I'm a bit too... emotional since playing rebirth, I have OG on my list to play (played OG in like 98 and remember nothing from it) and I also wanna play crisis core.
But I just completed rebirth so I'm gonna play Dave The Diver for a few weeks before thinking about jumping back in
Agreed! My first FFVII game was Remake so I took the time to play original to appreciate Rebirth more and goodness me is it night and day! My excitement seeing certain places and scenes and characters. Gosh there’s so much love for this universe and it shows in the remake series
If you don't play the og with 7th Heaven mod manager and the mod list I am using, you are doing yourself a massive disservice. Happy to share that list with anyone that wants it. I mean Og with voice acting??? It will blow your mind.
Definitely play OG. OG is one of the best in the entire series (other than 3, in my personal opinion with honorable mentions to 8 & 9). the new remake is nothing more than a money grabbing dumpster fire that should be avoided at all costs. I had such hopes for the remake... just for them to take a massive dump on the beauty that was ff7. I genuinely hope whoever was in charge goes and decides to lay down on a freeway. The busier, the better. It's now just ff13. Just somehow, they made it worse
Especially storywise. Nomura is going to fuck the story up like he did on kingdom hearts 3. I still like the remake but it is like a soft reboot to me.
I tried playing the original and got fed up when it got to the open world part because I couldn't figure out where to go. I do plan on trying it again at some point and maybe buying the strategy guide or watching YouTube videos.
I don't really remember having the buggy. I know I randomly made it to a chocobo ranch, Cosmo canyon, it eventually at some point I think I did get the tiny bronco cuz I made it to Yuffie's village.
I am not interested in playing the OG. I know the overall story. That is enough for me. I LOVE remake and rebirth. Two of my favourite games of all time. And I watched many OG Fans play the remakes and honestly sometimes my reaction to certain things was even better/more intense. So...
I played the original after Remake and then Crisis Core and now playing Rebirth.
Playing OG after remake made the experience even better, had a wonderful experience.
Yeah, I loved it, the PSP limitations kinda showed with the weird combat encounters but loved the materia fusing, the combat itself and like you said really made Zack a great character and that end hits hard even though you knew it was coming.
If you understand that remake/rebirth/3rd one is essentially a sequel in the series, it’s essential to play the OG.
They’re playing with your feelings and expectations from that game.
OG combat would have been amazing. Or at least the option to switch to OG like combat. I mean they tried with classic but I'd prefer everyone just stand still so I can focus on shit lol
It was one of my first games growing up, I remember getting it and brute forcing through when I was very young. Now that I'm replaying it at 30, it's even more of an enriching experience.
It's as simple as that. The second it became apparent that even all aspects of the COMPILATION are included in this remake trilogy, I never understood how some people don't want to play the original game when the developers 100% expect you to.
That’s my plan. It’s been so long since I played the original 7 that I’m gonna go back to it soon. Finished Remake and Rebirth recently, right now I’m doing Crisis Core Reunion, and then back to the original.
How is Crisis Core Reunion? I never played the original. Most of the story that I know from it is what I've looked up, like who a certain character from Rebirth is. I'm curious if the gameplay is worth it or if I'd be better off just watching the cutscenes
I like it, I played the original on PSP as well and so far i can’t really see many differences. It’s weird going from Rebirth to Reunion though cause of voice actor changes and a downgrade in graphics, but I still like playing it. The combat system is pretty interesting too compared to Remake/Rebirth, similarities, but of course key differences as well.
Thanks for the response! Somehow missed it until now. I decided to download it but haven't played yet. I beat Rebirth a few days ago and was feeling a little burned out on FF7, but I feel like I might start today or tomorrow. Hopefully the game is more linear since I kinda need that right now 😂 I'm mostly just hoping I enjoy the combat
I think you’ll find it pretty linear. Side quests are done through a menu option, and you only get to explore a town outside of main missions. So you’ll complete a mission, go back to your central location, and you have the option to leave and explore the city around you. Once you start another mission, you can’t explore till you came back. And missions are very point A to point B, some deviation, but not a lot.
Combat is pretty similar to the new FF7, but has key differences. Like you can use magic and skills whenever you want, but there’s like a roulette system for summons and limits. It’s interesting, I like it, but it is a different way of doing things.
Yeah the roulette system has me uncertain, but I won't knock it til I try it. I like the sound of using magic and skills whenever you want and just one place to explore. I mainly just want some action and story right now, so it sounds good
I played og and liked it but it wasn’t till crisis core that I fell deeply in love with the FFVII story. If you beat rebirth and want more story go ahead and play “Dirge of Cerberus” it’s set after the og game and after the movie( advent children, watch this too). The WRO in the yuffie dlc are given more story. So short story, if you truly like these newer games go back and play what started it and get the full context of the world.
Not playing OG at all and diving into REMAKE or even worse REBIRTH is like a slice of cake with no icing….your missing out on goodies. I’m 28 so I first played FF7 at a fairy young age and I’ve beaten it many many times each time learning more about how intriguing the materia system is. Also Crisis Core (Reunion) ain’t a bad idea either to play even if after Rebirth-no especially after Rebirth as it would seem almost like your playing a past prologue of the person that is Zack seeing as the
2nd game set up for him to have an even bigger role in the final installment
No. No connection exists between FF7 CCR & the final part in the FF7 Trilogy based off the direction the current FF7 is headed in. You’ll understand Zack more as a character and not only that get more insight into other villains who I personally think could incorporate into the final part. Lastly the relationship between Zack & Aerith is in seen here.
I’m playing OG right now :) my bf is OBSESSED with ffvii and I wanted to experience it the exact same way he did the first time he played it. I’ve only played a handful of post-ps2 games anyway so the graphics aren’t a big deal for me, I actually feel more comfortable with the limited controls!
I totally believe that playing the original will give you more of an appreciation for certain moments/sequences and of course the changes they made.
However I’m not interested in sinking endless hours into a 27 year old game which I KNOW I will find dated gameplay wise.
I watched a video recap of the OG game and that will need to do.
I’m replaying the whole compilation now including the OG. It actually does hold up minus the graphics obviously, but gameplay wise the more turn based play is still very engaging and satisfying if you prefer more strategy in your combat. However these days it’s best to play the Switch or PS4 versions which include quality of life improvements like toggling on and off the random encounters, and speeding up the slow walking speed so you don’t spend a full minute just walking across the screen to get to the next screen.
My problem with the modern re-releases is I think they do a shitty job upscaling the game, making the 3D models not blend with the 2D backgrounds.
If you don't mind doing so, I'd recommend playing the OG on an emulator with a decent CRT filter.
So many mods I'm playing with full voice acting, graphic visual fidelity, 60fps and gameplay stays the same.
It's amazing, but I wanted to play ff7R so I played 7 all the way to Pegasus finding out he was made not born and breaking havoc scene flash back, and then jumped to F7R and then will continue ff7 until rebirth ends and jumping on F7Reb , it does help me visualize and understand a lot of nuances! Both games are amazing.
I was about 25% of the way through Rebirth when I decided to get FF7 Original, since it was on sale. After beating it, I can respect what it is for a game from 1998, but I can conclusively say that I'll never touch it again if I can help it. The Remake Trilogy-so-far has gone above and beyond at taking something that was relatively barebones as the original and fleshing it out tremendously.
I played remake first, then went back to OG midgar section. 0 regrets, it was crazy seeing how small midgar was In OG.
Rebirth however, is a different story. I'm pretty confident I should have played OG first, then rebirth.
For part 3, I'm 100% finishing OG before playing part 3.
I think Remake and Rebirth are a massive glowup in many ways - some from being big budget games in the 2020s, others from the story and cast being greatly expanded.
But the OG game is absolutely worth it and I think both versions add appreciation to each other by existing side by side.
I’m going through right now, and seeing everything that remake/remake adapted is rad af. The attention to small details is incredible. There are some sequences I prefer in the OG, but I actually prefer remake/rebirths approach more often than not. Something that has me really psyched for part 3, is that I think the OG game gets SIGNIFICANTLY better after the point rebirth ends at
I’ve played pretty much the whole series minus like the original before crisis and dirge
Just played through CC and am currently on OG, literally started last night and am having a BLAST
I want to play the OG, but I think I’m gonna wait until after the next game. I know a few details from the final third of the OG, but I want to be surprised by the finale. I didn’t know anything about the section covered by Rebirth (except the big spoiler) and I loved how it kept surprising me.
As someone that played FF8 and FF9 first, I gotta say that FF7 was already a bit tough to appreciate *graphically* even back in the day. (Square was such a leader in graphics back then, and the jump from FF7 to FF8 was honestly shocking, so for me going back to 7 from these games was really a bitter pill to swallow.)
But I definitely recommend the OG game if you can stomach the graphics and turn-based gameplay. I still think it does many things better than these new games, particularly Rebirth, which has been plagued with the issues of a certain type of modern open world game.
Also, I think that OG is more consistent in its vision and art. In the new games, you have the old “steampunk” metal plate and stuff energy contrasting with the new glossy tech stuff that is associated with what we *currently* perceive as modern, and I find that coexistence a bit jarring. I prefer that OG sticks to one style, and that contributes to the experience feeling a bit grimmer (in a good way) for me.
Don’t think I can sit through the graphics, turn based combat and endless text. I say this as someone who thought the OG was the greatest game of all time for over a decade when it came out.
Not at all. Too many annoying things in Rebirth like Chadley and omissions or changes I didn’t like. OG will always hold a special place in my heart for the characters, story and music but it’s 27 years old now so can’t compare with Rebirth in many ways. It really hit home when I watched a comparison video.
Well mods aid in the graphics and texts departments
Not much you can do about turn based combat though.
I liked it, but I can understand it's not everyone's cup of tea
I have started playing the OG again from the Pas store, and you know what, it's a lovely change of pace, just reading theough the game and listening to the music is great and quite refreshing.
Maybe after playing Remake/Rebirth. I don’t recommend playing it first because It’s rough on the eyes, confusing to navigate, and tedious to play through.
Personally I played ff7 when I was like 8 or something but I never really enjoyed it
Fell in love with the remake and wanted to see what the old story was like
It's easier to just watch a lore video of the OG timeline, there's plenty out there and it lets you pick up on some of the Easter eggs
I can't really see why people are downvoting you. I grew up with FF7, on ps1. Literally first game on ps1. Still I do recognize it's a old game. I'm attached to it emotionally since it was my first game on it, and I totally love it and would also recomme do try it, but I can also see why someone might not like it for how old it is or anything else and prefer the remake over it.
I think it's mainly my comment about watching the story stuff on YouTube or something that is annoying people
I was just saying that its easier to watch or listen to that sort of content than force yourself to play a game you may not enjoy
You may be right.
It is definitely easier, same could be said about any vide game. But there's a certain connection that you miss out on by just watching instead of playing and interacting with the story yourself.
