Is the Original Final Fantasy 7 Worth Playing?
The original Final Fantasy 7, released in 1997 for the PlayStation, is often considered one of the greatest games of all time. Its impact on the RPG genre was immense, and its memorable characters, storyline, and gameplay mechanics have become a staple of the series. But is it worth playing in this day and age? In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of playing the original Final Fantasy 7 and determine whether it’s still a game worth playing.
The Graphics and Soundtrack
One of the most significant issues with the original Final Fantasy 7 is its dated graphics and soundtrack. While the game’s FMV sequences and character designs still hold up today, the rest of the visuals are decidedly retro. The graphics are blocky and pixelated, and the environments can sometimes feel claustrophobic.
However, the game’s soundtrack, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, is still widely praised and widely considered one of the greatest in gaming history. The score is rich and emotive, perfectly capturing the game’s sense of adventure and drama. In fact, the soundtrack has been widely released and remastered, allowing fans to experience the game’s music in a new light.
The Gameplay and Mechanics
Final Fantasy 7’s gameplay and mechanics are still robust and engaging today. The game features a deep and complex battle system, with a variety of materia (magic) and limit breaks (special attacks) to master. The party system is also innovative, allowing players to switch between up to five playable characters on the fly.
However, some players may find the game’s pacing slow, particularly in the first few hours. The game can be quite grind-heavy, requiring players to level up and master various skills before proceeding. Additionally, the game’s item management system can be frustrating at times, with some items being overpowered or underutilized.
The Story and Characters
One of the most enduring aspects of Final Fantasy 7 is its storyline and characters. The game’s tale of redemption and sacrifice is still widely beloved today, with many considering Cloud Strife and Barret Wallace two of the most memorable protagonists in gaming history.
The story is heavily influenced by popular culture, with nods to films like Blade Runner and The Seven Samurai. The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, with motivations that are both relatable and nuanced. While some players may find the game’s pace slow, the payoff is well worth it, with the story’s climax remaining one of the most memorable moments in gaming.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the original Final Fantasy 7 may be an older game with some dated graphics and a slow pace, it is still very much worth playing. The game’s story and characters are timeless, and the gameplay and mechanics hold up remarkably well today. Additionally, the soundtrack is still widely considered one of the greatest in gaming history.
Table of Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Timeless story and characters | Dated graphics |
| Complex battle system | Slow pacing |
| Innovative party system | Grindy gameplay |
| Emotive soundtrack | Frustrating item management |
Frequently Asked Questions (and Answers)
Q: Can I play Final Fantasy 7 without playing the other games in the series?
A: Yes, but it’s recommended that you play the other games to understand the series’ lore and background.
Q: Is the original Final Fantasy 7 still the best way to experience the game?
A: Yes, while the remastered edition (Final Fantasy 7: Remastered) is a great update, the original game retains its classic charm and character.
Q: Will I need to purchase a PlayStation 1 to play the original Final Fantasy 7?
A: Yes, unfortunately, the original Final Fantasy 7 is not available on newer consoles and requires a PlayStation 1 or compatible emulator.
Q: Can I play Final Fantasy 7 on my PC?
A: Yes, a compatible emulator (such as RetroPie) can run the original PlayStation 1 games, including Final Fantasy 7.
Q: Is the gameplay too difficult or punishing?
A: While the game can be challenging, particularly in the later boss battles, it’s not excessively punishing and rewards patience and strategy.
Q: Can I skip the side quests?
A: No, while the side quests are optional, they provide valuable experience points, new abilities, and story context. It’s recommended that you complete at least some of the side quests to fully understand the game’s story and world.
Q: Is the game’s soundtrack available in a digital format?
A: Yes, many of the original soundtrack tracks are available on digital music platforms, such as iTunes and Spotify, and have been remastered and re-released in various collections.
Q: Can I play Final Fantasy 7 on a modern console?
A: Currently, no, but with the PlayStation 5’s backward compatibility and the potential for future releases or remasters, it’s possible that the game will be available on newer consoles in the future.