Final Fantasy VII Remake Combat Guide: How It Deviates From the Classic

Astutely titled Final Fantasy VII Remake, the reimagining contains essentially the same elements that endeared gamers to the original: a compelling story, iconic characters, and an unforgettable soundtrack. But how precisely have the developers offered a completely fresh experience for newcomers and fans alike? Perhaps the game’s most significant deviation from the classic is the combat system. Final Fantasy VII Remake features an entirely overhauled combat engine built from the ground up.

Real-time combat

Unlike the original’s focus on turn-based combat, Final Fantasy VII Remake features an emphasis on its real-time combat system. The reworked, action-oriented combat engine creates new opportunities for player expression and varying approaches in battle. Players can control several characters throughout the game. All party members utilize varying weapons, stats, abilities, and special moves.

Players begin with Cloud Strife, the protagonist of the game. Cloud is an all-around character boasting a broad sword that slashes away at foes. His signature ability enables him to switch between two fighting styles: Operator Mode and Punisher Mode. His default style Operator Mode grants him a wide range of attack and nimble movement. Using a single-button input, Cloud can transition into his Punisher Mode style. This style enables more focused offensive capabilities in conjunction with counter-attacks but drastically reduces his mobility.

As players proceed throughout the game, they are introduced to more characters that are added to the party. Character utilization is typically decided by the player, with party members intended to function in battle according to strengths, specialties, and needs.

Magic

Another massive component of Remake’s combat system is magic. Used in both combat and the overworld, effectively applying and managing magic points (MP) plays a vital role in success within the game. Party members learn and upgrade magic primarily through augments known as “materia.” Magic can be used either offensively to debuff enemies, or defensively to buff party members. Defensive magic establishes opportunity for party members to apply advantages or “buffs”: examples include hastening usage of weapon abilities and reduction of damage taken. Players can also use magic to heal or revive party members.

Offensive magic on the opposite hand affords opportunity for party members to weaken or “debuff” enemies with negative effects: examples include halting enemy usage of magic and draining an opponent’s health. Finally, there are several types of elements available in Remake: fire, ice, lightning, and wind. Elemental magic affects opponents depending on their elemental composition. An elemental attack can inflict massive damage on an opponent weak to that particular element, while an opponent resistant to a particular element may take little damage or even be healed. Regardless of the type of magic used, it is imperative in battle to monitor available MP and strategically employ the use of magic during tougher challenges.

Main takeaways

Remake offers a plethora of ways to tackle combat. Players are encouraged to approach battles at their own pace and style. Perhaps a player prefers getting dirty in up-close, risky melee scuffles that can potentially decimate enemy forces quickly. Another player may prefer utilizing long-range attacks that slowly whittle enemies down while they are distracted. No matter the method, battle strategy and preparation are a critical component to effective progression within the game. Regardless of how players decide to tackle the new combat system, Remake offers an immersive and satisfying gameplay experience for all.