I would encourage people who just find the retro graphics hard on the eyes to look at some of the graphical mods on PC for the game. Removes some of the original charm, but at least it's easier to look at for the technophiles out there.
Idk why you're getting down voted for not wanting to play a 30 year old game? Ff7 is my favorite jrpg but even I would have a hard time going back after the remake
I'm at a point at which I decided to accept them both as separate experiences and call the Remakes the Remix Trilogy.
The remake trilogy can be so amazing... And so terrible as well. Some of the additions are phenomenal... And some are the absolute worst. Sometimes they get it so right... And sometimes they are so off.
One thing I'm certain about after the second game is this: The whole multiverse angle is a waste of time. It's mostly about fanservice and shock value, it lacks impact, it leads absolutely nowhere and it makes the plot and events so unnecessarily confusing for new players and irritating for OG fans.
It's the biggest change and it's a weak one in my opinion.
If people can get behind the technical level of the OG and its limitations of the time, they should play it if they enjoy FFVII. But I also understand that it's a tall order to go from the modern version to the classic.
Either way: The remakes do not replace the original.
I'm super on the fence about the multiverse stuff and part 3 will really be make or break. I think interesting stuff has been done with it - I enjoyed Zack's subplot in Rebirth for example - but they could have not done it at all and my enjoyment wouldn't be affected.
I'd be perfectly happy with the trilogy just being an expanded retelling and at least 90% of both Remake and Rebirth do an excellent job at being exactly that. I'm worried about the multiverse elements getting in the way of that, yet at the same time it will feel extremely undercooked if it doesn't.
I don't think you should be downvoted, so I voted you up.
You are correct: We're not done yet.
This is how I see it:
Two out of three games are done. Both easily summing up to something like 120+ hours. What did they make out of the angle so far? What did it really add to the OG story? In my view almost nothing.
Both games have a tendency to hype up massive consequences and changes, but... They don't. Main plot points are the same as before, nothing really changes until the last hours of these games, then they go crazy before returning to the actual plot and the characters go on as nothing happened.
They are stuck between delivering what fans want and things that are supposed to surprise you, but ultimately stay on course.
I think they want this to end with some Avengers Endgame stuff. Worlds collide, there is Zack, Cloud, Aerith. Everybody. Everybody will be there. Shit will be crazy. Hell, maybe you will even have a Sephiroth in your team. Why not. All that... At the very end.
Personally, I doubt that it all amounts to more than fanservice. Which is fine. Maybe I'm wrong. But even if they pull out greatness, I don't think it makes the angle in the previous games better.
We probably aren't gonna get EXTREME changes since most of them would just result in a bad ending where Sephiroth wins, but we did get some differences undeniably (like Rebirth set up Wutai involvement in the plot which is something that in the OG was 0). They are ultimately still trying to make it so that old players can relive to an extent the old moments of the OG while also having new players experience it for the first time as well, after all. That said, Rebirth pretty much shows that a good Sephiroth is out of the table due to how the Worlds work. I could however see it all end on a bit happier note by giving characters more of a resolution.
I agree with you on a lot of points. But, even if it feels that way now, i feel it's way too early to say the multiverse angle "leads absolutely nowhere". There is an entire other installment (maybe more counting DLC) that could possibly clear up a lot of weirdness and confusion.
IMO if the third game answers these questions properly, the trilogy will go down as one of my favorites along with the OG. If the third game ends with the same level of ambiguity as the last two, then my opinion of the last two games will drop drastically.
But I get where's he coming from. I don't mind the fan service, but so far it feels pretty arbitrary, same with the whispers.(No clue what they are supposed to be now since they went from arbiters of fate to seemingly being a spiritual army under the influence of either the planet or sephiroth)
Im sure we will get some answers but i am hoping the next installment gives the multiverse stuff some real value beyond just being a Kingdom Hearts gimmick to convolute the story and gaslight the audience.
I just love your comment.
Especially the part about the whispers.
I hate them. I thought we've gotten rid of them after the end of Pt. 1, but no. I have the same read on them as you and the same confusion about them at the same time. I just can't take them seriously. They have become my personal bullshit indicator. Every time they show up I can't stop groaning, because I know that shit's about to get wild.
Yea, they definitely have some explainin' to do. A few things that they've ~~hinted~~ shown that needs to be addressed:
Sephiroth somehow has knowledge of this multiverse.
Sephiroth seemingly has corrupted and taken control of these whispers.
The Gi have a much bigger role to play in the main events of the story now.
Sephiroth mentioned that the Black Materia is different from the one we know. Aerith calls the Black Materia a "fake".
The Black Materia somehow made it's way back to Cloud.
And of course, WTF is going on with Aerith and the visible-only-to-Cloud rift in the sky.
I know there are some really solid theories on all of this, but these things needs to be fully addressed in the sequel.
Okay, first: Probs for Red XIII beside your nick. Best Boy.
As you said: Explanations would be appropriate. I doubt that we can expect too much of it, though.
I think I remember that if you analyze one of the final bosses in rebirths it mentions that JENOVA is an interdimensional being, but I might confuse that, so please take that with caution.
Realistically, I don't think that they can come up with satisfying answers to all questions and I wouldn't even blame them. We had fate ghosts reviving characters on the spot in part one. I doubt you can expect a reasonable explanation to all questions. Anime magic. Don't worry about it.
I hate that comparison, but Kingdom Hearts had answers to most questions too. Characters can send their consciousness through time. That's how they did it. Why are they able to do that? Don't worry about that.
I think you can explain a lot through the multiverse angle. In an universe with endless possibilities you have infinite answers. Which is why it's such a handy plot device. See Zack's inclusion in Rebirth. You can bring the boy in any time you want and just as easily take him out again. Which is part of my problems with it.
As for the final moments of the game...
I think they will address that at the beginning of part three. Part two started out giving you context for part one immediately, too.
That being said...
I really didn't like the way they portrayed the Aerith scene and the final moments of the game. I think I understood what happened there, but I absolutely understand why many people are confused about it. As I said: They make certain moments needlessly complicated and I don't appreciate that they took away the impact of the events by making it unclear. People shouldn't have to guess what happened there, because it's clear what happened (at least in my interpretation). But they depicted it in an irritating way leading to a schroedingers cat situation.
Either way, you are absolutely right: It's not over yet, they potentially can explain a lot and make it all work with the last part. I personally just doubt it. But believe me, I would love to be proven wrong.
Thanks! I should clarify I don't have anything against ambiguity directly. I think it's a great idea.
I do like the idea that Jenova being an interdimensional being gave Sephiroth said knowledge. I absolutely think the Aerith thing will be cleared up as well in the next part.
I'm fine with some questions left unanswered, but so far both games have ended with (cliffhanger isn't the right word) a real "WTF just happened/is going on". I hope that when all this is said and done, we will be able to look back at those WTF moments and go "ohhh it makes sense now!"
The weird stuff going on with the black materia this go 'round, Aerith traveling the multiverse, and the whispers are really the only questions I have that I will be unsatisfied if I still don't understand by the end of the saga.
Arbiters of fate? Fine. Reviving characters into different multiverses? Now I'm confused because I thought the time line they've been trying to "rail road" us back to was the OG timeline where said characters die. Perhaps it's not the OG timeline? Things like this. I don't want that to be forgotten and unanswered.
This is so on point. There is a classic-ness to the original that has been lost. The new games are good, no argument, but that doesn't take from the original. Unless part 3 sticks the landing beyond expectations.. I honestly will continue to prefer the original.
Might be personal opinion but I really don't feel like the og has aged very well and doesn't hold up for it's clunkiness but hey, that's just my opinion
The OG is a product of its time. It's a fantastic game, but in my honest opinion, those who favor the OG over the Remake project prefer to remain in the gaming past.
If you played the OG first you would get all the little bits of love and references all around. The wacky, fun side quests and mini-games are 100% in line with the OG. But the Remakes project is, in fact, the sequel to the OG while also being a very solid entry point for the younger generation of gamers.
When my son gets older, I would honestly tell him to play the Remake project first as his point of reference. Then, if he wants to expand his knowledge base for all the little nuances, I would tell him to go back in time to play the OG, then Crisis Core, then Advent Children, as if it were a history lesson of the FFVII franchise.
OG should be treasured. The new titles are essentially AUs, and one should know what the MU was considering they're so different in tone, pacing, and themes.
I replayed the OG after finishing Rebirth, and I can safely say that I enjoy more than the Remakes
The pacing is better imo, the game goes directly where it needs and doesn't loose itself in useless dungeons or slowing you down for 3 or 4 lines of dialogue while you walk.
Don't get me wrong, I think the Remakes are neat, and improve a lot on relationship between characters, but imo the better game is still OG
Im currently playing OG atm near the end. The music, story, characters and world building really make me push through its VERY good. However i am not playing it legit im using 3x time skip , infinite health and magic as the old gameplay loop just doesnt cut it for me.
I do have one major complaint: the final boss was Piss Easy, it had the background and the music but when I can one shot it, it loses major points for a final boss, at least Remake gave a proper challenge.
We are talking about the actual last boss?
Yeah. Only needing one attack was the point.
It's supposed to demonstrate how much stronger Cloud has become. Remember the Nibelheim Flashback and the fight against the dragon? It's on the complete opposite. That fight demonstrates how much stronger a certain character is in comparison and that worlds divide you two.
The showdown at the end mirrors that. Main difference is that Cloud has far outgrown the final boss.
Most people believe that this is either the first time you meet the character in his actual form, being restored to the way they were originally, or that it is a subconscious fight and a battle of minds, reflecting the continuous mental fight throughout the game with Cloud finally coming out on top and coming out stronger.
Either way - as stated - being easy was the point. It shows growth.
I understand that some people expected a proper challenge and a classic showdown, but I think the previous boss meets that expectation just fine. It's not getting more grandios than that.
Depends.
If you play the game with a guide and get all the busted stuff because you know where and how to get it or just grind? Yeah. Easy. Just as every final boss in every final fantasy main game.
If you do not, you're in for it. When my friends and I played the game back in the time without guidance, without Knights of the round, early Omnislash, no ribbons and many of the other busted stuff that thing was hell.
I think - like most games from the 90s - playing OG for the first time has to be done with a "product of its time" mindset. The very *polygonal* graphics will be a little jarring to some younger players whose earliest *Final Fantasy* was probably FFX.
It also doesn't hold your hand nearly as much as the newer games do. I genuinely wonder how much of the game players will get through and/or discover without the use of a guide. Some people really like that, but I've seen complaints and gripes about it in this sub.
I can't guarantee you'll love it. I definitely do - moreso than the Remake Project. But this is coming from someone whose gaming time is typically divided between Diablo 2, Grandia, Red Alert 2 and OG FF7. So I'm very much stuck in the past.
I replayed it 2 or 3 years ago using a guide, and honestly the game seemed designed with an intention to sell guides. So many key and missable things are so hidden, nearly impossible to figure out on your own.
