text:
If a Final Fantasy VII Remake Ever Happens, Changes Could be Made
Yoshinori Kitase wouldn't want to leave things just as they were.
Final Fantasy VII is one of the most oft-requested remakes whether you're talking about Final Fantasy or games in general, but be careful what you wish for: should it ever happen, the game may not end up being just like fans remember it.
Square Enix's Yoshinori Kitase, who is currently serving as a producer on the upcoming Final Fantasy XIII-2 and was the director of Final Fantasy VII, recently spoke about how he would personally like to approach a remake of VII, should it ever happen. He's not keen on leaving things just as they are, a stance that could upset diehard fans.
"If I may speak as a game creator, if we were to produce a remake of VII, for example, I would be really tempted to delete things and add new elements, new systems or whatever because if we were to make exactly the same thing now, it'd be like a repeat," he told OXM U.K.
"It'd be an issue of repetition and not as much fun to make such a game. So I'd be really interested in rearranging games or reshaping games into something slightly different even though it's supposed to be the same game. But if we did that, the fans might be disappointed or 'this is not what I was expecting' so in that sense maybe some might say that it's better to let memory be memory."
He talked about how, when he now plays games he worked on in the past, he's able to identify things that make him think "'oh, that is not really cool' or 'that probably should have been a bit better than that' and that sort of thing."
Of course, he isn't ignorant to the potential response that changes to a game as beloved as FFVII could yield.
"But on the other hand, those slightly negative features and bits, for some of the really enthusiastic fans of these titles, that gives the game extra flavor or personality or whatever," he said. "So maybe they would rather we didn't do anything about it and we just leave it in as it is. It's very difficult to decide what we should we keep in and what we should take out."
His comments could apply to titles other than FFVII, as he only used that particular game as an example. It's also no guarantee a remake of VII will happen in the near future, although there has been plenty of talk about it in recent years.
There were rumors a remake would happen back in 2006 that didn't pan out, but fans were thrown a bone when the game was re-released on PSN (making it playable on PS3 and PSP) in 2009. Kitase said in 2009 a remake wasn't in the works, a reality that the game's character designer, Tetsuya Nomura, reinforced in early 2010. Kitase has since indicated a transition of the game's style to high definition would be difficult and that, unless such a project could be completed inside of a year, it wasn't about to happen.
Those dying for a Final Fantasy remake of some sort aren't completely out of luck -- an HD remake of Final Fantasy X was announced in September as coming to PlayStation 3 and Vita.
If a remake of VII does happen where changes are made, is there anything you'd like to see altered? Or do you want the game to stay intact, imperfections and all?
Source: Eurogamer
See Also
Final Fantasy VII Opening Gets an Unreal Engine-Powered Remake
Comments (131)
A way to change things without changing thingsPosted: Feb 24, 2013 12:00AM PST by Elliandr
Here's an idea: Introduce a time travel element. (Not like FF13-2) Not the characters you play time travelling, but maybe someone going back to try and save a few people. If someone went back in time to save Aerith, wouldn't that justifiably change the story without it being an issue of changing canon? What if someone tried saving Zack instead? Even if unsuccessful in either, wouldn't that change a few things? That would just be an altered time line so original story technically preserved. Then, maybe as a twist, tie that together with an add on game where you instead play as the time traveler (in a chrono trigger style) and instead see a simulation about how the characters you remember playing as respond to you. Maybe even allow you to be a villain totally messing things up if you so choose, and then the game could remember the basic personality of how you played a time traveler so that when you play from the other perspective a game the gameplay and story line is completely different. That way the creators can't be blamed for changing anything - it's the player writing the story!
Of course, that idea is more like a sequel than a remake.
Go LinuxPosted: Apr 28, 2012 12:00AM PST by Da_NKP
Ok. I do not mean make it for Linux, by any means. But I am referring to the methodology of Linux users. Less experienced users report problems while the programmers debug and update the feature set. So instead of keeping it internal, go external. Keep original FFVII fans involved throughout the entire process, allowing for majority rule on what stays and what changes. Hey, it works for millions of Linux users, why not apply it here?
FF XIIIPosted: Jan 08, 2012 12:00AM PST by Moegitto
They need to remake XIII, that combat system was WTF. I got to like the 5th to last boss and my characters wouldn't heal, no matter what style I chose. I probably attacke like 4 times that whole battle because my team wouldn't heal me, so Ihad to heal myself.
If they did remake FF7....Posted: Dec 18, 2011 12:00AM PST by DissidiaFantasy
If they did remake FF7, lets just admit that here's what the fans & everyone would *really* like.
One, Final Fantasy 7 when it first came out was at a very emotional period for Sakaguchi-san. His mother had just died. So it was Sakaguchi's idea, namely for emotional drama to put Aerith into the game as a main character and kill her off or do away with her. However, Nojima did not originally like that idea - He actually wanted to kill Barrett off and make the story more cohesive, leaving in that interesting element of a love triangle and making Cloud less stoic. Of course, Sakaguchi later changed his mine twice and said..."Lets just keep her in and perhaps kill off who you suggest" but at this stage development was already in full swing.....Nojima had already decided to cancel the idea of Barret or someone dying and to kill Aerith once and for all. Nomura and Nojima had discussed it at length, and Nomura liked the idea and then threw in Tifa because it made FF7 more paradoxial, so Nojima just went with that.
However, the plot of the storyline ultimately suffered and many people acknowledge that Cloud Strife is not "complete" in the sense that, the character feels forced. He is like someone suffering from dimentia or a severe case of ADHD. Cloud isn't as compelling as a protagonist who has become happy or found true love, like say Locke from FF6 or Tidus from FF10. He is far too enigmatic, and some might say a bit emo. Cloud is a paradoxial character, because well, it's pretty clear he is barely getting by without someone he greatly loved. Aerith was like a mother to Cloud, and now over ten years later, it's tough to admit but Sakaguchi's personal tragedy is over & the story should be completed how it was meant to be.
Also, I think even the most ardent fans would admit that FF7 suffered quite a few plotholes due to Cloud's paradoxial nature. And in a way the backlash was well deserved. Cloud doesn't talk much, he is far more subdued, we can't really know what he's thinking and feeling. Its more or less he decided to "accept" Tifa and live a more subdued existence, but fans are correct to point out he's not really happy. Neither is the storyline to Final Fantasy 7, because we really don't know that much about Heidegger or Rufus Jr. or these other characters and what lead them to do everything they did. We really don't know anything about their past, if we admit the game's fault and realize FF7 could have been a far more epic and perfect game. We do not ultimately know who Sephiroth was as a child, as that may have helped explain why he went so berzerk...and helped players connect more to the story and tragedy of Sephiroth plus Cloud. As well, I think Kitase appreciated the more human aspects and does not feel FF7 should be remade if it was going to be paradoxial.
So as I say, either let Final Fantasy 7 rest in peace or change part of the direction of the game. In essence, allow a re-work of the script so that we once and for all learn all about Yuffie, Sephiroth, Cloud and other characters like Zack from when they were kids. Either kill Tifa or Barret entirely off instead, or have Aerith be fatally wounded yet still able to summon holy and survive the stabbing.
Make the tragedy just as personal, in that it makes the player want to kill off Sephiroth without losing the focus of the story. Also allow Cloud to go insane and appear in the lifestream, but this time explain the entire chronology of his tragic past. Lets hear about when Cloud first arrived in Nibelheim. Lets hear about when Sephiroth was a child and met Professor Gast. Lets see a flashback where Aerith and Professor Gast are growing up and sharing some semblance of family for once. Lets discover why Sephiroth did what he did, and see poor Biggs be brought back to life through the power of Jenova cells or Holy. Finally, allow Cloud to experience the grief of losing someone but discover Aerith is alive and Holy is still on the way so he can be happy at last.
Lets have it be told in a way that does not lose the original impact, but allows the player to see Cloud go from being an enigmatic recluse to being a tragic hero who is able to stop the world from being destroyed. And finally, I say allow Cloud to say one last goodbye to Zack from the spirit world and/or allow Tifa and Zack to start a whole new romance while being happy as well. I don't want to see anymore FF7 games if all they are going to be about is depression or tragedy, it is perfectly possible to have a game's story be very tragic but still have a theme of happiness at the end. Sakaguchi's tragedy moved on in 1997, and to me replaying the game again as if that was still going on doesn't feel right. Plus, in 3D they have the tools to add 20 or so more sidequests and still allow for an incredible story that rivets players. Lets admit it, just like the writers of Macbeth.
mehPosted: Dec 08, 2011 12:00AM PST by JohnnyTruant420
If they did remake it, I woudn't want them to change anything except the graphics. Don't fuck with classic gameplay.
Oh Yeah and voice actors that don't don't sound like pussies... I'm talking to YOU FFXIII.
Dream does not cost anythingPosted: Dec 05, 2011 12:00AM PST by Abelquepasa
Remaking a ps1 title with todays graphics standards would maybe take more time than the time they needed to make X for ps2. I think we guys should give up hope for now and accept it for the time being. We won't see VII remade by now. But i believe is not something that's completely impossible hearing Yoshinori Kitase's words.
I'd prefer...Posted: Dec 05, 2011 12:00AM PST by SagatBelmont
A new IP, like Xenogears, VP, and Chrono Trigger did in their time.
improve on something that's already goodPosted: Dec 05, 2011 12:00AM PST by deafwing
they need to make this game - period
- however, I would like to see an even stronger/deeper materia combination system (although you could do some crazy stuff with the old one; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtXrE7mkho0&feature=related)
- things like that need to be maintained in my opinion but they need to make the system deeper since 2 generations of gamers (or more) have abused it and I can't think that people wouldn't mind a few "additions" to what is already solid ... simply put make it a better game while keeping it mostly the same ...
Most important thing...Posted: Dec 01, 2011 12:00AM PST by Arekusandora
the option of turning off voice dialogs and switch to reading what the characters are saying the old fashion way. In case the voices become too annoying and great for those that love that classic way of storytelling.
