Can I Play Final Fantasy 7 Remake First?
The much-awaited Final Fantasy 7 remake has finally arrived, and fans are eager to dive into the world of Midgar. But the question on everyone’s mind is: can I play the remake without playing the original Final Fantasy 7? The answer is yes, but there are some things to keep in mind.
Don’t Feel Like You Need to Play the Original
According to director Tetsuya Nomura, the remake is designed to be playable without prior knowledge of the original game. Nomura stated, "No – we have made preparations so that players who did not get a chance to play the first game can fully enjoy Final Fantasy VII Rebirth." This means that the remake will not require players to have any prior knowledge of the story or characters of the original game.
But Knowing the Original Will Enhance the Experience
While the remake is designed to be standalone, knowing the original game will enhance the experience. The remake makes some significant changes to the plot and characters, and fans of the original game may appreciate the nods to the classic. Additionally, knowing the original game will also allow players to appreciate the character developments and relationships in the remake.
The Remake is a Sequel in Its Own Right
Final Fantasy 7 Remake is not a simple remake of the original game, but rather a sequel that builds upon the original story. The remake is divided into three parts, with the first part focusing on the events in Midgar. The story will continue in the future parts, which will likely introduce new characters, locations, and plot twists.
The Future of the Remake Series
The remake series is a trilogy, with each entry being a standalone game. This means that the story will be concluded across all three games, rather than being split across different parts. This also means that players can jump in at any point in the series without needing to have played the previous games.
What About the Story Changes?
The remake makes significant changes to the story and characters of the original game. Fans of the original game may be surprised by these changes, which will likely alter the way they experience the story. The remake’s story will be more expansive and will delve deeper into the characters’ backstories and relationships.
Should I Play the Original Before the Remake?
The answer is yes, especially if you want to appreciate the full extent of the remake’s story and characters. The original game provides a rich foundation for the remake, and knowing the story and characters will enhance the experience. Additionally, playing the original game will allow players to appreciate the nods to the classic throughout the remake.
A Comparison of the Original and Remake
| Character/Element | Original Game | Remake |
|---|---|---|
| Story | Traditional RPG story | More action-oriented, expanded story |
| Characters | Classic characters with limited development | Developed characters with deeper backstories |
| Battle System | Turn-based combat | Active-Time Battle (ATB) system with action-oriented combat |
| Graphics | 2D graphics with some 3D elements | 3D graphics with detailed environments and character models |
In conclusion, while the Final Fantasy 7 remake can be played without prior knowledge of the original game, knowing the original will enhance the experience. The remake is designed to be a standalone game, but it is also part of a larger trilogy that will conclude the story across all three games. Playing the original game is recommended to fully appreciate the remake’s story and characters.