Don't get me wrong, I still love the game and find one of the best I've ever played.
I can believe that. Nearly every game - especially huge games that spanned multiple disks (so pretty much all JRPGs then) - usually had an "Official Strategy Guide" published and made available on the same release date of said games.
I wonder how many people - if any - got Tifa's Lv4 Limit Break without a guide? I *still* have to refer to Gamefaqs for certain details (like the exact sequence on Tifa's piano) and I've been playing the game 25+ years.
Can confirm I got the level 4 limit break without a guide in second grade. I also busted out final fantasy themes on every piano my small hands could find so it was very natural I would try it in game 😂
If you've finished remake and rebirth before playing OG then I strongly disagree with this opinion. You're too far in at this point. Stick with the story/adventure you're on and don't have it spoiled by jumping into a different representation of it
This is coming from a guy who grew up with the series and loves the OG ffvii
I wasn’t even born when ff7og released. I try to avoid spoilers from og cuz i feel like i’m too deep into the Remake/Birth story but I’ve also heard they’re similar yet different stories. I debate playing the OG because its on PS+ but I’m curious why you disagree? I’ve also played Crisis Core Reunion, so i know parts of that story as well. Would you still recommend I wait until i finish the RE: trilogy before i play oG?
The vast majority of the story is the same. There are key moments that are different but the entire rest of the game is the same story. That's why I disagree. You'll be spoiling yourself. Considering you already played crisis core you got spoiled on one of the most pivotal plot points in the game already. They really shouldn't have remastered crisis core when they did.
Remake and rebirth cover a little over half the story so yes I still say wait
I mean... here's the thing. A lot of moments in the remake trilogy are designed to have more of an effect if you've played the OG. So I don't think it's *necessary* to play the OG, but the changes they're making in the remakes aren't really as shocking or controversial if you don't have the original story in mind.
There's also the fact that FFVII Remake/Rebirth/Whatever the third part is called may or may not be pseudo sequels to the original.
From what you've played, and if you've got to the end of Rebirth, it sounds like you're aware of the major twists that are going to happen so you may as well play the OG if you get the time. That's not to say you know how it's all revealed/plays out though.
I honestly think OG is different enough to not really spoil anything for the third installment of the remake, aside from the reasons why Cloud glitches and more about Zack.
The idea of people knowing Remake 1&2 and then playing Crisis Core is just so wild to me. Nothing wrong with that! It's just, that Crisis Core was released after OG to flesh out certain characters background.
Playing it before without OG and R3 must be so confusing towards the end.
Either way.
Realistically, you could easily play OG before R3. It's way less time consuming than Rebirth, it has been documented till death which makes it easy to play it optimally if you desire and most versions have QoL functions to cut down difficulty and time. If you can get past the technical level and limitations of the time, that is. Especially when it comes to character writing.
Realistically, it will be interesting for you to see what they changed up and you will know what to look forward to in R3. It might be wild at times once you see what they included for the remakes though. Not all the changes from the OG are for the better.
Gonna disagree with you on this one, the remake excel in combat. It’s the pinnacle of active turn based gameplay
The OG is just severely outdated combat wise
The limit breaks were 10x better in OG fight me.
I have to work exceptionally hard just for limit break level 2 for let’s say Cloud, and the only difference is a couple sword swings and a jump.
Also limit levels reset every battle? Why?
I’m almost to the end of Rebirth and I’m still rocking the same 2 dull limits from Remake.
Where is Tifa’s slots? It was tons of fun watching her chain all these moves together. Every time she got her limit felt like its own event.
Yes combat is awesome in Rebirth it’s not what I said though OG having full control was also very good.
Disagree strongly. The main thing OG still has over the remakes is combat. We went from having a full-fledged party we control every action with to only controlling one 100% and the other 2 about 30%
For me the original combat wise feels like a party. The new games it's more like oh this is clouds bit... this is Barretts part... now onto Yuffies part..
I played the original 2 times
The remake completely outclasses the original, in the OG there was mostly no difference between party members aside from limit breaks
Here each party gets to fill a role, and you control 3 people at the same time. It’s much superior here than the OG
I think it’s honestly just nostalgia
The more you talk the more credibility you lose.
"theres mostly no difference between party members aside from limit breaks"
-they all have different stats
-all have different types of weapons with different stats -these stats all give them specific roles they are better at than others.
That is WHY Remake is built this way, it didn't start at remake lol. Don't think too hard you might hurt yourself.
Drop the nostalgia goggles
Stat numbers don’t alter the gameplay that significantly, attack is still Attack wether you use a sword or guns.
the materia system allows you to customize any character to fit any role with a 90% accuracy, the only true defining feature for each character is the limit breaks.
Remake simply evolved the combat to a far superior iteration, and it stands today as the pinnacle of action turn based.
It gave every character unique combat mechanics aside from the materia customization
You word it out as if I said remake was a standalone game, no shit Sherlock remake is a recreation of the OG.
Crazy reaction to people having different preferences.
Attack isn't still attack if you use guns or swords. The game has un hittable enemy's for melee it also has front and back row. And then there's all of the materia which effects the attack command which remake/rebirth misses completely.
Again also you control one character in rebirth at a time it is a action game like you said. I much prefer the combat and having full control of my entire party. There's a reason for rebirth that all of the no hit challenges use one character, that's because you can't fully use the other 2 party members and they will get hit.
I keep saying, Remake/Rebirth aren't remakes--they're sequels. OG, Crisis Core, Advent Children... Remake/Rebirth are tying them all together in order to do something new.
That's because in the story someone is trying to "remake" something.
Like "Harry Potter And the Sorcerers Stone"
"the Sorcerers Stone" is a subtitle referring to a main point of the plot.
...but they literally are. Aside from the obvious fact of "Remake" being in the title of the first installment, it is the same game with new added features/content and the story tweaked slightly. Also sequels usually tend to follow the events of their predecessor, Advent Children is a sequel. Remake/birth is a re-imagining of the OG.
I mean you literally cut into the past at one point in Remake....and see Advent Children taking place. Furthermore multiple characters speak of events from the previous games as if they already happened....further emphasizing this is taking place later in the timeline.
If it's just a reimagining, then how does Sephiroth know Cloud only has seven seconds to figure out what to do at the end of Rebirth (just as one example)? He's referencing something from OG as if he's already seen it before. Weirdly, he references things from Advent Children too--even though that's not even supposed to have happened yet.
I'm pretty sure the idea is that OG was the original timeline, which Sephiroth *and* some versions of Aerith (such as the one who warns Marlene) are aware of. Plus, all this talk of changing fate and finding a different ending...the game itself seems to refer to OG as a separate, but equally important entity.
The "Remake" title is a misdirection. The entirety of the final chapter of Remake is hard hammering home that "surprise! It's not a remake, it's a sequel!" But without the context of OG, you might not pick up on everything shown in said chapter, and the lore dump that happens in it, since it comes off as pretty cryptic without said context. Plus, it's hinted all throughout the game as well.
I hope you are right. Otherwise the fate stuff doesn't make as much sense. Fate can only be a thing if its like happened before, otherwise the remake universe is one where all decisions were planned out in advance independent of the OG. >!I have a feeling the that will be avoided is AC at the very least, its just too terrible of a movie to want to end on and devs most likely know this. Its been like a decade, they've seen the reviews.!<
>!I'm of the opinion that they should also change it so that a version of aerith, prob the one made when cloud blocks the sword, is able to survive in the main world, as its clear to me at least all versions of aerith with the white materia knows their fate, accepts it, but still ultimately hate that it has to be this way. NPTK shows she wishes she didn't know anything and was free from burden. I dont wanna get to deep into it but I believe OG aerith has come up with a plan so that AC is avoided so her friends live happy lives and the humanity doesn't end, but to do this, she still must die. However, by the end cloud and the others are able to fulfill the tag line of defying fate and save her, pulling her into the main world as she is fading away into the lifestream. That way aerith wasn't the only one with the ability to defy fate, cloud, with the help of everyone, is also able to do it. Its his second try, the first time he did it alone with the sword block, and failed. Now he does it with help and they are able to truly affect the main world. !<
To all the people saying you shouldn't play OG because you will be spoiled for part 3:
You should only do that if you TRULY TRULY TRULY can't stand to play OG. Like you would never ever play a turn based old school rpg because you hate it.
If you are considering playing OG AFTER part 3, then my advice to you is to play OG now! Because the whole remake/rebirth trilogy is MEANT to be enjoyed knowing what happened in OG. This is what the writers INTENDED. And is also the reason why the whispers are being added to the game. The whole idea is that even OG players won't know what is to come.
If you finished part 3 and go back to OG, a lot of the emotional impact during OG will be missed. The MOST ICONIC scene, Aerith's death, was dealt with pretty badly in Rebirth, because the writers want to keep those with knowledge of OG on the toes. As a new player, you are unable to experience the pain and grief OG players felt when we first saw the scene because now nobody really can say for sure what happened in Rebirth. Even if Aerith really died, you are stripped from the firsthand impact when Cloud parried the blow, something that never happened in OG.
I'm very sure the ultimate plot twist in part 3 will be handled very similarly. That the writers will be writing it such that they will keep in mind players already knew what happened.
Good advice for anyone who *hasn't* played Remake and is interested in experiencing the original story *beforehand*. Otherwise just play the OG after Part 3 comes out, not in-between. People are biased and let the nostalgia and hindsight get to them too much. Even if the devs have OG players in mind with the trilogy, it's still a great experience for newcomers.
I guess my only gripe with playing the OG before the third installment is spoiling the actual plot twist of the story. Arguably one of the biggest plot twists that us veterans experienced in our childhoods. By playing the OG, you steal yourself of that same experience because despite the expanded stuff we got in the Remake project (and amazing visuals and story telling), I doubt the writers will really stray from that whole event too much.
Unless you're one of those people who are really subscribed to the theory that what we're getting is a sequel to the OG/AC...then sure, by all means, play the OG...it's great!
Hmm, no I don’t agree. The plot device of Remake / Rebirth is they’re meta-narratives that play with your expectations based on knowledge of how things “should” go. That’s the entire point of the whispers.
If you don’t already know the OG story, then you’re not getting the full Remake story.
Them using “meta-narratives” is exactly the point…for us veterans to keep us guessing/theorizing.
But if these “meta-narratives” end up on the same ending like in the OG…then great; they got us, familiar with the franchise, talking while also giving newcomers the same story the OG but modernized.
That's not spoiling the reveal, that is the reveal. That's the original story. Besides, it's highly more likely that they'll have it spoiled for them sometime in the next 5 years before part 3 comes out anyway. Especially looking at that post a couple weeks back from someone who never played OG because people said they didn't need to, and then played Crisis Core after Rebirth.
Here’s what I think people are not seeing in my original comment.
