Could Final Fantasy VII Advent Children Have Thrived as a Game Instead of a Movie?

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Final Fantasy boasts an impressive history, leading to numerous adaptations and spin-offs that have sparked lively discussions among fans. One of these ongoing debates centers around the film “Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children,” where some believe it might have been more successful as a game instead of a movie. The user RamboBambiBambo initiated this discussion by asking whether the story, centered on Geostigma, Sephiroth’s remaining experiments, and Cloud’s battle against his past, could have had a better impact as a two-hour cinematic experience if it was a game instead. This question has stirred up strong reactions from fans, touching on the nuances of storytelling in different mediums, with many sharing their personal experiences, opinions, and deep emotions towards this animated film within the Final Fantasy universe.

Summary

  • The original movie had a mixed reception, with some fans loving the aesthetics while others criticized the convoluted plot.
  • Many commenters suggested that presenting the story in a game format could provide more space for character development and narrative depth.
  • There are contrasting views on whether the core issues stemmed from the movie format or the story itself.
  • Fan service is a focal point of the critique, suggesting it may have undermined the original themes of the *Final Fantasy VII* narrative.

The Format Debate: Movie vs. Game

The main discussion stemming from the original post revolves around whether the medium – film or game – truly influences the quality of a story, or if it’s more about how well the story is executed. As user Havenfall209 aptly notes, the heart of the matter might not be about the medium at all. Instead, it could be about timing and opportunities for in-depth exploration. They suggest that if it had been a series, it may have been more effective because the narrative seemed to require more space to fully develop. This implies that perhaps a longer gaming experience or episodic storytelling could have allowed for a deeper exploration of the story’s intricacies, something that even a well-crafted movie might not be able to capture.

The idea of resolving plot inconsistencies and character developments has been brought up by other users as well. For instance, user DeceitfulFish suggests that extending the story duration to a game lasting 15 or 20 hours might offer sufficient time to explore the intricate narrative strands. While many remember the stunning visuals and heart-racing action scenes, the movie seemed more like an exhilarating rollercoaster ride, sometimes at the cost of clear storytelling. As RamboBambiBambo points out, a game similar to “Final Fantasy VII-2” could provide the luxury of time that the original film forfeited in its pursuit of cinematic greatness.

Fan Reception and the Nostalgia Factor

Enthusiasts’ opinions about the film are heavily influenced by nostalgia, though not in a simple manner. User Successful_Ninja_830 comments casually, “Hold up… wasn’t this movie not well-liked? This flick is awesome as hell,” suggesting a split opinion. The film *Advent Children* has passionate defenders who recall the movie fondly, frequently overlooking its storyline flaws to praise the grandeur. However, nostalgia may cloud our judgment: are we viewing the experience through rose-colored glasses? Could the allure of iconic characters and epic battles blind us from critically evaluating the film’s substance?

The influence of this movie can be seen in numerous ways, such as related merchandise and references across the expansive media landscape of Final Fantasy. User Few-Requirements mentions that *Advent Children* was popular enough to generate a lot of merchandise, suggesting that financial success might not always correlate with intricate storytelling. This brings up the idea that a title’s commercial impact can sometimes overshadow any immediate narrative shortcomings that could significantly affect the overall quality of a creative work.

Positive feedback often brings criticism as well, and it’s evident that numerous enthusiasts believe the storyline didn’t adequately portray the main characters’ journeys. FearlessLeader17’s opinions echo this doubt, pointing out a confusing narrative that suggests some character arcs became unclear or were weakened. In a world where endings and personal growth have traditionally been essential, any hint of reversal feels like an offensive letdown to devoted followers of *Final Fantasy VII*.

The Balance Between Fan Service and Narrative Integrity

In the midst of both praise and criticism, the topic of “fan service” is significant. Users like Complex_Feedback4389 express a widespread worry that in trying to evoke nostalgia, *Advent Children* might have derailed the initial storyline with unnecessary callbacks featuring characters such as Sephiroth and Rufus, without providing adequate background information. They also raise doubts about the consistency of Cloud’s character development, as he appears to regress emotionally rather than progressing. This brings up a common concern in long-running franchises: where does fan service conclude, and when does coherent storytelling begin?

It’s more engaging and consistent when speculative storylines aren’t left unresolved, as they often seem to contradict what was previously established. Complex_Feedback4389 notes this issue, explaining that focusing too much on a single character can take away from the diverse cast of characters that fans have grown attached to over the course of earlier games. A game with an ensemble-focused approach could allow characters to contribute to the story in ways that enrich the world of *Final Fantasy*.

Building the Future of Final Fantasy Stories

As debate ensues over whether *Advent Children* would have made a stronger game, it sparks a wider discourse about what fans expect from the *Final Fantasy* series in the future. Some may be longing for more complex narratives, well-structured character arcs that don’t seem disjointed, or fresh experiences that effectively utilize the unique aspects of gaming. If Square Enix decides to focus on expansive game formats that prioritize story and give characters room to shine without getting overshadowed, these new experiences could be quite promising.

Many comments express a longing for nostalgia, yet they also incorporate imaginative storytelling and engaging gameplay concepts. As fans eagerly anticipate further games or updates that honor their deep affection for the characters and settings, it’s evident that the impact of *Final Fantasy VII* goes beyond just video games and films. It creates a vibrant connection between creators and fans, something many other franchises aspire to replicate. These conversations express a heartfelt hope for a future where the stories of beloved characters can develop as they should have in *Advent Children*.

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2025-06-07 21:03