The gorgeous remake of 'Final Fantasy 7' has been rebuilt from the ground up - here's everything we know

Kevin WebbJun 16, 2019, 19:30 IST

Square Enix

Square Enix has recreated the 1997 classic "Final Fantasy VII" from the ground up, with brand-new visuals and a completely different style of gameplay.
After more than three years of development, Square Enix finally shared details on what players can expect from "Final Fantasy VII Remake."
"Final Fantasy VII Remake" will be released in an episodic format, meaning players won't be able to experience the full story when the first episode drops on March 3, 2020.
The game looks beautiful so far and Square Enix has added tons of cinematic flair to the game's memorable story.
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"Final Fantasy VII" is one of the most celebrated video games of all-time, having influenced countless roleplaying games and inspiring a string of spin-off movies, books, and games.

Now, more than 20 years after the game was first released for the original Sony PlayStation, Square Enix is completely rebuilding "Final Fantasy VII" for a new generation.

"Final Fantasy VII Remake" will be a multi-part reimaging of the game with gorgeous new graphics, a completely new combat system, and greater emphasis on cinematic storytelling.

Back in 1997, the original "Final Fantasy VII" boasted state-of-the-art 3D graphics and more than 50 hours of gameplay spread across three CDs. "Final Fantasy VII Remake" looks to be just as massive - so massive, in fact,that Square Enix is breaking the game into separate chapters.

The first chapter of "Final Fantasy VII Remake" is set in the sprawling city of Midgar. Players spent roughly eight hours in the city during the original "Final Fantasy VII," but Square Enix says the new version of Midgar is big enough to be its own game. Ultimately, Square expects the first chapter of "Final Fantasy VII Remake" to fill two Blu-Ray discs, a rare feat for any modern game or movie.

"Final Fantasy VII Remake" will launch for the PlayStation 4 on March 3rd, 2020. Here's what we know so far:

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The first chapter of "Final Fantasy VII Remake" focuses entirely on the massive, futuristic city of Midgar.

Cloud Strife, the main character of "Final Fantasy VII," is a mercenary hired by a group of freedom fighters called Avalanche to help blow up a factory.

Barret Wallace is Avalanche's leader; the group want to take down an evil corporation called Shinra that's polluting the planet.

The story takes a big turn when Cloud meets Aerith Gainsborough, a flower girl with a mysterious connection to the planet's life force.

Armed with his giant Buster Sword, Cloud helps Avalanche fight Shinra guards, robots and other powerful enemies.

Unlike the original "Final Fantasy VII," combat in the remake isn't turn based. You'll be able to run around and attack freely. When your action meter fills, you can use magic or other special abilities.

"Final Fantasy VII Remake" will also let you swap between characters on the fly during battle so you can make the most of their individual abilities.

As the story progresses, you'll recruit more characters to your team for battle. Each has their own unique fighting style, set of skills, and magic spells.

Tifa Lockhart, Cloud's childhood friend, beats down enemies with fierce martial arts. Aerith has a wide range of magic spells, and often acts as the team's healer.

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