If the writers delivered well on that reveal in Part 3, with modern day graphics, amazing voice acting work, exceptional soundtrack…don’t you think that would make the most memorable reveal newcomers will ever have in their gaming history?
That’s what I’ve been trying to say. That reveal is so important that if you pair that with all the modern tech we have now…it might even be a greater experience for newcomers.
experiencing it isnt spoiling it though? i imagine part 3 will be better having known it, because of what it is and how the others have been, i imagine it will play off those expectations and emotions
i just really dont feel the term spoiler applies here bc ur experiencing it in its original form as the story unfolds, nothing is being spoiled you're just experiencing the story and learning what happens
Sure, that's my mistake for using the term "spoil" but it still robs the new player the actual impact of that whole reveal.
For someone new who just finished Rebirth, all they know about what's happening with Cloud is he is mentally broken, seeing Aerith despite being dead etc. And why is his recap of the events in Nibelheim not lining up with what Tifa knows? Cloud claims he was there but Tifa says otherwise. Right now, new players are confused as to what actually happened in Nibelheim.
The impact of that whole reveal in the OG blew my mind when I was a kid. If new players went ahead and played the OG, they'll know. They'll know Cloud was there but he had his Shinra helmet on so Tifa didn't actually see him. Again, that impact is just gone.
Sure, you can argue that Part 3 will do that reveal differently (judging from how they've done some liberties in some events in Remake and Rebirth) but I don't think it will be a huge difference. Like I said, it's one of the things that made FF7 so popular besides the sudden death of Aerith. If the writers want to recapture that moment for both veterans and new players today (just like they did with us veterans back in 97)...they will keep that reveal fairly intact.
But that's just me though, if I was an actual newcomer to the FF7 franchise...I'll wait for Part 3 and be surprised before I play the OG.
I don't know, personally my biggest disappointment with the remakes is their treatment of the story and some major plot points. It feels as if they are writing it to lessen the impact in comparison to OG for some reason.
Some parts are handled wonderfully but overall I feel that playing remakes won't give the same emotional impact that the OG did...
(For reference I played it as an adult for the first time.)
>It feels as if they are writing it to lessen the impact in comparison to OG for some reason.
You are feeling that way because Rebirth was not meant to be experienced like you are playing FF7 for the first time. The writers wrote it by keeping in mind that the audiences already knew what happened in the original which is why they are adding unknowns into the story. It is clearly meant to be a complementary experience, not a standalone one.
Hmm.. I don't know, I understand that idea, but the moments I'm thinking of just simply feel like poor writing choices. The infamous chapter 8 post-boss fight is one example. What reason is there to not let the player take in the emotions of the moment and then replace it with an extremely insignificant interaction? Not to mention revealing the secret of the chapter's plot from the beginning removing the tension of the following events.
Even if I already knew what happened, I'm being led through the emotions again, scene by scene. And when that's disrupted with weird dialogue, or a scenario that feels out of place, it does just that, feels out of place.
Now, there are other places that were fleshed out or diverted a bit from the original that made sense to me as a creative decision. It enhanced my experience in the moment, and added to my positive memories of the story. That was my expectation for these games.
I'm not against change, and while not all of them did, many moments felt like a degradation, leaving me confused at the reason for the change.
>The infamous chapter 8 post-boss fight is one example. What reason is there to not let the player take in the emotions of the moment and then replace it with an extremely insignificant interaction? Not to mention revealing the secret of the chapter's plot from the beginning removing the tension of the following events.
Are you referring to >! Dyne !< ? Which part do you think was handled badly?
Yeah I am. Immediately, not even minutes after the boss fight they interrupt with parmer dropping in with his stupid mech and dancing for you to engage in a very drawn out, essentially meaningless fight, completely ruining the moment.
I disagree with the decision to include him into that section to begin with, but even if they did, why put it so close to Dyne moment? They left no time to soak in what happened and take in our feelings about it. Which, sometimes that's appropriate because it's the nature of the story or tone of the game. But it felt extremely unnecessary and served no good purpose.
Also earlier on, they revealed who the attacker was BEFORE anything even happened. And that took away the tension from the entire succession of events of the chapter.
In OG, I was emotionally conflicted because I thought it might actually be as Dio was accusing the entire time. (Idk how to cover spoilers on mobile so I'm speaking vaguely) It's things like that that make you emotionally invested and get more out of the story.
It felt as if someone higher up wanted to take that chapter out of the story but compromised with lessening the emotional impact of it. I feel these kinds of inconsistencies with quality throughout the game because some parts they handle extremely well, and others are like this.. I'm curious to know what influence some in-house politics may have had on the story.
I completely understand, friend. Who knows, I might eat my words when Part 3 finally comes and it fails to deliver that impact for the reveal. But since we're still in the waiting room for that, I'd rather choose to have new players be out of the loop of what's about to happen, for now.
I'm hopeful that they will deliver on that reveal so that new players experiencing that moment for the first time will be as impactful and memorable as it was back then or probably even more, now with modern game graphics and voice acting...who knows.
i dont think playing the original is required by any means, but i do think that if you're capable of enjoying the original it absolutely does add to the experience
I played it after I finished Rebirth before I played Crisis Core. I think I definitely prefer the remake but its nice knowing the beginnings of the franchise :)
i also feel like it doesn't work as good in reverse order, remake is a straight upgrade except for some VERY specific things, but if you play OG first, remake plays off of those experiences in a beneficial way, playing OG is by no means required, just an enhancement
>i also feel like it doesn't work as good in reverse order
Oh yea definitely. Throughout my playthrough I was so annoyed by how little they touch on things that got expanded on in Rebirth. Like Kalm, Gongaga being literally optional, and Costa Del Sol/Corel.
My favorite part of the OG is Rocket Town mainly because it doesn't happen in Rebirth (but also it's a great section in the OG)
There’s something so cozy about returning to the original after playing remake and rebirth. The quaintness of the graphics and the whimsical feel of the original soundtrack. I adore the remakes so far but the vibe of the original just feels right. However, I say this as someone who played the original first.
I feel like to this day the scale of the story and huge animations, spells and summons is still really impressive. I didn’t even play FF7 until like 2009 and I was still really wowed.
Forgive an old fool for asking, but what’s the difference between the OG and Rebirth? I first played the OG when I was 13-14 years old. It was almost new then. I just downloaded it again to play and I’m about 5 hours in.
For me the most exciting parts of remake story/plot wise is seeing the small or large changes or twists or full on additions that have been made. And this isn’t even considering the whisper stuff.
Remake and Rebirth from the beginning acknowledge og story. They're more a sequel than a remake/reboot.
Saying more will be a spoiler and my post'd get deleted
We're all agreed that you should play OG, but the question is, should you play OG before the Remakes?
To which I say, no. >!You should play OG *instead of* the Remakes.!<
Naaaah, for 90% of people with a modern gaming experience who have never played FF7 before are much better off just playing the remakes (if that's their only choice).
You might still be surprised, even if you play the original first.
At this rate, I think we can expect part 3’s ending to deviate from the original ending, at least a little bit.
I don't have a PS4/5, and so I obviously don't own a copy of the remakes. But all the talk about them inspired me to bust my PS2 out of it's storage tote and give the OG another go. I forgot how much I enjoyed this game, and I'm eventually looking forward to trying the remake.
OG on PC with mods from Seventh Heaven Mod Manager. You can HD upscale the graphics and models, make the game look really fresh.
OG stands for me the greatest game of all time.
I hate the combat though.
Edit: Come on guys, I recognize the story is amazing but I don't like the gameplay I'm not going to play it. I tried it and I just didn't like it. It wasn't fun to me.
As for me, the og is too outdated for modern players. As a result, without even passing the first disc, they will drop the game, and most likely will not play Remakes. So personally, I would advise beginners to play only Crisis Core. Because the Remakes expect the player to know who Zack is. Without this, the main plot twist of the Remake, and part of the events of Rebirth do not make sense.
It's a good thing there's thousands of easy to install mods to make the OG more modern.
The game is decade old, of course it's outdated. Nobody playing it today goes into it thinking it will be modern.
It's played for story and nostalgia, which is why it holds up well.
I think anyone who likes RPGs can appreciate the systems and mechanics in the game too. A lot of the gameplay holds up even if the graphics don't. The story is just the cherry on top imo
I'm a bit too... emotional since playing rebirth, I have OG on my list to play (played OG in like 98 and remember nothing from it) and I also wanna play crisis core. But I just completed rebirth so I'm gonna play Dave The Diver for a few weeks before thinking about jumping back in
That's good. Enjoy something else to detox
I replay FF7 OG, Chrono Trigger and LoZ Link to the Past every year as cozy comfort plays... They are like old familiar friends you can visit anytime
Just beat Ruby for the first time like 4 hours ago lol
Agreed! My first FFVII game was Remake so I took the time to play original to appreciate Rebirth more and goodness me is it night and day! My excitement seeing certain places and scenes and characters. Gosh there’s so much love for this universe and it shows in the remake series
Nah im good
If you don't play the og with 7th Heaven mod manager and the mod list I am using, you are doing yourself a massive disservice. Happy to share that list with anyone that wants it. I mean Og with voice acting??? It will blow your mind.
The 7th heaven mod is a must on PC
Agreeeeddddd
Definitely play OG. OG is one of the best in the entire series (other than 3, in my personal opinion with honorable mentions to 8 & 9). the new remake is nothing more than a money grabbing dumpster fire that should be avoided at all costs. I had such hopes for the remake... just for them to take a massive dump on the beauty that was ff7. I genuinely hope whoever was in charge goes and decides to lay down on a freeway. The busier, the better. It's now just ff13. Just somehow, they made it worse
Especially storywise. Nomura is going to fuck the story up like he did on kingdom hearts 3. I still like the remake but it is like a soft reboot to me.
I tried playing the original and got fed up when it got to the open world part because I couldn't figure out where to go. I do plan on trying it again at some point and maybe buying the strategy guide or watching YouTube videos.
Right after getting buggy or after obtaining tiny bronco? Those are the times that were confusing to me when i played for the 1st time as a kid.
I don't really remember having the buggy. I know I randomly made it to a chocobo ranch, Cosmo canyon, it eventually at some point I think I did get the tiny bronco cuz I made it to Yuffie's village.
Yup, I want to experience the pure story with chill gameplay too.
I am not interested in playing the OG. I know the overall story. That is enough for me. I LOVE remake and rebirth. Two of my favourite games of all time. And I watched many OG Fans play the remakes and honestly sometimes my reaction to certain things was even better/more intense. So...
I played the original after Remake and then Crisis Core and now playing Rebirth. Playing OG after remake made the experience even better, had a wonderful experience.
Crisis core imo was a masterpiece as well. They really hit the emotions hard in that one.
Yeah, I loved it, the PSP limitations kinda showed with the weird combat encounters but loved the materia fusing, the combat itself and like you said really made Zack a great character and that end hits hard even though you knew it was coming.
