FFVII's development was fraught with scrapped concepts and late-stage changes—and Jenova is no exception. Today, we chart the origins of this shapeshifting, interstellar menace, and examine two obscure sources that likely inspired her design in the OG and beyond.
This is the first in a planned series of deep dives into the evolution of characters and concepts from FFVII's universe. These videos will draw heavily from official material newly translated by SAD, as well as other fandom resources assembled over the years. Be prepared for some very information-dense content as we take you down new and unusual rabbit holes!
Background music:
"Chadley's Theme, LoFi & Chill Mix,"
"Reunion, LoFi & Chill Mix," and
"Jenova, LoFi & Chill Mix," by @Sing4DLaughter
We are incredibly grateful to Shademp, Jason Maltz, the staff behind 7th Heaven, the folks on Qhimm's forums, and all other members of FFVII's magnificent modding community, past and present, for forging and discovering the tools and material to make Shinra Arch's work possible. We are ever mindful that we stand on the shoulders of giants.
A big thanks to SAD member Limestone for finding and procuring the elusive two-part Jugemu interview. Thanks also to Alex Kraus for the 2012 Famitsu interview text.
(Note: All FFVII footage taken from Shinra Archaeology Cut unless otherwise indicated.)
*This video was renamed from "Jenova - An FFVII Deep Dive" on February 1, 2025. We decided the new title would better indicate that this video is about Jenova's creative genesis as opposed to her (largely unknown) in-universe origins.
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