A Fantasy becomes reality...Posted: Nov 30, 2011 12:00AM PST by Efraim_archetype
I was hoping that Square Enix could revamp the whole Fantasy concept, gameplay, system, story line and theme... I suggest that Square Enix could make a new Fantasy base on reality, having a character development, where gamers could choose what will be the characters personality as the story unfolds.. I would like to see a more detailed customization for characters stat, weapon, armor, warddrobe etc...I want to dismiss all healing spells, I want to see how the character will struggles as the conflicts starts to unfold... I want to see them bleed, and recuperate as part of the gameplay features...
Remake!!! My vision and hope...Posted: Nov 30, 2011 12:00AM PST by aakimoto
Here it goes... my vision and hope... definitely remake FFVII on PS3 (or hybrid PSV). Keep the base story, characters, soundtrack, dialogue, interface... and improve everything from what we had in 1997 to 2011.
Story: The story remains the same, add some side quests or mini games that are optional throughout the game that gets you new items or makes references to Crisis Core or Advent Children for the fans. Make graphics HD quality. Some extras at the Golden Saucer? Add the optional bosses like the weapons (extra for the fans). Add achievements.
Characters: Advent Children look. Maybe add option for customized costumes. References from CC & AC, maybe other FFs? You can get them from side quests or mini games. (optional/extra game play for the fans) Some new Limit breaks? (maybe add a new limit break for each weapon?)
Soundtrack: HD quality, orchastrated. Option to switch between old and new.
Dialogue: Update to more full, clean, & smooth dialogue (US version lacked in some areas). Cutscenes. It would be awesome if there was an option to have both Japanese and English voiceovers with subtitles.
Interface: **Menu upgrade - View of what items, weapons, accessories, and materia. It would be awesome to see the weapon with materia slots in menu. Maybe the color or fullness of the materia changes as you gain AP. Upgraded PHS (1997 to 2011). **World - Added optional mission status or note. Faster random encounters or option to go straight into battle. **Battle - keep it turn based (maybe active option is more live?), simple, quick, and AWESOME! Option to skip through long summons...
FFVI Remake: A must! PS3... PSV... 3DS... I don't care... make it happen!
I will go and pray now...
Not a fan of 32-bit polygonsPosted: Nov 30, 2011 12:00AM PST by Hubiquitous
I wouldn't mind seeing a 2D remake of FF VII with HD sprites that more closely resemble Yoshitaka Amano's concept art. It would at least bring the development time to within a year, which seems to be the major hurdle for getting this project green lighted.
Mapping system and missions log.Posted: Nov 30, 2011 12:00AM PST by mista_hedonista
Add a mapping system and missions log along with notes log, throw in some better-looking graphics and nothing can go wrong with it. As a matter of fact, I had been, again, for the 6th or 7th time replaying FF VII earlier this Spring, and I only stopped due to being somehow stucked in Junon Harbor unable to return back across the ocean. SuperBummer...
Final Fantasy VII RemakePosted: Nov 30, 2011 12:00AM PST by warriorcaste
I would be willing to accept a different Final Fantasy 7. Why don't you hash out two different versions? One could be the original and the other could be the modified version. You could choose to play either at the start of the game. Similar to the Halo remake where you could see graphical differences at the touch of a button. I would love to see the redone version. I wonder how a game that I revere so much could be done different today.
FF7 remake should be...Posted: Nov 30, 2011 12:00AM PST by VDKT
FF7 remake should be for the old time fans and new players who wanna experience what we experienced with the original!
Why change anything? Or better yet, what will it be changed to? They wanna give it a FFXIII system??? *VOMIT*
Seriously. if FF7 ever gets a HD remake, it needs to remain intact! The original combat and customization system was top notch for it's time! It was simplified versus FF6 and older, yet it still remained somewhat simple for casuals that weren't good at RPGs and complex enough for the more hardcore players that really wanted to abuse the system and level up some crazy sick overpowered characters if they knew how to do it! Or better yet, you start out casual on your first game, then on your 2nd play you go all out hardcore! Now that's how a good RPG is made!!! FF7 wasn't just known for it's story, it was known for the RPG gameplay aspect too!
Change that, and you just ruined the whole game! You'll piss off the old time fans who remember the original FF7, and you'll drive players away who hate the new FF12 and FF13 crap gameplay system. Who's gonna wanna buy a FF7 remake after that? NO ONE!!! The fans and newer players will complain FF7 sucks, and the mainstream audience who have no idea what FF7 won't even bother buying it cause tons of people are complaining it sucks!!!
But keep the game intact and like the original, and you will attract old time fans who wanna re-experience FF7 in HD quality, you'll attract people who hate the next-gen FF game combat and customization systems *AND* you will attract the mainstream audience cause the fans and RPG fanatics will be praising this game all over the Internet, and who wouldn't wanna buy a FF7 HD remake if it gets tons of praise?
No Remake -> New game in same universe.Posted: Nov 30, 2011 12:00AM PST by Daisy_Chain
I was compelled to make an account to comment on this one. Sorry to have to burst everyone's bubble but compared to Squaresoft, Square Enix is simply a shell of its former self in terms of quality. Remake? With these guys at the helm? No. Way. No, instead they should revitilize the possiblity of another VII (as a remake) with a game set 100 years before or after that classic game. Keep the materia system, but change the character roster. Perhaps set the game in the past where "ancients" were a lot more prevelant. Perhaps capitalize on the fact that ShinRa is one of the best evil corporations in gaming history and create a story on the rise of the company.
There are so many new ideas that can give a new generation of gamers the classic they deserve without resorting to a remake - one which I'm not entirely confident they won't screw up. Like many others I just want SE to release a game that priorities the ,oh I don't know, GAMING experience rather than the visuals or terrible music/dialog. VII was a great game, despite some pretty baseless criticisms. Time to make another great game, not remake a classic into a bad one.
I agreePosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by Knockdownisland
If they just made the same game with better graphics it would suck.Keep the same basic story but change and tweak lots of other things not to the point it feels like an entierly new game but enough so that it makes people who have already beat the game 100 times like me want to play it
Umm....Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by GenesisDoes
So it's been like what, 6 years? Where the hel is Versus 13?
So much for...Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by catgirl147
Square saying that it's development time 'won't take as long as FFXIII' or whatever they said one (or two?) years ago at TGS, when asked if it would take another decade for another console FF to finally come out.... really now.....
Remake VII with Cel-Shading.Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by jeffokiecorry
That's my vote. It eliminates the hyper realistic visuals work that XIII had, and it allows the game to keep the comedic moments. Tales of Vesperia pulled it off nicely. In fact...most of the Tales games I have played have. Their style allows seriousness and comedy. As far as I understand cel-shading would be much easier to remake VII with.
By gar, I think you may be on to something!Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by Fyrebrand
I don't know about strictly anime-style cell shading necessarily, but it would be pretty cool if they were able to pull off something that actually looks like the original FFVII character designs and give the game a sort of watercolor look.
I mean, realistically, they'd probably just try and make it look as much like Advent Children as they can... but we can dream, can't we?
You know whatPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by TheLastGrimReaper
I like your idea. Cel shading would be awesome, and the colors would really jump out for some of the characters in settings with that style. I'd be happy if they did some editing to the story and kept the battle system at the same pace.
GladPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by jeffokiecorry
You like the idea. It just seems to be a perfect solution. But, convincing Square Enix to stop trying to create reality in fantasy games...who knows. I just thought that cel-shading would allow the environments to be created faithfully without the time consumement of a full power graphics engine. Besides, if Windwaker, or Tales have proven anything...cel-shading done right ages better.
HeyPosted: Nov 30, 2011 12:00AM PST by Arekusandora
That's actually a great idea! It never even crossed my mind before. But it makes more sense doing it that way so it doesn't look so serious since FF7 has silly moments here and there and a realistic look will not always work... i think.
Yeeaaahhh..... um...Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by Fyrebrand
FFVII remake talk is a weird issue. I'm not sure it'd be a good idea to even try something like that, at this point. I mean, on the one hand, I know I'd buy it, provided it actually turned out to be decent. But, I can't begin to imagine what you would have to do to get FFVII's content onto an HD system these days -- let alone get that content remade in under a year's time.
FFXIII took, like, five years to make, and barely has any content to it at all outside the main storyline. FFVII has snowboarding, submarine shooter scenes, chocobo racing, Mt. Condor's pseudo-RTS segment, a motorcycle chase sequence, and a host of other optional sidequests and minigames to consider, in addition to its main story. FFVII is a huge game, and would be significantly more labour-intensive than FFXIII was. Would it be worth doing, anyway? Possibly, but it would have to be, like, the best selling video game, ever.
Aside from technical/financial issues, how would you even go about writing and designing the game? FFVII is from a different era, and while I wouldn't say Final Fantasy should take itself more seriously, FFVII is definitely a wacky game. Wacky, in a way that is actually kind of embarrassing, if you left it as it is. The translation and dialogue is a complete re-write. "This guy are sick"? No. Barret's main method of emotional expression is to just shake his block-like fists in the air and knock people across the room? No. Do I want to see anything that goes on within the Honeybee Inn in greater detail? God, no.
The end result would be so different from the original, that you're basically just making a new game. Maybe the best thing to do would be to do a smaller-scale remake on a portable platform, like they did with FFIII and FFIV?
I'm mostly concerned on the FFX HD version's potential halfassedity.Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by Sabrewing
Squenix could really "go for the gold" and make it the International version while including FFX-2 International + Last Mission. But I have the lingering feeling that it will be the vanilla US version. :\
Ehhh I'd say no to a remakePosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by Umei
I'm truely tired of remakes. Don't get me wrong, I love FFVII, but I wish Square would give light to other projects. Where's Versus at? Kingdom Hearts 3? How bout a HD Dragon Quest game? And I'm still waiting on my Grandia 4 =p
Or a Chrono TrilogyPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by V4Viewtiful
they can call it Chrono Strike or Chrono Force, that would be epic
They did...Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by GenesisDoes
i thought the games industry was a business???Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by SomeKindaWizard
they can easily make SO much money from a remake, why arent they doing it???
personally i think it would be cool if they changed things in the game, obviously leaving them similar, if i wanted to play the same game i would...... its perfectly playable now adays
Why aren't they doing itPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by TNTITAN
They probably aren't doing it because they still make tons of money just from people buying it from the PSN store + whatever other rereleasing the original plans they have.
