Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, A Must Add to Final Fantasy

The title Final Fantasy has become synonymous with gaming, and arguably the game that resonated strongest with its fans is 1997's Final Fantasy VII.

Over ten years later, the tale first told on the original PlayStation returns to the forefront on the PlayStation Portable in Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, an elaborate adventure with a dynamic story and engaging combat system.

Crisis Core serves as a prologue to Final Fantasy VII. You play the role of Zack, an elite SOLDIER with the Shinra Company. The story begins with Zack and mentor Angeal investigating the disappearance of a fellow SOLDIER and his squad.

As with most Final Fantasy chapters, story is core to the experience. Writers effectively capture the camaraderie between characters, particularly Zack and Cloud, protagonist. Players also get a glimpse at other key figures, including Aerith and Sephiroth.

The presentation sets an epic tone. The computer-generated cut scenes are astonishing, even on the PSP's small screen. Musical transitions between calm and combat are handled nicely, often flipping from a soothing tune to a vicious riff of heavy guitars. One drawback is the inability to skip cut scenes if you must replay a level.

Combat and exploration work well on the portable. You wander through towns and other landscapes, talking with characters and gathering information. An e-mail system lets you correspond with characters you meet in your journey.

Unlike most RPGs, which utilize turn-based battles, combat occurs in real time. The bottom of the screen is where you'll find your health, magic and attack meters. To the lower right is a row or orbs representing abilities.

The orbs range from a simple sword attack, to magic spells, Materia or the ability to access items. You'll use the left and right shoulder buttons to toggle between each. It's tricky at first, especially when grabbing items.

Inventory menus are slick and easy to navigate. You can customize Zack's equipment, buy items from shops, and fuse different Materia into new spells.

Special moves are handled through a Digital Mind Wave, a slot-reel mechanic that channels past experiences with other characters into a powerful attack. At random points during combat, the DMW spins. One set of panels shows characters and another numbers. Matching three faces sets up your attacks, while the numbers determine Zack's ability to level up. It's an intriguing approach, but you lose control of how your character grows.

If you need a break from the lengthy campaign, Crisis Core offers dozens of side missions, most of which focus on clearing an area of enemies. They're short and sweet, providing quick diversions.

Fans of Final Fantasy will find the additional backstory in Crisis Core riveting, and should consider their collection incomplete without it.