Haven't played the originals, so I don't know how these measure up to the Wii and DS games, but there's a palpable heart to these games that is the je ne sais quoi that binds it all together. And that indescribable sauce is really why you should play it if you're at all interested. The vibes are just spectacular. The music is eerie, but comforting as well.

The character writing is pretty sharp. Ashley feels really believable especially in the transition between the two games.

The game obviously isn't perfect. These are clearly low-budget. The character models get the budget where the environments don't get the same attention. Honestly though, it's presentation overall is charming in that it reminds me that games like this used to come out on the regular in the 2000s before AA games and cheap, small handhelds went away.

The puzzles are easy and the stories are simple but effective. The second one is a little less cohesive, but it ends quite poignantly.

I appreciate these games a lot, overall. It's awesome that Nintendo is willing to bring back largely forgotten games like these.

One of the most cohesive combat systems in the series. It just feels great to jump between your characters, rack up ATB, and let it rip. I can’t imagine how you would reasonably mix turn based Final Fantasy with action combat better than what they’ve achieved here. That being said, the game becomes way less fun whenever they force a boss fight or challenge on you where the focus is placed on fighting with a lone character. The system grinds to a halt and blegh.

The character writing is amazing and Yuffie is a major standout.

The story is interesting but overall kind of not my cup of tea. OG VII is obviously much more poignant and cohesive in its delivery of its themes.

Music is insanely good.