When the first Final Fantasy VII came out, it was a huge leap forward for the PlayStation 1, the JRPG genre, and the entire Final Fantasy series. It kicked off a sprawling universe that continues to expand through games, movies, and more – a lasting impact very few games achieve.
It’s no surprise that such a beloved and popular game would get a remake, given the current trend. This led to the creation of the Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy, which retells the story of Cloud and his companions with updated graphics and gameplay.
These updated games aren’t just visually improved; they’ve also taken the story in a new direction, sometimes deviating from the original plot. This change has proven controversial, sparking debate among fans.
If you’ve played the original game – whether years ago or recently – you’ll remember that certain moments were particularly powerful. Because we know what’s supposed to happen, any changes or references to the original feel much more meaningful!
With the third and final game in this remake series still unnamed, now is a great time to revisit moments from Final Fantasy VII Remake and Rebirth and see how they feel different after playing the original 1997 game. Let’s get started!
This article discusses the stories of multiple Final Fantasy VII games – the original, Remake, and Rebirth – so be warned, it contains spoilers!
10. Opening & Bombing Mission
Final Fantasy VII Remake
There’s no better way to start this list than with the opening cinematic from Final Fantasy VII Remake. It’s truly iconic and guaranteed to give you goosebumps!
I really appreciate how accurately this recreates the original scene. It beautifully shows off the futuristic, high-tech city powered by Mako energy, and then introduces Aerith and her flowers, perfectly capturing the hopeful message that even in difficult times, there’s always something positive to be found.
The scene then shifts abruptly to Cloud and Avalanche carrying out their bombing run. Just like the original game, this new version brilliantly times the iconic opening theme with the intense music of the mission. It’s a fantastic example of skillful direction, paying tribute to the game’s history while also showcasing its enhanced visuals and scope. It’s everything you want in a video game!
9. Nibelheim’s First Visit
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
The game begins with a fantastic scene set in Nibelheim, a hugely important place in Final Fantasy VII’s history. I think this was a clever way to immediately surprise and engage longtime fans.
There’s a particular moment in this scene that always brings a smile to my face: a specific locked door, knowing what really happens behind it.
Okay, so you remember that creepy door in the Shinra Mansion basement, the one surrounded by coffins? Yeah, the one where Vincent Valentine is chilling? Seriously, that guy is a legend and has the best look in all of Final Fantasy! I bet you tried opening it anyway, even though you knew it wouldn’t budge at that point, didn’t you? Come on, admit it!
8. Motorcycle Sequence
Final Fantasy VII Remake
The motorcycle chase sequence was once celebrated for its groundbreaking graphics on the original PlayStation. Considering the game was an early example of 3D technology, it was a truly impressive experience for many gamers – including myself – and often their first time seeing fast-paced, three-dimensional action.
The film’s amazing visuals, combined with a fast-paced, exciting sequence – something the genre hadn’t really seen before – quickly made it a memorable highlight.
The scene really cemented Cloud’s iconic look and is still one of the most memorable parts of the original game. Seeing it recreated in the remake is incredibly nostalgic – it’s like a ‘Ratatouille’ moment for anyone who remembers playing the game back in 1997!
7. Entering the Wall Market
Final Fantasy VII Remake
I honestly struggled not to make this whole list about Wall Market – it was just so much fun and had so much to do that it quickly became my favorite part of the Remake.
This part was especially surprising because the original game was so restricted by the technology of the time, I had no idea what to expect when recreating it for the new version.
It’s incredibly heartwarming to see this place transformed into a vibrant, bustling district after all this time. The expansion feels natural and really captures the fun, quirky spirit of Final Fantasy VII that fans adore. Whether it’s the exciting Corneo Cup, the challenging Hell House fight, or the funny quest with Johnny for The Sauce, it’s a fantastic way to revitalize a beloved location.
6. Gold Saucer Date
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
For anyone familiar with the original Final Fantasy VII, the name “Gold Saucer” immediately brings to mind one unforgettable moment: the date scene.
This sequence first appeared in 1997 and became well-known for letting players enjoy a special moment – whether romantic, peaceful, or funny – on a gondola ride with someone they liked. However, this experience wasn’t guaranteed; it depended on how well you’d built a relationship with that character through your conversations and actions during the game.
