Fan Creation FFVII: Re-Imagined Sidescrolls Its Way Onto YouTube

Final Fantasy VII had such a large following over the years--fans all over the world paid homage to the classic in the form of fanfiction, fanart, and video games. Even still, as the official remake of the title has been announced, fans continue to pay tribute utilizing the unexpected genres and mediums. One project even took on the form of a fan-made beat 'em up.

FFVII: Re-Imagined is just one of these examples. This fan creation takes the Final Fantasy VII we know and love to an entirely different genre--beat 'em up. The video below introduces Tifa, Cloud, and Barret tearing up the fields sidescroller style.

Currently the video is public, and people seem to react positively to the video, but not so much to the actual uploading. Many commenters have spoken up, telling the devs to take down the video before a Cease & Desist letter comes knocking at the door.

According to Kotaku back in 2009, here's the best plan of action when creating a fan-creation:
 

"The best plan of action is to 'rely on unprotected game elements, mechanics and processes' and ask the IP owner for permission before commencing work. If those don't work, you can always take what inspired you from somebody else's game and use it as a foundation to build your own game on.

Budding modders and developers note, however, Ibrahim's advice is followed by a big 'THE INFORMATION IN THIS ARTICLE IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. The content of this article is not legal advice' disclaimer, so, yeah, tread lightly."

Based on personal opinion, if the developer doesn't aim to make money from the asset, then companies shouldn't bat an eye. I believe that fangames are great forms of publicity...

But in the case of Final Fantasy VII, there isn't exactly a real point in extra advertising.

Furthermore, Square Enix has always been a tad... stringy with its licensing. So upon seeing the video, more than likely, the project will be shut down. But who knows, maybe the company would be quite accepting of the project or even better: make the game official. One can hope.