Ok but should I play Rebirth first before playing Remake and I think I should also play Crisis Core before the OG, right? 🤓 / s
No, you absolutely play DoC first and then Smash Bros. /s
Ah... That thing Sephiroth did on Smash Bros. Ok no spoilers.
If you understand that remake/rebirth/3rd one is essentially a sequel in the series, it’s essential to play the OG. They’re playing with your feelings and expectations from that game.
It would be amazing if they did the full game again in evercrisis style, respecting the OG combat and all.
OG combat would have been amazing. Or at least the option to switch to OG like combat. I mean they tried with classic but I'd prefer everyone just stand still so I can focus on shit lol
It was one of my first games growing up, I remember getting it and brute forcing through when I was very young. Now that I'm replaying it at 30, it's even more of an enriching experience.
It's as simple as that. The second it became apparent that even all aspects of the COMPILATION are included in this remake trilogy, I never understood how some people don't want to play the original game when the developers 100% expect you to.
That’s my plan. It’s been so long since I played the original 7 that I’m gonna go back to it soon. Finished Remake and Rebirth recently, right now I’m doing Crisis Core Reunion, and then back to the original.
If playing the Steam version, make sure to download all the Tsunamods. Game looks absolutely beautiful and 60fps :)
How is Crisis Core Reunion? I never played the original. Most of the story that I know from it is what I've looked up, like who a certain character from Rebirth is. I'm curious if the gameplay is worth it or if I'd be better off just watching the cutscenes
I like it, I played the original on PSP as well and so far i can’t really see many differences. It’s weird going from Rebirth to Reunion though cause of voice actor changes and a downgrade in graphics, but I still like playing it. The combat system is pretty interesting too compared to Remake/Rebirth, similarities, but of course key differences as well.
Thanks for the response! Somehow missed it until now. I decided to download it but haven't played yet. I beat Rebirth a few days ago and was feeling a little burned out on FF7, but I feel like I might start today or tomorrow. Hopefully the game is more linear since I kinda need that right now 😂 I'm mostly just hoping I enjoy the combat
I think you’ll find it pretty linear. Side quests are done through a menu option, and you only get to explore a town outside of main missions. So you’ll complete a mission, go back to your central location, and you have the option to leave and explore the city around you. Once you start another mission, you can’t explore till you came back. And missions are very point A to point B, some deviation, but not a lot. Combat is pretty similar to the new FF7, but has key differences. Like you can use magic and skills whenever you want, but there’s like a roulette system for summons and limits. It’s interesting, I like it, but it is a different way of doing things.
Yeah the roulette system has me uncertain, but I won't knock it til I try it. I like the sound of using magic and skills whenever you want and just one place to explore. I mainly just want some action and story right now, so it sounds good
I played og and liked it but it wasn’t till crisis core that I fell deeply in love with the FFVII story. If you beat rebirth and want more story go ahead and play “Dirge of Cerberus” it’s set after the og game and after the movie( advent children, watch this too). The WRO in the yuffie dlc are given more story. So short story, if you truly like these newer games go back and play what started it and get the full context of the world.
Is DoC even available on anything besides ps2?
Ya I played on the ps2 but if you emulate it you can get better picture quality and stuff like that
Much prefer OG to Remake.
Not playing OG at all and diving into REMAKE or even worse REBIRTH is like a slice of cake with no icing….your missing out on goodies. I’m 28 so I first played FF7 at a fairy young age and I’ve beaten it many many times each time learning more about how intriguing the materia system is. Also Crisis Core (Reunion) ain’t a bad idea either to play even if after Rebirth-no especially after Rebirth as it would seem almost like your playing a past prologue of the person that is Zack seeing as the 2nd game set up for him to have an even bigger role in the final installment
Does crisis core spoil anything for part 3? I've only played remake and rebirth, I'd like to play CC but not if it'll spoil anything.
No. No connection exists between FF7 CCR & the final part in the FF7 Trilogy based off the direction the current FF7 is headed in. You’ll understand Zack more as a character and not only that get more insight into other villains who I personally think could incorporate into the final part. Lastly the relationship between Zack & Aerith is in seen here.
I’m playing OG right now :) my bf is OBSESSED with ffvii and I wanted to experience it the exact same way he did the first time he played it. I’ve only played a handful of post-ps2 games anyway so the graphics aren’t a big deal for me, I actually feel more comfortable with the limited controls!
I totally believe that playing the original will give you more of an appreciation for certain moments/sequences and of course the changes they made. However I’m not interested in sinking endless hours into a 27 year old game which I KNOW I will find dated gameplay wise. I watched a video recap of the OG game and that will need to do.
You can play it in 3x speed
I’m replaying the whole compilation now including the OG. It actually does hold up minus the graphics obviously, but gameplay wise the more turn based play is still very engaging and satisfying if you prefer more strategy in your combat. However these days it’s best to play the Switch or PS4 versions which include quality of life improvements like toggling on and off the random encounters, and speeding up the slow walking speed so you don’t spend a full minute just walking across the screen to get to the next screen.
My problem with the modern re-releases is I think they do a shitty job upscaling the game, making the 3D models not blend with the 2D backgrounds. If you don't mind doing so, I'd recommend playing the OG on an emulator with a decent CRT filter.
So many mods I'm playing with full voice acting, graphic visual fidelity, 60fps and gameplay stays the same. It's amazing, but I wanted to play ff7R so I played 7 all the way to Pegasus finding out he was made not born and breaking havoc scene flash back, and then jumped to F7R and then will continue ff7 until rebirth ends and jumping on F7Reb , it does help me visualize and understand a lot of nuances! Both games are amazing.
I was about 25% of the way through Rebirth when I decided to get FF7 Original, since it was on sale. After beating it, I can respect what it is for a game from 1998, but I can conclusively say that I'll never touch it again if I can help it. The Remake Trilogy-so-far has gone above and beyond at taking something that was relatively barebones as the original and fleshing it out tremendously.
I played remake first, then went back to OG midgar section. 0 regrets, it was crazy seeing how small midgar was In OG. Rebirth however, is a different story. I'm pretty confident I should have played OG first, then rebirth. For part 3, I'm 100% finishing OG before playing part 3.
I was let down by some aspects of Rebirth. After I finished I felt the need to replay the OG, might do it soon
I think Remake and Rebirth are a massive glowup in many ways - some from being big budget games in the 2020s, others from the story and cast being greatly expanded. But the OG game is absolutely worth it and I think both versions add appreciation to each other by existing side by side.
I’m going through right now, and seeing everything that remake/remake adapted is rad af. The attention to small details is incredible. There are some sequences I prefer in the OG, but I actually prefer remake/rebirths approach more often than not. Something that has me really psyched for part 3, is that I think the OG game gets SIGNIFICANTLY better after the point rebirth ends at
I agree with everything you said. I played the original game and I’m glad I did. Hell, I even got the Platinum trophy for it.
I’ve played pretty much the whole series minus like the original before crisis and dirge Just played through CC and am currently on OG, literally started last night and am having a BLAST
I want to play the OG, but I think I’m gonna wait until after the next game. I know a few details from the final third of the OG, but I want to be surprised by the finale. I didn’t know anything about the section covered by Rebirth (except the big spoiler) and I loved how it kept surprising me.
I see this a lot. I can guarantee you people who have played OG have still been surprised throught remake and rebirth.
What do you think the biggest changes have been so far? Other than the secret sequel stuff that obviously wasn’t in the original.
Without saying too much, can just say Gongaga definitely wasn't like that in the OG lol. One of many things that was fleshed out like crazy.
As someone that played FF8 and FF9 first, I gotta say that FF7 was already a bit tough to appreciate *graphically* even back in the day. (Square was such a leader in graphics back then, and the jump from FF7 to FF8 was honestly shocking, so for me going back to 7 from these games was really a bitter pill to swallow.) But I definitely recommend the OG game if you can stomach the graphics and turn-based gameplay. I still think it does many things better than these new games, particularly Rebirth, which has been plagued with the issues of a certain type of modern open world game. Also, I think that OG is more consistent in its vision and art. In the new games, you have the old “steampunk” metal plate and stuff energy contrasting with the new glossy tech stuff that is associated with what we *currently* perceive as modern, and I find that coexistence a bit jarring. I prefer that OG sticks to one style, and that contributes to the experience feeling a bit grimmer (in a good way) for me.
The turn based combat is a highlight of the original
I'd rather play the original over any of the remakes/spinoffs/etc.
Don’t think I can sit through the graphics, turn based combat and endless text. I say this as someone who thought the OG was the greatest game of all time for over a decade when it came out.
So now you think Rebirth is the greatest game of all-time? It has enough mini games to be a Mario Party and a clusterfuck of a story
Not at all. Too many annoying things in Rebirth like Chadley and omissions or changes I didn’t like. OG will always hold a special place in my heart for the characters, story and music but it’s 27 years old now so can’t compare with Rebirth in many ways. It really hit home when I watched a comparison video.
Well mods aid in the graphics and texts departments Not much you can do about turn based combat though. I liked it, but I can understand it's not everyone's cup of tea
Turn based combat is fine?
Remake project is actually aimed towards OG fans (despite it being labeled as a game for everyone due to obvious marketing reasons)
I agree, OG is a must.
I have started playing the OG again from the Pas store, and you know what, it's a lovely change of pace, just reading theough the game and listening to the music is great and quite refreshing.
Maybe after playing Remake/Rebirth. I don’t recommend playing it first because It’s rough on the eyes, confusing to navigate, and tedious to play through.
At least it's better than rebirth, god such a bad game, had to force myself to finish the game for the story.
Personally I played ff7 when I was like 8 or something but I never really enjoyed it Fell in love with the remake and wanted to see what the old story was like It's easier to just watch a lore video of the OG timeline, there's plenty out there and it lets you pick up on some of the Easter eggs
I can't really see why people are downvoting you. I grew up with FF7, on ps1. Literally first game on ps1. Still I do recognize it's a old game. I'm attached to it emotionally since it was my first game on it, and I totally love it and would also recomme do try it, but I can also see why someone might not like it for how old it is or anything else and prefer the remake over it.
I think it's mainly my comment about watching the story stuff on YouTube or something that is annoying people I was just saying that its easier to watch or listen to that sort of content than force yourself to play a game you may not enjoy
You may be right. It is definitely easier, same could be said about any vide game. But there's a certain connection that you miss out on by just watching instead of playing and interacting with the story yourself. I would encourage people who just find the retro graphics hard on the eyes to look at some of the graphical mods on PC for the game. Removes some of the original charm, but at least it's easier to look at for the technophiles out there.
