The late nineties were quite a time in video game history. With 3D technology finally starting to turn into a regular facet of video game aesthetics and design, we were starting to see more and more ambition in the overall production of games. After the legendary success of then-Square’s Final Fantasy VII, the first in the franchise to feature 3D models and environments, they decided to lean into the punkish vibes of the late nineties with its successor, Final Fantasy VIII.
For a long time, despite numerous ports to various platforms, and updated versions of other entries in the Final Fantasy franchise, Final Fantasy VIII hasn’t received nearly the level of love and attention as other titles such as Final Fantasy IV, Final Fantasy VI, Final Fantasy X, and of course, Final Fantasy VII. This is due in part to an unfortunate loss of source code.
Not anymore. Revealed tonight at Square Enix’s E3 Showcase, Final Fantasy VIII is getting a remaster baby!
The Final Fantasy VII Remaster is slated for release later this year. With Final Fantasy XIV adding a new gunblade-wielding job later this month, I am now officially christening 2019 “The Year of the Gunblade.” Rip and Tear, folks.