Square Enix: A History of Gaming Innovation

Square Enix is a Japanese video game development and publishing company, best known for its iconic franchises such as Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, and Kingdom Hearts. With a rich history spanning over four decades, Square Enix has been at the forefront of the video game industry, pushing boundaries and shaping the landscape of interactive entertainment.

Early Beginnings

Square Enix’s roots can be traced back to 1975 when Masafumi Miyamoto, Hironobu Sakaguchi, and Ken Kutaragi founded the company under the name "Electric Dreams." The company’s focus was initially on developing games for the NEC PC-8801 and MSX home computers. In 1983, the company was renamed "Square."

Rise to Prominence

Square’s breakthrough came in 1987 with the release of Final Fantasy on the NES. The game’s innovative storytelling, memorable characters, and engaging gameplay set a new standard for RPGs. The success of Final Fantasy propelled Square to the forefront of the video game industry, establishing it as a major player.

Over the next two decades, Square continued to release critically acclaimed and commercially successful games. Notable titles include Chrono Trigger, Final Fantasy VII, and Vagrant Story. These games helped to define the RPG genre and cemented Square’s reputation for creating high-quality experiences.

Merger with Enix

In 2003, Square merged with its long-time rival, Enix. The merger resulted in the formation of Square Enix, a global gaming powerhouse with a combined portfolio of iconic franchises. Enix was known for its successful Dragon Quest series, which further expanded Square Enix’s reach in the RPG market.

Modern Era

In the modern era, Square Enix has continued to innovate and expand its offerings. The company has developed successful franchises in other genres, such as the Kingdom Hearts action RPG series and the Tomb Raider adventure game series. Square Enix has also embraced new technologies, such as mobile gaming and virtual reality.

Legacy and Impact

Square Enix’s legacy as a pioneer in the video game industry is undeniable. The company’s games have entertained and influenced generations of gamers worldwide. Square Enix has been a driving force behind the evolution of RPGs, pushing the boundaries of storytelling, gameplay, and graphics.

Key Stats

Metric	Value
Year Founded	1975
Headquarters	Tokyo, Japan
Revenue	2.61 trillion JPY (2022)
Employees	5,615 (2022)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Square Enix known for?

• Square Enix is known for its iconic video game franchises such as Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, and Kingdom Hearts.

Who founded Square Enix?

• Masafumi Miyamoto, Hironobu Sakaguchi, and Ken Kutaragi founded Square Enix under the name "Electric Dreams" in 1975.

When did Square Enix merge with Enix?

• Square Enix merged with Enix in 2003.

What is Square Enix’s most successful game?

• Final Fantasy VII is Square Enix’s most successful game, selling over 13 million copies worldwide.

What is Square Enix’s future outlook?

• Square Enix has a strong future outlook, with a pipeline of upcoming games and a focus on expanding its offerings in mobile gaming and virtual reality.

References

• Square Enix Wikipedia Page
• Square Enix Corporate Website
• Final Fantasy VII Wikipedia Page

Final Fantasy VII Remake

Final Fantasy VII Remake is a role-playing game developed by Square Enix and released on PlayStation 4 in 2020. It is a reimagining of the original 1997 PlayStation game Final Fantasy VII, featuring updated graphics, redesigned gameplay, and an expanded story.

The game follows Cloud Strife, a former member of the elite mercenary group SOLDIER, as he joins the resistance group Avalanche to fight against the Shinra Electric Power Company, a corrupt corporation draining the planet’s life force. The game retains the core characters and setting of the original while adding new elements and exploring the story in greater depth.

