Is Final Fantasy 7 Connected to Other Games?

The Final Fantasy series, developed by Square Enix (formerly Square), is one of the most iconic and beloved franchises in the history of video games. Since its inception in 1987, the series has captivated players with its rich storytelling, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay. Among the numerous entries in the series, Final Fantasy VII (1997) stands out as a cultural phenomenon, often credited with popularizing Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs) in the West. Its impact on gaming culture, storytelling, and even the broader entertainment industry is undeniable.

However, one question that often arises among fans and newcomers alike is whether Final Fantasy VII is connected to other games in the series or if it exists as a standalone title. The answer to this question is both straightforward and complex, as it involves understanding the structure of the Final Fantasy series, the concept of shared universes, and the unique expansion of Final Fantasy VII into its own sub-franchise.

The Standalone Nature of Mainline Final Fantasy Games

First and foremost, it’s important to clarify that the mainline Final Fantasy games (numbered entries like Final Fantasy I through Final Fantasy XVI) are not directly connected to one another in terms of story, characters, or settings. Each mainline game is a self-contained narrative with its own unique world, lore, and cast of characters. For example, Final Fantasy VI takes place in a steampunk-inspired world with magic and technology, while Final Fantasy IX is a more traditional fantasy setting with medieval castles and airships. The only recurring elements across these games are thematic motifs, such as the presence of chocobos, moogles, and summons like Shiva and Ifrit.

This design philosophy allows each game to tell a complete story without being constrained by the continuity of previous entries. It also gives developers the creative freedom to experiment with new ideas, settings, and gameplay mechanics. As a result, Final Fantasy VII is not directly connected to Final Fantasy VI or Final Fantasy VIII in terms of plot or characters.

The Final Fantasy VII Universe: A Sub-Franchise of Its Own

While Final Fantasy VII is not connected to other mainline Final Fantasy games, it has grown into its own expansive universe through spin-offs, prequels, sequels, and adaptations. This interconnected web of media is often referred to as the Compilation of Final Fantasy VII, a term coined by Square Enix to describe the various projects that expand upon the original game’s story and world.

The Compilation of Final Fantasy VII includes:

1. Final Fantasy VII (1997): The original game, which follows Cloud Strife, a former SOLDIER operative, as he joins the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE to fight against the megacorporation Shinra and the enigmatic Sephiroth.

2. Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children (2005): A CGI film set two years after the events of the original game. It explores the aftermath of the game’s story, focusing on Cloud’s struggle to move on from his past and the emergence of a new threat.

3. Before Crisis: Final Fantasy VII (2004): A mobile game (originally released in Japan) that focuses on the Turks, Shinra’s elite operatives, and their missions prior to the events of Final Fantasy VII.

4. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII (2007): A prequel for the PlayStation Portable (PSP) that delves into the backstory of Zack Fair, a key character in Final Fantasy VII, and his relationship with Cloud and Sephiroth.

5. Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy VII (2006): A third-person shooter for the PlayStation 2 that follows Vincent Valentine, a former Turk with a mysterious past, as he confronts a new enemy organization called Deepground.

6. Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020): A reimagining of the original game’s story, with updated graphics, gameplay, and expanded narrative elements. The Remake introduces new twists and hints at a larger, multiversal storyline.

7. Final Fantasy VII: The First Soldier (2021): A battle royale mobile game set in the world of Final Fantasy VII, taking place before the events of the original game.

8. Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis (2023): A mobile game that retells the stories of Final Fantasy VII and its spin-offs in a condensed format, with episodic chapters.

These projects collectively expand the lore of Final Fantasy VII, providing deeper insights into its characters, world, and events. While they are all connected to the original game, they are not directly tied to other Final Fantasy titles.

Shared Themes and Easter Eggs

Although Final Fantasy VII is not directly connected to other Final Fantasy games, the series as a whole is known for its recurring themes, motifs, and Easter eggs. For example:

• Chocobos and Moogles: These iconic creatures appear in almost every Final Fantasy game, including Final Fantasy VII. While they are not part of the same continuity, their presence creates a sense of familiarity for long-time fans.

• Summons: Many of the summons (or Espers) in Final Fantasy VII, such as Ifrit, Shiva, and Bahamut, appear in other Final Fantasy games. However, their roles and designs vary from game to game.

• Cid: A character named Cid appears in nearly every Final Fantasy game, often as an engineer or airship pilot. In Final Fantasy VII, Cid Highwind is a playable character and the pilot of the airship Highwind.

• Easter Eggs: Some Final Fantasy games include subtle references to other entries in the series. For example, Final Fantasy IX features a play called “I Want to Be Your Canary,” which is a nod to Final Fantasy VII’s opera scene in Final Fantasy VI.

These connections are more about celebrating the series’ legacy than establishing a shared universe.

The Final Fantasy VII Remake and Multiverse Theory

The release of Final Fantasy VII Remake in 2020 introduced a new layer of complexity to the Final Fantasy VII universe. While the Remake largely follows the story of the original game, it introduces changes and new elements that suggest a larger, multiversal narrative. For example, the Remake features a mysterious entity known as the Whispers, which seem to enforce the original timeline of Final Fantasy VII. By defying the Whispers, the characters in the Remake may be altering the course of history, potentially creating a new timeline.

This has led to speculation that future installments of the Remake project (such as Final Fantasy VII Rebirth) could explore alternate realities or even connect to other Final Fantasy games in unexpected ways. However, as of now, these connections remain speculative and have not been confirmed by Square Enix.

Conclusion

In summary, Final Fantasy VII is not directly connected to other mainline Final Fantasy games in terms of story or characters. Each mainline entry in the series is a standalone experience with its own unique world and narrative. However, Final Fantasy VII has grown into its own expansive universe through the Compilation of Final Fantasy VII, which includes spin-offs, prequels, sequels, and adaptations that expand upon the original game’s story and characters.

While the Final Fantasy series as a whole shares recurring themes, motifs, and Easter eggs, these connections are more about celebrating the franchise’s legacy than establishing a shared continuity. The Final Fantasy VII Remake has introduced new possibilities for storytelling, but its connections to other Final Fantasy games remain speculative at this time.

Ultimately, Final Fantasy VII stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in video games, and its enduring legacy continues to inspire new generations of players and creators alike. Whether experienced as a standalone title or as part of its expanded universe, Final Fantasy VII remains a cornerstone of gaming history.