Final Fantasy 7’s Opening Act is RPG Perfection

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Many continue to highly value Final Fantasy 7, and rightfully so, as it boasts memorable characters, an engaging narrative, and a battle system that brings enjoyment. The game’s quality is such that Square Enix has decided to create a complete trilogy based on this one game, incorporating contemporary mechanics and a real-time combat system.

The opening scene of Final Fantasy 7 is a flawless example of Japanese Role-Playing Games (JRPG). To put it simply, it’s perfectly paced, effectively delivers information, and is an enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Although this game may appear outdated when compared to its remake, its opening remains impactful. The distinctive tunes and starry backdrop evoke anticipation among players, hinting at an enjoyable experience ahead. As the scene unfolds, we find ourselves gazing at Aerith’s face as she goes about her daily routine in the city. Soon after, a train journey to the Mako reactor begins, setting the stage for the adventure to come.

Soon after, Jesse, Biggs, and Wedge discreetly eliminate guards, hinting that we’ve infiltrated a significant location. Barrett subsequently arrives and orders the main character, Cloud, to reveal himself. This initiates a fight with two relatively weak guards, underscoring Cloud’s superior strength compared to many others.

Following that brief skirmish, Jesse, Biggs, and Wedge couldn’t help but praise how remarkable Cloud is, as he holds the prestigious military rank of SOLDIER in the universe of Final Fantasy 7.

Shortly following this, you’ll join forces with Barrett, which will make the fights slightly less challenging. As we progress through these battles, it becomes apparent that both Cloud and Barrett possess certain advantages over specific foes. Cloud inflicts greater damage on common humans and beasts, while Barrett’s gun proves somewhat more effective against flying adversaries.

Shortly following this, Cloud is assigned the challenging mission of setting up an explosive device aimed at demolishing the Mako Reactor we currently inhabit. As players are on the verge of activating the detonator, they’re abruptly thrust into a confrontation with a formidable boss – a colossal robotic scorpion. This mechanical beast inflicts heavy damage and proves resistant to the standard attacks by Cloud and Barrett. Fortunately, Cloud has Materia at his disposal, which allows him to swiftly defeat this boss using his Thunder ability.

In the current scenario, Final Fantasy 7 ratchets up the intensity slightly. Upon venturing back outside, players may encounter random adversaries, requiring Cloud and Barrett to either swiftly eliminate them or flee. At one juncture, Cloud is tasked with rescuing Jesse, infusing a dash of suspense into this initial act.

In due course, you manage to safely exit the reactor and head towards the 7th Heaven Bar. It’s there that you encounter Tifa for the first time, which sets unrealistic standards for the women you will meet in your future. This is essentially where the prologue concludes, although we learn more about Cloud through conversations with Tifa.

As I delve deeper into this captivating world, the seamless blend of narrative and gameplay keeps me engaged and on my toes. The skirmishes may not be too tough now, but they’re tantalizing glimpses of challenges ahead. Moreover, exploration plays a more significant role as we progress, offering a sneak peek into what lies beyond the horizon.

The beginning scene of Final Fantasy 7 is simply outstanding. Compared to Chrono Trigger, it’s challenging to imagine a more engaging prologue that leaves players yearning for what’s to come next. Unfortunately, the recent remakes lack smooth analog control movement.

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2025-05-01 12:42