The remake features a revamped battle system that combines real-time action with traditional turn-based elements. It also includes a new visual style, environmental detail, and an enhanced musical score. The game received critical acclaim, with praise for its graphics, gameplay, and faithfulness to the original while expanding upon its narrative.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Gameplay

Final Fantasy VII Remake is a third-person action role-playing game. Players control Cloud Strife, a mercenary who joins an eco-terrorist group to fight against the Shinra Corporation, which is draining the planet’s life energy. The game features a revamped combat system that incorporates real-time action with turn-based elements. Players can use a variety of abilities and spells to attack enemies, and can switch between characters in real time to take advantage of their unique abilities. The game also features a new materia system, which allows players to customize their characters’ stats and abilities.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Characters

The remake of Final Fantasy VII features a cast of iconic characters, returning from the original game with expanded backstories and motivations:

• Cloud Strife: A former member of the elite SOLDIER unit, now a mercenary fighting against the Shinra Corporation.
• Tifa Lockhart: A bar owner and skilled martial artist, who seeks revenge for her hometown’s destruction.
• Barret Wallace: The leader of the eco-terrorist group Avalanche, determined to protect the planet from Shinra’s exploitation.
• Aerith Gainsborough: A flower girl with a mysterious past, possessed of powerful healing abilities.
• Sephiroth: A former SOLDIER member turned Shinra’s arch-nemesis, seeking to summon the destructive Meteor spell.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Story

The Final Fantasy VII Remake is a retelling of the original 1997 PlayStation game, with expanded plot, updated graphics, and reimagined gameplay. The story follows Cloud Strife, a mercenary who joins a group of eco-terrorists called Avalanche to fight against the Shinra Corporation, which is draining the life energy of the planet Gaia.

As Cloud and his allies progress through their mission, they uncover a dark secret about Cloud’s past and confront the true nature of the threat to Gaia. Along the way, they meet a diverse cast of characters, including Aerith Gainsborough, a flower seller who holds the key to the planet’s future, and Tifa Lockhart, Cloud’s childhood friend who has been searching for him for years.

The Remake ends with a cliffhanger that sets the stage for future installments, leaving players eager to see how the story unfolds further.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Release Date

Final Fantasy VII Remake, the highly anticipated reimagining of the classic RPG, has finally received an official release date. The game is set to hit the PlayStation 4 on March 3, 2020. The announcement was made during Sony’s PlayStation State of Play event on June 10, 2019.

The Final Fantasy VII Remake will follow the same basic story as the original game, but with updated graphics and gameplay. The game will be released in multiple parts, with the first part focusing on the events of the original game’s Midgar section.

Fans of the original Final Fantasy VII have been eagerly awaiting the remake for years, and the announcement of its release date is sure to be met with excitement.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Trailer

The trailer for Square Enix’s highly anticipated Final Fantasy VII Remake showcases stunning visuals, updated gameplay, and fan-favorite characters.

The trailer opens with an iconic scene from the original game, as protagonist Cloud Strife confronts Sephiroth. The graphics have been completely overhauled, offering a modern take on the classic art style. The gameplay appears to have been significantly expanded, with new combat mechanics and a more dynamic exploration system.

Familiar faces from the original game make an appearance, including Aeris, Tifa, and Barret. The trailer hints at new character development and expanded storylines for these beloved characters. Exciting new bosses and locations are also teased, promising an epic adventure that will both satisfy veterans and newcomers to the series.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Screenshots

The first screenshots for the Final Fantasy VII Remake have been released, showing off the game’s updated visuals and character designs. The screenshots depict protagonist Cloud Strife, his companions Tifa Lockheart, Aerith Gainsborough and Barret Wallace, along with several new characters and locations.

The remake is being developed by Square Enix and is set to be released on PlayStation 4 in March 2020. It is a reimagining of the original 1997 game, with updated graphics and gameplay. The screenshots show off the game’s stunning graphics and detailed character models.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Review

Final Fantasy VII Remake is a stunning reimagining of the classic RPG that retains the essence of the original while offering a fresh, modern take.

Graphics and Presentation:
The game’s visuals are breathtaking, with detailed character models, immersive environments, and breathtaking special effects. The soundtrack is a faithful homage to the original while also adding its own unique flair.

Gameplay and Combat:
The turn-based combat of the original has been replaced with a hybrid real-time and turn-based system that is both engaging and strategic. Players can switch between characters on the fly to utilize their unique abilities and execute devastating attacks.

Story and Characters:
The story follows the original game’s plot closely but expands on certain elements, providing deeper character development and a more emotionally resonant experience. The characters remain as iconic as ever, with updated designs and performances that bring them to life.

