Final Fantasy VII Remake Edges Out Final Fantasy XV as the Superior Experience
As a long-time gamer and Final Fantasy fan who has sunk over 100 hours into both Final Fantasy XV and Final Fantasy VII Remake, I believe the FFVII Remake stands as the better overall game due to its innovative combat, emotionally resonant story, and strong critical reception.
Gameplay & Combat
Combat System
- FFVII Remake features a hybrid system blending real-time and turn-based combat for strategic, thrilling battles
- FFXV is purely action-based – flashier but less tactical
Exploration
- FFXV has a massive open world with quests, dungeons, and sweeping vistas
- FFVII is largely linear, but offers in-depth exploration of Midgar
Character Progression & Customization
- Both feature EXP systems to learn abilities and increase stats
- FFVII has a deeper materia skill system
| Final Fantasy VII Remake | Final Fantasy XV | |
|---|---|---|
| Combat | Hybrid real-time and turn-based | Pure action |
| Exploration | Linear with some open hubs | Massive open world |
| Customization | Materia system for magic/abilities | Weapons/accessories |
Overall, FFVII Remake strikes a better balance between tactical and flowing combat.
Story & Characters
- Emotional Impact
- FFVII‘s story of eco-terrorists facing off against a sinister corporation inspires shock, sadness, joy
- FFXV telling an emotional coming-of-age tale about brotherhood
- Character Archetypes
- FFVII features iconic hero Cloud, rebel leader Barrett, mystical Aerith
- FFXV portrays very human leads like reluctant prince Noctis
- Worldbuilding
- FFVII explores sci-fi cyberpunk city of Midgar
- FFXV dazzles with a fantasy realm rich in lore about ancient gods
I give the storytelling edge to FFVII Remake. While FFXV tugs at the heartstrings, FFVII‘s operatic plot created unforgettable moments that redefined RPG storytelling. Players weep over the fates of Cloud, Tifa, and Aerith decades later for good reason.
Music & Visuals
- Art Direction
- FFVII stuns with meticulously detailed textures bringing Midgar to new graphical heights
- FFXV offers gorgeous natural landscapes like lush forests and crashing waves
- Iconic Music
- FFVII‘s orchestral score with themes like "One Winged Angel" resonates emotionally
- FFXV soundtrack inspires adventure crossing sweeping orchestras and somber folk ballads
Both games look and sound utterly sublime, making the most of modern hardware. However, FFVII‘s visual overhaul of a legendary setting edges it ahead.
Critical Reception & Sales
| Metric | Final Fantasy VII Remake | Final Fantasy XV |
|---|---|---|
| Metacritic | 88% Overall | 81% Overall |
| Sales | Over 5+ million copies | Over 10 million copies |
| Peak Concurrent Players (Steam) | 73k | 16k |
Both games resonated with critics. However, FFVII Remake drafting off decades of anticipation gave it an extra boost.
While both deliver emotional, action-packed journeys filled with magic and monsters, Final Fantasy VII Remake stands out as the pinnacle Final Fantasy experience thanks to its masterful blend of old and new. From bone-shaking summon spells to quiet moments of stolen joy in the Sector 7 slums, FFVII Remake‘s epic scope and meticulous worldbuilding transports players into the boots of an iconic hero as he battles against fate itself. Both longtime fans and newcomers will discover an experience that balances nostalgia with fresh gameplay innovations for an definitive, unforgettable RPG adventure.
