Understanding whether the Final Fantasy 7 remake is an open world experience requires looking at the specific design philosophy behind the initial release. While the original 1997 game featured a linear progression through distinct locations, the 2020 reimagining takes a different approach by blending structured narrative with semi-explorable environments. This creates a sense of freedom that feels genuine without abandoning the tight, cinematic storytelling Square Enix is known for.
The Structure of Midgar
The first portion of the game takes place entirely within the city of Midgar, and this section is where the open world mechanics are most apparent. Players are given a large, multi-level map to explore right from the start, featuring vendors, side quests, and hidden items scattered throughout the slums and upper plate. You are encouraged to climb structures, sneak into restricted areas, and interact with the environment in a way that feels organic rather than forced, setting the stage for an immersive adventure.
Freedom with Direction
Despite the spatial freedom, the game never lets you lose sight of the main narrative thread. The open world elements are carefully gated, ensuring you have the necessary abilities or equipment before accessing specific zones. This design prevents the feeling of being overwhelmed while still providing the satisfaction of discovery. The world feels alive with small details, but the story always pulls you forward, making the experience feel guided rather than chaotic.
Expanding Horizons in the World Map
As the story progresses, the game transitions to a fully explorable world map, moving beyond the confines of Midgar. This is where the open world nature becomes even more pronounced, allowing you to travel between regions at your own pace. You can choose to tackle optional missions, hunt for powerful Materia, or simply explore the diverse landscapes, all while the main quest waits patiently for your return.
Traversal between locations is seamless and fluid.
Environmental storytelling adds depth to every region.
Optional content is plentiful and rewarding for curious players.
The pacing ensures you never feel lost or unsure of your next objective.
Combat and Exploration Synergy
One of the strengths of the remake is how exploration is directly tied to the combat system. Enemies are visible in the world, allowing for strategic engagement based on your current level and gear. This mechanic transforms simple travel into a dynamic experience, where resource management and character builds become crucial for navigating the increasingly dangerous territories. The open world is not just a backdrop; it is a living space that actively participates in your journey.
Looking Ahead to Future Episodes
With the success of the first installment, the direction of the series will likely continue to evolve the open world concept. Future episodes will need to balance the freedom of exploration with the narrative weight of the original story. Fans can expect the world to expand further, offering more verticality, interactive elements, and perhaps even larger zones that redefine what an FF 7 remake experience truly means.
Final Verdict on Open World Design
So, is the Final Fantasy 7 remake an open world game? The answer is a nuanced yes. It offers the structural freedom and environmental interaction associated with open world titles, but it does so within a meticulously crafted narrative framework. The result is a experience that feels expansive and liberating without sacrificing the emotional punch of the story, setting a new standard for legacy sequels in the industry.