Lets face it, we are talking about at the very least creating a new graphics engine/art assets assuming they don't create a new script/battle system/materia system. It does cost money people. Why do that when you basicly make money as it is from the release on PSN.
I'm sure at the point where the original FFVII actual start being unprofitable then a new one will come out, until then its a waiting game.
Does it even matter anymore?Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by sp_aceca_se
They could have just straight ported it years ago and then remade it for boat-loads of money, and yet because Kitase says it would be boring to make, they don't? They remade FF I and II a bajillion times with barely anything added or changed, and now Square grows squeamish? And on top of that, he wants it done in a year? It's as if he knows it doesn''t matter either.
Ha - I Was JUST ThinkingPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by vinci
... Square-Enix has been so stingy about releasing this oft-demanded remake for years - and instead of giving their fans what they want, they instead chose to make (imo) strange spin-offs of current titles, a train-wreck of an MMO, and proper entries to the IP that have tarnished the once pristine Final Fantasy name.
I used to be a HUGE Final Fantasy fan... now I couldn't care less about the series, and I know that I'm not alone.
Being in the financial lurch, I guess, it what it took for them to actually give us what we have been clamoring for for years... because you KNOW that this remake is in development now. I'd bet every penny I own that it is. (Now maybe Nintendo will take notice, lol.)
Remake it, Square-Enix!Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by beauhappyday
Remake it, and change as much as you can from the original! Make the fanboys SQUIRM!
Half kidding here, but I wasn't a huge fan of FF7, and seeing how they'd change an updated version would fascinate me more than revolt me. I say, bring it on - if they've got to change the whole thing to make it 'fun' to produce, then I say go right ahead - let's see what they come up with!
Remake it, Square-Enix!Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by beauhappyday
Remake it, and change as much as you can from the original! Make the fanboys SQUIRM!
Half kidding here, but I wasn't a huge fan of FF7, and seeing how they'd change an updated version would fascinate me more than revolt me. I say, bring it on - if they've got to change the whole thing to make it 'fun' to produce, then I say go right ahead - let's see what they come up with!
Remake it, Square-Enix!Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by beauhappyday
Remake it, and change as much as you can from the original! Make the fanboys SQUIRM!
Half kidding here, but I wasn't a huge fan of FF7, and seeing how they'd change an updated version would fascinate me more than revolt me. I say, bring it on - if they've got to change the whole thing to make it 'fun' to produce, then I say go right ahead - let's see what they come up with!
Let's see..Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by nipsen
The "fans" want an HD remake. But they want the hd remake with the imperfections of the original, and without any new content. As well as the old mechanics and rules.
....may I suggest just playing the psx version.. Or the PC version? Might sound very untraditional and complex. But still.. why not?
Some things do need to be fixedPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by MindCandy999
Don't touch the Materia system, but I would definatly adjust character stats to they are a bit more dynamic. Aeris (who sucked at damage but had excellent magic) asside, the game really lacked characters who were highly specalized.
Obviously the story needs a good cleaning up and a re-translation is a must. I still can't make much sense of the text as is even after reading up on what happened.
Oh god... What if they do voice overs though.... Yuck.
firstPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by xWhackoJacko
of all....why wouldn't Square make remaking / remastering Final Fantasy VII a priority. After the pretty awful showing of Final Fantasy XIV, this could be easiest way to make back all those losses and then a ton more. But, whatevers.
Anyway, I like Kitase stance on it. If it were to be completely redone, why make the exact same game? You keep the story, the characters, and the gameplay roughly the same; but make some improvements. But yes, it would be a totally fan-service, so changing too much would have everyone (not me) in an uproar. Kind of a double-edged sword.
I for one am all for changing it up a bit. In particular, the speed of the game. You could chock that up to the capabilities of the PSX but if they were to redo it, I'd expect battles to be as fast as say a MegaTen game where in 10-15 seconds you can be in and out of a battle. I'd settle for FFX's speed, which was about the same. *FLASH* fight, collect, get back to it. And the PS3 or next gen PS could easily do that. Voice acting would be dope too, you know, get the voice actors (at least the japanese ones) from Advent Children to do it. That right there is a huge change, having all the dialogue lip synched/animated/voiced.
Just don't change materia. Leave materia alone. It's already amazing :)
I don't understand the "purist" mindsetPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by PaulMC
While Final Fantasy 7 was pretty freaking amazing. If I take off the nostalgia goggles I can find plenty of flaws with it. When given the chance to remake games, I really wish companies would take the time to tighten up the controls and fix glaring flaws from the originals.
That said, WHY IS MAKING A FF7 NOT THE BIGGEST PRIORITY AT SQUARE ENIX? they haven't been cranking out the most amazing games as of late and this one is bound to sell a sh*t ton right off the bat. This one would be a pre-order for sure.
me either manPosted: Nov 30, 2011 12:00AM PST by xWhackoJacko
me either. And, to be frank, FF7 really isn't imho the best FF. I'm more prone to IX, and if that were to get a remake or even an HD remake like X is, I'd be fucking stoked.
It won't happenPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by Shanef
for one there is no ay it could be made in a year, not with how square work these days, imagine all the dialogue and the sheer amount of locales? it would take a bigger team than SE to accomplish that and do it to any kind of quality that gamers demand.
I would love to play a remake, i find playing the original painful at times because of how badly it's aged.
Mess with Vincent or Red XIII...Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by TheRealFearlessCelt
...and somebody's getting stabbed.
ChangesPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by Sumez
FF7's story was pretty solid, but the materia system, although a good idea, was pretty retarded since there was no customizing of characters involved at all, and it didn't really matter who you had in your party.
Beefing up the system to include more depth and strategy like they did with the DS release of FF4 would be a GREAT move, IMO...
Oh you are in the VERY small minorityPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by almostautumn
Verrrrrrry small.
Other then the gambit system, the Matreria system is a widely credited structure that really spurces as much character as possible from your party. I am assuming your statement is on the flat notion of slots-per-item; you clearly missed the point, then.
Oh your freaking crazy!Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by bangrabowski
If there is one thing that the majority of FFVII fans are in agreeance, it's the genius of the materia system.
The Materia SystemPosted: Dec 06, 2011 12:00AM PST by Sumez
What's so ingenious about the Materia system? Did you guys even play any other Final Fantasy games?
As much as I like the ability to earn AP to increase your stats and gain new skills, the problem is that it is all in the materia, and you could just as well map all the same materia from one character to another, and that one would replace the former, with both skills and stats being entirely dependent on the equipped materia.
I like how you can combine different materia to "design" your own FF jobs in effective ways, but by taking some inspiration from systems like FF5 or FF9, the flaws of the system could be fixed and make the game a lot more interesting.
On top of that, 4 (or even 5) character battles involving a higher a mount of strategy, similar to the ones you see in FF4 would be a huge improvement over FF7's standard "keep using your strongest attack until you win" battles. Don't give me wrong, I love FF7, but taking cues from some other games in the series could improve it a lot. As long as the story is kept intact.
Of course...Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by CloudStrife_ca
Of course I was going to weigh in on this... I would suggest Square-Enix leave it exactly the way it is, I think the reason people loved the game so much is simple, because it was great "as is". If they wanted to add some sort of new side quests, that could work (even as DLC) but I think the remake most people are looking for are updated graphics/ sound/ music and thats about it.
I really hate hearing about how a remake would take too long to make or it would be difficult in HD, the writing is on the wall, its all over the internet, its everywhere... I'm pretty sure you could put a Final Fantasy VII remake in the Pepsi challenge with Final Fantasy XIII/ Final Fantasy XIII-2 and a Final Fantasy VII remake would easily outsell them both if the remake leaves the original game intact.
Seriously Square-Enix a Final Fantasy VII remake done correctly = $ more money than you've seen in years $
Final Fantasy 7 is ruinedPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by RocketShoes
I truly love Final Fantasy 7, but after what Square added to the FFVII cannon with Derge of Cerebus, Advent Children, Crisis Core and Before Crisis I wish the idea of a remake would die. It would break my soul to see them ruin a wonderful piece of my childhood by adding more garbage characters like Genesis. You have ruined Final Fantasy 7 enough Square. Just please leave it alone.
be quietPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by Shanef
you don't have to play a remake, nor did you have to play the extra stuff, if it's ruined for you then it is entirely your own fault, Sqeenix just gave the clamouring fans what they wanted and if that didn't sit right with you then that's tough.
TruePosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by Arekusandora
It's most likely they will do a mediocre job with a remake. For me FF7 for PS1 is the only great thin. Everything else after that just tarnished the the series. Especially the new characters added, they had no place being integrated in the story in my opinion.
Yet I would LOVE a remake but only if Sakagushi were to be involved...
Leave it alonePosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by CuteIgor2
FFVII has been milked and parodied to death, and the story and characters haven't aged well (Tifa is known more as the subject of a LOT of hentai fanart than a genuine RPG heroine). Unless they were to completely re-write the script (which woudn't happen, because then FFVII fanboys would firebomb Squeenix headquarters), I think a remake would end up being a joke.
Final Fantasy VII 3DPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Rav3n
Perhaps they would make it with 3DS Graphics in mind, they made a chunky 3D version of FF IV on DS so why not VII on 3DS? I'm all for it and wouldn't mind some changes as long as they try and stay true to the original settings and script as much as possible. Instead they should just rework the combat and spell animations to look good in 3D, make the text and menu boxes pop out, and they could even make all of the character models and scenery look more realistic like they did in OoT.