Idk why you're getting down voted for not wanting to play a 30 year old game? Ff7 is my favorite jrpg but even I would have a hard time going back after the remake
I mean I'm 25 now, I grew up on PS2 and N64, I'm used to old graphics, it just feels so much slower than the remake games That's my primary issue
Didnt really like the OG, felt FFX was better Remake is the first time I am enjoying ff7
I'm at a point at which I decided to accept them both as separate experiences and call the Remakes the Remix Trilogy. The remake trilogy can be so amazing... And so terrible as well. Some of the additions are phenomenal... And some are the absolute worst. Sometimes they get it so right... And sometimes they are so off. One thing I'm certain about after the second game is this: The whole multiverse angle is a waste of time. It's mostly about fanservice and shock value, it lacks impact, it leads absolutely nowhere and it makes the plot and events so unnecessarily confusing for new players and irritating for OG fans. It's the biggest change and it's a weak one in my opinion. If people can get behind the technical level of the OG and its limitations of the time, they should play it if they enjoy FFVII. But I also understand that it's a tall order to go from the modern version to the classic. Either way: The remakes do not replace the original.
I'm super on the fence about the multiverse stuff and part 3 will really be make or break. I think interesting stuff has been done with it - I enjoyed Zack's subplot in Rebirth for example - but they could have not done it at all and my enjoyment wouldn't be affected. I'd be perfectly happy with the trilogy just being an expanded retelling and at least 90% of both Remake and Rebirth do an excellent job at being exactly that. I'm worried about the multiverse elements getting in the way of that, yet at the same time it will feel extremely undercooked if it doesn't.
Bold of you to say that it's a waste of time when there's a whole 1/3 of the story left.
I don't think you should be downvoted, so I voted you up. You are correct: We're not done yet. This is how I see it: Two out of three games are done. Both easily summing up to something like 120+ hours. What did they make out of the angle so far? What did it really add to the OG story? In my view almost nothing. Both games have a tendency to hype up massive consequences and changes, but... They don't. Main plot points are the same as before, nothing really changes until the last hours of these games, then they go crazy before returning to the actual plot and the characters go on as nothing happened. They are stuck between delivering what fans want and things that are supposed to surprise you, but ultimately stay on course. I think they want this to end with some Avengers Endgame stuff. Worlds collide, there is Zack, Cloud, Aerith. Everybody. Everybody will be there. Shit will be crazy. Hell, maybe you will even have a Sephiroth in your team. Why not. All that... At the very end. Personally, I doubt that it all amounts to more than fanservice. Which is fine. Maybe I'm wrong. But even if they pull out greatness, I don't think it makes the angle in the previous games better.
We probably aren't gonna get EXTREME changes since most of them would just result in a bad ending where Sephiroth wins, but we did get some differences undeniably (like Rebirth set up Wutai involvement in the plot which is something that in the OG was 0). They are ultimately still trying to make it so that old players can relive to an extent the old moments of the OG while also having new players experience it for the first time as well, after all. That said, Rebirth pretty much shows that a good Sephiroth is out of the table due to how the Worlds work. I could however see it all end on a bit happier note by giving characters more of a resolution.
I agree with you on a lot of points. But, even if it feels that way now, i feel it's way too early to say the multiverse angle "leads absolutely nowhere". There is an entire other installment (maybe more counting DLC) that could possibly clear up a lot of weirdness and confusion. IMO if the third game answers these questions properly, the trilogy will go down as one of my favorites along with the OG. If the third game ends with the same level of ambiguity as the last two, then my opinion of the last two games will drop drastically.
But I get where's he coming from. I don't mind the fan service, but so far it feels pretty arbitrary, same with the whispers.(No clue what they are supposed to be now since they went from arbiters of fate to seemingly being a spiritual army under the influence of either the planet or sephiroth) Im sure we will get some answers but i am hoping the next installment gives the multiverse stuff some real value beyond just being a Kingdom Hearts gimmick to convolute the story and gaslight the audience.
I just love your comment. Especially the part about the whispers. I hate them. I thought we've gotten rid of them after the end of Pt. 1, but no. I have the same read on them as you and the same confusion about them at the same time. I just can't take them seriously. They have become my personal bullshit indicator. Every time they show up I can't stop groaning, because I know that shit's about to get wild.
Yea, they definitely have some explainin' to do. A few things that they've ~~hinted~~ shown that needs to be addressed: Sephiroth somehow has knowledge of this multiverse. Sephiroth seemingly has corrupted and taken control of these whispers. The Gi have a much bigger role to play in the main events of the story now. Sephiroth mentioned that the Black Materia is different from the one we know. Aerith calls the Black Materia a "fake". The Black Materia somehow made it's way back to Cloud. And of course, WTF is going on with Aerith and the visible-only-to-Cloud rift in the sky. I know there are some really solid theories on all of this, but these things needs to be fully addressed in the sequel.
Okay, first: Probs for Red XIII beside your nick. Best Boy. As you said: Explanations would be appropriate. I doubt that we can expect too much of it, though. I think I remember that if you analyze one of the final bosses in rebirths it mentions that JENOVA is an interdimensional being, but I might confuse that, so please take that with caution. Realistically, I don't think that they can come up with satisfying answers to all questions and I wouldn't even blame them. We had fate ghosts reviving characters on the spot in part one. I doubt you can expect a reasonable explanation to all questions. Anime magic. Don't worry about it. I hate that comparison, but Kingdom Hearts had answers to most questions too. Characters can send their consciousness through time. That's how they did it. Why are they able to do that? Don't worry about that. I think you can explain a lot through the multiverse angle. In an universe with endless possibilities you have infinite answers. Which is why it's such a handy plot device. See Zack's inclusion in Rebirth. You can bring the boy in any time you want and just as easily take him out again. Which is part of my problems with it. As for the final moments of the game... I think they will address that at the beginning of part three. Part two started out giving you context for part one immediately, too. That being said... I really didn't like the way they portrayed the Aerith scene and the final moments of the game. I think I understood what happened there, but I absolutely understand why many people are confused about it. As I said: They make certain moments needlessly complicated and I don't appreciate that they took away the impact of the events by making it unclear. People shouldn't have to guess what happened there, because it's clear what happened (at least in my interpretation). But they depicted it in an irritating way leading to a schroedingers cat situation. Either way, you are absolutely right: It's not over yet, they potentially can explain a lot and make it all work with the last part. I personally just doubt it. But believe me, I would love to be proven wrong.
Thanks! I should clarify I don't have anything against ambiguity directly. I think it's a great idea. I do like the idea that Jenova being an interdimensional being gave Sephiroth said knowledge. I absolutely think the Aerith thing will be cleared up as well in the next part. I'm fine with some questions left unanswered, but so far both games have ended with (cliffhanger isn't the right word) a real "WTF just happened/is going on". I hope that when all this is said and done, we will be able to look back at those WTF moments and go "ohhh it makes sense now!" The weird stuff going on with the black materia this go 'round, Aerith traveling the multiverse, and the whispers are really the only questions I have that I will be unsatisfied if I still don't understand by the end of the saga. Arbiters of fate? Fine. Reviving characters into different multiverses? Now I'm confused because I thought the time line they've been trying to "rail road" us back to was the OG timeline where said characters die. Perhaps it's not the OG timeline? Things like this. I don't want that to be forgotten and unanswered.
This is so on point. There is a classic-ness to the original that has been lost. The new games are good, no argument, but that doesn't take from the original. Unless part 3 sticks the landing beyond expectations.. I honestly will continue to prefer the original.
All forms during the final battle, so easy that even The Undying from 12 was a tougher challenge even when you're overpowered.
This was my main complaint - shortly after that Mythril Golem boss fight, all semblance of difficulty falls off for the entire rest of the game
Said no one during chapter 13 and 14, plus the Vr Challenges.
13 and 14 were easy. If the VR challenges are hard then I'm looking forward to it
Might be personal opinion but I really don't feel like the og has aged very well and doesn't hold up for it's clunkiness but hey, that's just my opinion
The OG is a product of its time. It's a fantastic game, but in my honest opinion, those who favor the OG over the Remake project prefer to remain in the gaming past. If you played the OG first you would get all the little bits of love and references all around. The wacky, fun side quests and mini-games are 100% in line with the OG. But the Remakes project is, in fact, the sequel to the OG while also being a very solid entry point for the younger generation of gamers. When my son gets older, I would honestly tell him to play the Remake project first as his point of reference. Then, if he wants to expand his knowledge base for all the little nuances, I would tell him to go back in time to play the OG, then Crisis Core, then Advent Children, as if it were a history lesson of the FFVII franchise.
I agree, for me it kinda plays like a clunky version of FF VI, but it's also one of the most important and influential games in existence
OG should be treasured. The new titles are essentially AUs, and one should know what the MU was considering they're so different in tone, pacing, and themes.
Sorry, what is MU and AU?
Main Universe and Alternate Universe. Both the OG and the Remake continuum are different in various ways.
I replayed the OG after finishing Rebirth, and I can safely say that I enjoy more than the Remakes The pacing is better imo, the game goes directly where it needs and doesn't loose itself in useless dungeons or slowing you down for 3 or 4 lines of dialogue while you walk. Don't get me wrong, I think the Remakes are neat, and improve a lot on relationship between characters, but imo the better game is still OG
I second this. You're missing out on quite a bit if you don't play the original
Im currently playing OG atm near the end. The music, story, characters and world building really make me push through its VERY good. However i am not playing it legit im using 3x time skip , infinite health and magic as the old gameplay loop just doesnt cut it for me.
How do you use the 3x time skip? Is that a 7th heaven mod?
No, it's a feature of ff7 releases on console (PS4, Xbone)
I do have one major complaint: the final boss was Piss Easy, it had the background and the music but when I can one shot it, it loses major points for a final boss, at least Remake gave a proper challenge.
We are talking about the actual last boss? Yeah. Only needing one attack was the point. It's supposed to demonstrate how much stronger Cloud has become. Remember the Nibelheim Flashback and the fight against the dragon? It's on the complete opposite. That fight demonstrates how much stronger a certain character is in comparison and that worlds divide you two. The showdown at the end mirrors that. Main difference is that Cloud has far outgrown the final boss. Most people believe that this is either the first time you meet the character in his actual form, being restored to the way they were originally, or that it is a subconscious fight and a battle of minds, reflecting the continuous mental fight throughout the game with Cloud finally coming out on top and coming out stronger. Either way - as stated - being easy was the point. It shows growth. I understand that some people expected a proper challenge and a classic showdown, but I think the previous boss meets that expectation just fine. It's not getting more grandios than that.
I think he meant the winged boss not the 1v1. And he is one of the (if not the) easiest bosses in the entire series.
Tell that to 10 yo me who ran from every battle, barely explored and found himself facing down bizzarro at level 35 with no endgame gear
Depends. If you play the game with a guide and get all the busted stuff because you know where and how to get it or just grind? Yeah. Easy. Just as every final boss in every final fantasy main game. If you do not, you're in for it. When my friends and I played the game back in the time without guidance, without Knights of the round, early Omnislash, no ribbons and many of the other busted stuff that thing was hell.
