But barring some extraordinary opportunity, there's no way that I could move back to Japan and return to that life. Much as I cherish my memories of Japan, it wouldn't be long before I was reminded of what it's like to live in Japan's rigid social structure, struggling with bureaucracy, cut off from friends and family here in the States--you know, all the stuff that I've conveniently forgotten.

By the same token, having fond memories for Final Fantasy VII is fine, but I think a full-on remake would be a step back. Better instead to look ahead and leave behind the random battles, the simplistic customization and our own bygone obsession with CG cutscenes. Better to find new memories and new stories, and try new things (hey, is pretty sweet). In fact, I would actually prefer that Square Enix spend all the money and effort that would be used to rehash Final Fantasy VII on making Final Fantasy XV something truly special. Or making something new entirely.

Personally, I'd like to hang onto my fond memories of when I thought Final Fantasy VII was the best game ever, rather than be reminded of its inadequacies via an ill-advised remake. Time to move on.