FINAL FANTASY VII
" Classic RPG with deep story and innovative Materia system but plagued by launcher issues "
FINAL FANTASY VII Review
Final Fantasy VII remains a landmark JRPG that has profoundly influenced gaming culture. Released originally in 1997, it is celebrated for its deep, multi-layered narrative featuring memorable characters like Cloud, Aerith, and Sephiroth, and themes of environmentalism and identity. The game combines an innovative Materia system for character customization with the Active Time Battle system, creating engaging gameplay. Despite its age showing in graphics and some mechanics, many players find the story and soundtrack timeless.
However, the Steam port has drawn criticism for requiring a Square Enix account even for offline play, leading to frustration with account verification and launcher issues. The port is also noted as rough with controller support challenges and occasional bugs or crashes. Fans recommend using community mods, especially the 7th Heaven Mod Manager, to enhance graphics, fix controls, and improve overall experience. Still, the original game’s legacy and emotional depth keep it highly recommended for RPG enthusiasts.
Highlights
Players praise the timeless story and characters, with an emotionally charged narrative and iconic villain Sephiroth. The Materia system offers rich customization, and the Active Time Battle system balances strategy and pacing well. The expansive world with secrets and mini-games adds depth.
Graphically, while dated, the game’s art direction and Nobuo Uematsu’s legendary soundtrack remain standout features. Community mods significantly improve visuals and gameplay, making the experience more accessible and enjoyable. The game’s influence on the JRPG genre and storytelling in games is widely acknowledged.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the Steam port’s technical issues, including the mandatory Square Enix account that complicates offline play and causes verification problems. Controller support is problematic, with some players unable to use Xbox controllers as advertised.
The graphics and mechanics are dated, with clunky controls and awkward camera angles. The Materia system’s frequent menu navigation can frustrate some players. Occasional crashes, freezes, and save file corruption issues have been reported. Some find the pacing uneven and the port lacking polish compared to other versions.
Pros
- • Deep, emotionally rich story with memorable characters and themes.
- • Innovative Materia system allowing diverse character customization.
- • Expansive world filled with secrets, side quests, and mini-games.
- • Iconic soundtrack by Nobuo Uematsu enhances emotional impact.
- • Active Time Battle system balances real-time and turn-based combat.
- • Community mods greatly improve graphics and gameplay experience.
- • Nostalgic and influential JRPG that shaped the genre globally.
Cons
- • Steam port requires mandatory Square Enix account even for offline.
- • Frequent launcher and verification issues block game access.
- • Controller support is poor, especially for non-PlayStation controllers.
- • Dated graphics and clunky controls can hinder modern play.
- • Materia system demands constant menu management, causing frustration.
- • Occasional crashes, freezes, and save file corruption reported.
- • Some pacing issues and repetitive party switching disrupt flow.
Rating Criteria
The RPG classic FINAL FANTASY VII returns to PC, now with brand new online features!