The Chaotic Birth of Final Fantasy VII: A Game Changer in RPG History

In a recent interview with Gameinformer, the creators of Final Fantasy VII shed light on the turbulent development that shaped the iconic RPG. Tetsuya Nomura revealed the chaotic yet innovative approach, describing it as a blend of calculation and spontaneity. Nomura reminisced about scripts changing on the fly, a practice that would be impractical in today's gaming landscape.

The transition from Final Fantasy VI to VII marked a pivotal shift in development philosophy. Nomura emphasized the need for change, prompting a move towards a more calculated approach from Final Fantasy VIII onward. The team, led by director Yoshinori Kitase, implemented a meticulous approval process to maintain narrative cohesion, a practice carried forward to subsequent titles.

Beyond its groundbreaking development, Final Fantasy VII's themes still resonate. Kitase highlighted the enduring relevance of the game's exploration of corporate greed, environmentalism, and mental health. The concept of Lifestream, as envisioned by writer Kazushige Nojima, remains a powerful representation of life's cyclical nature.

Despite its acclaim, Kitase expressed some embarrassment over the original game's portrayal of social issues, acknowledging its youthful and naive nature. However, Motomu Toriyama, an event planner on the project, defended the team's efforts, stating they always strived to deliver their best.

The interview also touched on the impact of Final Fantasy VII's themes on today's societal context, unintentionally mirroring real-world concerns. The developers, while recognizing the game's imperfections, believe it contributed significantly to the RPG genre and remains a timeless classic.

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Source:

gameinformer.com