See, I love Midgar. I can't agree that nothing happens, or at the very least I can't agree that I don't see anything to be expanded on. We're introduced to a number of our characters, and even in media res we get to see how they relate to one another. We have a built-in conflict in the escalating war between Shinra and AVALANCHE, with themes of environmentalism and extremism. We have a full set of supporting characters fighting for what they think is right, and who lose their lives for it.
There's a *ton* of stuff that happens in Midgar. It's just that none of it in the original is given any time to breathe and, as a result, it tends to lack narrative impact.
Take people's reactions to Jesse. In the original, Biggs, Wedge, and Jessie are given a little characterization but not much. And then they're killed off when the plate falls. It's sad but it's sad in that distant way because we never really had time to get to know them. And you really can't. You're in midgar for five or six hours and 2/3 or more of that is away from AVALANCHE.
Now look at people's reactions from the trailers and demos to Jesse. We see that she's gotten a more bubbly personality, she's flirty as hell with Cloud. She's coming across so far as very likable and charming. And I've seen a ton of reactions from people who have played the original saying "Aw man, the plate fall is gonna hurt." They're anticipating a larger emotional reaction because of her role seemingly being expanded on and fleshed out a bit.
Now, who knows if it'll actually pan out that way, but this is the kind of stuff they *could* do with a fleshed out Midgar plot. Take those existing plot beats, let them breathe and develop a bit. Maybe it'll fall on its face, I dunno, but I can absolutely see the expansion of Midgar being a worthwhile endeavor.
