Final Fantasy VII PC Update Launches with Glitches

Square Enix released an updated version of its landmark 1997 role-playing game Final Fantasy VII on Steam and GOG this week, introducing quality-of-life features to the classic title but sparking widespread criticism over technical glitches shortly after launch.

The rerelease, which arrived on Steam on February 24, replaces the 2013 edition for new purchases while offering existing owners a free upgrade as a separate download. Owners of the prior Steam version can still access and play the 2013 edition, though save files are incompatible between the two. On GOG, the game is now available DRM-free, aligning with the platform's policy of no online activation requirements. No changes were made to the game's core story, which follows mercenary Cloud Strife and the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE as they battle the Shinra Corporation and the antagonist Sephiroth over the exploitation of the planet's life force, mako energy.

New additions aim to modernize gameplay without altering its essence. These include a 3x speed mode for battles, travel, and certain events; the option to disable random non-story encounters; an autosave system; and a battle enhancement mode that restores health and...