All for thatPosted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by True2TheGame
Too easy a remake on the 3DS. I am all for that.
Let it be...Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by ArcDerek
But if you have to, redo the localization. Don't touch the script. Just redo the localization. Put Alexander Smith in charge of it. I don't want boring, anime exposition. Leave it alone. It's cryptic, up for multiple interpretations and it creates a wonderful atmosphere. If there's anything that later titles lack, it's subtlety.
I'd be wary of a full 3D environment to wander in though. Sometimes I think that I'd love to see it redone in HD with super rendered graphics, but then I realize that FFVII is probably best left as being remembered fondly and not butchered in a remake. I just don't trust SE the way I used to...
A Final Fantasy VII remake would be okay, but...Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by SacrificAbominat
I really don't care about replaying an old classic when I have to dish out $60 for the same game I played years ago. Anyway I'd like to see the ramakes of Final Fantasy V and VI on the 3DS before I see a remake of Final Fantasy VII. Square should also look towards the future instead of the past for their next big Idea.
Recently I have been playing Xenoblade Chronicles, on my fixed Wii, and I would have never guessed that Final Fantasy XII's basic setup which is the similar to Xenoblade Chronicles' could actually be extremely fun, not to mention Xenoblade Chronicles is developed by an ex Square team. Square actually came extremely close to creating a masterpiece with Final Fantasy XII, but fell short because they were too overzealous of their in game AI. I seriously cannot play Final Fantasy XII without using gambits and opening a bag of popcorn, and honestly it just isn't fun because of this.
I noticed a similar trend with Final Fantasy XIII. Square is just too amazed by it's in game AI that they completely forgot about player interaction. Xenoblade Chronicles is all about player interaction and the Auto Battle crap which is overwhelmingly used in the latest entries of the Final Fantasy series is only used for basic attacks.
FF7 Reunion CompletePosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Pachinko
At this point I think it's almost too late to bother but had square done a remake that came out in say 2009 with re-done cg on par with advent childrens cinematics and redone the graphics in the white engine complete with full sized character models and mostly 3d backgrounds I'm pretty sure they'd have made a fair chunk of change. Were they to do it today I'd sooner see them take the same basic story and characters and do an episodic high budget re-imagining. They could set it up for a 4 year development + release cycle, spend 2 years making about 50% of the game and release part 1 - Midgar for 30 bucks, 1 year later release part 2 for 20 bucks , it would take you to perhaps where disc 1 ends in the original version and finally release part 3 another year later for 30 bucks with the rest of the game + extra content, some of it could even be sold as DLC (10 dollar chocobo racing pack, 10 dollar weapon challenge with diamond , ruby and perhaps new omega weapon boss battle). The entire game would obviously have to be a bit more linear , world map could still be in place but encounters would instead send you to an FF12 style sub map with wandering enemies. Dungeons would be entirely scripted fights and you'd only gain experience / AP during those battles to effectively put a level cap in the game until the end portion. The battle sytem would of course be reworked as a hybrid of 7/crisis core/ 12 and 13, taking elements from each , fast paced as well. Full voice acting for the whole game would add to the experience and perhaps the way you'd utilize your characters would be closer to 12, where they are all available but you can only use 3 of them at once, perhaps some tighter scripting would force certain parties at some points in the game.
Materia could still be the main means of acquiring abilities but I think , if they remade the whole game, they should redo how it works, certain types of materia would work better on some characters and certain abilities would be locked to a specific character until the end game / mastering of said materia. These ability materias would be equipped seperataly from magic and affect types. To prevent summon spam, even they could be tied to a certain character, you could equip it whereever but would only be able to move it after it leveled up, forcing more tactical decisions. As well, make their attack animations much much shorter or skippable.
There is lots they could do if they went full bore with this idea but ultimatly I'm not sure it's worth it.
I betPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by deviling
Nomura just doesn't want HD crossdressing Cloud littered across the Internet.
years...Posted: Nov 29, 2011 12:00AM PST by V4Viewtiful
too late
im downPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by tennesseebob
i have been playing FF since 2/4 on SNES, i have loved almost all of them, and enjoyed almost every remake, i dont mind subtle changes, it lets us see what the devs thought were short comings. As far as FMV models, they have most of what they need from all of the FF7 offshoots and spinoffs. 1080p would be nice for one of my favorite games ever, and it would be nice to have a remake for a good game as opposed to one of the lesser FF's
also, the pc fixed it, so console should too, when continuing in the arena, i would like it to say "of course" instead of "off course"
wellPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by blackrevenger
I would like all the dialog in the game voiced,also I would like for there to be some added content story to flesh out more of the story of that particular world. Also I want every game in the GS to be playable.
As long as they...Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Gerfndrf
Keep the same dialogue, approaching the final battle and Cloud says "Well, let's mosey". Truly inpsiring.
Just leave it alone Square. No remake.Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by ghost_of_gamemaster4747
It sounds like they would mess it up. They can remake 1, 3, 4, 5, and 6, and keep them basically the same so why does 7--the most favorite of fans--need to be changed? As stated above by another member, they are even remaking 10--which few asked for--but 7 they have teased us all with for years! I don't even expect them to ever remake it because they apparently don't care what the fans want. Like I said, they would probably mess it up anyway after reading this.
10 is easy...Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
they already have the FMV character models, which will become the new in-game HD models. after that, tweak backgrounds, add textures, maybe tweak sound quality, and VIOLA! real money from a game likely made in a matter on months by a two man team. FFVII would require a start from a fresh slate- only the story is usable at this point. character models, rendering the entire world in 3D, complete sound overhaul, actors for voiceovers, and, as much as i love old final fantasy battle recipes, they would want to add so much more to that- probably a crappy real time rpg crap system, like the newer ones, but, the new developers would need to leave their mark somehow, i presume. either way, i'd play it. if i hated it, i'd always have the original, so i don't see the huge problem some people have. i'll admit that they'd fuck up the atmosphere of the game right off the bat, and the voiceovers would probably be horrible in some way, but like i said- i have the original. it's not like crisis core or advent children did the characters and setting any justice anyway, but i still played and watched.
SoundtrackPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Brave
I would be worried about what they would do to the soundtrack. The original, while primitive, is composed brilliantly and the instrumentation fits the game in a mechanical way. If it was suddenly all orchestrated, it definitely wouldn't fit and I probably wouldn't like it. The synthesized nature of the OST fits the theme of the game perfectly and whether it was intentional or coincidental I think this robotic feel that the soundtrack gives is an important part of the game that is ruined by all the orchestrated covers of the original songs that we hear these days.
yup.Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
i was always excited when i heard a new orchestration or arrangement, but they are always so weak- missing the punch some of the originals had at vital moments and such. sometimes synth is just powerful enough. glad somebody agrees with a point i try to make often. i'll one-up your point with this one- the frame rate of the original was perfect. something about the "60+ FPS everything" notion with new games is annoying. the framerate set a tone in battles and FMV sequences that already looked lost in that PS3 tech demo. it's not a realistic game with realistic settings or characters, so perfectly fluid movement looks alien on it. again, they'll kill the atmosphere.
Enough.Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Turbo_Tom
Just leave the game alone. Why does everyone always talk about remaking this? FF7 is by far the most overrated game ever. It's good, but it's dated and boring. Hell, it's not even the best Final Fantasy game. I just don't understand what the game's lasting appeal was.
Niether can iPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by V4Viewtiful
But some sh!t you got to swallow But seriously i played 7 and found it okay but bland Sephiroth isn't much of a villian either as he has no real personality like cloud (being they come from the same "mother" that makes sense) who wasn't even that compelling himself.
The game was fine but it doesn't desrve it's fame. but that's just me
Made RPGs popularPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by finalark
FFVII is much like Goldeneye 64. RPGs used to be pretty niche on consoles outside of Japan so when FFVII came out many console gamers got the first taste of RPGs and from then on nostalgia took over the rest, making it the most overrated RPG in history. Its a lot like how Goldeneye was the first FPS that console gamers really enjoyed and still think is the best thing in the world despite it being boardline unplayable today.
ah, yesPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by V4Viewtiful
all most forgot about that finalark, i'm pretty sure that may have been the same for me, luckilly it didn't put me off them i think the first rpg i had a real interest in was Golden Sun (i must of had a lot of patience reading all that text )
Yeah , "wonderful"...Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by madhat
Seeing "Megan Fox" in an HD remake of FFX..."lookin' forward" to it...
Well , if they do decide to make slight changes in a remake of FF7 , among the standard stuff (HD graphics and whatnot) , is to make slight (and I do mean SLIGHT) changes to some of the memorable cutscenes...
Like when the party reminisces of Cloud's memories of his past , in particularly when he raided Tifa's underwear drawer... :P
i love the idea but then again i dont.Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by naroyto
ive played the game over one hundred times and never get tired of it. if there were to be a remake it will only be ok if just improved graphics even though im not one to care about graphics like the rest of the world i care for a great story line like final fantasy VII delivered. what i dont want is the game to be changed to the japanese release instead of keeping the us release. now i point this out because of the dispute of aeris and aerith. sure they say it was a typo when they produced the us version but its in the discs and its in the books it doesnt matter if Hironobu Sakaguchi said that its aerith, to me it will now and always be aeris because we played it that way. so if the remake would be made, my choice in playing it will all be determined by her name in the remake. i even refused to play crisis core because i found out they corrected the spellig in her name and sometimes i wonder if im the only one who feels this way.
pronunciation and spelling in japan...Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
is almost useless by alphabetic standards anyway, so i never understood the concern. just like how 'Cloud' in japanese could be mistaken for 'Claude'. l, r and d are all interchangeable. i'd imagine that s and th are as well. i'm pretty sure Cloud is pronounced, "Ku-RAU-doh", so why didn't anybody bitch that he wasn't called "Kurowdo" in the english version? or Reno and Rude as "Leno and Ludo". i'll tell you why- teenagers in the late 1990's had a hard on for anything japanese or anime related, and american japanophiles had a tendency to think they knew everything about japanese language from watching a few anime with subtitles and studying the words. i'm so glad those days are over, ha ha.
YeahPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by V4Viewtiful
I'm glade 4Kids are gone too
Strange ConcernsPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Pacario
I can understand Mr. Kitase's concerns of upsetting the fans, but they seem a little odd considering how drastically different other FF remakes have been--namely, the FF3 and FF4 DS releases.
As for changing FF7, I don't think most fans would mind too much if it was done like Capcom's Resident Evil remake on the GameCube. In other words, keep the basic concepts and structure in place, but then greatly improve on everything.
And perhaps add some multiple endings? There can still be an "official," canonical ending, but it would be nice to find a way to spare Aerith, among other things.
i'd love to see a remakePosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by SpaceMonkey
but only if they kept the fighting formula. the same characters. world maps. music.
really, all i want is improved character models and a fix on that script. if they could add some more side quest i wouldn't say no to that.
This isn't the Square of the past, they'd just gay it up.
Remake FFVII Yes PLEASE!!Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by jaydub18
God I hope they create a remake....I refuse to die until square remakes this game. As long as they dont take anything away from the original and add whatever new events thats fine. ADD dont subtract!! This will preserve fans interest and enthusiasm. I just can't beleive square hasn't realized they're sitting on a gold mine. True it would take a lot of time and money but the outcome far exceeds any profit gained from any game being released from this company.
Useless itemsPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Davethawave
If they do a remake please give a reward for getting those stupid 1/35 soldiers
they are worried about repetition?Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Phoenixxx1974
They mention it would be repetition but then they release other titles multiple times like FF1, 2, 4 on the PS1, GBA, PSP, Wii VC, PSN, iphone, etc... :-P
funny huh?
I want a HD 3D remake of FF6, 7, Chrono Trigger, Secret of Mana, and Xenogears. 5 of my most fav games ever.
long story short...Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
it would cost money, creative manpower and time- the three essentials they're missing in square at this point. every other remake, sans for FFIV DS, was a complete re-release with SLIGHT graphical or script updates, such as HD sprite remixes and such. most of their employees at this point have probably never even played FFVII, so they have no feel for it, and wouldn't know how to do things right or wrong anyway.
I'd buy a remakePosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Ersanven
Even though I harp on it I think FF7 was a pretty fun game. 8 was when the series turned to shit. (Though I still love 9)I'd prefer a six remake though. They just don't make games like FF6 anymore.
ha!Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
it's like you have a printout of what my brain says. i've probably said those exact statements, worded slightly differently, dozens of times.
yepPosted: Mar 07, 2012 12:00AM PST by dpepinmarquette
or make a ff 6-2 with the same graphics and release it as a downloadable game on the psn. I have been wondering lately why there aren't any new 16 bit type rpgs on the psn for download. wouldnt using graphics like that be easier and they could pour all their effort into story,combat, etc..
Of all the games to remakePosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Calibrator09
Square just doesn't make sense these days. And they have to sales to prove it. Make excuses for not remaking VII, a game countless players love whose story line is just fine as it is; however, remake X, a game with, at best, equal numbers who enjoyed it or would just as soon forget it, whose story line is increadibly linear and contrived.
Yes, let memories be memories if you don't know how to be true to them. But you shouldn't make excuses for ignoring your audience, or get short with them. That's not good business, and, like before, they have the revenue problems to prove it.
XII has been my final fantasy for sometime now. I'm for letting memories be memories because SquarEnix just isn't SquareSoft, not by a long shot, and so far they haven't changed for the better.
I think they need to restart the seriesPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by just2pale
Seriously though, XIII-2? Just start fresh, don't redo the old games just reboot the series start at 1, or I. I know I can be the only one in saying that the roman numerals are getting a bit ridiculous in this new generation of gaming. It doesn't have to be this gen of consoles, but at least in the next.
ChangesPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by McMarbles
like a comprehensible script? Awesome!
*3DS remake confrmed? LOL*
It makes sense...Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Prox1mately
I'm not sure where you lost grip of the story in Final Fantasy VII. If you played it through it's pretty clear how the story is structured. You're supposed to feel lost in some aspects, like Cloud's past for example.
Two reasons the story is hard to follow:Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by gutsdozier
There are some fairly significant plot elements that are only explained in optional cut scenes (Gast's journal, the death of Zack etc.) The quality of the translation doesn't help, either.
truePosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
i've played the game countless times, and it only took one time to get the gist of the story. even so, every subsequent time i've played, i've discovered new details, or looked at something in a different light that helped unravel intricate pieces of the characters and events that aren't shown, but rather only spoken of. horrible translation aside, that's what makes the game so unique. the story has some deep details that it would seem only the writers knew of for the first decade of its existence. for instance, i only just realized in my last playthrough that cloud's head voices were actually meant to be zack trying to force him to get a grip on his mind and memories, rather than simply his subconscious. it's little things like that. also, i'm pretty sure that Mukki rapes Cloud when he passes out at the Honeybee Inn. bonus.
PLEASE...Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by jeffokiecorry
If it is remade, remove the whole episode with Don Corneo. Ugh. I hate that part, personal opinion...
I wouldn't even mind if it was a simple remake rather than a complete overhaul. Oh...and add more interactions with Rufus.
Noooo!Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Prox1mately
I love that extra flavor to Final Fantasy VII. That section is a part of what makes Final Fantasy VII special, Don Corneo may not be the fanciest of characters but he sure added a lot of flavor to the game and the memories I have associated with it. I've played it through three times, not that many compared to others but I still enjoy most of it. There are bits that could be improved and some things that should be removed but that's definitely not one of them.
Why?Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Hunterman328
I can understand remakes for older games that you can find anywhere, but for a game so readily available I don't understand why people would want another version(if there are people who do.). There are so many good games out that I haven't had time to play, plus I'd rather the devs spend their time coming up with an original story than just change the pictures to one I've experienced.
if they remake it...Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
they should make it so all characters are naked, except the girls. also, nix the materia and leveling systems and replace them with an orb system, a'la FFX. also, cloud should be replaced with Umaro from FFVI, and all characters can only cast Bolt 2 (because Thundara is wack) and summon Odin. also, give Sephiroth short, brown hair and a one-winged butterfly tattoo on his forehead, and make all NPCs speak with a very thick french accent. remix all of the music in 8-bit sine wave, and you have yourself 60 of my bucks. can't wait!!!!
i for one second this proposalPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by V4Viewtiful
we'll call it Final Fantasy VII: FF15
nope:Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
FFSevenPointTwo: Sephiroth Strikes Back: The Same Game. it'll be two player co-op beat-em-up style, but not online. high points scores, however, will have an online leaderboard. also, the sub mission AND the snowboarding parts will both be replaced with a rhythm game, with player 2 options for karaoke.
You forgot some extra titlePosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by V4Viewtiful
...FFSevenPointTwo: Sephiroth Strikes Back: The Same Game - electric bogaloo the revenge
nah.Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
i want the font to be HUGE. i would only name it that if i could haphazardly let the text continue onto the back of the case, banner style, with a textured, bedazzled effect. pre-orders come with a set of padded nunchaku, with a picture of Yuffie's leg on them.
Remake Final Fantasy VIIPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by smmac41
or don't remake Final Fantasy VII. I would definitely play it. However, I will always play and love the original Final Fantasy VII.
Whether it's overhyped or not doesn't matter to me one bit. For me it is the greatest game ever made.
The Rules of a RemakePosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Garlador
It's brain-dead simple, really. Do EXACTLY what they did to Final Fantasy IV DS on a larger scale.
FFIV DS is the EXACT same game as the original game... just better looking, with a new, improved translation (that still kept the "charm" of prior "mistakes), new dungeons, characters, summons, and story details, and a more easy-to-use interface/save system.
I also point to Resident Evil remake on Gamecube. EXACT same game... same layout and everything... but with better graphics, redone story and voices, new enemies and locations, new modes, etc.
FF7, if they remake it, should be have everything the original had... just EXTRA. Don't "cut" anything, only ADD.
Or, you know, do what someone already beat me to, and just do a Final Fantasy 6 3DS game. FF6 was by far the superior game.
You missed a few tweaks about IV DSPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Scoob79
And they made huge changes. Most notibly, the customization options to the characters, and the ability to carry abilities from departed characters onto newer characters. Just as important was the imporved AI of the boss creatures, and increasing the difficulty, as the original was a cakewalk.
As far as V & VI DS, there were plans for that by the same people that made IV DS. I recall reading somewhere that they wanted to wait until the 3DS was out and port it there instead.
As far as what to add to VII, I'm not sure what they could do to make me like that game without blowing apart the materia system as that was the worst part of the game in my opinion.
alsoPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
the cut scenes were actually well done. i've heard people complain about the voiceovers, but i thought they were well done. the emotion was expressed properly and there were atmospheric considerations, unlike, say, FFX, where every spoken word was lifeless, as though unrehearsed, and flat, as though they didn't tweak them at all after the recordings. i don't know why a group of people outside in a field or mountain, or inside a cave or temple sound like they're in a quiet, dampened studio. it takes little effort to add echo, reverb, or any other atmospheric vocal effects.
FF7 is over hyped anywayPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by V4Viewtiful
bring on FFVI 3DS
overhyped, yes.Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
but, still a great game. however, i agree about FFVI on 3DS. that game could benefit from a remake much more. those characters and environments would come to live easily by even a small graphical upgrade, since they were already so vibrant in their 16 bit forms- not even to mention the music. FFVII was very anime-ish. if they try to make it realistic (which they will, if they attempt a remake), it'll just become unbelievably campy, kinda like advent children.
never underappreciated!!!Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
it just never reached the public outside of the SNES JRPG fans of yore, until it was released on PSOne as a weathered 16 bit shadow of itself. even so, i've been dying for it to finally come to PSN, as i currently have no other way to play it outside of my Wii or emulation- neither of which is satisfying.
