continued
This is one of the few games that can't be described effectively with
words and screen shots. You need to play it in order to grasp the style
and animation skills of the artists. One word of warning, though.
I've read posts from several angry users
whose video cards won't work with the game, even when playing solely in
software-rendering mode. Although the game supports most Voodoo
Graphics-based cards, Eidos specifically maintains that Voodoo Rush owners
will need to update their drivers and is relying on 3Dfx for the new
drivers. That explains why my own Intergraph Voodoo Rush card caused lots
of display problems. Unless you know your video card is specifically
supported, I suggest buying the game from a store that accepts returns.
This game isn't essentially much different from its console
predecessor, which is fine by me. In fact, if it weren't for the many
issues that have cropped up, evidenced in Eidos's own technical FAQ, FFVII
would have been a GameWorthy, five-X title.
Faustian
Fistfest
If FFVII works with your video card, you're in
for a treat. This is a game that can be played for months and still remain
fresh. There is no multiplayer capability, but the game doesn't need it.
The story is intriguing and simple, elegant and crude, and even touching
at times. This is what the single-player interactive entertainment
experience is all about. There are more than enough weapons, spells, and
monsters to keep traditional PC RPG fans happy, plus action elements to
shake things up. FFVII is the first PC fistfest that's also a feast for
the eyes, complete with a legendary plot befitting Faust. (Try saying that
three times fast.) Frankly, you can't sum up Final Fantasy VII in a tidy
little package. There are too many interesting subplots, too many
secondary and hidden aspects to the game. You've got to play it to
appreciate the work that went into this masterpiece.
Tips
-You'll quickly find your
inventory overflowing with items that you never use because they aren't
convenient. At first, battle is easy, and you might not need these items,
but eventually you will. Because battle is the most time-critical event in
the game, keep battle items near the top, ideally in the first few slots
so you can use them quickly. When Chocobo hunting, put greens in the first
slot so you can use them before your quarry runs away.
-In order to win
a battle, sometimes you have to do the unexpected--like attack yourself or
"help" your enemy. For example, if an enemy imprisons one of your
characters, you can sometimes break free by attacking your own character.
Likewise, at times you can do damage to an undead enemy by casting life or
using Phoenix Down on it.
-Keep trying. For example, there is a rare,
early Megalixer (restores everyone's health and magic points!) hidden in a
cabinet on the top floor of the Inn in Kalm Town. You can't reach it at
first, but keep trying and you'll get it. Keep this in mind for other
obstacles.
-Here's how to catch a Chocobo after you've visited the
Chocobo farm: select Equip Chocobo Lure Materia. Run around the world map
on the Chocobo tracks. When you fight a battle, a Chocobo will appear on
the enemy's side--don't attack it! Feed it greens to keep it from running
away. Destroy the other creatures before the Chocobo escapes.
Congratulations: you should now be riding a Chocobo. If you get off, it
will run away.
-Riding Chocobos is useful for getting around the world
map and avoiding fights. Later in the game you'll find/breed ones that can
cross water and climb mountains. Use your first Chocobo to cross the marsh
to the southwest of the Chocobo farm and avoid the Midgar Zolom. The
adventure is just beginning...
If you liked this game, you might want to try Might and
Magic VI: The Mandate of Heaven.