Norse Myths That Inspired Final Fantasy VII

by M.J. Gallagher

Final Fantasy is one of the most iconic and beloved videogame series in the world. Since its inception, its titles have adopted names, themes and stories from across global mythology, including the beliefs of the Vikings.

This book embarks on a detailed exploration of how Norse lore in particular influenced the writing and design of Final Fantasy VII – arguably the most critically-acclaimed of the franchise – and its wider compilation.

Why is Midgar the political centre of the Planet, and Nibelheim the home of Cloud Strife?

How are the Odin Materia, the Rune Blade and Vincent Valentine connected?

What are the parallels between Ragnarok and the fall of the Shinra Corporation?

These questions and many more will be examined and answered by award-winning community author M. J. Gallagher. Suitable for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.


This book has not been approved, licensed, or sponsored by any entity or person involved in creating or producing Final Fantasy®, the videogames, films, or publications.

Genres: Nonfiction, Mythology, Pop Culture, Games

214 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2020

About the author

Hey, I'm Maurice (Mo), and come from the town of Cumbernauld, Scotland. I'm a mathematics and economics graduate who got lucky and stumbled into a job as a travel writer for New Zealand-based tourism company, Citywalksz Ltd.

As an author, I am perhaps best known for my unofficial novelisation of the best-selling videogame 'Final Fantasy VII', but 'Axtelera Ray' is my first original venture alongside the project creator, Alroy Jovi.

I've been an avid fan of reading since I was a kid, and have grown to love popular fantasy sagas such as 'A Song of Ice and Fire', 'Lord of the Rings', 'Harry Potter' and 'His Dark Materials', as well as other fiction epics like the 'Millennium' trilogy or 'Jurassic Park'. I would currently count George R.R. Martin and J.K. Rowling among my biggest inspirations, not to mention my fellow Glaswegian and legendary comic book writer, Mark Millar.

To date, I have written two fanfiction novels (the retelling of 'Final Fantasy VII' which was featured on Kotaku in Dec, 2014) as well as been involved in featurette screenplays, blogging, film directing, script editing, website content and other various articles.

If you have any questions or would just like to say "hi", please do get in touch.

Reviews

[Dustin (dragonarmybooks) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a BookTube channel where I review books, give reading suggestions, and more! Check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/dragonarmybooks

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I am an avid gamer. Most of you reading this review probably don't know that I've cohosted a weekly retro gaming podcast for the last 8 years with two of my closest friends. I particularly enjoy JRPGs. My true love for video games began in 7th grade when I went over to my friend Logan's house and he was playing a JRPG that enraptured both my attention and imagination and never let go. Final Fantasy VII was not only my gateway into JRPGs, but it was also my gateway into epic storytelling, enthralling characters, and vivid fantasy worlds.

So, when I found out that an author had done a deep-dive on my favorite game of all time in order to explore the ancient Norse influence on the writing and design of the game, I knew I had to read it.

It's clear that M.J. Gallagher has done his research. There wasn't a page of this book that felt mailed in. I might not agree with every conclusion. There might be many conjectures and speculations related to the connections made between the game and the mythology, but there is a given reason for each and every topic addressed. Admittedly, some of the parallels seem super thin to me. There were a number of times I was reading and thought to myself, "The creators of FFVII just added that because it was cool." Not according to Gallagher! He seemed to be able to make a connection to the largest plot device and also the smallest inconsequential detail. Nevertheless, it remained interesting.

This is one of those books that's certainly not for everyone. FFVII superfans will find something here to love. Fans of Norse mythology who have cursory knowledge of the game will also find something enjoyable here. I have a great appreciation for history but have limited knowledge of Norse mythology. After reading Norse Myths That Inspired Final Fantasy VII, I have more knowledge of both now. I look forward to reading more FFVII deep dives in the near future.

[Micah Rodney · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Norse Myths That Inspired Final Fantasy VII" is the latest work from M.J. Gallagher. As one of the finest writers to detangle the densely knotted plot threads of Final Fantasy VII, he has turned his efforts to an academic study of the game's lore.

Gallagher is a story-teller first, academic second. As such this book is organized in such a way that can appeal to both the layman and scholar. On a first read, he will sweep you away with a devoted retelling of Norse Mythology while delicately and seamlessly transitioning into its impact on the game. But it also functions well as a reference text, with each section organized well, and every chapter remaining self-sufficient.

