Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade (2021, PC/PS5)

Enhanced Port Of: Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020, PS4)
Developer: Square Enix
Publisher: Square Enix
Clear Date: 10/24/22
Clear Platform: PS5

A major reason I finally played Final Fantasy VII in the first place was to play this game. Now I have and folks… I’m all in.

I really enjoy the setting, characters, and music of the FFVII universe, and this “remake” (in many ways more of a sequel) mostly does all of those things justice.

Aside from feeling a smidge padded at times, the 2020 take on Midgar feels like a full world rather than a tutorial zone. It’s nice to spend extra time in the city and interact with its residents. It was always obvious that Shinra was bad, but this game ingratiates you to the people subjected to their corporate rule and shows that they’re worth saving. Plus, the additional time spent in Midgar allows the party members to grow closer to each other and strengthen their resolve. Thus, their ultimate decision to trust each other and leave Midgar together to stop Sephiroth makes a bit more sense.

And on the subject of story decisions relating to the end of the game, suffice it to say I liked them. I think all the changes and differences make FFVIIR much more compelling than a straight retelling.

The graphics are pretty, the tunes are great, the acting is competent, and the combat is a blast. Really just can’t complain.

Gonna keep this post short, but suffice it to say I can’t wait for the next FFVII installment. After all these years, it’s nice to be on board.

GAME CLEAR No. 108a

Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade: Chapter INTERmission (2021, PC/PS5)

Developer: Square Enix
Publisher: Square Enix
Clear Date: 11/4/22
Clear Platform: PS5

I also beat the Yuffie DLC. It’s a bit more whimsical, but it’s a fun few hours with an exciting new player character that feels great in combat. It also unfortunately makes me feel like I have to play Dirge of Cerberus now. I reckon I will.