“Final Fantasy VII” is a highly acclaimed role-playing video game developed and published by Square (now Square Enix). It was originally released for the PlayStation console in 1997 and has since become one of the most influential and beloved titles in the “Final Fantasy” series and the role-playing genre as a whole.
The game is set in a dystopian world called Gaia, where players assume the role of Cloud Strife, a former soldier-turned-mercenary, as he joins forces with a group of rebels known as AVALANCHE to combat the oppressive Shinra Electric Power Company and uncover the truth behind their actions. The story delves into themes of environmentalism, identity, and the consequences of unchecked power.
Final Fantasy 7 Facts
- “Final Fantasy VII” was the first game in the series to be released for the Sony PlayStation console, moving away from Nintendo platforms.
- Development of the game began in 1994 under the direction of Yoshinori Kitase and production by Hironobu Sakaguchi.
- The game’s story and world were heavily influenced by the environmental concerns of the time, reflecting a post-industrial setting and exploring themes of corporate greed and the consequences of exploiting the planet’s resources.
- “Final Fantasy VII” was a groundbreaking title in terms of graphics, featuring fully 3D character models and pre-rendered backgrounds. It pushed the technological capabilities of the PlayStation and was considered a technical marvel at the time.
- The game was the first in the series to use 3D computer-generated full-motion videos (FMVs) extensively, including iconic sequences such as the opening bombing mission and the destruction of the city of Midgar.
- Cloud Strife, the game’s protagonist, has become one of the most recognizable characters in the “Final Fantasy” franchise. His spiky hair and large Buster Sword have become iconic symbols of the game.
- “Final Fantasy VII” introduced the Limit Break system, which allowed characters to unleash powerful special attacks when their Limit gauge filled up. Each character had unique Limit Breaks, adding depth and variety to combat.
- The game’s materia system allowed players to customize their characters by equipping magical orbs that granted various spells and abilities. Materia could be leveled up and combined to create powerful combinations.
- “Final Fantasy VII” features an extensive mini-game called “Gold Saucer,” which includes various attractions such as Chocobo racing, a battle arena, and even a dating simulation called the “Gold Saucer Date.”
- The game’s soundtrack, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, is highly regarded and features memorable tracks such as “Aerith’s Theme,” “One-Winged Angel,” and the iconic “Main Theme.”
- “Final Fantasy VII” was a commercial success, selling millions of copies worldwide and becoming one of the best-selling PlayStation games of all time.
- The game received critical acclaim for its deep storytelling, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics. It is often regarded as one of the greatest video games ever made.
- “Final Fantasy VII” spawned a number of spin-offs and related media, including the animated film “Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children” and several prequels and sequels, such as “Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII” and “Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy VII.”
- The character Aerith Gainsborough’s death in the game became a notable and emotional moment for players, leaving a lasting impact on the gaming community and becoming one of the most famous character deaths in video game history.
- A highly anticipated remake of “Final Fantasy VII” was released in multiple installments, with the first part released in 2020. The remake features updated graphics, expanded storylines, and modernized gameplay while retaining the essence of the original game.
Final Fantasy VII Gameplay Tips
- Manage your resources: Keep an eye on your party’s HP and MP (magic points) during battles. Use healing items, spells, and resting at inns to restore health and magic as needed.
- Experiment with Materia: Take advantage of the game’s Materia system to customize your characters’ abilities. Equip different combinations of Materia to suit your playstyle and optimize your party’s effectiveness in battles.
- Level up and diversify: Spend time leveling up your characters to increase their stats and learn new abilities. Don’t focus solely on one character—spread the experience points among your party members to keep them balanced and ready for tougher challenges.
- Master Limit Breaks: Learn how to trigger and utilize Limit Breaks effectively. These powerful special attacks can turn the tide of battle when used strategically. Experiment with different Limit Breaks and their effects to maximize their impact.
- Explore thoroughly: Take the time to explore each area fully. Search for hidden treasure chests, secret passages, and side quests to obtain valuable items, equipment, and experience points.
- Save often: Save your game frequently, especially before challenging battles or major story events. This ensures that you don’t lose progress and gives you the opportunity to try different strategies if needed.
- Learn enemy weaknesses: Pay attention to enemy vulnerabilities and exploit them in battles. Use the Assess Materia or your characters’ abilities to learn about enemies’ strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to choose the most effective attacks and strategies.
