Final Fantasy VII for the PC was the game that introduced me to the Final Fantasy series. That's right, I've never played a FF game until mid 1998. This game was released roughly a year after the PlayStation version, which, unfortunately I've never played. Therefore I can't compare the two versions. Anyway I'll get on with the review.

This game is unlike anything you've played on the PC before. That doesn't mean it's terrible or terrific, it's just different. The polygonal characters, rendered backgrounds, cutscenes, plus RPG elements all add up to one unforgettable experience.

You take on the role of Cloud Strife who apparently is an ex-member of "SOLDIER," an elite group of warriors of the evil Shinra Organization. During the process of the game he can befriend 8 other characters.

The game plays a bit like Chrono Trigger, most notably the battle system, which is a good thing. Unlike CT though, FF7's battles take place in a separate battle scene. In FF7, magic spells are cast by obtaining small orbs called Materia and fitting them into slots in your weapons and armor. These spells range from fire to poison to stealing to summoning huge monsters to learning enemies' skills! Like CT, you can only have 3 members in your party at once.

Also, in FF7 when your players get hit a bar begins to fill up. When full your characters can perform various attacks/moves depending on their abilities. These attacks, called "Limits," do a lot of damage, relatively.

GRAPHICS: 94%

The graphics are very good except for certain occasions. Like when moving on the land map in the close up view it's very difficult to keep track of your direction, mostly due to the fact that various landscapes just pop-up from nowhere. Of course, you don't HAVE to use this view. Also, some enemies look downright stupid and they aren't very clear either. The camera, too, can get into some weird positions, but on the whole the visuals are really good. Most notable are the cutscenes interspersed throughout the game. In most cutscenes, however the characters look very childish/puppetish. I'm told that FF8 fixes this problem. The most spectacular graphics of the game are seen when using the summon spells. See for yourself!

CONTROL: 86%

The keyboard controls are easy and convenient to use. There is a bit of slowdown though, which should be expected (because this is the PC). Also the mini games could have controlled better and the random battles get irritating at times. Nothing much else to say here.

SOUND/MUSIC: 92%

The music is appropriate and mostly beautiful. The boss music sounds like a super charged version of Chrono Trigger's. Almost each town has its own theme. Mostly though, it's the quality of the music that steals the show. Sounds, too, are crisp. I love it when Cloud nails an enemy with Ultima or Lightning 3. Although some spells don't sound very nice, the majority do. The weapon sounds are also fitting.

STORYLINE: 95%

The storyline is interesting and unique with a few plot twists. Each character also has a unique storyline which ties into to the main one. However, I really don't like the characters Cait Sith and Cid. Cloud is OK, and the others are decent. There are 3 bosses at the end of the game and plenty more throughout. The ending leaves a lot to be desired.

GAMEPLAY: 90%

Aside from the main quest there are many extras which add to the gameplay value. These include exploring new areas, breeding chocobos (a kind of bird) to try to get a Gold Chocobo, having fun at a carnival etc. Other than these, the game plays pretty much like a normal RPG except for the new camera views and visuals that is. Limit attacks are a great new addition. No combined magic as in CT though.

OVERALL: 92%

Overall FF7 is a memorable experience. No, it's not exactly what I'd call a "great game," but it very definitely is a rich and rewarding experience. Hopefully with the exception of the PC version of FF8, this should be the best RPG on the PC. If the PC is your only system then BUY IT! You will NOT regret it.