Things you need to know about Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth before buying it

The world of gaming has evolved tremendously over the years, but few titles have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of players quite like the iconic Final Fantasy 7. Released in 1997, this classic RPG captivated players with its unforgettable story, richly detailed world, and memorable characters. Now, more than two decades later, the magic of Final Fantasy 7 has been rekindled with the release of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, a stunning reimagining that brings the beloved game into the modern era.

In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve deep into various aspects of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, exploring the game’s updated gameplay mechanics, enhanced graphics and sound design, expanded story, and the role of nostalgia in its success. We will also provide valuable tips and tricks for mastering the game, discuss the potential impact of Rebirth on the future of the Final Fantasy franchise, and examine the influence of nostalgia on the gaming industry as a whole.

Whether you are a long-time fan of the original game or a newcomer to the series, this blog post aims to provide you with a thorough understanding of what makes Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth a truly remarkable and captivating gaming experience. So, without further ado, let’s embark on a journey through the world of Midgar and rediscover the magic of Final Fantasy 7 in its Rebirth.

The storyline and characters in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has garnered significant attention from fans and newcomers alike, and for good reason. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of this game that you should know about before making a purchase.

The storyline of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a revamped version of the original Final Fantasy 7, which was released in 1997. This new iteration brings back the beloved characters, such as Cloud Strife, Tifa Lockhart, Barret Wallace, and Aerith Gainsborough, and introduces them to a new generation of gamers. The game is set in a dystopian world where the Shinra Electric Power Company is exploiting the planet’s life force, known as Mako energy. You will follow the journey of Cloud Strife, a former member of the elite SOLDIER unit, as he joins the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE to stop Shinra from further destroying the planet.

The characters in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth have been redesigned to bring them to life with more realistic and detailed graphics. Each character has their own unique abilities and personalities, allowing players to form emotional connections and become invested in their stories.

One of the most notable aspects of the storyline in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is the intricate and immersive worldbuilding. The game is set in the city of Midgar, which is divided into various sectors and slums. Throughout the game, players will explore these areas, uncovering the secrets and hidden stories of the people who live there. The game’s narrative delves deep into themes such as environmentalism, corporate greed, and the consequences of unchecked power.

One of the major changes in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is the episodic format of the game, allowing the developers to expand upon the original story and provide more depth to the characters and world. This format gives players the opportunity to experience an even richer and more immersive narrative than the original game.

In addition to the main cast of characters, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth also introduces several new characters that add to the overall depth of the story. These characters include Roche, a motorcycle-riding SOLDIER with a flair for the dramatic, and Chadley, a mysterious young researcher who provides players with unique battle challenges. The game also expands upon the roles of minor characters from the original game, such as Jessie, Biggs, and Wedge, giving them more significant roles in the story and allowing players to form deeper connections with them.

The character development in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is another aspect that sets it apart from the original game. As players progress through the story, the characters grow and evolve, facing their pasts and confronting their own personal demons. This character growth allows players to become even more invested in the story and the world of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.

One of the key features of the game is the relationship system, which allows players to interact with different characters and make choices that impact the story’s progression. This system adds another layer of depth to the game, as players can shape the narrative and experience different outcomes based on their choices.

In summary, the storyline and characters in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth are the heart and soul of the game. With its revamped narrative, expanded worldbuilding, and deep character development, players can expect an immersive and engaging experience that will keep them captivated from start to finish.

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The gameplay and battle system in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth not only excels in its storytelling and character development but also boasts an updated gameplay and battle system that enhances the overall experience for players. In this section, we will dive into the details of the gameplay mechanics and the battle system, providing you with the information you need to know before purchasing the game.

The gameplay in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a seamless blend of real-time action and strategic, turn-based combat. Players control Cloud and his allies as they explore the vast world of Midgar, interact with NPCs, complete side quests, and engage in thrilling battles against various enemies. The game offers a dynamic and engaging experience that caters to both fans of the original Final Fantasy 7 and newcomers to the series.

The battle system in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a unique hybrid system that combines elements of real-time action and turn-based strategy. Players control their characters in real-time, executing basic attacks, dodging enemy attacks, and positioning themselves on the battlefield. However, the game also incorporates an Active Time Battle (ATB) system, which requires players to strategically manage their ATB gauges to execute powerful abilities, magic spells, and summons.