I would love to see Final Fantasy VI 3DS...Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by jeffokiecorry
Really. I loved what they did with IV on DS (as mentioned earlier). I actually like the materia system, except, I would love to be able to maintain abilities on my characters, rather than have them switch off at materia transfer. Final Fantasy VI was one of my favorites where characters KEPT their abilities after learning them. Oh wait, I, II, III, IX, V, IV, X, XIII, and XII also did this...
The GBA version is the bestPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by V4Viewtiful
it improves just about everything that is the one i reccomend either on cartridge or emulator. what a great game, i didn't play it when it was III or on the PSX but after i did i played every other version.
GBA version, is indeed, excellent!Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by jeffokiecorry
I love the GBA version. Of course the music is a bit different and it has been criticized for that, but I would dare say that SOME of the tracks have been improved, even on GBA. Not all, but a few I like better on GBA.
I also love the new espers.
VI would definitely need to be a remake of the GBA version...
hmmm...Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
i loved the GBA version enough to play it twice through, but mostly because it was simply available. i've since played the SNES original in small bits, and i miss the original music and screen ratio so much, not to mention the vibrance of the original color scheme, which seemed to be scaled back in the GBA version. new content aside, you'd be surprised how much missing real estate on the battle backgrounds and maps could take away from my experience. the load times on the PSOne version were alright for me, so i think i'll enjoy that version more when it comes to PSN in the next week or so, here in the states. it may sound picky of me, but FFVI is my FFVII- one of the most replayed and beloved games of my youth. it sits up there with Super Metroid, FFIV, Secret of Mana, and Marios 1 through World. also, i currently don't have access to a GBA or DS with a slot 2 :(
oh- and the SCRIPT!!Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
the script in the SNES FFVI was fairly well done- i don't remember it suffering from lost translations or poor localization, like VII did. when they changed it for the GBA version, i felt that some of the characters' "isms" were lost, and some of the better lines in the game lost a bit of impact by trying to be wordier than necessary. also, i didn't enjoy seeing the character's portrait next to their text- my brain is used to imagining 8 and 16 bit characters faces and voices when i read text. for some reason, the monofacial depictions took that away from me- even the sprites' rather robust reactions were somewhat dulled by the portraits' existence, for some reason. again, i'm being picky, i know. but...... 3DS..... remake....... NOW.
yeah i noticed those differences tooPosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by V4Viewtiful
but as scale backs go it kept all the important things, i have a GC so i play FFVI on that
plus i'm glade they re did the script it lost some umph but at least the Humpty Dumpty joke makes sense now
that's for truePosted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
i forgot about the GBA player. unfortunately, i have a tendency to sell off my old goods after a while, so i can better afford newer hardware. i'm not saying i disliked the GBA version at all- it was appreciated to the fullest. i'm just saying that i may prefer the PSOne reboot on my PSP for a portable version to the GBA one, especially since my PSP is currently an encyclopedia of early Squaresoft games (and, i'll probably never sell it based on that fact alone- i only own one actual PSP disc, which is Crisis Core, and if they made it digital download, i'd probably just get rid of the rechid UMD, ha ha). we'll see in a few weeks when it comes out. either way, i'd openly welcome a 3DS update regardless of any minor changes. the FFIV remake on DS WAS incredible for the time, and when i heard that V and VI were going the same route, i smiled from ear to ear. then, story went that SQ-EX scrapped the builds due to 'technical limitations'- something i credit to the possibility that they got 3DS dev packs, and wanted to express the games in better ways than they could have on the DS. it's certainly plausable, but, now we have to keep in mind that Squeenix isn't doing so well, and they may have flushed the projects altogether. here's hoping we see these remakes one day soon.
humpty dumpty?Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
refresh me- as i said, i only played the GBA version twice, so my brain still only recalls the original script. i'm guessing it involves World of Ruin Kefka?
My favourite (if not only) sex joke in the series. yeah i know.Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by V4Viewtiful
after you get split up and swim to Nikeah docks
Sabin, Cyan and Gau enter a bar for some R&R, Cyan is noticed by a dancer (at the time assumed was code for something) Cyan calls her a "Licensious Howler" the dancer calls him a stick in the mud and say "Hey, do you like these? I call this one Humpty, and this one Dumpty!"
ohhhh, ha ha!Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
awesome. you know, i just tried to look it up, and got to some website that related all of the tropes in the game. i didn't find that one, but i spent about a half hour looking over them. i'll never get that time back.
i just looked it up on youtube.Posted: Nov 28, 2011 12:00AM PST by Kevroequis
i don't remember what that exchange was in the original, but i concede that it was likely much duller, ha ha.


text:
The First International Summer School last year reached the number of 22 participants: scholars, graduate and undergraduate students from several countries. The event was a big success especially when thinking that it has been the first such in Italy. The aim of the School, named "New Trends in the Anthropology of Southern Europe" was to introduce complex social and cultural realities as they are, often deviant from schemes and models which have been long dominant in the so-called "anthropology of the Mediterranean". I think that we actually reached the aim on two levels.
On the first level, the analytical, the intense discussion following the far-reaching theoretical introductions on the main topics taught us that there is still an urging need to deal with these regions of Europe in a critical manner. The main School topics included a theoretical introduction to the anthropology of Southern Europe (Jane and Peter Schneider), social networks and trust (Davide Torsello), museums and material culture (Anna Merendino and Eugenio Imbriani), religious festivals (Francesco Marano, Ferdinando Mirizzi), tarantism (Gianni Pizza) and migration (Dorothy Zinn). On the level of practice, at the end of the School all participants, struggling to understand the local ways of dealing with the everyday life, had a different story to tell and on which to reflect when back home. The School succeeded in bringing its guests close to the life of a southern Italian rural community and, more significantly, through its afternoon "field activities" in making apparent the often invisible thread between politics and culture. This speaks for the need to problematise the present situation of these regions, which, within a general panorama of national economic recession, are lagging much behind the more dynamic northern Italian regions. However, here culture and tradition are two of the key concepts as they explain one of the strategic ways in which Italian southerners manage to keep control of the reality. This is why anthropology is called to take up a strong position to clarify the dynamics of these strategies and their actual validity.
The Second Summer School
Southern Italy is one of the regions within Europe where religious practices and beliefs still play an important role in the process of local identity creation, the politics of the Catholic Church and the revival of historical tradition. Local communities regard the cult of their patron saints, rites and festivals as part of their own cultural heritage which distinguishes them from other communities. This explains the rich anthropological literature on popular religion, magic practices and healing therapies in the Italian south. The school is dedicated to scholars as well as graduate and undergraduate students with a particular interest in cultural and social anthropology, popular religion, Southern Italy and Mediterranean Europe in general. The aim of the school is to provide a multi-faceted picture of some aspects of religious practices and creeds in Southern Italy, their transformation over time and recent revival. The school will provide a unique opportunity to study southern Italian popular religion through theoretical lectures, guided visits, participation in a religious festival and interaction with local cultural activists. All these activities will take place in the beautiful environment of Lecce, a unique and rich example of Baroque art in Europe.
During their stay in Lecce the participants will be participate in theoretical and practical sessions exploring various aspects of southern Italian popular religion. The theoretical sessions will also include a general introduction to the topic, reference bibliographies, video presentations and descriptions of religious festivals. The practical sessions will illustrate the content of the lectures through guided tours to churches, religious festivals, documentaries and an afternoon visit to the studio of a papier-mâché artisan. The school program will also include a guided tour of Lecce, and a facultative excursion of Otranto. The language of the lectures and of the discussions will be English.
Scheduled Lectures
Religious festivals in Southern Italy: empirical and theoretical issues
(Herman Tak, University of Utrecht)
The cult of St. Paul through tarantism: identity policy or cultural revitalization?
(Giovanni Pizza, University of Perugia)
'This is a place where you come to suffer': Padre Pio, theodicy and sociodicy
(Christopher Mckevitt, King's College London)
Magic and power in southern Italy. Women, the church and culture.
(Thomas Hauschild, University of Tübingen)
Passion pilgrimages in the Campania region: revival and exploitation.
(Vincenzo Esposito, University of Salerno)
Religion, politics and poetics of time-space in Sicily.
(Bernardino Palumbo, University of Messina)

subset: commoncrawl


text:
As I mentioned in my last blog, I've spent a lot of time recently researching how organizations can adopt a coaching and development model of performance management. One of the most-asked questions on this topic is how to implement a coaching and development model while still maintaining a compensation system that differentially rewards employees. In my discussions with members, I have heard some good examples, and so want to share them today.
The Two Models of Performance Management
Our research shows that there are two "schools of thought" in the world of employee performance management. One, the "competitive assessment" model, assumes that organizations improve through a process of "rigid individualism" where employees are ranked and rated against each other, driving performance on a comparative basis. The other model, the "coaching and development" model, assumes that people best perform through careful selection, then coaching, development, and continuous focus on job fit. According to our research, the latter approach is most prevalent today, used by approximately two-thirds of companies.
Companies that use the coaching and development model believe that by identifying the strengths and weaknesses of employees, they can coach and develop employees to increase performance and retain the best talent. The focus is much more on management than assessment, with the underlying belief that ongoing coaching will reveal and enhance the employee's level of performance. These organizations tend not to use forced ranking or distributions. Instead, they focus on encouraging managers to more actively coach employees throughout the year, with both manager and employee engaged in a dialogue about the employee's performance. By end of year, the performance assessment is a record of the employee's performance, and not a surprise to either party. Recognizing that this type of ongoing coaching is not necessarily easy, Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), has created a coaching program specifically designed to help managers understand how to have these coaching conversations. I will be publishing a case study on this program in Q3.
Ratings and Rewards
While many organizations are moving to the coaching and development model, they are challenged with how to link performance to compensation in a system that does not rank and rate employees. My research has shown that one solution is to move to a simpler performance rating scale, typically a 3-point scale of "Exceeds," "Meets," or "Does not meet." This makes it easier for managers to determine performance levels, reducing the need for ranking and calibration.
