Info about FINAL FANTASY VII:

Official game description:
The world has fallen under the dominion of the Shinra Electric Power Company, a sinister corporation that has monopolized the planet's very life force as Mako energy. In the urban megalopolis of Midgar, an anti-Shinra rebel group calling themselves Avalanche have stepped up their campaign of resistance.
Cloud Strife, a former member of Shinra's elite SOLDIER unit now turned mercenary, lends his aid to the rebels, unaware that he will be drawn into an epic battle for the fate of the planet, while having to come to terms with his own lost past.
This product is an upgraded version of FINAL FANTASY VII – 2013 Edition with additional features (there are no changes or additions to the story).
The following extra features are included:
◆ 3× speed mode
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*   Play through the game at up to three times the speed! This feature can only be used in battle, travel, and select events.
◆ Ability to turn battle encounters off
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*   Activate this option to turn off random encounters. Story event battle still must be completed to advance the story.
◆ Battle enhancement mode
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*   Activate this mode to recover HP/MP during battles and max out the Limit gauge.
◆ Autosave feature
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Release date: Jul 24, 2013

Categories: Turn-based RPG, Character Progression, Story-driven Gameplay, JRPG, Single-player Story, Character Customization, Equipment Customization, Magic System

Feature scans:
- Proton/Linux: score 10; verdict: Works Well; summary: The game exhibits strong compatibility with Linux systems, particularly when using Proton. Users across different Linux distributions report that the game runs well without significant issues, indicating a positive experience for Linux users.
- Steam Deck: score 50; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The Steam Deck experience for this game has significant issues that impact the overall user experience. Major concerns include visual quality problems due to upscaling filters, performance issues with frame rates in battles, and stability problems such as crashes and freezes. Audio issues and controller support have also been noted, although the removal of the launcher and sign-in requirement has been positively received. These issues collectively detract from the game's enjoyment and usability on the Steam Deck.

- Hardware Profile:
  - Summary: Performance varies significantly across different hardware cohorts, with lower VRAM systems generally reporting better experiences. Higher VRAM configurations, particularly those with 12-15GB, face notable issues such as stuttering and low frame rates.
  - Sample size: 44 (5% coverage)
  - Audience skew: Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM (positive, 19 reports): The game runs smoothly even on basic hardware, though some users dislike the resolution upscaling.
  - Windows 8-11GB VRAM (positive, 10 reports): Despite some crashes and visual bugs, the game is generally playable and well-received.
  - Windows 12-15GB VRAM (negative, 5 reports): Users report significant performance issues including stuttering, low frame rates, and graphical glitches.
  - Caveats: 44 of 858 reviews expose hardware metadata.; Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $5.00 - $12.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence shows a mix of positive and negative sentiments regarding the game's value. Positive reviews highlight the game's worth and extensive playtime, suggesting a higher price point is acceptable. Negative reviews mention drawbacks but still acknowledge the game's value, albeit at a lower price point. The mention of sales prices further supports a lower bound for the price range.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 75.0h
  - Story completion: 45.0h
  - Session length: 2.0h
  - Endgame: 30.0h
  - Reasoning: The evidence provided includes direct mentions of playtime and replay behavior. One user mentions spending 120 hours on their first run and estimates 70-90 hours for subsequent playthroughs with faster battles. Another user mentions playing through the game about once a year, indicating a significant time investment each time. Additionally, the mention of 100% completion on another Steam version suggests a substantial playtime to achieve all in-game goals.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game is initially fun due to its engaging combat and plot, but the fun drops off in the late game due to grinding and pacing issues.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: First mission in midgar
  - Time to anchor: 0h 30m
  - Friction: Grinding in the late game; Slower pacing typical of 1990s RPGs; Technical issues and bugs
  - Unlock drivers: Engaging combat system; Strong emotional core and plot; Pacing and music cues
  - Conditions: Investment in the plot and characters; Tolerance for slower pacing and grinding; Appreciation for turn-based combat systems
- Player Archetypes:
  - Purist Critic (no buy)
    - Motivation: Preservation of the original gaming experience.
    - Playstyle: Prefers the original version with minimal changes, often using mods to enhance the experience.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: veteran player; purist; old-school gamer
    - Reference games: Final Fantasy VII (PS1); Final Fantasy VII (2013 PC version)
  - Newcomer Story-Seeker (sale)
    - Motivation: Enjoying the story and gameplay with modern conveniences.
    - Playstyle: Uses quality-of-life features to reduce grinding and enhance the storytelling experience.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: new player; story-driven gamer
    - Reference games: Final Fantasy VII Remake; Other modern RPGs
  - Efficiency-Focused Veteran (buy)
    - Motivation: Maximizing enjoyment while minimizing time spent on grinding.
    - Playstyle: Uses speed-up features and cheats to streamline the gaming experience.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: veteran player; time-conscious gamer
    - Reference games: Final Fantasy VII (2013 PC version); Final Fantasy VIII


