Final Fantasy VII, the iconic game that redefined the JRPG genre

The mid-90s were a turning point for video games, and the launch of the first PlayStation console in 1994 opened up new opportunities for developers.

Japanese RPG video games (video games in which players take on the role of one or more characters and guide them through story, combat, and character development) have particularly benefited, with Final Fantasy VII being the most important breakthrough.

Although JRPG games had already had popular titles such as Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy VI, the genre was still relatively unpopular in the Western world compared to sports and shooters. Final Fantasy VII laid the foundation for all subsequent video games and finally opened up JRPGs to a wider audience. Few titles have achieved the legendary reputation of Final Fantasy VII, and nearly three decades later the game still has a strong influence. The game was released in North America (after its Japanese release) on September 7, 1997, combining a large cast of characters, mature themes, and a complex storyline with subplots that are still analyzed today. Within weeks of its release, Final Fantasy VII had sold millions of copies worldwide, with sales in the United States completely surpassing those of previous games in the series. Final Fantasy VII became a global phenomenon and directly influenced other Japanese developers to bring their games to the Western market.

The game provided a cinematic experience as what begins as a simple mission quickly develops into a story of political conflicts, environmental issues, and moral dilemmas, with an epic confrontation against the legendary Sephiroth.

Final Fantasy VII made the most of the PS1 hardware as its complex narrative blended personal struggles with epic stakes, creating emotional moments and sustaining the larger struggle to save the planet. Its innovation, artistry and emotional depth captivated critics and players alike, setting the standard for the JRPG genre.

Final Fantasy VII's influence is not limited to the past. Many of its design philosophies are still seen today through the cinematic cutscenes, complex narratives, and character-driven stories that have become commonplace in the gaming industry, especially in this genre. Many developers cite the game as an inspiration, and even creators outside the JRPG genre find influences in Final Fantasy VII.

Square Enix has capitalized on its success through spin-offs and modern reinterpretations. Final Fantasy VII Remake and Rebirth bring the legendary story to new generations, while Dirge of Cerberus, Crisis Core, and Advent Children expand the world of the original game.

Final Fantasy VII remains an iconic game 28 years later that redefined the JRPG genre, showing that video games can be more than just entertainment.