Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy VII shifts the series from turn-based combat to an action-shooter framework, putting players directly in control of Vincent Valentine. Over twelve chapters, you’ll navigate multi-level environments that demand both precision aiming and strategic positioning. The game supports analog controller input or optional PlayStation 2 mouse and keyboard, giving you flexibility in how you approach each firefight.

Combat blends fast-paced shooting with Final Fantasy’s RPG heritage. You can freely switch between first-person for pinpoint accuracy and third-person to maintain better situational awareness. As you progress, Vincent acquires a variety of firearms—from fast‐firing guns to heavy magnums—and can customize each weapon’s parts, adding elemental effects or boosting firepower to match your play style.

Beyond raw firepower, Dirge of Cerberus draws on RPG staples. You’ll scavenge materia for spells, stock up on healing items, and earn gil to trade for upgrades. The Chaos Break limits allow Vincent to transform into one of his monstrous forms, unleashing devastating area attacks or defensive buffs. These special moves not only add a layer of tactical depth but also serve as exciting set-pieces in boss battles.

Graphics

Built on Capcom’s proprietary engine for the PlayStation 2, Dirge of Cerberus delivers impressive character models for its time. Vincent, friend NPCs, and enemies all feature detailed textures and expressive facial animations that bring the FFVII cast back to life. Even minor characters like the Meteorfall cultists have unique designs, making each encounter visually distinct.

The environments span ruined towns, underground labs, and industrial complexes, each with atmospheric lighting and environmental effects. Light shafts, rain, and particle effects during gunfire or Chaos Break sequences help sell the world’s post-Meteorfall gloom. While some textures can appear slightly dated, the overall art direction remains faithful to Final Fantasy VII’s iconic aesthetic.

Cutscenes are seamlessly integrated, using real-time engine renders rather than pre-rendered movies. This keeps the visual flow smooth between gameplay and story moments. Camera work is generally solid, though occasional clipping or pop-in can occur in expansive areas. Even so, the dynamic action effects—shell casings, muzzle flashes, and transformation visuals—compensate with flair and energy.

Story

Set after the events of Final Fantasy VII and the Advent Children movie, the narrative centers on Vincent Valentine. Reeve Tuesti summons him to Kalm for a celebration, only for a mysterious new organization to launch a brutal assault. As townspeople fall and captives mount, Vincent steps up once more to protect innocents and unravel the reason these soldiers are hunting him.

The plot unfolds across a dozen chapters, balancing high-stakes action with introspective character moments. You’ll revisit key locales from FFVII lore, all while uncovering Meteorfall’s dark goals and Vincent’s own tortured past. Along the way, familiar faces make cameo appearances, and new allies provide additional perspective on the world’s precarious state.

While the storyline occasionally leans on exposition dumps, it rewards long-time fans by expanding on Vincent’s motivations and the lingering threats that survived Sephiroth’s defeat. Voice acting ranges from solid to occasionally wooden, but subtitles and dialogue writing generally capture the emotional stakes. For newcomers, the narrative can feel dense, yet the core mystery and heroic drive remain compelling throughout.

Overall Experience

Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy VII is a bold experiment, fusing third-person shooter mechanics with the celebrated RPG universe of FFVII. Its combat system offers satisfying depth, with weapon customization and Chaos Breaks elevating each engagement beyond a simple “shoot everything” approach. The pacing is brisk, ensuring you rarely stand idle between firefights and story beats.

Graphically, the game holds up well for a PS2 title, with memorable set-pieces and faithful re-creations of classic FFVII locations. Though some textures and camera quirks show their age, the overall presentation reinforces the dark, post-Meteorfall atmosphere. Fans of the original will appreciate the lore continuity, while action-oriented players can enjoy a shooter that doesn’t sacrifice narrative ambition.

Ultimately, Dirge of Cerberus appeals most to dedicated Final Fantasy enthusiasts and players open to genre hybrids. If you’ve ever wanted to see Vincent Valentine in a lead role or test your skills in an RPG-infused shooter, this title delivers a unique and occasionally surprising experience. It may not replace your favorite FFVII RPG moments, but it stands as a worthy side story that broadens the saga’s horizons.

Retro Replay Score

6.3/10