Conclusion:
Final Fantasy VII Remake is a triumphant return to Midgar that surpasses expectations. It delivers stunning visuals, engaging combat, and an emotional story that will resonate with fans and newcomers alike. Whether you’re a nostalgic returning player or a newcomer to the series, this remake is an unforgettable experience.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Walkthrough

Chapter 1: Midgar (Part 1)

• Follow Biggs and Wedge to Sector 7 Slums.
• Assist Barrett and his eco-terrorist group, Avalanche, in bombing Mako Reactor 1.
• Escape Midgar with Cloud and Tifa.

Chapter 2: Midgar (Part 2)

• Infiltrate Don Corneo’s mansion to find Aerith.
• Rescue Aerith and escape the mansion.
• Save Marlene from Shinra troops.

Chapter 3: Midgar (Part 3)

• Storm Shinra Headquarters with Avalanche.
• Defeat Roche and Rufus Shinra.
• Escape Midgar with Aerith and Tifa.

Chapter 4: Countryside

• Travel with Aerith and Tifa to find the promised land.
• Visit the town of Kalm and learn about Cloud’s past.
• Fight a boss at the Chocobo Farm.

Chapter 5: Kalm

• Rest and resupply at Kalm Inn.
• Learn more about Cloud’s amnesia.
• Meet Red XIII and decide whether to take him along.

Chapter 6: Honeybee Inn

• Visit the Honeybee Inn with Cloud and investigate the honey girls.
• Uncover evidence of Shinra’s experiments on Cloud.
• Defeat Rude and Reno.

Chapter 7: Shinra Tower

• Infiltrate Shinra Tower with Aerith.
• Confront President Shinra and learn about the Jenova Project.
• Escape Shinra Tower with Aerith and Red XIII.

Chapter 8: Sector 5 Slums

• Return to Sector 5 Slums with Aerith and Red XIII.
• Assist Avalanche in fighting Shinra’s troops.
• Find the missing children and return them to their parents.

Chapter 9: Return to Midgar

• Return to Midgar with Aerith, Red XIII, and Cloud.
• Infiltrate Shinra Headquarters with Avalanche.
• Fight a boss at the Seventh Heaven bar.

Chapter 10: The City of Lights

• Escape Midgar on the Highwind.
• Visit Midgar again as Cloud and investigate the truth behind his past.
• Fight Sephiroth and learn about the Reunion.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Tips

• Master the ATB system: The Active Time Battle system rewards tactical play. Plan your actions carefully and take advantage of Stagger states.
• Utilize character strengths: Each character’s unique abilities and materia sets complement each other. Experiment with different party combinations.
• Manage MP effectively: Magic spells are powerful but costly. Prioritize their use and use ethers and restorative items to replenish MP.
• Upgrade weapons and armor: Enhance your gear regularly to improve stats and gain access to new abilities.
• Complete side quests: Optional quests offer rewards, experience, and deepen the story.
• Grind for levels: If you’re struggling, engage in battles to level up and strengthen your characters.
• Use summons strategically: Summons provide powerful assistance, but their long cast times make them vulnerable. Plan their deployment carefully.
• Pay attention to enemy weaknesses: Exploit enemy vulnerabilities by using spells and abilities that they’re weak against.
• Experiment with materia: Combine different materia to create powerful combinations and customize your party’s playstyle.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment: The game encourages player experimentation and exploration. Try out different strategies and find what works best for you.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Mods

Final Fantasy VII Remake mods enhance the game with new characters, outfits, weapons, and more. Here are some notable mods:

Characters:

• Tifa Lockhart Casual Dress: Replaces Tifa’s iconic dress with a more casual outfit.
• Aerith Gainsborough Advent Children Dress: Adds Aerith’s iconic dress from the Advent Children movie.
• Cloud Strife Dissidia Final Fantasy Outfit: Grants Cloud his outfit from the Dissidia Final Fantasy spin-off series.

Outfits:

• SOLDIER 2nd Class Uniforms: Equips all playable characters with SECOND SOLDIER uniforms.
• Mako Society Agents Uniforms: Allows players to dress their characters as the Mako Society agents.
• Shinra Electric Power Company Uniforms: Equips characters with Shinra Electric Power Company uniforms.

