Square Enix’s upcoming game, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, is set to redefine the landscape of its predecessor by introducing entirely new cities, according to the latest revelations from the game’s director, Naoki Hamaguchi. This expansion aims to deepen the game’s world, offering players a broader and more immersive experience than the original PlayStation game.
One of the standout features of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is the addition of completely new locales, such as the Crow’s Nest. This novel area, a sister town to the familiar Under Junon from the classic Final Fantasy 7, is imbued with a similar anti-Shinra sentiment.
However, its exploration is not a part of the main quest. Instead, it is a hidden gem that players can discover and explore, enriching their gaming experience with side adventures and deeper engagement with the game’s world and its residents.
Hamaguchi emphasizes the game’s design philosophy, which encourages players to explore beyond the main storyline. By saving Yuffie and Under Junon and progressing towards Junon and Costa del Sol, players can encounter narratives about the anti-Shinra residents.
This design choice allows gamers to venture into the Crow’s Nest and other areas at their discretion, leading to unique adventures tailored to their interests.
More Than Just a Remake
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is not just a retelling of the original story but an expansion into new territories and narratives. A trailer released during the Summer Game Fest showcased iconic locations such as Bugenhagen’s planetarium at Cosmo Canyon and the Nibelheim Reactor.
Furthermore, the game, slated for release on February 29, 2024, is gradually unveiling new elements, including storylines centered around characters like Zack and potentially even delving into Sephiroth’s backstory, previously explored in the mobile game Final Fantasy 7 Ever Crisis.
An ESBR rating has also hinted at more mature content in the game, including deep cleavage and pools of blood, along with clues about character fates. In November 2023, Square Enix provided an extensive update, releasing a plethora of story details and screenshots, fueling the anticipation among fans.