It will be an incredible crash course if your knowledge of either subject is wanting, and still holds a number of gems for even the experienced. Each chapter comes packed with side references to the franchise as a whole, and liberally applied footnotes means nothing is left uncommented on.

This book is an essential read for lovers of Final Fantasy or mythology and will give you an even greater appreciation for one of the finest modern myths ever written.

[Lully Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Final Fantasy VII has not just been a game to me, but a beloved story with characters that feel like old friends. Any opportunity to gain new perspective on the game and characters' development is always greatly appreciate, and M.J. Gallagher has written a book with wonderful insight! This book is a must-read for all fans of Final Fantasy VII, as it brings further awareness into the themes and tropes within the game itself.

[Morganna Raven · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightful read from start to finish. Whether it is s deeper understanding of Final Fantasy VII lore or Norse Mythology you are interested in. Mo Gallagher has done a fantastic and thorough job of encompassing both of these elements. It is thought-provoking and laid out in a manner that is easy to understand and follow. His inclusion of the compilations of FF VII is brilliant and refreshing.
As a person who has a close and personal connection to the Norse Patheon and Rune casting, I am pleased with the serious approach that Mo has taken in writing this book. As a person who has played and loved this game for over thirty years, having a new approach to the series is revitalizing.

[Sapphi · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun and interesting read. I learned more about VII by reading this. It helped me understand the game in a whole new way.

[Christine Craft · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a well-written and informative read that enhanced my understanding of the connection between Norse Myths and Final Fantasy VII. The content is knowledgeable, well-researched, and presented along with some very beautiful illustrations. Great read! I highly recommend this book to fans of Final Fantasy, Mythology, or both.

[Dean Guadagno · Rating 5 out of 5]

I consider myself among the top percentile when it comes to Final Fantasy VII lore and love. It's my favourite game of all time, and I've played, watched and listened to all corners of the compilation many times over the years.

Even with that knowledge in hand, M.J. Gallagher has managed to fill my inner-compendium with countless new facts and thought-provoking seeds that have relit the fire of discovery for a 25-year old game.

Final Fantasy's Norse inspirations have always been apparent. Surface-level allusions to deities and concepts are there for everyone to see. But this book digs deeper. And deeper still. Giving the reader a new perspective and imaginative spark to follow the rabbit-hole as far as it will go.

Admittedly, some explanations are speculative. And Gallagher is clear in this caveat. But his ability to expound on his ideas and turn vague similarities into undeniable parallels hit me time after time.

--Midgar...sure, sounds like "Midgard", realm of men. Makes sense --
Historically, this is where my own analysis stopped. But this book doesn't.
--Yggdrasil, the world tree - separated into three realms: The fruitful heavens, the rugged mortal realm, and the feared underworld. 3 levels...hmmm...The Plate, The Slums, Deepground. Well how about the 9 worlds of Yggdrasil...and 9 sectors of the city. And overlooking it all, from the highest highs of Valhalla (Shinra offices) are the gods themselves. Their strongest knights, killed each day only to be resurrected to feast (read: SOLDIER and their training simulators).--

What was once thought to be a modest source of inspiration has now become a fundamental element of the story.

While I'd love to spew and discuss all of what I discovered after reading the book here, I'll save the best parts for you to read about on your own. Needless to say, I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to get even more out of this beloved compilation.

[Keboh 3 · Rating 5 out of 5]

After beginning to consume multiple media based in Norse Mythology, such as Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice, God of War (2018), and others that were more loosely based, M.J. Gallagher provided a way to further my learning and understanding through the lens of my favorite video game. A quick but enticing read if you're interested in Norse mythology.

[Jamie Cruise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal book. Gallagher packs an immersive introduction to Norse mythology into a couple hundred pages, all the while citing the many many ways that it has influenced one of the greatest stories in video game history: Final Fantasy VII.

An entertaining and super informative read regardless of how well-versed you might be in Norse mythology, and a must-read for any Final Fantasy VII fan.

[Andrew Waite · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love FF7 (my first jRPG) and love all things classical theology, especially the Norse Pantheon. This book didn’t disappoint, providing fresh insights into both sides of the comparison.

