World Lore & History

World Lore & History

The world of Final Fantasy VII Remake is a richly detailed tapestry woven with a complex history, unique cultures, and a deep ecological narrative. At its heart lies the concept of Mako, the planet's lifeblood, which has been exploited by the Shinra Electric Power Company, leading to environmental degradation and societal stratification. Understanding this lore is key to appreciating the motivations of the characters and the conflicts that drive the story.

Midgar, the sprawling metropolis where the game begins, is a city of stark contrasts. The affluent live in the upper plate, enjoying the fruits of Shinra's Mako exploitation, while the impoverished reside in the Sector 7 slums below, struggling for survival. This division is a direct consequence of Shinra's unchecked power and its reliance on Mako reactors to fuel its dominance.

Shinra Electric Power Company is the primary antagonist, a monolithic corporation that controls Midgar through its monopoly on Mako energy. They wield immense political and military power, suppressing dissent and prioritizing profit over the planet's well-being. Their advanced technology, including SOLDIER, their elite military force, is a testament to their technological prowess but also a symbol of their oppressive regime.

Avalanche, the eco-terrorist group, stands in opposition to Shinra. Comprised of individuals from various backgrounds, their goal is to protect the Planet from Shinra's destructive Mako extraction. Their methods are often extreme, but their motivations stem from a deep-seated love for the Planet and a desire for a sustainable future.

The concept of the Lifestream is central to the Planet's lore. It is the collective consciousness and energy of all living things, flowing through the Planet. Mako is essentially condensed Lifestream. Shinra's extraction of Mako is akin to draining the Planet's life force, a process that threatens to lead to its eventual demise. Ancient Cetra, an indigenous race with a deep connection to the Planet, are believed to have possessed the ability to commune with the Lifestream.

Sephiroth, the legendary SOLDIER, serves as the primary antagonist. His motivations are complex and tied to ancient prophecies and his own tragic origins. His actions, driven by a desire to control the Lifestream and achieve godhood, pose an existential threat to the Planet.