In a move that has avid gamers both nostalgic and eager, Square Enix has just announced the upcoming launch of Final Fantasy 7: Ever Crisis on iOS and Android platforms.
Scheduled for a September 7 release, there’s a metaphorical air of excitement surrounding this new off-shoot to what’s arguably the most iconic single entry in the best-selling Square Enix franchise.
Drawing from various chapters of the Final Fantasy 7 universe, Ever Crisis seamlessly merges story elements from spin-offs such as Advent Children, Before Crisis, Crisis Core, and Dirge of Cerberus. Fans will witness a blend of visual styles, from the modernized polygon appearance that recalls the original 1997 PlayStation game to battle sequences boasting graphics akin to those in the Final Fantasy VII Remake.
Release Date Announcement!
FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS will be officially released on iOS and Android on September 7 2023! Don't forget to pre-register now!
Pre-registration: https://t.co/k7x3hnUBgF #FF7EC #FF7EverCrisis #FF7 pic.twitter.com/5GLzXA2LGN
— FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS_EN｜FF7EC (@FFVII_EC_EN) August 10, 2023
For the uninitiated, Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis is no mere rehash. It’s dubbed as “another possibility for a remake” as it harks back to the story arcs of both Final Fantasy VII and Crisis Core, it also introduces new narrative elements. The new episodic format promises to keep players eagerly awaiting each new twist and revelation. And, while the game can be enjoyed for free, it also features Gacha elements, adding an extra layer of engagement for players.
Pre-registration has been open for a while, and the response has been nothing short of phenomenal. Over one million eager players have already pre-registered, unlocking several bonuses. As the milestones of 1.2 million and 1.5 million pre-registrations loom, Square Enix has tantalized fans with the promise of more in-game rewards, including 3,000 blue crystals, 30 draw tickets, and an array of Jumpstart item sets. Those who played the game during its closed beta test phase are guaranteed 15 gacha tickets, special outfits for beloved characters like Cloud, Tifa, and Aerith, and even the Zweihander weapon.
Given the lasting legacy and undeniable influence of Final Fantasy VII – a game that, upon its 1997 release, elevated the series to legendary status – the anticipation for Ever Crisis is well-deserved. It’s noteworthy, however, that while Final Fantasy VII and its main spin-offs have been revered, not all related ventures have struck gold. A case in point: Final Fantasy VII The First Soldier had a short-lived mobile run. This sets the stage for Ever Crisis to potentially rectify past missteps and solidify its place in mobile gaming history.
Feedback from the game’s closed beta test offers some revealing insights. With an impressive 87% of players rating the game at four or five out of five stars, and a staggering 90% keen to play upon its full launch, the preliminary reception has been overwhelmingly positive. Gamers have lauded the atmospheric visuals and evocative music. However, there’s always room for improvement, and critiques have centered on the game’s free-to-play mechanics, and UI elements.
To Square Enix’s credit, it has been quite receptive, outlining planned adjustments to UI, stamina tonics, and material requirements, among others.
As an added gesture, participants of the closed beta test can look forward to a unique weapon unlock – an exclusive to the character Glenn, 5? Apology in Hell.
In a climate where mobile games come and go, Square Enix is banking on Ever Crisis to be more than just a flash in the pan. If nothing else, Ever Crisis is a promising venture that could be the last for Square Enix as it hunkers down to focus on AAA experiences.
As a bonus, with Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth set to launch early next year, Ever Crisis doesn’t just serve as a bridge but also as a testament to the timeless appeal of the Final Fantasy 7 universe.
