In this first episode of our deep-dive into Final Fantasy VIII, we look at the key members of the development staff and the reasoning behind their decisions to mix things up and take FF8 in a very different direction from past entries. We also examine the style of director Yoshinori Kitase and character designer Tetsuya Nomura--this being their first opportunity to do things the way they saw fit without the oversight of Hironobo Sakaguchi. What makes a strong hook? Are the characters convincing? Was the setting relatable and compelling? We answer these questions and more after playing through the opening hours of Final Fantasy 8!

Time Codes:

1. Introduction To Our Analytical Process (1:09)

2. Our Personal History And Opinions Of FF8 (6:29)

3. Development History And Influences (11:36)

4. Summary Of What We Played For This Episode (49:06)

5. Analysis Of The Game's Style (58:30)

6. Early Thoughts On Characters (1:27:00)

7. Other Observations (1:42:20)

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