Final Fantasy VII Remake Summon Animations: A Definitive Ranking

Okay, let’s be real: the summons in Final Fantasy VII Remake are visual feasts. We’re talking earth-shattering, screen-filling, “holy-moly-that’s-awesome” levels of spectacle. But, are all summon animations created equal? Absolutely not! Some bring the thunder (literally), while others… well, they’re still cool, but maybe not *as* cool. So, let’s dive into a definitive ranking of the summon animations in FFVII Remake, from slightly-less-epic to face-meltingly amazing.

Ranking the Summons of Midgar: From Cool to Absolutely Mind-Blowing

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s establish some ground rules. We’re judging these summons based on a few key criteria: visual impact, faithfulness to the original FFVII, how well they integrate into the combat, and overall “wow” factor. Think of it like judging a figure skating competition – technical merit meets artistic expression, but with more giant monsters and less sparkly spandex. And remember, this is all subjective, so feel free to disagree… just don’t @ me too hard.

Criteria

Visual impact is all about the initial “oomph” you feel when a summon appears. Does it make your jaw drop? Does it fill the screen with dazzling effects? Does it make you want to high-five the nearest person (or cat)? Combat integration is how smoothly the summon’s abilities fit into the flow of battle. Can you effectively use its powers to turn the tide? Does it feel like a natural extension of your party’s abilities, or just a flashy sideshow? A summon that looks amazing but is clunky to use won’t rank as highly as one that’s both visually stunning and strategically useful.

Bottom Tier: Lacking That Extra Something

Even the “worst” summons in FFVII Remake are still pretty darn good, but some just don’t quite reach the same heights as the others. They might have less dramatic entrances, less impactful abilities, or simply lack that certain “je ne sais quoi” that makes a summon truly memorable. Think of it like comparing a decent burger to a gourmet, five-star experience – both are food, but one clearly outshines the other. These summons are still useful, but they might not be your go-to choice for every encounter.

Chocobo Chick

Look, the Chocobo Chick is adorable. Who can resist a tiny, fluffy chocobo hopping around and pecking at enemies? But in terms of sheer power and visual spectacle, it’s definitely at the bottom of the list. It’s more of a novelty summon, perfect for early-game shenanigans, but it quickly gets outclassed. It’s like that starter Pokemon you love, but have to bench later for a more powerful team member. Still holds a special place in our hearts, though!

Mid-Tier: Solid Choices for Specific Situations

These summons are reliable and effective, offering a good balance of visual flair and combat utility. They might not be the absolute flashiest, but they get the job done, providing valuable support in various situations. Think of them as the workhorses of your summon arsenal – dependable, consistent, and always ready to lend a helping hand (or claw, or tentacle). They’re the solid B players on your team; not MVPs, but essential contributors.

Leviathan

Leviathan, the sea serpent, is a visually impressive summon. The animation of it rising from the depths is pretty cool, and its water-based attacks are certainly effective against fire-type enemies. However, it can feel a bit unwieldy in certain combat scenarios, especially in enclosed spaces. Leviathan’s attacks can sometimes miss, making it feel a little less reliable than other summons. It’s like trying to parallel park a boat – impressive when it works, but frustrating when it doesn’t.

Shiva

Shiva is a classic Final Fantasy summon, and her appearance in FFVII Remake is certainly faithful to her icy origins. The animation of her ice crystals forming and her Diamond Dust attack are visually stunning. She’s particularly useful against fire-based enemies, providing a significant advantage in those encounters. However, her effectiveness can be limited against enemies resistant to ice. She is like the character that has weaknesses that can be easily expoited.

Top Tier: The Summons That Steal the Show

These are the crème de la crème, the summons that leave you breathless with their visual splendor and devastating power. They’re the ones you eagerly anticipate summoning, knowing they’ll not only turn the tide of battle but also provide a spectacle worthy of a standing ovation. Think of them as the headliners of a rock concert – the reason you bought the ticket, and the ones you’ll be talking about long after the show is over.

Ifrit

Ifrit, the fire summon, is a force to be reckoned with. His appearance is imposing, and his Hellfire attack is a visual masterpiece, engulfing enemies in flames. He’s particularly effective against ice-based enemies, making him a valuable asset in those encounters. He is the perfect character to chose when your oponent is easily countered by this skill. Ifrit is a fantastic summon, balancing visual flair and combat utility perfectly.

Bahamut

Bahamut is the king of summons, and his arrival in FFVII Remake is nothing short of legendary. The sheer scale of the summon is breathtaking, and his Megaflare attack is a devastating display of power. The build-up to Megaflare, with Bahamut charging and unleashing his energy, is pure hype. He’s the ultimate game-changer, capable of wiping out hordes of enemies with a single blast. It’s like calling in an airstrike – utterly devastating and visually unforgettable.

Ramuh

Ramuh, the master of lightning, is a late-game summon that absolutely delivers on spectacle and power. His arrival is heralded by a deafening clap of thunder and a blinding flash of light, instantly setting the tone for the devastation to come. His abilities are incredibly effective against machine-type enemies, making him invaluable in certain encounters. He’s like the unexpected plot twist that completely changes the game – a powerful addition to your arsenal that you won’t want to be without.

God Tier: Phoenix: The Ultimate Support

Phoenix, the fiery bird of rebirth, earns its place in the God Tier due to its exceptional utility and awe-inspiring animation. This isn’t just a summon; it’s a lifeline. While it deals significant fire damage, its true power lies in its ability to revive fallen party members, instantly turning a dire situation into a triumphant comeback. The animation is a beautiful dance of flames and feathers, a visual representation of hope rising from the ashes. Think of it as the ultimate “get out of jail free” card, or a well-timed resurrection spell in a tabletop RPG. It is the best summon of all due to the ability to help the whole team.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Summons

The summons in Final Fantasy VII Remake are more than just flashy animations; they’re integral to the combat system, providing powerful support and game-changing abilities. Each summon offers a unique set of skills and strategies, allowing players to tailor their approach to different encounters. While some summons may be more effective than others, they all contribute to the overall experience, adding depth and excitement to the game. The care and attention to detail put into these summons elevate them beyond mere gameplay mechanics, transforming them into memorable and impactful moments. They are the visual representation of power, strategy, and nostalgia combined into one glorious package.

FAQ

Which summon is best for beginners in FFVII Remake?

Ifrit is an excellent choice for beginners. He’s relatively easy to obtain early in the game and offers a good balance of attack power and usability. His Hellfire ability is particularly effective against many early-game enemies, making him a valuable asset for players just getting started.

How do I unlock all the summons in FFVII Remake?

Summons are unlocked in a variety of ways throughout the game. Some are obtained through story progression, others are rewards for completing side quests, and some are purchased using Battle Intel Reports from Chadley. Keep an eye out for these opportunities as you explore Midgar and beyond.

Can summons level up or be upgraded in FFVII Remake?

Yes, summons can be upgraded by equipping them with Materia. As you level up the Materia linked to your summon, it will gain new abilities and enhanced stats, making it even more powerful and versatile in combat. Experiment with different Materia combinations to find the best setup for your playstyle.