Ok, look at the images carefully. Remember that each comparsion (between Trial and Final screenshots) I have taken are set at the exact same frame numbers.
Compare the brightness of Squall`s hair in the Trial and Final versions.
![]()
The FMV quality of the Trial Version is not exactly perfect compared to the Final Version one, I know. But even if it was both the same quality, the brightness on Squall`s hair is still different. I have messed around in Photoshop to make the background in the Trial version look exact the same as in the final version, nothing.
Also, if you watch the final FMV (in animation) carefully. You will notice that the brightness of Squall`s hair becomes inconsistent in every 2 or 3 seconds till he reaches the vessel. So, consider that if the POV is just like that (darker to brighter in night time) then there`s NO reason for the brightness of Squall`s hair to become inconsistent. So, it cannot be the POV or the reflection from the sky that did the effect. The weather would have to change from night to day in every 2 or 3 seconds in order to make the brightness of Squall`s hair look brighter or darker.
So, therefore. I believe that Squall is Zell at that exact point due to some side-effects of time paradox.
Look at Rinoa and Zell in the vessel, they both LOOK the same in the Trial and Final versions` FMV. SquareSoft didn`t change these parts, including the shadows of Selphie and Zell running down the beach chasing from the mighty robot.
Instead, SquareSoft have decided to change Squall`s model and added the brightness effect to his hair in the FMV ... ?
Think about it. If you were an employee in this scenario, it`s likely that you go:
#1 "Ok, we change these old models because our producers said so..."
#2 "Ok."
*Changes Squall`s clothes in the FMV*
#1 "Hold on a second, why not add something interesting.. like something flashy effect to that model?"
#2 "Hmm, I think that will cause the players some confusion.. perhaps not."
Both #1 and #2 laughs.
#1 "Oh, time is lunch! Man, I`m so hungry. Let`s go."
*After lunch.*
#1 "I think the fans will like it, really. Okay, so what`s now? Oh, yeah. Removing the Ending credits of the Trial version."
What is the outcome of this? This was thier distraction! This DISTRACTED them from changing parts like Rinoa and Zell in the vessel! They have forgotten! Oh my cats!