Final Fantasy VII Revelation Director Says Queer Romances Make The World Feel More Real - Kotaku
Final Fantasy VII Remake Trilogy: Crafting a Realistic World
The development team behind the Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy has always been driven by a singular goal: to create a world that feels lived-in and authentic. To achieve this, they drew inspiration from various real-world cultures and communities, incorporating diverse characters and experiences into their narrative.
A World of Diverse Cultures
The developers wanted to ensure that the world of Midgar felt like a place where people from different backgrounds coexisted. They populated the city with characters representing various ethnicities, socioeconomic statuses, and occupations. This diversity is reflected in the game's cast, which includes:
- Tifa Lockhart: A skilled martial artist and business owner who runs a bar called 7th Heaven. Her character embodies the struggles of small business owners in urban areas.
- Barret Wallace: A former member of an eco-terrorist group fighting against the megacorporation Shinra's destructive practices. His character represents the experiences of marginalized communities facing environmental degradation.
- Yuffie Kisaragi: An young ninja from Wutai who becomes embroiled in the story. Her character highlights the rich cultural heritage of Japan and its various regional differences.
Incorporating Real-World Issues
The game's narrative tackles real-world issues like environmental degradation, corporate greed, and social inequality. The developers aimed to create a sense of urgency and consequence for the characters' actions.
- Shinra's Impact on the Planet: The megacorporation's pursuit of Mako energy has devastating effects on the environment, threatening the very survival of the planet.
- The Cost of Progress: As Shinra pushes forward with its industrialization plans, it disregards the well-being of local communities and the consequences for future generations.
Creating a Sense of Realism
To create an immersive experience, the developers aimed to craft a world that feels real. They achieved this by:
- Researching Real-World Cultures: The team drew inspiration from various cultures, including Japanese and African traditions.
- Incorporating Authentic Characters: Each character is unique, with their own backstories, motivations, and personalities.
- Developing a Rich History: The game's narrative is set in a world with a complex history, where events have shaped the present.
A World of Contrasts
The developers also aimed to create a world with contrasts. Midgar is a city where:
- Poverty and Wealth Coexist: The contrast between the affluent elite and impoverished citizens serves as a stark reminder of the economic disparities that exist in our own world.
- Nature and Industrialization Clash: The beauty of the natural world is juxtaposed with the destructive effects of industrialization, highlighting the need for balance and sustainability.
A World Worth Fighting For
The Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy offers a world worth fighting for. It's a world where:
- Hope and Resilience Thrive: Despite the overwhelming odds against them, the characters persevere in their quest for justice and equality.
- Diversity and Inclusion Matter: The game celebrates the diversity of its characters and communities, promoting acceptance and understanding.
Conclusion
The developers behind the Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy have created a world that feels lived-in and authentic. By incorporating diverse cultures, real-world issues, and authentic characters, they've crafted a narrative that resonates with players worldwide. As we navigate our own world's complexities, the game serves as a reminder of the importance of hope, resilience, diversity, and inclusion.