At a Glance
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- Genre: Action RPG
- Single/Multiplayer: Single-player only
- Average Playtime: ~35–45 hours (main story)
- Original Release Year: 2020
- Developer/Publisher: Square Enix
Table of Contents
Final Fantasy VII Remake – Overview
I grew up on the original Final Fantasy VII, and like many fans, it holds a nostalgic place in my heart. So when Final Fantasy VII Remake was announced, I was excited—hopeful even. And while the updated visuals and deeper character moments were a joy to experience, the overall game left me with some mixed feelings.
This isn’t just a remaster—it’s a full-on reimagining of the original’s first act, and Square Enix spared no expense bringing Midgar to life. It looks absolutely gorgeous. But as beautiful as it is, not everything hit the same high notes.
Without the nolstagia element, I don’t think I like this game too much.
🛍️ Ready to check it out? Final Fantasy VII Remake is available on Humble Bundle.
Final Fantasy VII Remake – Final Trailer | PS4
Gameplay Experience
Here’s where my biggest conflict lies: the combat.
I understand the need to modernize the gameplay and make it more dynamic, but I personally would’ve preferred a traditional turn-based system. The hybrid action-ATB system just didn’t click for me. At times, it felt like I was button mashing more than planning—especially during chaotic fights.
The tactical pause element was a nice idea, but it didn’t feel as fluid as I wanted. I missed the satisfaction of carefully choosing every move, like in the original. That strategic layer felt watered down in this version.
Story and Character Progression
The expansion of the Midgar storyline is one of the Remake’s strongest points. Characters like Jessie, Biggs, and Wedge finally got the depth they deserved, and it made me care about them more than I expected. Cloud’s slow evolution from cold mercenary to reluctant hero is still at the heart of the story, and watching it unfold in such detail was rewarding.
There are some significant changes to the plot that long-time fans will definitely notice. Some may love the bold direction, others might not. Personally, I’m undecided—it was interesting, but I’m not sure it needed to stray that far from the original’s path.
Screenshot from Final Fantasy VII Remake, captured by MeeplesToPixels.
Visuals and Audio
This game looks stunning. Midgar has never looked better—every alley, reactor, and slum area is bursting with detail. Character models are impressive, cutscenes are top-notch, and the soundtrack? Beautifully reorchestrated and full of nostalgic nods.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Gorgeous graphics and atmospheric world-building
- Expanded story and character depth
- Excellent music, both nostalgic and new
Cons
- Combat can feel like button mashing
- Loss of turn-based strategy may not suit everyone
- Some plot changes may divide longtime fans
Final Thoughts
Final Fantasy VII Remake gave me a powerful hit of nostalgia—but it also reminded me that modern updates don’t always align with personal preference. I’m glad I played it. I loved revisiting these characters and this world. But I also walked away wishing the gameplay had stayed closer to what made the original so timeless.
If you’ve played the original, there’s definitely something here for you. Just be ready for a different experience—one that blends the old and the new, sometimes successfully, and sometimes… less so.
Buy Final Fantasy VII Remake now while it’s on sale.
🎮 If You Enjoyed This…
If you liked this game, make sure to play Final Fantasy VII Rebirth – see my full review here.