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Battle speed fixes implemented (weight 0.29): The game developers have addressed and fixed issues related to battle speed and framerate. Multiple patches and updates have been released to ensure battles run at normal speed.
- No Square Enix account required (weight 0.2): Players no longer need a Square Enix account to log in and play the game. This change has been appreciated by many users who prefer not to have additional account requirements.
- Engaging story and characters (weight 0.2): The game is praised for its great storyline and character development. The narrative and characters are compelling, adding depth to the overall gaming experience.
- Improved controls and compatibility (weight 0.19): The game now features improved controls and better compatibility with newer computers and operating systems. This includes enhanced keyboard controls and better controller support.
- Stable and crash-free (weight 0.16): The game is reported to be stable with no crashes or freezes. Bugs have been fixed, leading to a smoother gaming experience.
- 3x speed mode added (weight 0.16): A new feature allowing players to speed up the game by 3 times has been added. This mode helps in faster completion and has been well-received by the community.
- Free upgrade for previous owners (weight 0.12): Owners of the older version of the game received this updated version for free. This gesture has been appreciated by long-time fans and players.
- Convenient built-in cheats (weight 0.11): The addition of built-in cheats, including options for invincibility and other enhancements, has been noted. These cheats provide players with more flexibility and convenience.
- Worth playing and nostalgic (weight 0.1): The game is considered worth playing and brings a sense of nostalgia. Players find it enjoyable and worth the price.
- No significant issues (weight 0.1): Players report no significant issues with the new release. The version is considered correct and free of major bugs.
- Quality-of-life features added (weight 0.1): New quality-of-life features have been introduced, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. These updates include various improvements and added options.
- Optimized for Steam Deck (weight 0.1): The game runs well on the Steam Deck and other platforms, including 4K TVs. This optimization has been noted by players using various devices.
- Random battle toggle (weight 0.1): An option to disable random battles has been introduced. This feature allows players to customize their gaming experience.
- Achievement content added (weight 0.09): New achievements have been added, providing players with more content to complete and enjoy. This includes various types of achievements.
- Infinite limit break feature (weight 0.09): A new feature allowing for infinite limit breaks has been added. This includes various enhancements related to limit breaks and auto-healing.
- Improved over 2013 version (weight 0.08): The game is considered better than the 2013 version, with significant improvements and enhancements. Players note it as a massive improvement over the previous release.

Common complaints:
- Blurry visuals and backgrounds (weight 0.52): Many players have reported issues with the visual quality of the game, particularly noting that backgrounds and various visual elements appear excessively blurry. This is often attributed to the use of filters like bilinear filtering and issues with resolution.
- Resolution and framerate issues (weight 0.32): Players have encountered problems with screen resolution, including issues with changing resolution settings and experiencing low or inconsistent framerates during gameplay and battles.
- Fast battle speeds (weight 0.26): Battles in the game are reported to run too fast, with many players noting that the battle speed is significantly increased, sometimes even at triple speed, with no option to disable this feature.
- Audio and sound problems (weight 0.23): There are numerous reports of audio issues, including broken or missing sound effects, audio synchronization problems, and general audio glitches that detract from the gameplay experience.
- Lack of widescreen support (weight 0.19): The game lacks support for widescreen resolutions, which is a significant drawback for players with modern monitors. The aspect ratio is locked, and there are no options to change it.
- Removal of previous versions (weight 0.18): The removal of the previous version of the game from stores has been met with criticism, as some players preferred the older version and feel that the new version does not offer substantial improvements.
- Issues with the game launcher (weight 0.17): The game launcher has been criticized for being poorly designed and unnecessary. It includes sound effects from a different game, which many players find confusing and unhelpful.
- Translation and localization problems (weight 0.15): The game has been noted to have poor translations, particularly in German and Spanish. There are also issues with the lack of new localizations and updates to existing translations.
- Lack of improvements and mods (weight 0.15): Players feel that the game lacks significant improvements over previous versions and has limited or reduced support for mods, which diminishes the overall experience.
- Choppy and stuttering cutscenes (weight 0.08): Cutscenes in the game are reported to stutter and appear choppy, which detracts from the overall visual and storytelling experience.
- Game has not aged well (weight 0.07): Some players feel that the game has not aged well and that the current port is poorly optimized, leading to a less enjoyable experience compared to older versions.
- Inclusion of cheats (weight 0.07): One of the few additions to the game is a cheat menu, which some players may find useful, but it is not seen as a significant improvement.

