<div style='font: 9pt ; text-align: left; '>Let me start off by saying FF7 wasn't a bad game. I consider it to be a slightly above average RPG. What made me dislike it was that it was the next game in the FF series, particularly after the first 3 we got here we so amazing, particularly FF6. Maybe my expectations were so high that there was no way I would like it, but that didn't happen with other games that I was anticipating as much as FF7, like Mario 64, Zelda 64, Metal Gear Solid (I loved the first one since the late 80's), Symphony (I played every Castlevania near release since the first on the NES), and Chrono Cross (CT, FF6, and Panzer Saga were my 3 fav RPGs of all time up to that point; now CC is with that group). Now for specifics....
First off, up until you left Midgar, the game ruled ass. I really didn't find much wrong, aside from maybe average music (we'll discuss music later). Then you leave Midgar. The game, like every FF before it, just expands in scope big time. But in this one, it seemed to lose focus. The sidequests end up taking over the game and you almost forget what you were doing in the first place: chasing Sephy. Of course, it doesn't help that you don't see him for LONG stretches. Also, a lot of these sidequests that pop up are just dull. The one that sticks out in my mind (it's been 5 years now) is the skateboarding one. That had absolutely no use, it was just dumb in every way. It controls bad and just shouldn't be there. The mini tactical battle (can't remember the name) was kinda stupid too.
One of the other big issues was the characters. I just didn't care for any of them. Where in FF4 and FF6 they spend a good amount of time on each character developing them and doing some neat sidequests for each (a true ensemble cast), FF7 just did enough to make them different but that's it. They just became more faceless members of your party. Even Cid, who's just cool, is just there.
Then there's the music. Seriously, among the worst. There are a few good songs (like One-Winged Angel), but it PALES in comparison to FF4 or FF6. And considering the game was on 3 CDs, we shoulda had symphonic stuff, not midi. That wouldn't be an issue if the music ruled, but it didn't...at all.
It all boils down to the fact that the game just didn't live up to the standards set by the prequels. They ruled so damned much and all we get is a pretty, average sequel. I haven't played a FF since because after FF7, I just don't hold the series up to the prestige of Chrono Trigger/Cross (I'm getting Chrono Break right away) or Phantasy Star (yes, I liked PS3; don't care for online games, I'm just referring to the first 4). Of course, if Sega EVER makes a PDS sequel, I'm there right away.</div>
I was there on that fateful day, were you?
