Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Review: A Monumental Leap in Narrative and Open-World RPG Design on PS5

Square Enix’s highly anticipated sequel, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, has landed on PlayStation 5, continuing the sprawling saga initiated by Final Fantasy VII Remake. Far more than just a bridge between its predecessor and the concluding chapter, Rebirth stands as a colossal achievement in its own right, delivering a breathtakingly expansive world, deeply evolved combat, and a narrative that expertly juggles fan service with bold new directions. This isn’t merely a game; it’s an epic journey that redefines expectations for modern JRPGs.

From the moment Cloud Strife and his companions step out of Midgar, the scale of Rebirth becomes immediately apparent. The linear corridors of the first installment give way to vast, interconnected regions teeming with life, secrets, and an overwhelming sense of adventure. Players are invited to explore iconic locations like the Grasslands, Junon, Costa del Sol, and the Gongaga region, each rendered with meticulous detail and a palpable sense of history. This shift to a semi-open world structure is executed with remarkable finesse, avoiding the pitfalls of barren landscapes by populating every corner with meaningful activities, intriguing side quests, and environmental storytelling that enriches the overarching lore.

An Evolved Combat System and Deeper Character Dynamics

The combat system, a refined iteration of the hybrid real-time and command-based mechanics from Remake, reaches new heights in Rebirth. The introduction of Synergy Abilities is a game-changer, allowing pairs of characters to unleash devastating, visually spectacular joint attacks that not only look incredible but also offer significant tactical advantages. These abilities are tied to a deeper relationship system, where character bonds grow through dialogue choices and shared experiences, making each synergy feel earned and impactful. The Materia system also returns, offering unparalleled customization and strategic depth, empowering players to tailor their party to an extraordinary degree.

Each character feels distinct and vital, not just in combat but in their personal narratives. Barret’s gruff exterior hides a tender heart, Tifa’s unwavering loyalty is constantly tested, and Aerith’s enigmatic nature continues to captivate. Even newcomers to the active party, such as Red XIII and Cait Sith, are given ample screen time to develop their personalities and motivations, making the ensemble cast feel more cohesive and emotionally resonant than ever before. The voice acting is consistently superb, lending authenticity to every poignant moment and comedic beat.

Narrative Ambition and Emotional Resonance

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth tackles one of the most beloved and critically acclaimed stories in video game history, and it does so with admirable courage. While adhering to the core beats of the original narrative, Square Enix isn’t afraid to take audacious detours, introducing new mysteries, expanding existing character arcs, and subtly altering established events. These changes are not arbitrary; they serve to deepen the intrigue, challenge player expectations, and keep even the most seasoned fans on the edge of their seats. The narrative is a masterclass in pacing, oscillating between lighthearted exploration and profoundly emotional, often tragic, sequences.

The game grapples with themes of destiny, memory, friendship, and sacrifice with a maturity and nuance rarely seen in the medium. Moments of levity, often found in the abundance of charming mini-games—from the elaborate card game Queen’s Blood to engaging piano performances and Chocobo racing—provide welcome respites from the heavy emotional weight of the main story. These diversions are not merely filler; they contribute to the world’s vibrancy and often unlock valuable rewards or character interactions.

Visuals, Sound, and Technical Excellence on PlayStation 5

Visually, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is nothing short of stunning. Leveraging the power of the PlayStation 5, the game delivers breathtaking environments, intricately detailed character models, and fluid animations that bring every scene to life. The environmental design is particularly noteworthy, with diverse biomes ranging from sun-drenched beaches to eerie mystical forests, all rendered with a vibrant color palette and impressive draw distances. The cinematic cutscenes are some of the best in gaming, seamlessly blending with gameplay to create a cohesive and immersive experience.

The musical score, a hallmark of the Final Fantasy series, is exceptional. Masashi Hamauzu, Mitsuto Suzuki, and Nobuo Uematsu deliver a sprawling soundtrack that flawlessly weaves iconic melodies with new, evocative compositions. The dynamic nature of the music, shifting to reflect the intensity of combat or the tranquility of exploration, significantly enhances the emotional impact of the journey. Sound design is equally impressive, from the satisfying clangs of swords to the roar of a summon, immersing players deeper into Gaia’s world.

Technically, Rebirth performs admirably on the PS5. While there are occasional minor texture pop-ins in the vast open zones, the overall experience is remarkably smooth. Players can choose between a performance mode prioritizing 60 frames per second and a graphics mode offering enhanced visual fidelity, ensuring a tailored experience. Load times are minimal, thanks to the PS5’s SSD, maintaining a consistent flow of gameplay.

Conclusion: A Definitive JRPG Experience for the Modern Era

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is more than just a sequel; it’s a monumental achievement that raises the bar for the JRPG genre. It successfully expands upon its predecessor’s foundation, delivering a richer, more expansive world, a deeper combat system, and a narrative that masterfully balances fidelity to the original with audacious new ideas. While some new players might find the sheer volume of content and narrative complexity daunting, long-time fans will revel in every meticulously crafted detail and every unexpected turn.

This game is a triumph of ambition, execution, and emotional storytelling. It’s a journey filled with exhilarating battles, heartwarming moments of camaraderie, and heartbreaking revelations that will stay with players long after the credits roll. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is an essential experience for any PlayStation 5 owner and a definitive contender for one of the greatest RPGs of its generation. It’s a bold, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable adventure that solidifies the legacy of Final Fantasy VII while fearlessly charting its own course.