Gameplay feedback:
- Battle speed issues (weight 0.22): Some players find the default battle speed too fast, though others appreciate the ability to adjust or fix the battle speed.
- Random battles can be skipped (weight 0.16): Players appreciate the option to turn off or skip random battle encounters, enhancing the gaming experience by reducing unnecessary combat.
- Version comparisons and discussions (weight 0.12): There are discussions and comparisons between different versions of the game, including console versions and the 2013 version.
- Turn-based combat mechanics (weight 0.11): The game features turn-based combat with additional mechanics like speed adjustments and limit breaks, adding depth to the battle system.
- Cheats and boosters (weight 0.08): Mentions of cheats and boosters, including features like game acceleration and infinite limits, which can enhance gameplay.
- Mod and controller support (weight 0.07): Players value the inclusion of mod support and controller compatibility, which enhances the game's flexibility and user experience.
- Autosave feature (weight 0.05): The inclusion of an autosave feature is noted as a positive addition, improving the convenience and user experience.
- Fast-paced combat progression (weight 0.05): The combat system features fast-paced progression, making battles more dynamic and engaging.
- Grinding for levels and items (weight 0.05): The game involves level grinding and grinding for items, which can be a significant part of the gameplay experience.
- Save file compatibility (weight 0.05): There are discussions about save file compatibility and gameplay mechanics, which are important for players who want to transfer their progress.

Performance notes:
- Blurry graphics and filtering issues (weight 0.28): The game has been criticized for its blurry graphics, particularly in backgrounds and textures, due to issues with bilinear filtering and other smoothing filters.
- Frame rate and stutter issues (weight 0.23): Multiple reports indicate that the game suffers from frame rate issues, stuttering, and micro stutters, particularly noticeable in cutscenes and cinematics.
- Resolution and aspect ratio problems (weight 0.2): There are several reports of resolution issues, including the game being zoomed in at higher resolutions, lack of widescreen support, and problems with changing resolution settings.
- FPS cap in battles (weight 0.18): Battles are reportedly locked to 15 FPS, which has been a significant issue for many players.
- Audio sync and sound problems (weight 0.17): Players have experienced various audio issues, including sound synchronization problems, audio bugs, and distorted audio during FMVs.
- Optimization and high system requirements (weight 0.12): The game is noted for being poorly optimized and requiring high computer specifications to run smoothly.
- Game crashes and bugs (weight 0.09): Some players have experienced game crashes, particularly on launch, and there are mentions of new bugs being introduced alongside fixes.

Recommendations:
- Highly recommended game (weight 0.13): Many players highly recommend the game to everyone, appreciating its overall quality and value.
- Mod support needed (weight 0.11): There is a desire for mod support, with players suggesting to wait for it or appreciating the improvements mods can bring.
- Consider other versions (weight 0.09): Some players recommend trying other versions of the game, such as the 2013 version or the original on PlayStation.
- Specific improvements needed (weight 0.07): Players have requested specific improvements such as a toggle for background filtering, bug fixes, and a French retranslation.
- Free upgrade for 2013 owners (weight 0.05): Players appreciate the customer-friendly approach of providing the new version for free to owners of the 2013 version.
- Good for nostalgia (weight 0.05): The game is seen as a good way to relive childhood memories and is recommended for its storyline.
- Emulation suggested (weight 0.05): Several players suggest playing the game on emulators for a better experience.
- Alternative platforms recommended (weight 0.05): Some reviews recommend buying the game on other platforms like the Switch or GOG.
- Good value for price (weight 0.03): Players feel the game offers good value for its price, making it a worthwhile purchase.
- Updated controls and features (weight 0.03): The game is considered worth it for the updated controls and the 3x mode feature.
- Avoid this version (weight 0.03): Some reviews advise against buying this particular version of the game.