If you like the topic(s), I doubt you’ll be disappointed

[Eric · Rating 2 out of 5]

I felt that the author thought the readers were pretty dumb with the constant call backs to previous chapters and information recaps of something that was read and discussed 30 pages back. Either that or it was to fill more pages. And the author admitted at the end that all of this was conjecture which reading through really came through, maybe it's my fault but I thought this was going to be more then a conjecture book so I was disappointed. But ultimately I did finish it which is more then can be said about some books. It has some interesting information about Norse Mythology and some deep dives into the lore of Final Fantasy VII and subsequent titles within the universe which I did find interesting in some parts. Over all in my opinion it was just okay and I'd give it a 2.5 out of 5.

[Bobby Luke · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Definitely interesting and I enjoyed everything that the author put together. I felt that some of his footnotes were unnecessarily repetitive, but perhaps that is because I already have a pretty good working knowledge of both Norse Mythology (Thanks, God of War and Marvel Comics!) and I am a huge Final Fantasy and especially Final Fantasy VII fan. As big of a fan as I am, there were things that I didn’t know (even unrelated to Norse Mythology) and learned in this book. (I.e. the nod to Link and Legend of Zelda in the first Final Fantasy). I enjoyed this book, but it is definitely only enjoyable for fans of the game who happen to also enjoy Norse Mythology (perhaps that is obvious).

[Lauri Shore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, where do I begin?! This was just such an excellent read! I've always been intrigued by history and mythologies, and when it comes to FFVII I've read as much as I could about it. Yet reading this wonderful book, I discovered a lot of connections I hadn't made before (sometimes it's hard for me, unless it's something blindingly obvious heh) - but the connections made to Norse myths make sense! So many A-haa! moments here. Couldn't put the book down! It really shows how passionate Gallagher is about mythology and FF games as well. Absolute must-read written by a fan for any other FF(VII) fan.

[Gary · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting and introspective look at how norse mythology could potentially have influenced some of the creative decisions in the making of final fantasy 7.

Though many of the links made by the author are rather tenuous at best, some of them do make a strange kind of sense and it's those that have definitely changed my perspective on some of the elements of final.fantasy 7.

The only thing I was not keen on was how often the author repeats themselves and that the norse lore talked about was aimed at an audience who would be very new to the mythology. So in that regard, it's good for that crowd, as well as a younger generation.

[Marija · Rating 4 out of 5]

This books is an immersive introduction to Norse mythology packed into a couple hundred pages and how it has influenced one of the greatest stories in video game history: Final Fantasy VII.
There might be many conjectures and speculations related to the connections made between the game and the mythology, but there is a given reason for each and every topic addressed. Admittedly, some of the parallels seem super thin. The author seemed to be able to make a connection to the largest plot device and also the smallest inconsequential detail.
Nevertheless, it is an interesting book for all Final Fantasy fans.

[Gaurav Soni · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author's passion and love for the series flows clearly. I particularly enjoyed the last 3 chapters wherein I could connect with my past experience with Norse Mythology in detail.

I picked this up on a whim after having played Crisis Core and the latest Final Fantasy VII Remake (which are just two of the many games this book talks about), and was pleasantly surprised. If there ever is such a deep dive on Final Fantasy XVI, I just might pre-order it.

[Sam Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a pleasure to read this book throughout my trips on the train back and forth to work. This is great for all fans of Norse Myth, Final Fantasy 7, both, and even one or the other! The artwork is also BREATHTAKING and truly worth a look!

[Brandon Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was an interesting read. Was nice to see the parallels between Norse Myths and Final Fantasy. Became a hassle as I kept going, I dunno, maybe it wasn't for me. But I did enjoy it and liked the stuff I learned.

[?? · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t usually read non-fiction but this was a real page-turner! Super interesting to read about the connections and similarities, whether intentional or not, between one of my favourite video games and mythology :)

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easily one of my favorite five stars of the year. Well written, easy to understand, and I learned a ton both about my favorite franchise and Norse mythology.

Cannot wait to pick up the Greek counterpart to this.

[Dylan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved all parts of this book, even just the author's retelling of the events of FFVII. His passion and interest in the game really shines through the deep dive into each of the book's

[Adriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Final Fantasy but I didnt know much about Norse Myths. It was a delightful experience to read how they mix up.

[Scott Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Been an avid FF7 can for as long as I can remember, loved this book! Recommend to any FF fans!!

[Tom Stoker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nerdiest thing I've ever read. Splendid.