Top 25 Must-Play Video Games: Final Fantasy VII (#2)

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Final Fantasy VII Cast Image

Next at number 2 we have Square Soft’s (now Square Enix) role-playing game Final Fantasy VII, the most treasured title in the series, it is often referred to as “the greatest game ever made” and that statement wouldn’t be far from wrong.

Hello everyone and welcome to Top 25 Must-Plays, the place where you can read about video games, well-known and well-hidden!

All of these choices from number 25 to 1 have well-shaped characters, immersive story lines or something unique that really sets them apart from everything else. Each weekday a new game will be revealed until we reach #1.

Play video games for an immersive experience? Then hopefully you will enjoy these recommendations!

Square Soft’s 1997 role-playing game, for the PC (Windows), Playstation, and now on the PSN Network – Final Fantasy VII a.k.a FFVII.

Check out the trailer!

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One man can make a difference that lasts forever…

An epic adventure across 3 CD-Roms.

What begins as a rebellion against an evil corporation becomes much more. And what erupts goes beyond imagination. With vivid landscapes, lush 3D animation and environments, Square Soft’s multimillion dollar masterpiece is like nothing ever seen before. And it is only on Playstation.

One of the most successful RPG games ever created and the game that is home to “the most shocking video game moment ever”, Final Fantasy VII is still unrivaled in its genre! A game with an introspective narrative and stunning cutscenes, this game sits at number 2 in this count-down.

The gameplay of Final Fantasy had many mechanics seen in previous titles whilst adding a few fresh new features.

During battles for example, the game utilized the ATB system a.k.a. the active time battle system. However, in VII, a party of up to four players could participate in battle sequences! The Skill system was built around Materia – magical orbs – and allowed players to customize their characters and weapons with abilities and skill sets. Summon spells also featured in-game (equippable as Materia).

Limit Breaks were also available and have been used in may titles since VII. Every playable character has a bar that gradually fills up as they suffer damage in battle. When the bar is completely filled, the character is able to unleash a powerful Limit Break. The special attacks differ for each playable character.

As with preceding games in the series, the world map could be traversed by foot, on chocobos, airship, or sea vessel, but it also included an additional means of transportation — a buggy.

Final Fantasy VII used tried and tested mechanics from previous titles that worked well, and added a few tweaks here and there to improve other areas. As a result, Final Fantasy VII is a joy to play!

The story of Final Fantasy VII, too, is simply marvelous! It follows protagonist Cloud Strife, who, at the beginning of the game, joins the rebel organization AVALANCHE in their quest to stop the world-controlling megacorporation Shinra, which is draining the life of the planet for use as an energy source. As the story progresses, Cloud and his allies become involved in a larger world-threatening conflict and face Sephiroth, the game’s main antagonist.

The story had depth and dealt with many issues with introspect and intelligence. The game also featured a cast of well-developed characters, 9 of which you could play.
Each individual had their own personality, views, backstories and arcs and were developed with care and attention. It definitely shows.

A lengthy story, Final Fantasy VII was told beautifully. At every turn, events and situations drew the player in. This game is home to some of the most iconic scenes in the history of video games, and whilst playing through the journey it is easy to see why.

The score of FFVII was also beautiful. Composed by the genius that is Nobuo Uematsu, the Final Fantasy VII score features one of his most recognizable works – One Winged Angel. Instead of recording music and sound effects for the game, Uematsu opted for MIDIs that utilized the PlayStation’s internal sound chip. What was wonderful about the score overall, was that it had an epic, orchestral feel despite the lack of real instruments used! The score was, and still is, a triumph.

Final Fantasy VII is the most treasured title in the series. It is often referred to as “the greatest game ever made” – a quote that also features on the game’s cover – and that statement wouldn’t be far from wrong.

To many, this game was an unforgettable experience and it still holds up today. So if you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime gaming experience, Final Fantasy VII is definitely for you!

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Interested in this game? Try the Playstation Network to download, or Amazon.com (US) for some great deals!

Enjoy the journey!

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