Should You Play the Original Final Fantasy 7 Before FF7 Revelation? The Director Shares His Perspective

Introduction to the Conclusion of a Legendary Trilogy

As fans eagerly look toward the horizon, April 8, 2027, marks a monumental date for the Final Fantasy franchise. Seven years after the groundbreaking launch of FF7 Remake, Square Enix is set to bring its ambitious reimagining to a close with FF7 Revelation. This final chapter is heavily anticipated by millions of RPG enthusiasts worldwide. At the same time, this milestone presents a tempting entry point for newcomers wanting to discover a pillar of gaming history that originated back on the PlayStation 1 in 1997. But a pressing question remains: Is it necessary or even recommended to experience the original masterpiece before diving into the conclusion of the remake trilogy?

Naoki Hamaguchi Weighs In on the Original vs. Remake Debate

The debate has divided the community for years, but the discussion recently took center stage when GamesRadar+ asked Naoki Hamaguchi, the director of FF7 Revelation, for his official stance. According to Hamaguchi, players who advise newcomers to experience the 1997 classic first are "completely right." He emphasized that the lore and narrative of the Remake series are deeply intertwined with the overarching history of the universe, treating the original game as an essential foundation.

For those unaware, Square Enix's modern trilogy is far more than a simple coat of paint. Instead, it functions as a meta-sequel. The plot does not merely retell the 1997 events; it subverts, expands, and alters them in fascinating ways. Titles like Remake, Rebirth, and the upcoming Revelation exist parallel to the original game, enriching it rather than replacing it.

Hamaguchi notes that familiarity with the original storyline gives players an extra layer of appreciation: "If you know the original plot and can spot what is changing or what feels like it’s about to change, you will have more fun and get more enjoyment out of it." However, this does not mean the original game is mandatory. The developers carefully crafted the modern trilogy so that anyone can jump straight into any installment and enjoy a phenomenal standalone experience.

Is Starting With the Remake Trilogy a Better Approach?

Interestingly, Hamaguchi also acknowledges the validity of the reverse approach. For a modern gamer, beginning with the remake trilogy might actually hold distinct advantages. He points out that diving into the narrative through the breathtaking graphical fidelity of the modern titles can make the emotional impacts hit even harder compared to the classic polygonal graphics of 1997. In his view, starting fresh with the new generation of games could arguably be "a better way to do it."

Ultimately, there is no wrong answer. Whether you choose to dive into the nostalgia-fueled roots of the 1997 original or jump straight into the cinematic brilliance of the modern trilogy, your journey through the world of Final Fantasy 7 will be unforgettable. With a few months left before the release of FF7 Revelation, players still have plenty of time to choose their path and prepare for the ultimate conclusion.