Each character in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has a unique set of abilities, allowing for a diverse range of playstyles and strategies. For example, Cloud excels in close-range combat with his massive Buster Sword, while Barret focuses on long-range attacks with his gun-arm. Players can also switch between characters on the fly, enabling them to adapt to different combat scenarios and utilize each character’s strengths effectively.

One of the key components of the battle system in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is the Materia system. Materia are magical orbs that grant characters various abilities, spells, and stat boosts. Players can customize their characters by equipping different Materia combinations, allowing for a high degree of flexibility and strategic depth. The Materia system also encourages experimentation, as players can discover powerful synergies between different Materia types and create unique character builds.

In addition to the main story battles, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth also features various side activities and optional challenges that test the player’s combat prowess. These challenges include boss battles, timed trials, and mini-games such as the famous motorcycle chase sequence. Completing these challenges rewards players with valuable items, Materia, and experience points, making them a worthwhile endeavor for those looking to enhance their characters and become more powerful.

The game also includes a Classic Mode, which caters to fans of the original Final Fantasy 7’s turn-based combat system. In Classic Mode, characters automatically perform basic attacks, allowing players to focus on managing their ATB gauges and executing abilities, spells, and summons. This mode provides a nostalgic experience for long-time fans while also offering an alternative gameplay option for those who prefer a more strategic approach to combat.

In summary, the gameplay and battle system in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth offer a dynamic and engaging experience that caters to both fans of the original game and newcomers to the series. With its unique blend of real-time action and strategic turn-based combat, customizable character builds, and challenging side activities, players can expect a thrilling and rewarding adventure in the world of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.

Read also: Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 2’s Story will go beyond Players’ expectations

The graphics and sound design in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

A crucial aspect of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth that sets it apart from its predecessor is the significant improvement in graphics and sound design. These enhancements not only contribute to the overall immersive experience of the game but also breathe new life into the world of Midgar and its inhabitants. In this section, we will delve into the various aspects of the game’s graphics and sound design that you need to know before purchasing.

The graphics in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth have been meticulously crafted to provide a visually stunning experience for players. The game utilizes the powerful Luminous Engine, which allows for highly detailed character models, lifelike animations, and expansive environments that immerse players in the world of Midgar. Each area in the game, from the bustling streets of the city to the dark depths of the Mako Reactors, has been designed with an incredible level of depth and detail, making exploration a rewarding and awe-inspiring experience.

One of the standout features of the graphics in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is the game’s lighting. The use of advanced lighting techniques, such as volumetric lighting and dynamic shadows, adds a sense of realism and atmosphere to the game’s environments. These lighting effects not only enhance the overall visual experience but also help to create a more immersive and emotionally engaging world for players to explore.

In addition to the impressive visuals, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth also boasts a phenomenal sound design that greatly contributes to the game’s immersive atmosphere. The game features a fully reorchestrated soundtrack by composer Nobuo Uematsu, who has created iconic scores for numerous entries in the Final Fantasy series. The new soundtrack breathes fresh life into the game’s memorable themes, such as the iconic “One-Winged Angel” and “Aerith’s Theme,” while also introducing new compositions that perfectly complement the revamped story and gameplay.

The sound design in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth goes beyond the music, with meticulously crafted sound effects that bring the world of Midgar to life. From the hum of the Mako Reactors to the distinct sounds of each character’s weapon, the game’s sound effects are immersive and realistic, adding depth to the overall gaming experience.

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth also features full voice acting for the first time in the game’s history. The talented voice cast, including Cody Christian as Cloud Strife and Briana White as Aerith Gainsborough, delivers powerful and emotive performances that bring the characters to life and enhance the game’s storytelling. The addition of voice acting allows for more nuanced and engaging character interactions, giving players an even stronger connection to the game’s narrative and characters.

Furthermore, the game offers various language options for both voice acting and subtitles, catering to players from different regions and ensuring that they can fully enjoy the game’s rich story and character interactions in their preferred language.

