What If Xenogears Became Final Fantasy VII? Exploring the Game That Almost Was

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As an ardent fan of RPGs, it’s hard to deny that Final Fantasy has made a colossal impact in the gaming world. Its unique blend of compelling narratives and groundbreaking gameplay mechanics has left an indelible mark on many gamers. However, let’s entertain a thought-provoking scenario: what if Xenogears, renowned for its grand ambition and complexity, had been the one to take center stage as Final Fantasy VII? This intriguing notion was recently brought up in a Reddit post by user Visconti753, igniting a whirlwind of discussions about parallel gaming universes where mechs and intricate narratives held sway.

Xenogears was initially developed as FFVII, however Square deemed it to be too complicated and dark for FF and made it a separate game. What would’ve happened with the FF series if Square went along with it and Xenogears would become FFVII?
byu/Visconti753 inFinalFantasy

Summary

  • The discussion highlights that Xenogears had complex themes and storytelling that could have greatly deviated from the expectations of a typical Final Fantasy game.
  • Many users speculated the financial backing and marketing support Xenogears would have received as FFVII, possibly leading to an increased cultural impact.
  • Commenters debated the implications of this shift on future Final Fantasy titles, particularly in terms of narrative and gameplay creativity.
  • User opinions varied, with some expressing nostalgia for the games that were ultimately created, while others lamented the lost opportunity for a different kind of narrative depth in a mainstream title.

Mech Madness and Complex Narratives

Ponder a scenario where mech characters replaced traditional roles in the Final Fantasy series. A user speculated, “Xenogears would have been an extraordinary departure from the usual… certainly would have increased the popularity of mechs.” This statement hints at a potential shift: if Xenogears had been the main title, Red XIII might have been replaced by massive robots. The appeal of mechs in gaming was growing rapidly, particularly with “Gundam Wing” captivating viewers worldwide. Combining detailed cutscenes and intricate mech designs could have broadened the RPG audience, attracting followers of both anime and gaming.

Stepping into Xenogears, I couldn’t help but notice how this game redefined the Final Fantasy series with its complex and somber storylines. Players were captivated by the deep religious undertones that echoed throughout the game, finding parallels to FFVII’s more simplistic narrative of love, deception, and world salvation. The intrigue of a darker, deeper story could potentially revolutionize the Role Playing Game (RPG) genre. Would fans have welcomed such a transformation, or would it have left them cold? Pondering on this question, I can’t help but wonder what the gaming landscape might look like today if Xenogears had been more widely accepted.

Marketing Impact and Cultural Reach

A key point discussed was the possible impact of an extensive promotional campaign, as one commenter pointed out, “If Xenogears had been marketed like FFVII, it would have likely sold much more.” In the 90s, Square’s TV advertising for Final Fantasy VII was incredibly effective, creating a strong emotional connection with characters such as Cloud and Sephiroth. Unfortunately, Xenogears did not receive the same level of exposure. “I distinctly recall seeing an ad for FFVII… it was amazing!” the user added. A more aggressive marketing approach could have catapulted Xenogears to rival even the popularity of its competitor.

In this rephrased version: Users contemplated what a thriving Xenogears might have initiated for future games within the series, specifically with regards to financial backing. The explosion of the aftermarket following FFVII may not have occurred, potentially limiting resources for subsequent releases. The notion that the “headlining” title could have changed history, influencing how Square approached the conception and funding of ambitious titles, was a topic of discussion. This post prompted many to reminisce about the past but also understand why some games rose in popularity and ultimately influenced the genre’s development.

Shifting Genres and Gaming Mechanic Evolution

The way battles are handled in games could have experienced major changes if Xenogears had become the dominant RPG. Its complex battle system might have paved the way for new gaming standards. A user humorously questioned, “Would every Final Fantasy game then include a jump button?” This raises questions about how gameplay elements would have evolved differently. Fans may have anticipated different aspects of RPG mechanics, such as action-based battles appearing earlier or a broader acceptance of mech-centric combat systems across the board.

The conversation moved towards the impact on series like Final Fantasy VIII. A participant suggested, “VIII might have been a grittier war tale,” which sparked thoughts about how future stories should follow this established narrative pattern. This could lead to various scenarios, such as focusing more on mech-based gameplay, enhancing the visual experience towards cinematic quality, or delving deeper into mature themes. These possibilities have ignited excitement and reflection among fans alike.

Rethinking Nostalgia: What Was Lost?

During the conversation, even though it was purely speculative, it still prompted gamers to reminisce about their interactions with both games. Xenogears, with its devoted fanbase, stands out due to its complex narrative and character development, earning a distinctive place in gaming lore. However, many expressed gratitude that Xenogears managed to stay independent. “I’m glad Xenogears remained its own entity,” one user shared, fondly remembering the game’s influence separate from the Final Fantasy franchise.

As a gamer, I can’t help but ponder what the gaming world would look like without legendary characters like Cloud and Sephiroth. Their presence has left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape, serving as cornerstones for countless players’ identities and experiences. If Xenogears or Final Fantasy VII had debuted before FFVII, would Cloud have been overshadowed, leaving us bewildered by the prospect of alternate protagonists? Their narratives have reached into the lives of many, influencing how we perceive and appreciate stories in gaming.

Pondering over a different universe where Xenogears dominated the Final Fantasy series invites players not just to dream up intricate scenarios, but also to understand the intricacies of this beloved franchise better. The debates surrounding this “what if” idea showcase the multitude of untrodden paths in the realm of gaming. This scenario is a tribute to the enduring influence of past eras and a powerful reminder of how crucial creative fantasies are in our digital worlds.

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2025-01-17 19:58