The Final Fantasy VII saga has captured the hearts of gamers since its original release in 1997, with its deep storytelling, memorable characters, and groundbreaking gameplay. Square Enix’s Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020) revitalized the iconic RPG for a new generation, and now, the story continues with Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, set to release in February 2024. This sequel to the Final Fantasy VII Remake marks the second chapter in the planned trilogy that reimagines the original Final Fantasy VII with modern technology, expanded lore, and an evolving narrative that twists and turns in unexpected ways.
For both long-time fans and newcomers to the series, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth promises to be a pivotal entry in the saga, featuring a more expansive world, real-time combat, and a deeper exploration of its beloved characters. In this article, we will delve into what makes Final Fantasy VII Rebirth a must-play, from its gameplay innovations to its intricate plot, and what fans can expect from the next chapter of Cloud Strife and his companions’ journey.
The World of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth picks up immediately after the events of Final Fantasy VII Remake, where Cloud Strife and the eco-terrorist group Avalanche escape from the collapsing metropolis of Midgar. The game expands the world from the confined cityscapes of Midgar to a more open and diverse overworld. Players can now explore vast landscapes, cities, and towns across the Planet, from the jungles of Costa del Sol to the dangerous wilderness surrounding the town of Nibelheim. This shift from linearity to an open-world environment promises more freedom of exploration, with dynamic weather and intricate environmental details that create a fully immersive experience.
One of the standout features of the game is the ability to travel across this expansive world on foot or by riding Chocobos, the iconic giant yellow birds. This adds an element of strategic movement, as players can use their mounts to traverse longer distances more quickly, while also taking advantage of the new world mechanics to unlock side quests and hidden areas that deepen the lore of the game.
The Planet, the central focus of the story, is alive and ever-changing. In Rebirth, players will continue the battle against the Shinra Electric Power Company, which is draining the Planet’s Lifestream to power its insidious technologies. The main threat still looms in the form of Sephiroth, the former SOLDIER turned antagonist, who seeks to destroy the Planet and unite with its life essence to achieve god-like power.
Gameplay Enhancements: Action Meets Strategy
The gameplay in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth builds on the real-time combat system introduced in Final Fantasy VII Remake. The hybrid approach allows for seamless integration of action and strategy. Players will control a party of characters, primarily focusing on Cloud, as they journey across the Planet, with the ability to switch between members during combat.
The real-time combat system offers fluid, fast-paced action while maintaining the depth of Final Fantasy VII’s original turn-based mechanics through the Active-Time Battle (ATB) system. Characters can use a mix of physical attacks, spells, and items to battle enemies, while each character’s unique abilities and magic further enhance the strategy. One key addition to Rebirth is the “Synergized” mechanic, which allows characters to combine attacks for more powerful effects, first seen in the Episode INTERmission DLC of Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade. This mechanic adds layers of tactical depth to the combat, especially in larger battles, where team coordination is essential for success.
In addition to real-time combat, Rebirth introduces a deeper level of character customization. The Materia system, which allows characters to equip magic and abilities, returns with expanded options for growth. Players can now experiment with various combinations to unlock powerful abilities, tailoring each character’s skill set to their preferred playstyle.
Another exciting feature in Rebirth is the world’s dynamic nature. As players travel, they’ll encounter various side quests that provide opportunities to build relationships with other characters, uncover new secrets, and even alter the course of the story. These choices will affect the world around Cloud and his companions, giving players the feeling that their actions have real consequences.
The Story Continues: A Web of Memories, Prophecies, and Fate
The plot of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is both a continuation and a reimagining of the original game’s narrative. The central conflict remains the same: Cloud Strife, a former Shinra soldier turned mercenary, joins forces with the eco-terrorist group Avalanche to stop Shinra from exploiting the Planet’s life force. However, with the return of Sephiroth, the stakes are much higher, and the true nature of the conflict becomes far more complex.
Cloud’s journey to uncover the truth about his past takes center stage in Rebirth. The game delves into his memories and trauma, as he reflects on his connection to Sephiroth and the destruction of his hometown, Nibelheim. The relationship between Cloud, his childhood friend Tifa Lockhart, and the mysterious Aerith Gainsborough, continues to evolve, with personal stakes intertwining with the greater narrative of saving the Planet.
The plot also expands on the themes of fate and free will, with a new narrative thread exploring the existence of alternate timelines. Cloud’s interactions with characters from different realities, including the return of Zack Fair, add new layers to the already intricate web of events. Players will be forced to question the nature of the timeline they are inhabiting, as Rebirth introduces the concept of “Reunion,” a force that seeks to merge multiple timelines into one unified reality.
As Cloud and his party travel across the Planet, they will encounter new characters such as Yuffie Kisaragi, Red XIII, Cid Highwind, and Vincent Valentine, all of whom have their own personal motivations for joining the fight against Shinra and Sephiroth. These characters, each with their unique backstories, will be integral to the journey ahead, offering not only combat support but also emotional depth to the story.
Technical Improvements: Leveraging New Technology
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is built from the ground up to take advantage of next-gen hardware. With the PlayStation 5’s power, the game offers enhanced graphics, including more detailed character models, improved lighting effects, and lush environments that bring the world of the Planet to life. The combat system is more fluid and responsive, ensuring that players have a smooth and engaging experience during fast-paced battles.
The game also features advanced AI for non-playable characters, ensuring that party members behave intelligently during combat. This enhances the overall strategy, as players can rely on their allies to act in ways that complement their own fighting style.
For PC players, Rebirth promises an exceptional experience as well, with support for customizable graphics settings, frame rates of up to 120FPS, and improved visual enhancements such as better textures and lighting. With support for both keyboard and mouse controls, as well as DualSense controller compatibility, the PC version ensures that players can enjoy the game on their preferred platform with the best possible experience.
Release Date and Collector’s Editions
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is scheduled for release on February 29, 2024, exclusively for the PlayStation 5. A PC version is set to follow on January 23, 2025, allowing even more players to experience the game’s stunning visuals and captivating story.
For those who want to experience the game in style, Square Enix is offering various editions, including a Deluxe Edition and a Collector’s Edition. These editions come with exclusive content such as a mini-soundtrack CD, an artbook, and collectible statues, giving fans a chance to immerse themselves further in the world of Final Fantasy VII.
Conclusion
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is shaping up to be a remarkable continuation of one of the most iconic RPGs in history. With its expanded world, dynamic combat system, and rich narrative, the game is sure to captivate both long-time fans and newcomers to the series. As Cloud Strife and his companions continue their journey to save the Planet, players will be drawn into a story filled with mystery, action, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re fighting alongside Avalanche against Shinra or facing off against the legendary Sephiroth, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth promises an adventure that will leave an indelible mark on the gaming world.
