Final Fantasy VII Remake throws a lot at you, from its complex combat system to its gripping story. One of the more powerful tools at your disposal are the Summons, mighty creatures that can turn the tide of battle. But knowing how to use them effectively is key. This guide will break down everything you need to know about summoning in FFVII Remake.
Understanding the Summon System
Unlike previous Final Fantasy games, Summons in FFVII Remake aren't just a simple "press a button and watch the show" affair. They're a powerful strategic element that requires careful consideration and timing.
ATB Gauge and Summoning
To summon a creature, you'll need to fill your ATB gauge. This is the meter that fills up as you fight, allowing you to use abilities and spells. However, summoning requires a significant portion of your ATB, often multiple segments, depending on the Summon. You'll see an icon representing the selected summon next to your ATB meter once you've accumulated enough gauge.
Choosing Your Summon
Before a battle, you can select which Summon you want to have available. You'll only have one active Summon at a time. This requires careful planning. Consider your enemy's weaknesses and your party's current needs when making your choice.
Summoning Strategy
Simply summoning isn't enough. Many Summons have phases or unique attack patterns. You can't just summon and expect victory. You’ll need to:
- Learn Summon Abilities: Each Summon has unique abilities, some with specific conditions for activation. Mastering these abilities is critical to utilizing their full potential.
- ATB Management: Summoning consumes a considerable chunk of your ATB gauge, so plan your attacks strategically before summoning to make the most of it.
- Enemy Weaknesses: Target enemies vulnerable to the summoned creature's attacks to maximize their impact.
- Timing: Don't summon when you're on the verge of defeat or in a desperate situation. A well-timed summon is far more effective than a panicked one.
Available Summons & Their Uses
The game introduces you to several powerful Summons throughout the story. While the specific summons and their stats may vary across different versions of the game, the core principle of summoning remains consistent. Here's a general overview of how to approach summoning effectively, considering the strengths of different summon types:
Example Summons (Note: Specific strategies will depend on the exact Summon and its abilities):
- Ifrit: A powerful fire-based summon, great against enemies weak to fire. Utilize his charged attacks for maximum damage.
- Shiva: A highly versatile ice-based summon. Excellent for crowd control and dealing with multiple enemies. Master her timing for maximum effect.
- Bahamut: A devastating late-game summon. His attacks can wipe out even strong opponents, but be prepared to pay the ATB cost!
This is just a brief introduction. Experimenting with each Summon is essential to mastering their potential. Observe their animations and timing and adapt your strategy accordingly.
Mastering Summons for Optimal Gameplay
Ultimately, mastering the art of summoning in FFVII Remake requires practice and observation. Don't be afraid to experiment with different Summons, and try to learn the nuances of each one. By carefully managing your ATB gauge, understanding enemy weaknesses, and timing your summons effectively, you can significantly increase your chances of success, making battles easier and more enjoyable. Remember to always consider your team's composition and adjust your summon strategy accordingly. Happy summoning!