Let me give you an example of how this works at a global financial services company using the coaching and development model:
This method of assessing and rewarding employees enables exceptional performance to be differentially rewarded, allowing the organization to retain those employees who drive exceptional value for the company. At the same time, though, it takes the focus off the end of the year review, and helps managers work on coaching their employees to better performance throughout the year.
Still other organizations using the coaching and development model have entirely avoided linking performance appraisal results to compensation. These organizations typically cite research (such as Alfie Kohn's work in Harvard Business Review), which shows that financial incentives, especially when linked to performance, do not tend to motivate employees to greater effort over the long run, and actually can be a disincentive to employees. A $4.5 billion global staffing firm abolished performance scores entirely. They believe that since performance scores are usually linked to compensation, the conversation can never totally focus on performance – there will always be a foreign element that moves the conversation (or the employee's internal thoughts) away from a pure focus on performance improvement. They still plan to differentially reward employees for performance, by embracing a system that follows the spirit of the 3-point rating scale:
I will be discussing this company more during my upcoming webinar on July 28, in addition to publishing a research bulletin that discusses this topic in more detail later this summer.
As always, I would like to hear from you. If your organization is making or has made the transition from a competitive assessment model, where the focus was on performance appraisal and ranking employees against each other, to the coaching and development model, let's talk about how you have made the transition. If your organization firmly believes that the competitive assessment model is the best one for your company, I would also like to hear more about that perspective. Please contact me at email@example.com.
Add to del.icio.us Digg ThisDZone it!
3 Comments
Friday, August 20, 2010 02:29
Performance Appraisals: a leadership performance support strategy. It's amazing that such dinosaurs (performance review systems, not the people) are still around. They must be, however, since a book has been published called "Get Rid of Performance Reviews'. Yet despite the outcry against reviews, there's nothing wrong with them that can't be fixed by getting managers off of center stage. Top management can fix the basic problems the review system faces.
Critics argue that performance reviews not only don't accomplish what they're supposed to do - that is, improve performance, enhance employee skills and achieve planned outcomes - they have unintended negative consequences. In many cases, unfortunately, that's true. But it doesn't have to be that way. What companies need to abolish is not performance review itself, but the idea that it's a "management tool. Here are some practiced paradigms that must be discarded:
Performance Review is designed, as the name suggests, in support of managers. If you believe this, your management is one of the roadblocks to exceptional performance. The most useful performance review support work relationships between employees (managers too are employees). Both parties need to address the question of how to best serve the goals and outcomes and align their work efforts.
Performance review is a management tool. Managers are not necessarily the best qualified to assess their staff's accomplishments. In fact, they may have a very limited or biased view. A more complete and accurate picture results when employees and managers seek feedback from a variety of customers, team leaders, professional peers, and others inside or from outside the unit.
Performance reviews include judgments from a "higher authority". Judgments produce compliant workers – people who are told what to do – not innovative ones. People hate performance reviews because most of them are fault-finding. How much better to ask, "What did we learn from this? What can we each do different the next time?"
The manager is responsible for obtaining input from the employees. 21st century employees can't assume a passive role in performance review, providing "tough-minded" self-assessments and valuable insights only on request. They must take the initiative, soliciting feedback from their managers and others. No risk taking to solicit the complete picture and no learning means no improvements.
Managers should be trained in performance reviews, then prepare their employees for the process. If performance review is to be a productive partnership with employees taking the active role and both parties committed to exchanging knowledge and ideas, managers and employee need to be trained together.
Posted by Milan Moravec
Friday, January 20, 2012 06:25
It's in reality a nice and helpful piece of info. I am happy that you simply shared this helpful info with us. Please keep us informed like this. Thanks for sharing. http://ultraresultscoach.com
Posted by Anonymous
Thursday, September 08, 2016 02:24
Pingback from beta.blog.bersin.com
The Big Trend in Performance Management? | Bersin by Deloitte
Posted by beta.blog.bersin.com
Stacia Garr writes on trends and best practices in talent management, focusing on topics such as performance management,
employee engagement, career management and workforce planning. In her blog, she likes to share what she's learned
about how to make talent management programs more frequent, collaborative, engaging and effective.
We would like your feedback on our website. Please send comments, questions or report problems to us at:» firstname.lastname@example.com


text:
iLife '04 All-in-One Desk Reference For Dummies
Read an ExcerptDownload Acrobat
Table of Contents
Author Information
Tracing the personal computer revolution back to the '60s, Bove and Rhodes produced a CD-ROM interactive documentary in 1996, Haight-Ashbury in the Sixties (featuring music from the Grateful Dead, Janis Joplin, and the Jefferson Airplane). Bove and Rhodes have written over a dozen books on computing, desktop publishing, and multimedia, including at least one bestseller, The Art of Desktop Publishing (Bantam); a series of books about Macromedia Director that includes Macromedia Lingo Studio and Official Macromedia Director Studio (Random House); the long-running Adobe Illustrator: The Official Handbook for Designers (Random House) now in its fourth edition; Desktop Publishing with PageMaker and PageMaker 4: The Basics (Wiley Publishing, Inc.); and The Well-Connected Macintosh (Harcourt Brace Jovanovich).
Tony Bove has been a director of enterprise marketing for a large software company, as well as a communications director and technical publications manager. He also developed the Rockument music site, www.rockument.com, with commentary and radio programs focused on rock music history. In addition, he is a founding member of the Flying Other Brothers band (www.flyingotherbros.com).
Cheryl Rhodes is an education specialist, researcher, and advocate. She founded and served as director of the Pacific Community Charter School, and worked as a professional courseware designer for ComputerTown USA (a National Science Foundation project) and the Lawrence Hall of Science, as well as an instructor in computer courses at elementary and high schools.


text:
Firefox / thunderbird font hinting broken after upgrade ubuntu 11.04
I was encountered the font hinting/smoothing were broken on firefox/thunderbird after upgrade to ubuntu 11.04, as you see the screenshot, the title has font smoothed but the Menu,URL address and the content dosen't.
Having reset everything in gnome by remove ".gnome2″,".gconf",".gconfd" doesn't help. Finally remove this file ".fonts.conf" in home folder did the trick.


text:
Tyler Anderson had a strong first professional season in 2012, dominating the Low-A South Atlantic League with an advanced approach to pitching that took advantage of the league's raw hitters. His performance, which included going 12-3 with a 2.47 ERA, has Colorado Rockies fans excited and has fueled speculation that he could jump directly to Double-A, says Patrick Saunders of The Denver Post.
The most sound reason to skip Anderson directly to Double-A would be to avoid sending a lefty who doesn't have overpowering stuff to the hitter-friendly California League. Despite his success, Anderson struck out just over six batters per nine innings in 2012, and more balls in play can lead to disastrous results in the California League.
Anderson had fantastic raw numbers last season, mainly thanks to his great control (2.09 BB/9) and a low home run rate. The control should stay where it is, as Anderson is known for his plus-command, but a 0.37 HR/9 rate certainly wouldn't happen in the California League and likely is too low for a pitcher with his arsenal of stuff to maintain long-term.
Anderson profiles as a mid-rotation starter in the majors, and will be in big league camp for the first time this spring. He's not the overpowering type that will open eyes while throwing bullpens, but given the Rockies lack of organizational pitching depth, he is already one of their more refined pitchers.
With his plus change-up, Anderson could move quickly through the Rockies system, but expectations should be tempered. Without swing-and-miss stuff, Anderson could struggle in Colorado, and unlike the California League, the Rockies won't be able to protect Anderson from Coors Field.


text:
Separate names with a comma.
Discussion in 'A4/S4 forum(B5 Chassis)' started by Olly_K, Jul 6, 2006.
Great tips and hints for 1st time buyers
Audi B5 S4 Buyers Guide
Any guides for the A4 2.5 V6 TDI?
Or is it much the same as the S4 Guide?
two different engines
LOL - I wonder who wrote that!
Pity the link doesnt work :^(
Try this one:
B5 Audi S4 Buyer's guide


text:
The latest version of Adobe Flash Player is required to watch this video.
Please click on the link below to download the latest version. Thanks!
OFAKIM, Israel - A long-range Grad missile fired by Palestinians in the Gaza Strip exploded north of the Israeli town of Ofakim in the Merhavim Regional Council in the western Negev around 3:00 a.m. Friday, Army Radio reported. No people were hit, but three cows were wounded by shrapnel.
"We woke up from the explosion and went out to look, but it was dark so we went back to sleep," Yahu Madmoni, a father of three, told YNet news. "In the morning, we woke up and saw the damage," he said.
"The missile fell 150 meters [yards] from our house, near my parents' cattle shed. Three cows were injured and a water container and the shed's roof were damaged," he said.
Overnight, Palestinians fired a series of Kassam rocket in the same general area, with no resulting injuries or property damage.
Hamas defended the attacks, saying they were in response to Israel's targeted killing of two Army of Islam members, who were planning to kidnap Israelis vacationing in the Egyptian Sinai. The two jihadists had been involved in carrying out terror attacks against Israelis.
"It's unclear if this is an attempt to justify the failure of the negotiations or an attempt to sacrifice the Strip for the sake of the talks," a Hamas spokesman said on Friday.
"In any event, this is a clear Israeli attempt to drag the Palestinians in the Strip to respond to the Israeli crimes," he said.
In July, a Grad missile fired from Gaza hit near an apartment building in the Israeli coastal town of Ashkelon. Eight residents were treated for shock.
Terror Cell Targets Eilat, Aqaba, Killing Jordanian
Palestinian Missile Targets Ashkelon
Kassam Rocket Heavily Damages Factory
Kassam Expodes near Ashkelon
Log in or create an account to post a comment.
Are you seeking answers in life? Are you hurting? Are you facing a difficult situation?
Find peace with God, discover more about God or send us your prayer request.
Call The 700 Club Prayer Center at 1 (800) 823-6053, 24 hours a day.
A caring friend will be there to pray with you in your time of need.
