Welcome to Chapter 3 of Final Fantasy VII Remake, "Home Sweet Slum," humorously subtitled "Tifa Still Owes Cloud Gil."
1. Leaving the Train Station:
Upon exiting the train, make your way down the road until you witness someone removing an Avalanche poster from a bulletin board. The appearance of mysterious hooded enemies initiates an encounter that surrounds Cloud before they vanish down an alley.
2. Entering the Sector 7 Slums:
You'll discover that offshoot areas are currently inaccessible. Head along the main path, which leads you into the Sector 7 Slums. Take a moment to absorb the unique atmosphere of this impoverished district, replete with smog and hardworking citizens.
3. Getting Acquainted with the Locals:
As you proceed into the slums, make an effort to interact with the residents. Engage in conversations with NPCs, as these interactions can provide valuable insights, trigger side quests, and even lead to alliances.
4. Accepting Side Quests:
Throughout the slums, you'll come across NPCs offering side quests. These missions range from assisting residents to eradicating pests and can reward you with useful items and gil. Don't hesitate to accept them.
5. Equipping Your Party:
Locate shops within the slums where you can purchase new weapons and equipment. Equipping your party members with the right gear is essential for dealing with more formidable challenges later in the game. Review your inventory, ensuring that your characters are well-prepared for what lies ahead.
6. Reunion with Tifa and Marlene:
As you approach Seventh Heaven, you'll soon reunite with Tifa and her daughter, Marlene. Cloud presents the flower he obtained from the flower peddler, and the group heads inside the bar.
7. Financial Matters:
Barret informs Cloud that Tifa manages the finances. Speak with Tifa, who asks you to look after Marlene while she closes up. Head left to converse with Marlene, who runs away and is picked up by Barret. Tifa discusses the matter with you and then leads you to an apartment she secured.
8. A New Apartment:
Follow Tifa down the street and up the stairs to the apartment. Enter the apartment and discover that they have only 500 gil for you at the moment. Tifa hands it over, promising the rest tomorrow. A cutscene unfolds, but Cloud is soon awakened by a commotion from the neighboring room.
9. Meeting the Neighbors:
Step outside and knock on the neighboring door. Cloud lets himself in, and an unexpected encounter with Sephiroth ensues. Soon, you're introduced to Marco, who sports a mysterious number 49 tattoo. After a brief cutscene, Cloud awakens again and exits the apartment.
10. Engaging with the Landlady:
Head downstairs to meet the landlady, Marle. After your conversation with her, you'll gain access to Seventh Heaven.
11. Exploring the Slums:
Now that you're in the Sector 7 Slums, it's time to explore the area and acquire various items, including an Ether from the second floor of Beginner's Hall, 2 Adrenalines in the hidden cat area at the center of town, 2 Hi-Potions on the right side of 7th Heaven, and 3 Grenades in an abandoned lot behind 7th Heaven.
12. Reconnecting with Tifa:
Return to Seventh Heaven to meet with Tifa once more. As you approach the bar, you'll notice a commotion, which sparks Tifa's curiosity.
13. A Heroic Rescue:
Head over to witness some Shinra soldiers harassing Johnny, a local resident. Tifa is determined to save him before he reveals Avalanche's secrets, so follow her and hide behind the sign to the left to remain discreet.
14. Distracting the Guards:
After the Shinra soldiers move out of sight, proceed through the gate with Tifa and continue tailing them. During this journey, Johnny mentions Jessie, and Tifa assigns you the task of distracting the guards.
15. Optional Rest Stop:
If you need to replenish your HP or MP, you'll find a blue bench nearby to rest and restore your energy. There's also a vending machine with Potions, Antidotes, and Phoenix Down for purchase. Stock up as needed and continue following the guards.
16. Confrontation with Shinra:
After an eventful cinematic, you'll engage in battle with a Guard Dog, Security Officers, and an Elite Security Officer. Utilize the Assess ability to identify their weaknesses and smack them all. After dealing with these foes, interact with Johnny to trigger another cutscene.
17. Return to Seventh Heaven:
Now that Johnny's situation has been resolved, head back to 7th Heaven. Tifa will ask if you'd like to go back outside, granting you a moment to explore the surroundings, undertake optional tasks, or choose to head inside.
18. A Commotion in the Slums:
After the cutscene, Tifa tempts Cloud with a peculiar beverage. Despite its odd color and questionable appearance, Cloud decides to partake, perhaps pondering that even after a day full of running around, Tifa still owes him some gil.