
A: Yes, Final Fantasy 7 is available on modern consoles such as the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita through the "Final Fantasy VII: Dirge of Cerberus" compilation.
Q: Is Final Fantasy 7 a good introduction to the series?
A: While Final Fantasy 7 is a great game, it may not be the best introduction to the series. Some players may find the game’s complex battle system and character customization overwhelming, and the game’s story is heavily influenced by the events of the previous game, Final Fantasy 6.
Q: Can I play Final Fantasy 7 with a friend?
A: No, Final Fantasy 7 is a single-player game, with no multiplayer features.
Q: Is Final Fantasy 7 worth playing for its story alone?
A: Yes, Final Fantasy 7’s story is one of the best in the series, with complex characters and themes that explore the consequences of scientific progress and the importance of human relationships.
Q: Can I play Final Fantasy 7 on my PC?
A: Yes, Final Fantasy 7 is available on PC through various emulation and porting methods.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Final Fantasy 7 is a classic game that still holds up today. With its engaging story, innovative gameplay, and groundbreaking graphics, it’s a must-play for fans of the series and classic RPGs. While some players may find the game’s graphics and sound dated, the game’s classic gameplay and high replay value make it a great choice for anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding gaming experience.