The differences between the original Final Fantasy 7 and Rebirth

For fans of the original Final Fantasy 7, it’s essential to understand the key differences between the 1997 classic and the newly released Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. In this section, we will explore these differences, focusing on aspects such as gameplay mechanics, story expansions, and visual upgrades, to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what sets the two games apart.

1. Updated gameplay mechanics: As discussed earlier, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth introduces a revamped gameplay system that blends real-time action with strategic, turn-based combat. This new hybrid system provides a more dynamic and engaging experience compared to the original game’s purely turn-based combat. Additionally, the game features an expanded Materia system, offering players more customization options and encouraging experimentation with different character builds.
2. Expanded story and characters: Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth expands upon the original game’s narrative, delving deeper into the world of Midgar and its inhabitants. The game’s episodic format allows for a more detailed exploration of the story, giving players a richer and more immersive experience. New characters, such as Roche and Chadley, have been introduced, while minor characters from the original game, like Jessie, Biggs, and Wedge, have been given more significant roles in the story.
3. Enhanced graphics and sound design: As previously mentioned, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth boasts a significant upgrade in graphics and sound design compared to the original game. Utilizing the Luminous Engine, the game features highly detailed character models, realistic animations, and expansive environments that immerse players in the world of Midgar. The new soundtrack, reorchestrated by Nobuo Uematsu, breathes fresh life into the game’s iconic themes while also introducing new compositions.
4. Voice acting: Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth features full voice acting for the first time in the game’s history, with a talented cast that delivers powerful and emotive performances. The addition of voice acting allows for more nuanced character interactions and enhances the game’s storytelling, providing players with a stronger connection to the narrative and characters.
5. Side quests and activities: In addition to the main story missions, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth introduces a variety of side quests and activities that provide players with additional content and challenges. These side activities not only offer valuable rewards but also help to flesh out the world of Midgar and its inhabitants, creating a more immersive experience for players.
6. Classic Mode: Catering to fans of the original game’s turn-based combat system, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth includes a Classic Mode that allows players to focus on managing their ATB gauges while characters automatically perform basic attacks. This mode offers a nostalgic experience for long-time fans while also providing an alternative gameplay option for those who prefer a more strategic approach to combat.
7. Modern quality-of-life improvements: Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth introduces several quality-of-life improvements that enhance the overall gaming experience. These improvements include features such as auto-saving, an adjustable difficulty level, and a more intuitive user interface, making the game more accessible and enjoyable for both new and returning players.

The future of the Final Fantasy franchise after the release of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

The release of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has not only rekindled the love for the original game but has also sparked discussions about the future of the Final Fantasy franchise. In this section, we will explore the potential impact of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth on the series and the gaming industry as a whole, as well as speculate on what future installments might have in store for fans.

1. The success of episodic storytelling: Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth’s episodic format has allowed for a more in-depth exploration of the game’s story and characters, providing players with a richer and more immersive experience. This approach could potentially inspire future installments of the series to adopt a similar format, allowing for deeper narratives and more detailed world-building.
2. Remaking other classic titles: The success of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has demonstrated the potential for remakes of other classic titles in the series. Fans have already expressed interest in seeing remakes of Final Fantasy VI, VIII, and IX, to name a few. These remakes could introduce new generations of gamers to the iconic stories and characters of the series while also providing a fresh experience for long-time fans.
3. Expanding the universe of Final Fantasy 7: With the world of Midgar and its characters receiving newfound attention and appreciation, there is potential for spin-offs and expansions that further explore the universe of Final Fantasy 7. This could include prequels focusing on the backstories of characters like Sephiroth and Zack Fair, or even sequels that continue the story of Cloud and his companions.
4. New gameplay innovations: The hybrid combat system of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has been well-received by both fans and newcomers alike. This innovative approach to gameplay could potentially influence future installments of the series, leading to even more dynamic and engaging combat systems that combine real-time action with strategic turn-based elements.
5. Enhanced focus on character development: Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth’s emphasis on character development and emotional storytelling has resonated with players, creating a more engaging and immersive experience. Future installments of the series could potentially build upon this approach, delving deeper into the personal stories and growth of the characters to create a more emotionally resonant narrative.
6. Collaboration with other franchises: The success of the Final Fantasy series has led to numerous collaborations with other gaming franchises, such as the inclusion of Noctis from Final Fantasy XV in Tekken 7 and Cloud Strife in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. The positive reception of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth could potentially pave the way for more collaborations and crossovers, further expanding the reach of the series and introducing new audiences to the world of Final Fantasy.
7. Impact on the gaming industry: The success of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth could potentially inspire other game developers to revisit and remake classic titles, bringing new life to beloved games and introducing them to new generations of gamers. The innovative gameplay mechanics, immersive storytelling, and attention to detail in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth set a high bar for future remakes and could potentially influence the direction of the gaming industry as a whole.