CBN News is a national/international, nonprofit news organization that provides programming by cable, satellite, and the Internet, 24-hours a day. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
More Info
The Terrorists Funded by the WestBassam Tawil
The New Israel Fund and those who support it are helping terroristsRonn Torossian
Column one: Fighting fire with fireCaroline B. Glick
Op-Ed: There is no 'radical Islam' and there is no 'moderate Islam'Dr. Mordechai Kedar
'Narrow' escapesRuthie Blum
Why Palestinians Do Not Want Cameras on the Temple MountKhaled Abu Toameh
Social Media Killed My FatherYoni Kempinski and Ari Soffer
Iran's New Palestinian Terror Group: Al SabireenKhaled Abu Toameh


text:
on July 9, 2014 - 12:01 AM
U.S. needs to let Iraq solve its own problems
The refrain of legendary singers Peter, Paul and Mary – "When will we ever learn" – echoes in our ears as the United States considers further military involvement in Iraq. Many years of war in Iraq have provided sufficient evidence that military engagement and training of Iraqi soldiers have done little to advance peace in the area. The cost of 4,500 U.S. military lives, thousands of wounded and disabled veterans and hundreds of thousands of Iraqi deaths might have been spared.
The political situation in Iraq has rapidly deteriorated into a civil war between two Muslim factions, a condition that surely we knew was a motivating factor. It has become abundantly clear that the current regime's conduct is a significant part of the problem. Sending more troops and possible air strikes is not the answer. Iraq as a sovereign nation must solve its own internal political affairs without the intervention of any outside entity. We must continue to try to get to a respectful and peaceful dialogue between a fundamentalist Sharia-imposed governing structure and the Sunni insurgents. Restricted military aid could be a tool along with humanitarian aid.
Otherwise there will be long-term negative effects on America's already frayed relationships with other Middle Eastern countries. The U.N. Security Council can supply multinational help in securing a negotiated settlement. Let us all support peaceful efforts going forth and tell President Obama, the military advisers and Congress that war is not the answer.
Judith Metzger


text:
Altova Mailing List Archives
>xsl-list Archive Home
>Recent entries
>Thread Prev - [xsl] Displaying Code Dependent on First Encounter of Specific Reference
[Thread Next]
Re: [xsl] Displaying Code Dependent on First Encounter of Specific Reference
Date: 10/14/2004 9:02:00 AM
Hi Joe, This problem is a bit difficult, not because of any inherent difficulty in any of the methods you will use, but because it's both complex, and will require using a couple of XSLT 1.0 tricks. Disentangling it shows a way forward. You actually have several problems here: * Assigning each table or figure its correct number (based on order of citation, not order of appearance in the source) * Citing the tables or figures where xrefs appear in line, each with its correct number * Placing the tables and figures each after the paragraph where it's first cited, and not elsewhere You will use keys for this, though not perhaps in exactly the way you're imagining. Likewise, it'd be nice if we could construct an array, and in XSLT 2.0 we could (or at least the functional equivalent thereof), but in XSLT 1.0 we can't. So we have to fake a couple of things. As you'll see, this faking may potentially get us into a bit of trouble with performance. The usual XSLT 1.0 approach when this happens is to split a problem into two or more passes, which generally gives us opportunities to optimize for efficiency. In order to simplify this explanation I'm going to assume you have only tables. Figures will work just the same: Assigning each table or figure its number ... we could either do this by counting the references (filtering out for repeated references) or by counting the tables, sorted by their first reference. While the latter would be nice, the former is easier in XSLT 1.0. We do this first by giving us a means to filter out the repeats: <xsl:key name="tablerefs-by-rid" match="xref[@ref-type='table']" use="@rid"/> Given $rid, we can then get all the references to any table by calling key('tablerefs-by-rid', $rid) and the first one only by calling key('tablerefs-by-rid', $rid)[1] In addition, we can get all the first references by saying, e.g. //xref[@ref-type='table'][count(.|key('tablerefs-by-rid', @rid)[1])=1] This XPath traverses the entire document from the root, collecting all xrefs that are the first reference to their table. If they aren't to a table, the first predicate filters them out. If they are not a first reference, the count of their union with the first reference will be 2 not 1, and the second predicate will filter them out. This uses an XPath 1.0 idiom (the count() trick) to test node identity. The generate-id() function is also sometimes used for this, so this would also work: //xref[generate-id()=generate-id(key('tablerefs-by-rid', @rid)[1])] Notice here we don't need the first predicate (since xrefs not to tables will also be thrown out by the predicate given -- so you may prefer this. It would be very convenient to have all these particular nodes collected together so we don't have to collect them over and over (an expensive traversal). So: <xsl:variable name="first-table-refs" select="//xref[generate-id()=generate-id(key('tablerefs-by-rid', @rid)[1])]"/> (This is awfully close to an array, isn't it?) Consequently, we can also get the proper number for any given xref[@ref-type='table'] with the expression count($first-table-refs [count(.|current()/preceding::xref) = count(current()/preceding::xref)]) + 1 which looks, and is, awfully obnoxious and expensive (using the costly preceding:: axis twice), but which can be optimized slightly as a template call: <xsl:template match="xref" mode="assign-table-number"> <xsl:for-each select="key('tablerefs-by-rid', @rid)[1]"> <!-- switching context to the first reference to this reference's table --> <xsl:variable name="preceding-refs" select="preceding::xref"/> <xsl:value-of select="count($first-table-refs [count(.|$preceding-refs) = count($preceding-refs)]) + 1"/> <!-- counting the first table references before this one, and adding 1 --> </xsl:for-each> </xsl:template> I wish this were easier, but in XSLT 1.0 it just isn't. In 2.0, it is (and maybe Mike or Jeni or someone will show us how). But it does solve problem 1, and you can see how any given xref[@ref-type='table'] can call <xsl:apply-templates select="." mode="assign-table-number"/> and get its number, thereby solving problem 2. Problem 3 is a matter of selecting, after you create a paragraph, those references in it that are first references to their targets (tables, figures, what not), which again you can do (in the case of tables) using this same idiom: <xsl:template match="para"> <p> <xsl:apply-templates/> </p> <xsl:apply-templates mode="get-target" select=".//xref[generate-id()=generate-id(key('tablerefs-by-rid', @rid)[1])]"/> <!-- do the same with any other keys for xrefs you have, e.g. to figures, perhaps unifying the select --> </xsl:template> To actually get the target you're going to need another key: <xsl:key name="target-by-rid" match="table|figure" use="@id"/> and then <xsl:template match="xref" mode="get-target"> <xsl:apply-templates select="key('target-by-rid', @rid)" mode="show"/> </xsl:template> which will go apply templates to the table, figure or whatever. Note I've put this call also in a special mode, "show", enabling you to say in the default mode <xsl:template match="table|figure"/> so the tables only come out where you actually want them. Whew! not bad for a bit of work, eh? This should work fine for input at the scale of most human-readable documents. For higher performance (that numbering is a beast), you'll want to split out an analytic/sorting pass before processing, or get out the big rotary saw (XSLT 2.0). Note: I just typed this up, and haven't tested, but I have used such code and it works. Beware particularly of missing parentheses in my XPaths, etc. Cheers, Wendell At 04:57 PM 10/13/2004, you wrote: XSL list: I'm developing a stylesheet that converts XML to html to display research articles. The articles contains three citation types, bibliographical, table call, and figure call. Upon encountering a table call or figure call, I would like to display the table or figure referred to immediately following the paragraph that contains the call. I want the table or figure to appear in the order they were referred to in the paragraph and I want each table or figure to only appear once in the outputted document. Tables and figures are numbered in order of their reference, though at any point you can refer to a table or figure that has been previously called. Citations look like this: <xref ref-type="bibr" rid="B1">1</xref> <xref ref-type="table" rid="T1">Table 1</xref> <xref ref-type="fig" rid="F1">Figure 1</xref> Sample Input: [A paragraph that includes a citation for Table 1.] [A paragraph that includes citations for Table 2, Table 1, Figure 1, and Table 3.] Sample Output: [A paragraph that includes a citation for Table 1.] Table 1 [A paragraph that includes citations for Table 2, Table 1, Figure 1, and Table 3.] Table 2 Figure 1 Table 3 My initial thought is to create a set of keys: Key: Last Table Processed Key: Last Figure Processed Key: Last Table Encountered Key: Last Figure Encountered Since the tables and figures are numbered in order, a comparison of the two keys should be in order. This comparison should be made at the end of processing a paragraph. However, I'm not quite sure how I'd make such a comparison or even if I can use keys in that manner. I'm thinking I might need to generate some sort of array to keep track of the multiple citations encountered so that in the sample provided the output is (Table 2, Figure 1, Table 3) and not (Table 2, Table 3, Figure 1) or (Figure 1, Table 2, Table 3). If I were to build an array, since at this point I don't need to process <xref> citations of "bibr" type, those should be ignored. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. > - Joe ====================================================================== Wendell Piez mailto:wapiez@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Mulberry Technologies, Inc. http://www.mulberrytech.com 17 West Jefferson Street Direct Phone: 301/315-9635 Suite 207 Phone: 301/315-9631 Rockville, MD 20850 Fax: 301/315-8285 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Mulberry Technologies: A Consultancy Specializing in SGML and XML ======================================================================
These Archives are provided for informational purposes only and have been generated directly from the Altova mailing list archive system and are comprised of the lists set forth on www.altova.com/list/index.html. Therefore, Altova does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy, reliability, completeness, usefulness, non-infringement of intellectual property rights, or quality of any content on the Altova Mailing List Archive(s), regardless of who originates that content. You expressly understand and agree that you bear all risks associated with using or relying on that content. Altova will not be liable or responsible in any way for any content posted including, but not limited to, any errors or omissions in content, or for any losses or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of or reliance on any content. This disclaimer and limitation on liability is in addition to the disclaimers and limitations contained in the Website Terms of Use and elsewhere on the site.