- Manage your Gil: Keep track of your in-game currency, Gil. Spend it wisely on important items and equipment, and try to earn more through battles or by completing side quests.
- Summon powerful allies: Obtain and use Summon Materia to summon powerful allies in battles. These summons can deal significant damage and provide strategic advantages when used strategically.
- Customize your equipment: Upgrade and customize your weapons and armor using the game’s materia slots and item shops. Enhancing your gear can give your characters an edge in combat.
- Use defensive strategies: Utilize defensive tactics such as buffs, healing spells, and protection spells to bolster your party’s defenses during tough battles. Don’t focus solely on offense—taking the time to protect and heal your party can greatly improve your chances of success.
- Stay prepared: Always stock up on restorative items, such as potions and ethers, to ensure you have enough resources for battles. Additionally, carry a variety of offensive and defensive Materia to adapt to different enemy encounters.
- Experiment with Limit Break combinations: Try combining specific Limit Breaks between characters to unleash powerful combination attacks. Experiment with different party setups to find unique and devastating combinations.
- Pay attention to materia growth: Materia gains AP (ability points) in battle, which allows them to level up and gain new abilities. Keep equipping and using Materia to ensure they grow and become more potent.
- Engage in optional content: Don’t be afraid to take on optional challenges and side quests. Completing these activities can provide valuable rewards, additional story content, and even unlock powerful hidden materia.
Final Fantasy VII Quotes
- “I’m not alone anymore. I have friends, and I’m not scared.” – Cloud Strife
- “Life… dreams… hope… Where do they come from? And where do they go? None of that junk is enough to fulfill your hearts! Destruction… destruction is what makes life worth living! Destroy! Destroy! Destroy everything!” – Sephiroth
- “I pity you. You just don’t get it at all… there’s not a thing I don’t cherish!” – Aerith Gainsborough
- “Embrace your dreams. If you want to be a hero, you need to have dreams.” – Zack Fair
- “You can’t change the past. But you can learn something from it.” – Cid Highwind
- “There’s not a single thing that I don’t cherish!” – Tifa Lockhart
- “Whatever happens, protect your honor as a SOLDIER!” – Angeal Hewley
- “Life’s a stage, and we’re all just playing our parts.” – Reeve Tuesti
- “What I have shown you is reality. What you remember… that is the illusion.” – Professor Hojo
- “Just as a flower blooms on a rocky cliff, we’ll push through and create new lives!” – Barret Wallace
- “I want to meet… the mother. The mother that gave birth to the planet… ” – Red XIII
- “No cloud, no squall shall hinder us!” – Seifer Almasy
- “Let’s mosey.” – Barret Wallace
- “Aerith, you’re the one who… taught me… I’m not alone… as long as I’m here, there’s no need to be afraid.” – Cloud Strife
- “The world may never fully understand or appreciate the sacrifices made for them, but their lives will be better because of them.” – Tifa Lockhart
Final Fantasy VII Game Controls
Exploration Controls:
- Arrow Keys: Navigate menus, dialogue options, and the world map.
- Enter/Spacebar: Confirm selections or interact with objects.
- Escape (Esc): Cancel or exit menus.
- Tab: Open or close the main menu.
- Page Up/Page Down: Scroll through menus or dialogue options.
- F1: Toggle Help message display on/off.
Field Controls:
- Arrow Keys: Move the character in the corresponding direction.
- Enter/Spacebar: Interact with objects or talk to NPCs.
- Escape (Esc): Open or close the menu.
- Ctrl: Hold to run or walk faster.
- Shift: Hold to keep the character in place.
Battle Controls:
- Arrow Keys: Navigate through menu options during battle.
- Enter/Spacebar: Confirm menu selections or execute commands.
- Escape (Esc): Cancel or go back to the previous menu.
- Shift: Hold to speed up battle animations.
Menu Controls:
- Arrow Keys: Navigate through menu options.
- Enter/Spacebar: Confirm selections or access submenus.
- Escape (Esc): Cancel or go back to the previous menu.
- Tab: Switch between menus or tabs.
- Page Up/Page Down: Scroll through menus or options.
- F1: Toggle Help message display on/off.
Final Fantasy VII Walkthrough
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