Tips and tricks for mastering the gameplay in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

As a newcomer or a returning player to the world of Final Fantasy 7, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the various gameplay mechanics and strategies to fully enjoy and master the experience. In this section, we will provide you with some valuable tips and tricks that will help you navigate the challenges and triumphs of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.

1. Experiment with Materia combinations: The Materia system in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth offers a plethora of customization options for your characters. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of Materia to find the perfect setup that suits your playstyle. Combining different types of Materia can unlock powerful synergies and unique abilities that can give you an edge in battle.
2. Master the Stagger mechanic: Staggering enemies is a crucial aspect of the battle system in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. By dealing enough damage or exploiting an enemy’s weakness, you can stagger them, which significantly increases the damage they take and leaves them vulnerable to your attacks. Mastering this mechanic can make even the toughest battles more manageable.
3. Utilize character abilities strategically: Each character in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has a unique set of abilities that cater to different playstyles and combat scenarios. Make sure to familiarize yourself with each character’s abilities and use them strategically during battles. Switching between characters on the fly can help you adapt to different situations and take advantage of each character’s strengths.
4. Don’t neglect side quests and activities: While it may be tempting to focus solely on the main story missions, taking the time to complete side quests and activities can provide valuable rewards, such as unique items, Materia, and experience points. These side quests also offer additional insights into the world of Midgar and its inhabitants, enriching your overall gaming experience.
5. Save often and utilize multiple save slots: Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth features an auto-save system, but it’s always a good idea to save manually and utilize multiple save slots. This can help you avoid potential setbacks or allow you to revisit specific moments in the game if you want to experience different outcomes or explore alternate paths.
6. Pay attention to character positioning: During battles, positioning can play a crucial role in your success. Ensure your melee characters, such as Cloud and Tifa, are close to the enemies to deal maximum damage, while keeping your ranged characters, like Barret and Aerith, at a safe distance to avoid enemy attacks. Proper positioning can also help you avoid area-of-effect attacks from enemies and protect your party members from harm.
7. Take advantage of the game’s difficulty settings: Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth offers adjustable difficulty levels, allowing you to tailor the game’s challenge to your preferences. If you find yourself struggling with a particular battle or section of the game, don’t hesitate to adjust the difficulty level to match your skill level and ensure a more enjoyable experience.
8. Explore the world of Midgar thoroughly: The world of Midgar is filled with hidden secrets, collectibles, and unique encounters. Take the time to explore each area thoroughly, as you may discover valuable items, Easter eggs, and side quests that can enhance your overall gaming experience.

Conclusion

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a remarkable reimagining of the beloved 1997 classic that successfully brings the game into the modern era. With its revamped gameplay mechanics, expanded story and characters, stunning graphics and sound design, and innovative battle system, the game offers a truly captivating and immersive experience for both long-time fans and newcomers to the series.

The impact of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth on the future of the franchise and the gaming industry as a whole cannot be understated, as it sets a new benchmark for remakes and demonstrates the potential for revitalizing classic titles. By incorporating modern gameplay innovations, immersive storytelling, and attention to detail, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth serves as a shining example for future remakes and installments in the series.

As you embark on your journey through the world of Midgar, remember to experiment with Materia, master the Stagger mechanic, utilize character abilities strategically, and explore the world thoroughly. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well-equipped to face the challenges and triumphs of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of the original game or a newcomer to the series, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth offers a rich and engaging gaming experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. So, grab your Buster Sword, join Cloud and his companions, and rediscover the magic of Final Fantasy 7 in its Rebirth.