The enjoyable dating mechanic returns in Rebirth, and it’s even better! There are more date variations now, including a unique scene with Red XIII. While most fans agree Tifa is the best date, exploring all the different outcomes is a fun reason to replay the game.
5. Cait Sith’s First Appearance
Final Fantasy VII Remake
As a longtime fan, this one’s pretty obvious! We all remember Cait Sith finally joining Cloud’s team in Rebirth as a playable character – and he’s a blast to play, honestly. But did you know he actually popped up in Remake too? It was just a quick couple of appearances, so only those of us who’ve been around for a while probably noticed!
We’ve discovered that the seemingly psychic cat is actually a puppet operated by Reeve, a Shinra employee who becomes upset with the company’s harsh actions and chooses to help Avalanche. We first see Reeve subtly altering wanted posters for Tifa, Cloud, and Barret, with the puppet visible behind him at a table.
Man, seeing Cait Sith show up again towards the end of the game, just standing there without his little Moogle ride, really got to me. But it wasn’t just the sight of him – it was watching him react to the Sector 7 Plate falling, knowing who was actually looking out through those cat eyes. As someone who’s played this game before, that moment genuinely gave me chills. It was a huge reveal for longtime fans, and it was so powerful to witness.
4. Arm in Arm with Tifa and Aerith
Final Fantasy VII Remake
The discussion over who’s better – Tifa or Aerith – is a never-ending one for fans of Final Fantasy VII, whether you’re talking about the original game from 1997 or the recent remakes. It’s a debate that probably won’t ever be settled, though many people already have their favorite.
Remake is really enjoyable because it cleverly uses and subverts player expectations. There’s one scene in particular that’s incredibly memorable and makes you want to pause the game just to savor the moment.
This funny scene happens just before Cloud, Tifa, and Aerith enter a spooky area near the Sector 6 Wall Market. Both Tifa and Aerith get scared and automatically grab Cloud’s arms, and they’ll hold on until the player starts moving. It’s a lighthearted moment that playfully references the well-known romantic tension between the characters, and it shows a more vulnerable and relatable side of Cloud.
3. Aerith’s Death
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
It’s often said that experiencing something painful a second time is even harder. This perfectly captures how veteran players felt when Sephiroth killed Aerith again in the story of Final Fantasy VII.
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The emotional punch landed just as hard as before, likely because the remake series had subtly made us wonder if the outcome could change. The introduction of the Whispers and the idea of challenging fate gave us hope that things might be different this time. However, that hope was ultimately unfounded.
The developers masterfully created a moment of hope, then quickly took it away – a painful but effective storytelling choice. It serves as a stark reminder that even when we fight against destiny, some sorrows are permanent and deeply ingrained in the world around us.
2. Zack as a Playable Character
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Zack Fair is a hugely important character in the world of Final Fantasy VII, but he can be confusing for players new to the series. This confusion is intentional; the mystery surrounding who Zack is plays a key role in understanding Cloud’s complicated past.
Even just glimpses of this famous SOLDIER in the Remake excited longtime players. But getting to experience Zack’s story so fully in Rebirth, and actually play as him, is a truly special moment for fans.
It’s incredibly satisfying to see this character, who started as a mysterious background element, become a central hero and finally get the attention he deserves! And for anyone who played Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, seeing him in this new story will be a powerfully emotional experience.
1. Remake’s Ending
Final Fantasy VII Remake
As a long-time fan, there was no way I could start this list without talking about where it all began – the original Final Fantasy VII. And honestly, I couldn’t end it with anything but the ending of Remake. That’s when things really got interesting for us veterans. It was the moment we all had to decide what we thought of this new take on a game we loved.
Although small changes happen throughout the game, the ending is where the Whispers really become important, suggesting that the story isn’t as fixed as long-time players previously believed.
These mysterious entities, known as Whispers, seem to safeguard the intended storyline of the planet – a storyline many believe is the same as the original 1997 game. This makes the current situation particularly impactful because even longtime fans who know the story well are surprised by the new developments and unsure of what will happen next.
I think it’s fantastic! The remake trilogy took a story we all know and somehow made it feel fresh and exciting, which I really enjoyed.
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2026-04-09 17:42