Replayed this game in preparation for 7R since I haven't played it since I was a kid and I was honestly surprised at how well this game holds up. It might be too dated for some and the combat definitely isn't everyone's cup of tea but there's a reason many consider this to be one of the best RPGs ever made.

I think the atmosphere REALLY makes this game shine. Even today the music and visuals really just combine to be so atmospheric whether it's the dystopian, creepy industrialization of midgar or a somber moment. Just hitting the atmosphere right during every moment makes the story shine a lot more than I think it would otherwise.

There's a lot I can say about story but I definitely think this game has some interesting things to say and the ending is fantastic. Cloud's arc is great and sephiroth is handled so well as a villain. I like the rest of the cast but I think it's a shame that besides Tifa and Aerith I don't really think they all get a chance to shine to their full potential. Something I hope they fix in remake.

But really after playing tons of modern RPGs like Trails, it surprises me how exciting these cutscenes are to watch for me still. Like everything involving the weapons is so hype to watch and every scene involving Cloud's past is gripping.

Despite how many things there are to complain about with this game there's a lot here that just resonates deeply with me.