On field maps, characters are directed across realistically scaled environments, consisting of 2D pre-rendered backgrounds which represent locations such as towns or forests. It also includes an additional means of transportation-a buggy. As with preceding games in the series, the world map can be traversed by foot, on chocobos and in an airship or sea vessel (in this case, a submarine and a plane used as a boat). The overworld map is a 3D model, featuring a scaled-down version of the game's fictional world, across which the player travels between the game's locations. Like previous installments of the Final Fantasy series, Final Fantasy VII consists primarily of three major areas: an overworld map, field maps, and a battle screen. An enhanced remake for the PlayStation 3 has been rumored since 2005, though Square Enix has formally stated no such product is in development. The popularity of the title led Square Enix to produce a series of prequels and sequels for different platforms under the collective title Compilation of Final Fantasy VII.
It has retrospectively been acknowledged as the game that popularized the role-playing genre outside of the Japanese market, and has frequently ranked highly on numerous professional and fan-made "greatest games of all time" lists. There was also criticism pertaining to its English localization. Final Fantasy VII received significant praise upon its release for its graphics, gameplay, music and story.
In the years following, it has continued to sell solidly-10 million copies worldwide as of May 2010, making it the best-selling title in the series. Helped by a large promotional campaign in the months prior to its release, Final Fantasy VII became an immediate critical and commercial success.