Final Fantasy vii

Originally released January 31st, 1997, Final Fantasy VII has stood the test of time -- for better and for worse -- as a true classic. With its unique visuals, the game took Japan by storm, virtually selling a copy for every Playstation system. The phenomenon soon moved to Europe and the USA, ultimately changing the world looked at RPGs and games in general. Video games were no longer just a way to pass the time--they were a viable medium for story telling.

Final Fantasy VII has one of the most involved plots to grace a video system, and some may argue that its influence reaches beyond that. It creates a world that truly feels lived-in by the colorful cast we love or hate depending on each character's unique and developed personalities. It thrives on irony and twists players to its every whim; we've laughed and cried, ranted and cheered over the game's events for almost a decade. Needless to say, Final Fantasy VII is in a league of its own.

Read more on the story of Final Fantasy VII

General Notes

• Glossary - terms unique to the game
• Party - meet the main characters.
• Planet - how to get around.
• Staff - who did what

Strategy

• Accessories - where they're found and what they do
• Chocobos - breeding and racing
• Dating the Don and the Honeybee Inn - this is very important.
• Gold Saucer - the other happiest place on earth
• Hidden Characters - complete your party
• Materia - the magic system unique to FFVII
• Secrets - things to look for, significant and otherwise.
• WEAPON - locations and rewards
• Off-site Recommendations -- interesting online (free!) strategy guides by others.

editorial comments

• No Re-make! - why it's a terrible idea, so stop sending me petitions!
• Official Guides - worth your money?
• Revenge as a Theme in Final Fantasy VII - guest article by Alex