Junction System
The revolutionary new Junction System featured in FINAL FANTASY VIII provides an unprecedented level of control in character customizability. Based upon the powerful Guardian Forces from which the characters derive most of their power, the Junction System allows the player to modify character abilities, commands and even their attributes. Unlike previous games in the series, the magic in FINAL FANTASY VIII is not earned or purchased, but drawn from enemies in battle. Players can opt to cast the magic drawn from enemies right away, or store it as spells for later use. The usefulness of stored magic goes beyond merely casting it however; the Junction System lets the player attach the power of magic spells to attributes, enhancing character stats or special defenses that provide resistance to certain attacks.
Guardian Forces
The Guardian Forces that the characters must equip to use battle commands and earn special abilities, are themselves powerful attacks. Similar to the summoned monsters from previous games in the series, Guardian Forces "guard" characters with their own lives during the summoning process. When the summoning is complete, the powerful attack is truly a sight to behold.
Advanced 3D Graphics
Never before has the PlayStation experienced gameplay graphics as smooth and life-like as those present in FINAL FANTASY VIII. Utilizing the artistic talent that is a Square trademark, and a brand new 3D engine, FINAL FANTASY VIII will dazzle players with fully rendered backgrounds and ultra-detailed character models which move with astounding fluidity.
Seamless Movie Integration
With the new 3D engine capable of displaying highly detailed character models, FINAL FANTASY VIII showcases the latest advance in videogame animation, the seamless integration of Computer Graphic video with real-time gameplay scenes. The transition is such that many players may not notice when a static cinema sequence becomes active gameplay.
Dolby Surround Sound
In order to complement the ground breaking visual effects in FINAL FANTASY VIII, equally ground breaking audio effects are needed. The inclusion of Dolby Surround Sound marks a dedication by Square to enhance the game playing experience through the creation of a fully immerse gaming environment.
Card Battle Game
Adding to an already feature-filled masterpiece is the Card Game played throughout the world of FINAL FANTASY VIII. Lauded as one of the most innovative aspects of FINAL FANTASY VIII, this mini-game can be accessed by talking to various characters found throughout the game. Obtaining cards by winning then in card duels is the main objective of playing the card game. Collected cards have many different applications, from upgrading weapons to collecting rare items. Various cards are available, from those representing monsters and bosses to characters and Guardian Forces. Rare cards such as those representing the main characters are harder to find and much more powerful in duels. Ultimately, a player's performance in this mini-game will have a significant effect on overall strategy in FINAL FANTASY VIII.
THEME SONG BY THE FAMED FAYE WONG
Internationally acclaimed pop sensation, Faye Wong, adds to the aural bliss of the FINAL FANTASY VIII Soundtrack with her "Eyes On Me" theme song. Complimenting the absolutely breathtaking graphics, and the dramatic storyline, "Eyes On Me" heightens emotions, and takes the gameplay experience to a whole new level.