The game received universal acclaim from critics upon release. It was referred to by "GameFan" as "quite possibly the greatest game ever made", a quote selected for the back cover of the game's jewel case. "GameSpot" commented that "never before have technology, playability, and narrative combined as well as in "Final Fantasy VII"", expressing particular favor toward the game's graphics, audio, and story. The four reviewers of "Electronic Gaming Monthly" unanimously gave it a 9.5 out of 10 and their "Game of the Month" award, lauding its rendered backgrounds, use of FMV, battles, and especially the story line, though they expressed disappointment that the ending didn't resolve all of the loose ends. They also considered the North American localization a dramatic improvement over the original Japanese version. "GamePro" gave it a perfect 5.0 out of 5 in all four categories (graphics, sound, control, and fun factor), calling the storytelling "dramatic, sentimental, and touching in a way that draws you into the characters", who "come alive thanks to sweetly subtle body movements". Both "GamePro" and "Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine" ("OPM") said the ATB system gives battles a tension and urgency not usually seen in RPGs.