The Most Overlooked Final Fantasy Game Has My Favorite Fan Theory

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In contrast to its sequential counterparts such as Final Fantasy 7 and Final Fantasy 9, Final Fantasy 8 tends to receive less attention and discussion. Despite this, Final Fantasy 8 ranks among my top choices in the series, with an intriguing fan theory that I find particularly compelling. This hypothesis revolves around several noticeable shifts that become apparent following the first disc of the game. One such shift is observed in the characters’ reactions to Squall, specifically his friends who witnessed him being impaled by ice. Although I don’t subscribe to the idea that this theory is accurate, I find its concept and potential implications fascinating.

Before we delve deeper, let me clarify that Yoshinori Kitase, the director of Final Fantasy 8, has himself confirmed that this Squall theory isn’t valid. While I understand and respect the importance of sticking to the official narrative, it’s intriguing to explore this theory and its implications, given that it gained enough traction for Kitase to address it directly.

What Is the Squall Is Dead Theory for Final Fantasy 8?

The “Final Fantasy 8” hypothesis commences at the conclusion of disc one, marking the instance when Ultimecia, a formidable character from “Final Fantasy,” pierces Squall with an ice spear. The positioning suggests the spear might have penetrated Squall’s chest, which could be a severe injury depending on the impact point. Nonetheless, Kitase confirms that the spear actually struck Squall’s shoulder and was not a lethal blow. The theory suggesting Squall is deceased originates from the assumption that the spear perforated Squall’s chest, thereby causing a fatal wound.

The intriguing aspect that initiates this theory is Squall’s mysterious recovery from an icy shard piercing him, leaving no trace of injury or scar whatsoever, with nobody else mentioning the incident afterwards. This unusual silence is particularly striking since Rinoa witnesses the impalement and doesn’t bring it up again either. From this point, the theory posits that the subsequent gameplay can be interpreted as a dream sequence Squall experiences as he nears death, complete with memories of his life revisited during the first third of the closing scenes. For a more comprehensive exploration of this theory, you might find it worthwhile to visit the website linked here, which offers a detailed analysis.

How This Theory Creates a More Intriguing Narrative

Following the conclusion of disc one is when the events of Final Fantasy 8 become more enigmatic. Initially, the game progresses in a relatively standard manner. However, as you advance, you’ll encounter puzzling creatures and bits of information that seem to appear out of nowhere and lack clear context within the game world. You’ll also meet strange-looking alien creatures, and find yourself engaging in battles with NORG, an enemy that feels unpredictable. Surprisingly, after defeating NORG, it seems to be as if the character never existed, lacking any subsequent acknowledgement or consequence within the game.

In a video game like this one, which combines science fiction and fantasy elements, you’d expect some characters or entities to acknowledge or react to strange occurrences such as NORG. Surprisingly, it appears that NORG is just accepted without question, as if it never truly existed. This isn’t the only odd change in the storyline either, which becomes noticeable after Squall’s impalement. Furthermore, the narrative seems to revolve around Squall, suggesting that events unfold in his favor due to his personal wishes.

You’ll observe from the first disc that events gradually lean in favor of Squall. Initially a greenhorn, he miraculously saves the world and wins over the girl. Interestingly enough, Rinoa had no affection for Squall until he was wounded, as she was previously smitten by Seifer. However, her feelings towards Squall seem to have changed abruptly, with Seifer seemingly fading into insignificance in her eyes. This shift in emotions is rather sudden and unexplained unless you consider the possibility that Rinoa’s feelings might have been altered after witnessing Squall getting hurt. Although this seems plausible, it appears peculiar that she would so swiftly lose interest in Seifer given their previous relationship.

I find this theory intriguing, as it offers an entertaining twist on the common “it was all a dream” narrative, suggesting that the dream represents Squall’s brain trying to comprehend his approaching death. This interpretation adds coherence to the puzzling visuals at the game’s end, which might otherwise seem out of place without the explanation that they are Squall’s memories flashing before his eyes.

Should Final Fantasy 8 undergo a remake in the vein of Final Fantasy 7, I would appreciate seeing it explore similar departures from the original narrative and delve into popular fan theories about the storyline. However, given that such a remake may never occur, I’ll still keep my hopes alive.

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2025-08-23 14:42