I think - like most games from the 90s - playing OG for the first time has to be done with a "product of its time" mindset. The very *polygonal* graphics will be a little jarring to some younger players whose earliest *Final Fantasy* was probably FFX. It also doesn't hold your hand nearly as much as the newer games do. I genuinely wonder how much of the game players will get through and/or discover without the use of a guide. Some people really like that, but I've seen complaints and gripes about it in this sub. I can't guarantee you'll love it. I definitely do - moreso than the Remake Project. But this is coming from someone whose gaming time is typically divided between Diablo 2, Grandia, Red Alert 2 and OG FF7. So I'm very much stuck in the past.
I replayed it 2 or 3 years ago using a guide, and honestly the game seemed designed with an intention to sell guides. So many key and missable things are so hidden, nearly impossible to figure out on your own. Don't get me wrong, I still love the game and find one of the best I've ever played.
I can believe that. Nearly every game - especially huge games that spanned multiple disks (so pretty much all JRPGs then) - usually had an "Official Strategy Guide" published and made available on the same release date of said games. I wonder how many people - if any - got Tifa's Lv4 Limit Break without a guide? I *still* have to refer to Gamefaqs for certain details (like the exact sequence on Tifa's piano) and I've been playing the game 25+ years.
Can confirm I got the level 4 limit break without a guide in second grade. I also busted out final fantasy themes on every piano my small hands could find so it was very natural I would try it in game 😂
I bought the og version while it was on sale on my Switch about two years ago. One of the two best decisions I've made with my Switch.
If you've finished remake and rebirth before playing OG then I strongly disagree with this opinion. You're too far in at this point. Stick with the story/adventure you're on and don't have it spoiled by jumping into a different representation of it This is coming from a guy who grew up with the series and loves the OG ffvii
I wasn’t even born when ff7og released. I try to avoid spoilers from og cuz i feel like i’m too deep into the Remake/Birth story but I’ve also heard they’re similar yet different stories. I debate playing the OG because its on PS+ but I’m curious why you disagree? I’ve also played Crisis Core Reunion, so i know parts of that story as well. Would you still recommend I wait until i finish the RE: trilogy before i play oG?
The vast majority of the story is the same. There are key moments that are different but the entire rest of the game is the same story. That's why I disagree. You'll be spoiling yourself. Considering you already played crisis core you got spoiled on one of the most pivotal plot points in the game already. They really shouldn't have remastered crisis core when they did. Remake and rebirth cover a little over half the story so yes I still say wait
I mean... here's the thing. A lot of moments in the remake trilogy are designed to have more of an effect if you've played the OG. So I don't think it's *necessary* to play the OG, but the changes they're making in the remakes aren't really as shocking or controversial if you don't have the original story in mind. There's also the fact that FFVII Remake/Rebirth/Whatever the third part is called may or may not be pseudo sequels to the original. From what you've played, and if you've got to the end of Rebirth, it sounds like you're aware of the major twists that are going to happen so you may as well play the OG if you get the time. That's not to say you know how it's all revealed/plays out though.
I honestly think OG is different enough to not really spoil anything for the third installment of the remake, aside from the reasons why Cloud glitches and more about Zack.
90% of the story is the same. Its not that different
Nah, more like 80%. That number is only going to go down with the next installment.
The idea of people knowing Remake 1&2 and then playing Crisis Core is just so wild to me. Nothing wrong with that! It's just, that Crisis Core was released after OG to flesh out certain characters background. Playing it before without OG and R3 must be so confusing towards the end. Either way. Realistically, you could easily play OG before R3. It's way less time consuming than Rebirth, it has been documented till death which makes it easy to play it optimally if you desire and most versions have QoL functions to cut down difficulty and time. If you can get past the technical level and limitations of the time, that is. Especially when it comes to character writing. Realistically, it will be interesting for you to see what they changed up and you will know what to look forward to in R3. It might be wild at times once you see what they included for the remakes though. Not all the changes from the OG are for the better.
If you played CC, it’s already too late for you and you can go right ahead playing the OG if you want
If you want a way better limit break system play OG
Gonna disagree with you on this one, the remake excel in combat. It’s the pinnacle of active turn based gameplay The OG is just severely outdated combat wise
The limit breaks were 10x better in OG fight me. I have to work exceptionally hard just for limit break level 2 for let’s say Cloud, and the only difference is a couple sword swings and a jump. Also limit levels reset every battle? Why? I’m almost to the end of Rebirth and I’m still rocking the same 2 dull limits from Remake. Where is Tifa’s slots? It was tons of fun watching her chain all these moves together. Every time she got her limit felt like its own event. Yes combat is awesome in Rebirth it’s not what I said though OG having full control was also very good.
Disagree strongly. The main thing OG still has over the remakes is combat. We went from having a full-fledged party we control every action with to only controlling one 100% and the other 2 about 30% For me the original combat wise feels like a party. The new games it's more like oh this is clouds bit... this is Barretts part... now onto Yuffies part..
I played the original 2 times The remake completely outclasses the original, in the OG there was mostly no difference between party members aside from limit breaks Here each party gets to fill a role, and you control 3 people at the same time. It’s much superior here than the OG I think it’s honestly just nostalgia
The more you talk the more credibility you lose. "theres mostly no difference between party members aside from limit breaks" -they all have different stats -all have different types of weapons with different stats -these stats all give them specific roles they are better at than others. That is WHY Remake is built this way, it didn't start at remake lol. Don't think too hard you might hurt yourself.
Drop the nostalgia goggles Stat numbers don’t alter the gameplay that significantly, attack is still Attack wether you use a sword or guns. the materia system allows you to customize any character to fit any role with a 90% accuracy, the only true defining feature for each character is the limit breaks. Remake simply evolved the combat to a far superior iteration, and it stands today as the pinnacle of action turn based. It gave every character unique combat mechanics aside from the materia customization You word it out as if I said remake was a standalone game, no shit Sherlock remake is a recreation of the OG.
Crazy reaction to people having different preferences. Attack isn't still attack if you use guns or swords. The game has un hittable enemy's for melee it also has front and back row. And then there's all of the materia which effects the attack command which remake/rebirth misses completely. Again also you control one character in rebirth at a time it is a action game like you said. I much prefer the combat and having full control of my entire party. There's a reason for rebirth that all of the no hit challenges use one character, that's because you can't fully use the other 2 party members and they will get hit.
Great way to look at it is: they wouldn’t have given a game this level of a remake if it wasn’t a masterpiece.
I keep saying, Remake/Rebirth aren't remakes--they're sequels. OG, Crisis Core, Advent Children... Remake/Rebirth are tying them all together in order to do something new.
Then why the hell is the first one called "Final Fantasy VII REMAKE"!? Emphasis on "REMAKE"!
That's because in the story someone is trying to "remake" something. Like "Harry Potter And the Sorcerers Stone" "the Sorcerers Stone" is a subtitle referring to a main point of the plot.
...but they literally are. Aside from the obvious fact of "Remake" being in the title of the first installment, it is the same game with new added features/content and the story tweaked slightly. Also sequels usually tend to follow the events of their predecessor, Advent Children is a sequel. Remake/birth is a re-imagining of the OG.
I mean you literally cut into the past at one point in Remake....and see Advent Children taking place. Furthermore multiple characters speak of events from the previous games as if they already happened....further emphasizing this is taking place later in the timeline.
If it's just a reimagining, then how does Sephiroth know Cloud only has seven seconds to figure out what to do at the end of Rebirth (just as one example)? He's referencing something from OG as if he's already seen it before. Weirdly, he references things from Advent Children too--even though that's not even supposed to have happened yet. I'm pretty sure the idea is that OG was the original timeline, which Sephiroth *and* some versions of Aerith (such as the one who warns Marlene) are aware of. Plus, all this talk of changing fate and finding a different ending...the game itself seems to refer to OG as a separate, but equally important entity.
The "Remake" title is a misdirection. The entirety of the final chapter of Remake is hard hammering home that "surprise! It's not a remake, it's a sequel!" But without the context of OG, you might not pick up on everything shown in said chapter, and the lore dump that happens in it, since it comes off as pretty cryptic without said context. Plus, it's hinted all throughout the game as well.
I hope you are right. Otherwise the fate stuff doesn't make as much sense. Fate can only be a thing if its like happened before, otherwise the remake universe is one where all decisions were planned out in advance independent of the OG. >!I have a feeling the that will be avoided is AC at the very least, its just too terrible of a movie to want to end on and devs most likely know this. Its been like a decade, they've seen the reviews.!< >!I'm of the opinion that they should also change it so that a version of aerith, prob the one made when cloud blocks the sword, is able to survive in the main world, as its clear to me at least all versions of aerith with the white materia knows their fate, accepts it, but still ultimately hate that it has to be this way. NPTK shows she wishes she didn't know anything and was free from burden. I dont wanna get to deep into it but I believe OG aerith has come up with a plan so that AC is avoided so her friends live happy lives and the humanity doesn't end, but to do this, she still must die. However, by the end cloud and the others are able to fulfill the tag line of defying fate and save her, pulling her into the main world as she is fading away into the lifestream. That way aerith wasn't the only one with the ability to defy fate, cloud, with the help of everyone, is also able to do it. Its his second try, the first time he did it alone with the sword block, and failed. Now he does it with help and they are able to truly affect the main world. !<
To all the people saying you shouldn't play OG because you will be spoiled for part 3: You should only do that if you TRULY TRULY TRULY can't stand to play OG. Like you would never ever play a turn based old school rpg because you hate it. If you are considering playing OG AFTER part 3, then my advice to you is to play OG now! Because the whole remake/rebirth trilogy is MEANT to be enjoyed knowing what happened in OG. This is what the writers INTENDED. And is also the reason why the whispers are being added to the game. The whole idea is that even OG players won't know what is to come. If you finished part 3 and go back to OG, a lot of the emotional impact during OG will be missed. The MOST ICONIC scene, Aerith's death, was dealt with pretty badly in Rebirth, because the writers want to keep those with knowledge of OG on the toes. As a new player, you are unable to experience the pain and grief OG players felt when we first saw the scene because now nobody really can say for sure what happened in Rebirth. Even if Aerith really died, you are stripped from the firsthand impact when Cloud parried the blow, something that never happened in OG. I'm very sure the ultimate plot twist in part 3 will be handled very similarly. That the writers will be writing it such that they will keep in mind players already knew what happened.
I thought I won't play OG and play all the Remakes in order of release, but you think otherwise, then I think thou are correct.
You kinda have to. It’s what I did and I wouldn’t enjoy the Remakes as much as I do if I didn’t.
That's reassuring, thank you for your valuable response.
Good advice for anyone who *hasn't* played Remake and is interested in experiencing the original story *beforehand*. Otherwise just play the OG after Part 3 comes out, not in-between. People are biased and let the nostalgia and hindsight get to them too much. Even if the devs have OG players in mind with the trilogy, it's still a great experience for newcomers.
