Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a gaming legend, and Square Enix should be very proud of themselves for taking on one of the greatest classic games ever made and succeeding in spectacular fashion. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is not just a love letter to longtime fans, it's a bold, fresh take on the game that combines nostalgia and innovation. The addictive combat system and breathtaking visuals are just two examples of the game's excellence on almost every level.
Story and Characters
One of the greatest triumphs of the remake is how it expands the world of Midgar and deepens its characters. Cloud, Aerith, Tifa, Barrett, and even minor characters like Jesse, Wedge, and Biggs have been given layers of personality and humanity that help them feel alive. Midgar itself, from its bustling slums to its oppressive industrial skylines, feels like a character in its own right.
The story builds on the original with new details and emotional moments. Whether you're laughing at Wedge's love of cats, sympathizing with Jesse's family difficulties, or wondering how Avalanche's actions affect the people of Midgar, the world feels immersive and emotionally rich. These additions add weight to the group's mission, but don't feel like unnecessary details.
Combat
The combat system is where Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth truly shines. It's a perfect blend of real-time action and strategic ATB (Active Time Battle) mechanics, delivering battles that feel thrilling and rewarding. Swapping between party members isn't just encouraged, it's essential.
Each character brings something unique to the table:
- Cloud delivers balanced physical attacks and excels at building stagger.
- Tifa can unleash devastating burst damage.
- Barrett is ideal for taking out aerial enemies.
- Aerith supports with powerful spells and healing.
Switching between characters feels fluid and fun, almost like cycling through a diverse arsenal of weapons. The sense of teamwork is palpable as you chain combos, manage ATB meters, and exploit enemy weaknesses. Every fight feels like a strategic puzzle, with just enough chaos to keep things exciting.
Materia and Weapon Customization
The Materia system returns, and it's as engaging as ever. The flexibility of assigning spells, abilities, and buffs to any character ensures you can tailor your party to fit your playstyle. Combined with weapon upgrades, this creates a satisfying sense of progression.
Speaking of weapons, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth elevates them from mere stat sticks to meaningful tools. Each weapon has a unique ability that can be permanently unlocked, encouraging experimentation. Upgrades keep every weapon viable throughout the game, letting you choose based on playstyle rather than raw numbers.
Visuals and Audio
From the neon glow of Midgar to the gritty industrial Shinra facilities, the visuals are absolutely stunning. The attention to detail is jaw dropping, and the game captures the essence of the original and elevates it for modern audiences.
The music is an absolute masterpiece. Iconic tracks like "One-Winged Angel" and "Aerith's Theme" are reimagined with orchestral flair, and new compositions blend seamlessly into the experience. The soundtrack doesn’t just accompany the gameplay, it enhances it, making emotional moments hit even harder.
Minor Quibbles
While the game is nearly flawless, there are some areas where it falters slightly. Side quests, though optional, can feel like traditional RPG filler at times. Tasks like hunting rats or fetching items don’t quite match the high stakes of the main narrative. However, the rewards often make these detours worthwhile, offering valuable items and extra character interactions.
Final Thoughts
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a masterpiece that takes a classic and makes it better. The combat is exciting, the characters are memorable, and the setting is stunning. It walks the fine line between nostalgia and new, creating a RPG experience that is both classic and revolutionary.
This remake is everything you could hope for and more if you are a longtime fan. But for newcomers to the universe, it’s as good an entry point as any. Square Enix has really raised the bar for the next installment.
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