In a daring move that promises to rejuvenate the beloved franchise, “Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth” is set to introduce completely new cities, expanding the universe beyond what fans experienced in the original 1997 JRPG. This strategic decision by Square Enix aims to deepen the narrative and enhance the gaming experience, offering a fresh perspective on a classic tale.
Director Naoki Hamaguchi of Square Enix, in a conversation with Game Informer, disclosed that these new urban environments, such as the Crow’s Nest, are designed to enrich the game’s world. These additions are not just cosmetic; they play a pivotal role in the storytelling.
As players journey through these new cities, they find environments where the game’s protagonists, Cloud and his companions, are already known figures, deeply intertwined with the ongoing narrative of the Avalanche resistance movement.
An Open World Inspired by Modern Classics
“Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth” is taking a significant leap from its predecessor, the 2020’s “Final Fantasy 7 Remake”, by adopting a more open-world approach. This shift is inspired by acclaimed titles like “The Witcher 3” and “Horizon Forbidden West”, signaling a modernization in the game’s design philosophy. However, it’s important to note that despite these expansive changes, the main campaign of “Rebirth” remains comparable in length to “Remake”, at around 40 hours.
The anticipation for “Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth” is building as its exclusive release on PS5 is scheduled for February 29. Recent hands-on previews have bolstered confidence in its potential, suggesting that it’s shaping up to be one of the standout JRPGs on the horizon.
GR’s Iain Harris, after previewing the game, reassured fans that despite the numerous changes, “Rebirth” retains the essence of the original, while also sparking excitement for the novel elements it introduces.
