About Final Fantasy VII Day
In 2023, Square Enix established a national holiday to celebrate the legacy of its cult JRPG.
On January 31st 1997, Final Fantasy VII was released for the first time in Japan. In 2022, the cult title celebrated its 25th anniversary, a celebration that led to numerous announcements, including the remaster of CrisisCore and the first details concerning the continuation of the Remake.
The adventures of Cloud, Barrett, Tifa and the whole gang have become a veritable monument in the video game industry. To truly honor this title and its impact on the industry in Japan and around the world, Final Fantasy VII will henceforth be celebrated every year on Japanese calendars.
Final Fantasy VII Day
The news of the inaugural Final Fantasy VII Day was shared on Twitter by the official account of the game. In the tweet, there is a photo of the certificate, the producer of FF7: Remake as well as a message to fans around the world.
“January 31, 1997, the day Final Fantasy VII was released, is not only significant for the license, but also marks the beginning of many great things for the people who worked on this game. I remember being overwhelmed by the lightning speed at which video game technology was evolving, but also having dreamed of great things for the future. With the establishment of this official birthday, I will now remember all these things and keep them warm in my heart.“
This new national holiday does not give rise to a public holiday but nevertheless underlines the importance of Final Fantasy and more broadly video games in Japanese culture. In Europe, the game’s anniversary date is set to November 14th, while it is celebrated on September 7th in America. FF7 can therefore be celebrated three times a year, no less for such a cult title.
We’re delighted to announce “Final Fantasy VII Day” has been officially registered in Japan, to commemorate the anniversary of the launch of the original game.
— FINAL FANTASY VII (@finalfantasyvii) January 31, 2023
To celebrate, here’s a special message from Yoshinori Kitase, producer of the Final Fantasy VII remake project. pic.twitter.com/GBphY8AYR4
The Everlasting Popularity of Final Fantasy VII in Japan
Final Fantasy VII stands as an iconic masterpiece in the world of video games, and its enduring popularity in Japan is a testament to its profound impact on gaming culture. Released by Square Enix in 1997, this role-playing game (RPG) swiftly captured the hearts of players across the globe. However, nowhere is its influence and significance more pronounced than in its home country of Japan.
The game's success can be attributed to various factors that resonated deeply with Japanese gamers. At its core, Final Fantasy VII offered a captivating storyline, immersive gameplay, and groundbreaking graphics that were revolutionary for its time. Its intricate plot, exploring themes of friendship, loss, and the fight against oppressive forces, struck a chord with players on an emotional level, transcending cultural boundaries.
The character design and development within Final Fantasy VII contributed significantly to its popularity. Protagonist Cloud Strife, with his spiky blond hair and iconic Buster Sword, became an instant symbol of the game. Other beloved characters like Aerith, Tifa, and Sephiroth added depth and richness to the narrative, fostering strong emotional connections with the audience.
Beyond its captivating narrative, the game's technical advancements were groundbreaking. Final Fantasy VII pushed the limits of the PlayStation console with its detailed pre-rendered backgrounds, cinematic cutscenes, and memorable musical score composed by Nobuo Uematsu. This amalgamation of elements elevated the gaming experience, leaving an indelible mark on players.
The impact of Final Fantasy VII in Japan extends far beyond its initial release. It spurred an array of spin-offs, merchandise, and adaptations across various media platforms, from movies and novels to anime series and even stage plays. The game's characters and universe continued to resonate with fans, spawning a dedicated fanbase that eagerly awaits each new installment or remake.
The 2020 remake of Final Fantasy VII for modern gaming consoles rekindled the fervor surrounding the game. The reimagined visuals, expanded storytelling, and revamped gameplay mechanics reintroduced the world of Midgar to both nostalgic fans and a new generation of gamers, further solidifying its place in Japanese gaming culture.
Moreover, cultural events, conventions, and collaborations consistently keep the franchise in the spotlight. Whether it's through themed cafes, limited-edition merchandise, or special live concerts featuring the game's iconic music, the legacy of Final Fantasy VII continues to thrive, sustaining its popularity in Japan.
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