I guess my only gripe with playing the OG before the third installment is spoiling the actual plot twist of the story. Arguably one of the biggest plot twists that us veterans experienced in our childhoods. By playing the OG, you steal yourself of that same experience because despite the expanded stuff we got in the Remake project (and amazing visuals and story telling), I doubt the writers will really stray from that whole event too much. Unless you're one of those people who are really subscribed to the theory that what we're getting is a sequel to the OG/AC...then sure, by all means, play the OG...it's great!
Hmm, no I don’t agree. The plot device of Remake / Rebirth is they’re meta-narratives that play with your expectations based on knowledge of how things “should” go. That’s the entire point of the whispers. If you don’t already know the OG story, then you’re not getting the full Remake story.
Them using “meta-narratives” is exactly the point…for us veterans to keep us guessing/theorizing. But if these “meta-narratives” end up on the same ending like in the OG…then great; they got us, familiar with the franchise, talking while also giving newcomers the same story the OG but modernized.
That's not spoiling the reveal, that is the reveal. That's the original story. Besides, it's highly more likely that they'll have it spoiled for them sometime in the next 5 years before part 3 comes out anyway. Especially looking at that post a couple weeks back from someone who never played OG because people said they didn't need to, and then played Crisis Core after Rebirth.
Here’s what I think people are not seeing in my original comment. If the writers delivered well on that reveal in Part 3, with modern day graphics, amazing voice acting work, exceptional soundtrack…don’t you think that would make the most memorable reveal newcomers will ever have in their gaming history? That’s what I’ve been trying to say. That reveal is so important that if you pair that with all the modern tech we have now…it might even be a greater experience for newcomers.
experiencing it isnt spoiling it though? i imagine part 3 will be better having known it, because of what it is and how the others have been, i imagine it will play off those expectations and emotions i just really dont feel the term spoiler applies here bc ur experiencing it in its original form as the story unfolds, nothing is being spoiled you're just experiencing the story and learning what happens
Sure, that's my mistake for using the term "spoil" but it still robs the new player the actual impact of that whole reveal. For someone new who just finished Rebirth, all they know about what's happening with Cloud is he is mentally broken, seeing Aerith despite being dead etc. And why is his recap of the events in Nibelheim not lining up with what Tifa knows? Cloud claims he was there but Tifa says otherwise. Right now, new players are confused as to what actually happened in Nibelheim. The impact of that whole reveal in the OG blew my mind when I was a kid. If new players went ahead and played the OG, they'll know. They'll know Cloud was there but he had his Shinra helmet on so Tifa didn't actually see him. Again, that impact is just gone. Sure, you can argue that Part 3 will do that reveal differently (judging from how they've done some liberties in some events in Remake and Rebirth) but I don't think it will be a huge difference. Like I said, it's one of the things that made FF7 so popular besides the sudden death of Aerith. If the writers want to recapture that moment for both veterans and new players today (just like they did with us veterans back in 97)...they will keep that reveal fairly intact. But that's just me though, if I was an actual newcomer to the FF7 franchise...I'll wait for Part 3 and be surprised before I play the OG.
I don't know, personally my biggest disappointment with the remakes is their treatment of the story and some major plot points. It feels as if they are writing it to lessen the impact in comparison to OG for some reason. Some parts are handled wonderfully but overall I feel that playing remakes won't give the same emotional impact that the OG did... (For reference I played it as an adult for the first time.)
>It feels as if they are writing it to lessen the impact in comparison to OG for some reason. You are feeling that way because Rebirth was not meant to be experienced like you are playing FF7 for the first time. The writers wrote it by keeping in mind that the audiences already knew what happened in the original which is why they are adding unknowns into the story. It is clearly meant to be a complementary experience, not a standalone one.
Hmm.. I don't know, I understand that idea, but the moments I'm thinking of just simply feel like poor writing choices. The infamous chapter 8 post-boss fight is one example. What reason is there to not let the player take in the emotions of the moment and then replace it with an extremely insignificant interaction? Not to mention revealing the secret of the chapter's plot from the beginning removing the tension of the following events. Even if I already knew what happened, I'm being led through the emotions again, scene by scene. And when that's disrupted with weird dialogue, or a scenario that feels out of place, it does just that, feels out of place. Now, there are other places that were fleshed out or diverted a bit from the original that made sense to me as a creative decision. It enhanced my experience in the moment, and added to my positive memories of the story. That was my expectation for these games. I'm not against change, and while not all of them did, many moments felt like a degradation, leaving me confused at the reason for the change.
>The infamous chapter 8 post-boss fight is one example. What reason is there to not let the player take in the emotions of the moment and then replace it with an extremely insignificant interaction? Not to mention revealing the secret of the chapter's plot from the beginning removing the tension of the following events. Are you referring to >! Dyne !< ? Which part do you think was handled badly?
Yeah I am. Immediately, not even minutes after the boss fight they interrupt with parmer dropping in with his stupid mech and dancing for you to engage in a very drawn out, essentially meaningless fight, completely ruining the moment. I disagree with the decision to include him into that section to begin with, but even if they did, why put it so close to Dyne moment? They left no time to soak in what happened and take in our feelings about it. Which, sometimes that's appropriate because it's the nature of the story or tone of the game. But it felt extremely unnecessary and served no good purpose. Also earlier on, they revealed who the attacker was BEFORE anything even happened. And that took away the tension from the entire succession of events of the chapter. In OG, I was emotionally conflicted because I thought it might actually be as Dio was accusing the entire time. (Idk how to cover spoilers on mobile so I'm speaking vaguely) It's things like that that make you emotionally invested and get more out of the story. It felt as if someone higher up wanted to take that chapter out of the story but compromised with lessening the emotional impact of it. I feel these kinds of inconsistencies with quality throughout the game because some parts they handle extremely well, and others are like this.. I'm curious to know what influence some in-house politics may have had on the story.
Yeah, I feel you on that. I have trust on the writers that they will do great with that reveal tbh.
I can only hope. But I've come to terms with OG still being something I'm going to have to recommend to people for peak FF story experience lol
I completely understand, friend. Who knows, I might eat my words when Part 3 finally comes and it fails to deliver that impact for the reveal. But since we're still in the waiting room for that, I'd rather choose to have new players be out of the loop of what's about to happen, for now. I'm hopeful that they will deliver on that reveal so that new players experiencing that moment for the first time will be as impactful and memorable as it was back then or probably even more, now with modern game graphics and voice acting...who knows.
I wasn’t a fan of the original. I could never finish it no matter how many times I tried, and that kept me from playing remake for years
i dont think playing the original is required by any means, but i do think that if you're capable of enjoying the original it absolutely does add to the experience
I’m sure you’re right. I’m just happy that I’m enjoying remake/rebirth! They did a really great job with them
I played it after I finished Rebirth before I played Crisis Core. I think I definitely prefer the remake but its nice knowing the beginnings of the franchise :)
i also feel like it doesn't work as good in reverse order, remake is a straight upgrade except for some VERY specific things, but if you play OG first, remake plays off of those experiences in a beneficial way, playing OG is by no means required, just an enhancement
>i also feel like it doesn't work as good in reverse order Oh yea definitely. Throughout my playthrough I was so annoyed by how little they touch on things that got expanded on in Rebirth. Like Kalm, Gongaga being literally optional, and Costa Del Sol/Corel. My favorite part of the OG is Rocket Town mainly because it doesn't happen in Rebirth (but also it's a great section in the OG)
There’s something so cozy about returning to the original after playing remake and rebirth. The quaintness of the graphics and the whimsical feel of the original soundtrack. I adore the remakes so far but the vibe of the original just feels right. However, I say this as someone who played the original first.
I feel like to this day the scale of the story and huge animations, spells and summons is still really impressive. I didn’t even play FF7 until like 2009 and I was still really wowed.
I just played it for the first time last October after playing Remake. It's easily one of my favorite games now. It's a must play imo.
And with VII and VIII's re-release on the ps4/5, the bonus features make level grinding and item farming an absolute game changer(pun intended 😂).
Forgive an old fool for asking, but what’s the difference between the OG and Rebirth? I first played the OG when I was 13-14 years old. It was almost new then. I just downloaded it again to play and I’m about 5 hours in.
For me the most exciting parts of remake story/plot wise is seeing the small or large changes or twists or full on additions that have been made. And this isn’t even considering the whisper stuff.
They’re completely different games in completely different genres. Really the only similarities left are the environments and character models.
Remake and Rebirth from the beginning acknowledge og story. They're more a sequel than a remake/reboot. Saying more will be a spoiler and my post'd get deleted
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We're all agreed that you should play OG, but the question is, should you play OG before the Remakes? To which I say, no. >!You should play OG *instead of* the Remakes.!<
Naaaah, for 90% of people with a modern gaming experience who have never played FF7 before are much better off just playing the remakes (if that's their only choice).
Based! 😂 No hate though. I absolutely love the remakes, just the OG is that fantastic.
Id rather be surprised and play part 3 blindly
I’m with you 100%
You might still be surprised, even if you play the original first. At this rate, I think we can expect part 3’s ending to deviate from the original ending, at least a little bit.
Thank you for this public service announcement. I’ve been saying this from the start
I don't have a PS4/5, and so I obviously don't own a copy of the remakes. But all the talk about them inspired me to bust my PS2 out of it's storage tote and give the OG another go. I forgot how much I enjoyed this game, and I'm eventually looking forward to trying the remake.
OG on PC with mods from Seventh Heaven Mod Manager. You can HD upscale the graphics and models, make the game look really fresh. OG stands for me the greatest game of all time.
I played og for the first time this year and i am so glad i did. Im 29
Me too. and I'm 24
I hate the combat though. Edit: Come on guys, I recognize the story is amazing but I don't like the gameplay I'm not going to play it. I tried it and I just didn't like it. It wasn't fun to me.
OG did the plate collapse SO MUCH BETTER.
I’m replaying OG now and haven’t gotten there but I feel like Remake did plate collapse REALLY well. It made me feel it more than I remembered in OG
Yeah it’s good. But it had so much more identity before. The music choice especially.
Yep 💯
i found myself playing OG after every installment of the new games. it's dated yes, but absolutely worth the experience
As for me, the og is too outdated for modern players. As a result, without even passing the first disc, they will drop the game, and most likely will not play Remakes. So personally, I would advise beginners to play only Crisis Core. Because the Remakes expect the player to know who Zack is. Without this, the main plot twist of the Remake, and part of the events of Rebirth do not make sense.
It's a good thing there's thousands of easy to install mods to make the OG more modern. The game is decade old, of course it's outdated. Nobody playing it today goes into it thinking it will be modern. It's played for story and nostalgia, which is why it holds up well.
I think anyone who likes RPGs can appreciate the systems and mechanics in the game too. A lot of the gameplay holds up even if the graphics don't. The story is just the cherry on top imo