Unraveling Midgar: The Definitive FF7 Remake Play Order Guide
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So, you’re ready to dive into the sprawling, reimagined world of Final Fantasy VII Remake? Excellent choice! But with prequels, sequels (sort of), and remakes galore, navigating the best order to experience this iconic story can be trickier than dodging Sephiroth’s Masamune. Let’s cut through the confusion and lay out the optimal path for both newcomers and returning veterans.
The short answer: If you’re a brand-new player, start with Final Fantasy VII Remake (Normal Mode), then play the original Final Fantasy VII, followed by Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, and finally, tackle Final Fantasy VII Remake (Hard Mode). Veteran players can jump straight to Final Fantasy VII Remake and then Crisis Core Reunion.
Diving Deeper: Why This Order Matters
The Final Fantasy VII Remake project isn’t just a visual upgrade; it’s a deliberate re-imagining that plays with expectations and subtly shifts the narrative. This is key to understanding the recommended play order. Here’s a breakdown of each component:
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Original Final Fantasy VII (FF7): The cornerstone. Everything builds from here. Its pixelated charm still holds up surprisingly well, and understanding the core narrative is vital.
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Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (CC): A prequel focusing on Zack Fair. While it enriches the world and provides crucial backstory, playing it before the original FF7 spoils major plot twists and character reveals.
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Final Fantasy VII Remake (FF7R): Part one of the remake trilogy, covering the Midgar portion of the original game but with significant expansions and alterations to the story. It operates on the assumption that you have some familiarity with the original story.
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Final Fantasy VII Rebirth: The second installment in the remake trilogy, promising to take the story beyond Midgar and explore new territories while maintaining the original’s spirit.
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Final Fantasy VII Remake (Hard Mode): Intended for experienced players who have already completed the game once. It offers a challenging experience that requires a deep understanding of the combat system.
The Newcomer’s Path: Embrace the Modern, Then Explore the Classic
For players who’ve never set foot in Midgar, starting with FF7 Remake offers a stunning introduction. It hooks you with its modern graphics, action-packed combat, and compelling characters. Then, experiencing the original FF7 provides invaluable context. After all, FF7 Remake is more fun if you already know and love FF7. Afterwards, understanding Zack Fair’s struggle in Crisis Core adds extra pathos to the journey.
The Veteran’s Route: Remake First, Then Reunion
If you’re already familiar with the original FF7, diving into FF7 Remake is the natural starting point. You’ll immediately appreciate the changes and expansions, and you’ll be ready to decipher the subtle hints and foreshadowing. Crisis Core Reunion will give you further insights into the Remake’s story.
Considering the Remake Trilogy
With the release of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and the eventual arrival of the third and final installment, the order becomes even more critical. The Remake trilogy isn’t a simple retelling; it’s a meta-narrative that actively engages with the player’s knowledge of the original game.
Avoiding Spoilers: A Delicate Balancing Act
The biggest consideration is avoiding spoilers. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion is best played after experiencing the core narrative of the original FF7, despite being a prequel. This is due to several major plot twists and character reveals that are central to the emotional impact of the original game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions to help you further refine your personal FF7 experience:
1. Is it okay to play Final Fantasy 7 Remake first?
Yes, especially if you’re a new player. It provides a compelling entry point to the world and characters, making the original game even more impactful when you experience it afterward.
2. Should I play Crisis Core or FF7 Remake first?
Never play Crisis Core before the original FF7. Crisis Core reveals crucial plot points that are best experienced organically within the original game. However, playing Crisis Core before the sequel Rebirth could enhance the experience.
3. Do I need to play remake before rebirth?
While the co-director states it’s not necessary, playing Remake before Rebirth is highly recommended. It sets the stage for the altered narrative and introduces the new elements that Rebirth builds upon.
4. What if I really dislike older graphics?
The original FF7 has been ported to modern systems and has options to speed up gameplay, making it more accessible. If graphics are a major hurdle, consider watching a playthrough or reading a detailed plot summary before diving into the Remake.
5. Is Final Fantasy 7 Remake shorter than the original?
The core story covered in FF7 Remake is only a portion of the original FF7. However, the Remake greatly expands upon this section, adding significant content, making it longer.
6. How many hours does it take to beat Final Fantasy 7 Remake?
Around 33 hours focusing on the main story. Completionists can expect to spend around 86 hours.
7. Does Crisis Core Reunion spoil FF7?
Absolutely. It reveals significant plot points best experienced through the original FF7.
8. How important is Crisis Core to the FF7 lore?
Extremely important. It provides essential backstory for Zack Fair and his relationship with Cloud and Sephiroth, enriching the overall narrative.
9. How many years is FF7 after Crisis Core?
Crisis Core begins seven years before the events of Final Fantasy VII.
10. Is Final Fantasy 7 Remake 3 parts?
Yes, the Final Fantasy VII Remake is a three-game series.
11. What is the best Final Fantasy game to start with?
There’s no single “best,” but Final Fantasy X is a popular and accessible starting point due to its self-contained story and relatively modern mechanics. FF7 is also great because it’s so popular.
12. Does it matter if I play Final Fantasy in order?
For the mainline numbered entries (excluding direct sequels), not really. Each game typically tells a standalone story. However, for FF7 and its related titles, order is crucial.
13. Was Final Fantasy 7 rushed?
There were challenges in the original game’s development, but not in terms of actual development time.
14. What is Cait Sith?
A cat-sìth is a fairy creature from Celtic mythology, resembling a large black cat with a white spot on its chest. In FF7, it’s a playable character.
15. Is Final Fantasy VII a good game for understanding how play impacts identity?
Yes, the choices players make while playing can lead to different outcomes that directly affect Cloud and other team members as they traverse through Midgar. Playing the game can provide valuable insight and lessons in both moral and practical decision-making. If you would like to learn more about ways that games can provide useful educational experiences, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Final Thoughts: Crafting Your Own FF7 Journey
Ultimately, the “best” order is subjective and depends on your individual preferences and priorities. However, by considering the narrative structure, the importance of spoilers, and your own familiarity with the world of Final Fantasy VII, you can craft an experience that is both rewarding and unforgettable. Enjoy your journey!