Weapons:

• Buster Sword: Crisis Core Model: Replaces Cloud’s Buster Sword with the model from Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII.
• Hardedge: Advent Children Model: Adds the Hardedge sword from Advent Children as a weapon for Cloud.
• Bladed Staff (Aerith’s FF7 Model): Grants Aerith her iconic bladed staff from the original Final Fantasy VII game.

Final Fantasy VII Remake DLC

The DLC for Final Fantasy VII Remake, entitled "Intergrade," adds a new character, Yuffie Kisaragi, to the game. The DLC also includes a new story chapter that follows Yuffie as she infiltrates the Shinra Building in Midgar. In addition, the DLC includes a new battle arena mode called "Fort Condor," a new summon materia, and new weapons and armor for the party.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Ending

The ending of Final Fantasy VII Remake depicts a pivotal turning point in the story, departing from the events of the original game.

Defeating Sephiroth:

Cloud and his allies confront Sephiroth, who has summoned Meteor to destroy the world. After an intense battle, they defeat him, but not before Sephiroth taunts Cloud about his true identity and the impending threat of Jenova.

Alternate Destiny:

As Meteor approaches, instead of impacting Midgar, it vanishes into a swirling vortex. Aerith senses the intervention of the Whispers, enigmatic beings that have been guiding events throughout the story.

Fateful Whispers:

The Whispers, representing destiny, vanish as new voices emerge, suggesting that the characters have gained some control over their future. Cloud proclaims their defiance against fate, declaring, "We are not puppets of destiny."

New Horizons:

With the Whispers gone, the characters embark on an uncertain path. Cloud and Tifa reunite, while Aerith hints at a new threat on the horizon. The game ends with the group setting out on a new adventure, their destiny now in their own hands.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Easter Eggs

• Busts of the Avalanche Trio: Hidden in a secret area is a shrine with busts of Cloud, Barret, and Tifa.
• Cid’s Hairline: Cid’s bald patch is referenced in the "Hair Salon" minigame.
• Chocobo Summon Materia: The Materia can be obtained by completing a side quest in the Sector 7 Slums.
• Squall Leonhart’s Gunblade: A replica of Squall’s gunblade from Final Fantasy VIII can be found in a hidden room in Wall Market.
• "One-Winged Angel" Theme: A remixed version of Sephiroth’s iconic theme plays during the final battle.
• Aerith’s Final Limit Break: Aerith’s ultimate attack, "Great Gospel," is the same as in the original game.
• Zack Fair’s Appearance: Zacks appears in the opening scene as a flashback.
• Tifa’s Childhood Dress: Tifa’s iconic childhood dress can be found on display in Don Corneo’s mansion.
• Vincent Valentine’s Cape: Vincent’s cape is mentioned by a character in Corneo’s mansion.
• "The Turks" Theme: The original theme song for the Turks plays when they appear in the game.

Final Fantasy VII Remake Secrets

• Secret Boss Battle: By completing specific tasks, players can unlock a hidden boss battle against the optional superboss, Pride and Joy.
• Hidden Summon Materia: The powerful summon Bahamut can be obtained through a series of quests and puzzles, starting with finding the Chocobo Charm.
• Collectible Music Discs: Scattered throughout Midgar are 22 music discs that can be collected and played in Jukeboxes.
• Easter Eggs and References: The game features numerous nods and references to the original Final Fantasy VII and other Square Enix games, such as references to the Cloud and Tifa love triangle.
• Secret Item Quest: By talking to specific NPCs in hidden locations, players can trigger a quest to obtain a legendary item, the Genji Shield.
• Character Customization: By completing side quests, players can unlock new hairstyles, outfits, and accessories for their party members.
• Hard Mode: After completing the game, players can unlock a Hard Mode difficulty setting, which provides additional challenges and rewards.
• Cutscenes and Dialogue: The remake contains new cutscenes and dialogue that expand upon the story of the original game, revealing more details about the characters and their motivations.
• Post-Game Content: Upon beating the game, players can access a new Post-Game Episode that continues the story and sets up events for the future sequels.