Other player notes:
- Original version delisted (weight 0.03): The original PC version of the game has been delisted from Steam.
- Achievement completion (weight 0.03): Some players have completed the game and unlocked all of the achievements.
- Corporate structure criticism (weight 0.03): There are criticisms regarding the corporate structure related to the game.
- Personal discovery stories (weight 0.02): Players share personal stories about how they discovered the game.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.24): Players are frustrated due to a myriad of technical issues, including performance problems, graphical and audio glitches, and control mapping conflicts. Additionally, the lack of official support, removal of features, and introduction of new bugs have contributed to this frustration.
- Disappointment (weight 0.23): Disappointment stems from the game's lack of significant improvements and the introduction of new bugs. Players also express dissatisfaction with the quality of the remaster, including graphical and audio issues, and the removal of features that were present in previous versions.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.19): Players are satisfied with the overall positive experience, including improved controls, quality of life enhancements, and good performance on modern systems. The addition of new features and the smooth gameplay experience also contribute to this satisfaction.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.07): Nostalgia is driven by players' personal memories and emotional connections to the original game. The timeless story, characters, and the ability to relive a portion of their childhood contribute to this feeling.
- Anger (weight 0.05): Anger is primarily caused by the lack of improvements and the introduction of new issues in the game. Players are also angry about the poor quality of the port and the lack of effort from the developers.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Players appreciate the game's story, characters, and classic gameplay. The addition of optional features and the game's high replay value also contribute to this appreciation.
- Happy (weight 0.02): Happiness comes from the positive updates and features added to the game. Players are happy about the improvements and the overall positive experience with the game.
- Annoyance (weight 0.02): Annoyance is caused by specific issues such as the options button sound effect, the use of a launcher, and character name pronunciation issues. Players also find the game poorly done and feel like it is playing at 2x speed.
- Mixed feelings (weight 0.01): Mixed feelings arise from the presence of both positive and negative aspects in the re-release. Players appreciate the upgraded audio but are disappointed by crashes and other issues.
- Excitement (weight 0.01): Excitement is generated by the new updates and features added to the game. Players are looking forward to playing more and enjoying the new speedrun options and quality-of-life improvements.
- Admiration (weight 0.01): Players admire the game's awesome graphics, masterpiece status, and well-constructed lore. The engaging story, memorable music, and iconic characters like Sephiroth also contribute to this admiration.
- Hope (weight 0.01): Hope is driven by the expectation of future fixes and improvements. Players hope that other companies will follow Square Enix's example and bring classic games to modern platforms.
- Happiness (weight 0.01): Happiness comes from enjoying the new features and the suitability of the game for beginners. Players are also happy about the fixes to FPS issues and the availability of the game on modern platforms.
- Nostalgic (weight 0.01): Nostalgia is driven by the experience of playing an older RPG, which reminds users of the quality of classic games. The preference for the older version's visuals and the authentic experience of playing on a CRT also contribute to this feeling.
- Joy (weight 0.01): Joy comes from rediscovering a landmark RPG and the emotional connection to the game's story. Players find the game replayable, exciting, and eternal, contributing to their joy.
- Frustrated (weight 0.01): Frustration is caused by gameplay mechanics and persistent cheat icons. Players find these issues annoying and disruptive to their gaming experience.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Confusion arises from not understanding the negative reviews and the motivation behind the re-release. Players are also confused about the blur effect and why the game is receiving hate.
- Love (weight 0.01): Love for the game is driven by the fixes and improvements made in the initial release. Players appreciate the efforts made to address issues and enhance the gaming experience.
- Contentment (weight 0.01): Contentment comes from having no issues with the version and still loving the game. Players are content with the hotfix and see this version as their main way to play the game.}