Summary
- Release Year: 2007
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: PlayStation Portable
- Developers: Square Enix
- Publishers: Square Enix
Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (2007): A Prequel Worth Revisiting
Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII is a prequel to the iconic role-playing game Final Fantasy VII, released in 2007 for the PlayStation Portable. The game follows the story of Zack Fair, a young SOLDIER operative who dreams of becoming a hero. Players experience Zack’s journey through the eyes of a SOLDIER operative, fighting alongside iconic characters like Cloud Strife and Sephiroth, while uncovering the secrets of Mako energy and the Shinra Corporation.
Gameplay: A Dynamic Battle System with a Twist
Crisis Core’s battle system is a real-time affair, with players controlling Zack in fast-paced combat against a variety of enemies. The unique Digital Mind Wave (D.M.W.) system adds an extra layer of strategy and excitement to battles. The D.M.W. is a roulette-like system that randomly triggers special attacks, summons, and other abilities based on the player’s actions and the status of their party members. This system keeps battles engaging and unpredictable, encouraging players to adapt their strategies on the fly.
Story: A Compelling Prequel that Expands the FFVII Universe
As a prequel, Crisis Core delves into the backstory of Final Fantasy VII, shedding light on key events and characters that shaped the original game. Players witness Zack’s rise through the ranks of SOLDIER, his friendship with Cloud, and his tragic encounter with Sephiroth. The game also introduces new characters, such as Angeal Hewley and Genesis Rhapsodos, who play pivotal roles in Zack’s journey.
The story of Crisis Core is both epic and deeply personal, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and the consequences of one’s choices. Zack’s journey is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with both triumph and heartbreak. The game’s narrative strength lies in its ability to make players genuinely care about Zack and his companions, making their sacrifices all the more impactful.
Graphics and Presentation: Pushing the Limits of the PSP
For its time, Crisis Core showcased impressive graphics and presentation on the PlayStation Portable. The game’s character models and environments are detailed and expressive, brought to life by vibrant colors and fluid animations. The CG cutscenes, which are seamlessly integrated into gameplay, are particularly stunning, rivaling the quality of console games at the time.
Crisis Core’s soundtrack is a memorable blend of orchestral and electronic music, composed by Takeharu Ishimoto. The music perfectly captures the game’s atmosphere, from the soaring melodies of triumphant battles to the somber tones of emotional cutscenes. The voice acting, featuring a talented cast including Steve Burton as Zack and Rick Gomez as Sephiroth, adds depth and personality to the characters.
Legacy: A PSP Gem that Deserves a Wider Audience
Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII was a critical and commercial success upon its release, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its engaging combat, compelling story, and impressive presentation. However, due to its exclusivity to the PlayStation Portable, it has remained a somewhat hidden gem within the Final Fantasy franchise.
In recent years, there have been growing calls for a remaster or remake of Crisis Core, especially after the success of Final Fantasy VII Remake. A modern re-release would allow a wider audience to experience Zack’s epic journey and appreciate its contributions to the overall Final Fantasy VII story.
Conclusion: A Must-Play for Final Fantasy Fans
Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII is a captivating prequel that expands the beloved FFVII universe with a compelling story, dynamic combat, and stunning presentation. While it may have been limited by the PlayStation Portable’s hardware at the time, the game’s qualities still shine through today. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Final Fantasy VII or a newcomer to the series, Crisis Core is a must-play that will leave a lasting impression.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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