In the realm of gaming, especially when it comes to a monumental title like Final Fantasy 7, remakes hold a significant place. The original game's director, Yoshinori Kitase, emphasizes the need to strike a balance between making changes and respecting the long-time fans. As he states in an interview in Edge issue 405, "If we just reproduce the original game with no changes, it will feel nostalgic but not exciting. Fans of the original who know everything that's coming will soon get bored."

The Delicate Balance in Final Fantasy 7 Remakes

Respecting the Fans' Attachment

It is fascinating to note that a significant portion of Final Fantasy 7, perhaps even more, is now owned by the fans. They have a deep attachment to the characters that is on par with, if not greater than, that of the developers. Kitase realizes the importance of not altering these characters in a way that would alienate the fans. He explains, "Essentially half of Final Fantasy 7 belongs to them as well as us, specifically in terms of their attachment to the characters. We need to be cautious in not caning those characters by turning them into different kinds of people."This is precisely why the inclusion of the Whispers in the game was a crucial decision. As Kitase describes them, they are "a kind of unspoken message to the fans." They represent the idea that while some things change in the remake, the essence and the characters remain the same. This unique relationship between the creator and the audience is only possible in a remake like this.

Balancing Changes and Nostalgia

The challenge of remaking a beloved game lies in finding the right balance between introducing new elements and maintaining the nostalgia that the original game evokes. As Kitase continues, "We want to give the fans something new to enjoy while still staying true to the spirit of the original. It's a delicate dance that we have to perform."By making changes that enhance the gameplay and story without sacrificing the essence of the original, the remakes manage to capture the hearts of both new and old fans. It is this careful balance that makes the Final Fantasy 7 remakes a resounding success.

Stacking Up in the Best Games List

When it comes to evaluating the remakes, it is essential to look at how they stack up against other Final Fantasy games. Our list of the best Final Fantasy games provides a comprehensive comparison, highlighting the unique features and qualities of the remakes.The remakes stand out with their updated graphics, enhanced gameplay mechanics, and a deeper exploration of the story. They offer a fresh perspective on a classic game while still paying homage to its roots. This combination of old and new makes the Final Fantasy 7 remakes a must-play for both long-time fans and newcomers alike.