Is Final Fantasy 7 Beginner Friendly? A Comprehensive Guide
The question of whether Final Fantasy 7 (FF7), in its original or Remake form, is a good starting point for newcomers to the JRPG genre or the Final Fantasy series is a common one. The short answer is: it depends. While aspects of both the original and the Remake are designed to be accessible, there are nuances that might make it more suitable for some beginners than others. The original FF7 was indeed designed to be a good entry point for the series and JRPGs in general, largely due to its accessibility for its time. The Remake, however, while retaining the spirit, assumes a certain level of understanding of the original’s world and lore, making it a potentially less straightforward starting point. Let’s delve deeper.
Original Final Fantasy 7: A Classic Starting Point
Accessibility and Design
The original Final Fantasy VII was crafted to be approachable to those unfamiliar with the franchise or JRPGs. Its battle system, while strategic, is relatively simple to understand, especially compared to later entries. The Materia system allows players to customize their characters’ abilities with a user-friendly interface. The core mechanics, from leveling up to exploration, are presented in a manner that’s easy to grasp, making it an ideal first JRPG experience. The game’s narrative, while complex in its themes and emotions, is presented gradually, allowing players to immerse themselves over time without being immediately overwhelmed.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite its accessibility, the original FF7 is not entirely without its challenges. New players might find themselves underleveled, leading to difficult encounters. Certain puzzles or optional areas can also present a hurdle. However, these challenges contribute to the experience of learning and growing alongside the game.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake: A More Complex Entry
Modernized Gameplay and Story
The FF7 Remake offers a significant upgrade to gameplay, boasting a real-time action combat system with strategic elements, making it a departure from the turn-based combat of the original. This shift may be more appealing to players used to modern action games, but it requires an adjustment period, especially for those entirely new to JRPGs. The story, while retelling the original’s plot, includes new elements and expands upon existing lore, which can make the Remake a confusing experience for those with no prior knowledge of the original.
Assumptions and Lore
One of the critical aspects that makes the Remake less beginner-friendly is the assumption that players have some familiarity with the original game. It doesn’t hold your hand when it comes to the world, lore, and characters. Players are thrown directly into the midst of the action, with many nuances of the story and character relationships presented with a wink to the older fans. This can lead to confusion and disconnect for those going in completely blind.
Should You Start With The Remake?
While the Final Fantasy 7 Remake is an amazing game that is an incredible experience, it might not be the perfect entry point to the world of JRPGs or Final Fantasy. It’s not to say you can’t enjoy it if you are entirely new. Rather, it’s best enjoyed by players who are at least somewhat familiar with the original game. If you can find the original, and play through it first, it will greatly enhance your experience when you play the Remake.
Final Verdict
For absolute beginners to the JRPG genre, or the Final Fantasy series, the original FF7 might be a slightly better starting point, due to its simpler battle system and pacing of story exposition. The Remake is fantastic, but it benefits significantly from existing knowledge of the original game’s plot and characters. This will allow newcomers to fully appreciate the game without getting lost in the story details. Ultimately, both games offer a compelling experience, but considering your previous experience and expectations is key to choosing where to start.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Final Fantasy 7 Remake easy to pick up?
The FF7 Remake is relatively easy to pick up in terms of controls and basic mechanics. However, the complex narrative and battle system, while engaging, might be less straightforward for complete newcomers to the genre.
2. Is Final Fantasy 7 a good start to the series?
Yes, the original Final Fantasy 7 is considered a great starting point for the entire Final Fantasy series. It was designed to be accessible to a wide audience and features many recurring elements of the series in an approachable way.
3. Is the Original Final Fantasy 7 difficult?
The original FF7 is not overly difficult for most players, especially if you take your time and level up your characters properly. However, like any RPG, some sections can present a challenge, particularly to those less experienced in the genre.
4. Can a beginner enjoy Final Fantasy 7 Remake?
Yes, a beginner can enjoy the FF7 Remake, but it’s best to be aware that it assumes prior knowledge of the original game. It also introduces new elements to the story which may make things confusing for newcomers to the franchise.
5. Should I play Final Fantasy 7 or 10 first?
There is no “right” starting point for the Final Fantasy series. However, Final Fantasy 7 is often recommended for beginners due to its accessibility and impact on gaming culture.
6. Is Final Fantasy 7 okay for kids?
The original FF7 can be enjoyed by older pre-teens and teenagers. However, the Remake, with its mature themes, violence, and occasional profanity, might be less suitable for younger children. Parental discretion is advised.
7. Why is Final Fantasy 7 so long?
The original FF7 has a substantial amount of content, including optional side quests, exploration, and a rich narrative. The Remake also has a significant playtime as it expands the original Midgar section.
8. Is Final Fantasy 7 a long game?
The original FF7 takes about 36 ½ hours to complete the main story. Doing everything can easily double the playtime. FF7 Remake takes approximately 40 hours to complete its main story.
9. Why is the battle system of Final Fantasy 7 considered easy?
The battle system in the original FF7 is considered simple due to the easy-to-understand Materia system and strategic depth that allows players to approach battles in multiple ways.
10. Which Final Fantasy game is the most difficult?
Final Fantasy games vary in difficulty. Final Fantasy 11 and 14 are considered the most difficult, based on their required playtime and complexity. However, difficulty is subjective and varies from player to player.
11. Was the development of the original Final Fantasy 7 rushed?
Yes, by Squaresoft’s own admission, the development of the original Final Fantasy 7 was rushed, with a smaller development time than the previous games.
12. Which Final Fantasy game should beginners start with?
Final Fantasy 7 is most commonly recommended for beginners, due to its accessible story and gameplay, and its lasting impact as a classic within the series.
13. Is Final Fantasy 7 worth buying now?
Absolutely. Both the original and Remake versions of Final Fantasy VII are highly regarded and well worth purchasing and playing. The original is a classic, and the remake is a fantastic reimagining of it.
14. Is Final Fantasy 7 a love story?
At its core, Final Fantasy 7 is a story about relationships and bonds, with a prominent love triangle. It explores deep connections and the complexities of human interaction within the context of the game’s world.
15. How long does it take to beat Final Fantasy 7 completely?
Completing everything in the original Final Fantasy 7 can take over 80 hours, depending on your playstyle and exploration. Completing the Remake including its DLC, will also greatly increase play time beyond the main story, although it would likely be significantly less than 80 hours.