If there was still any doubt that the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy isn’t going to be a 1-for-1 reimagining of the original game, Square Enix added to the pile of evidences that it isn’t.
Creative Business Unit I confirmed that the upcoming sequel will introduce entirely new cities absent from the original PlayStation game. This development is a clear indication of the studio’s commitment to deepen the narrative and enrich the world of this beloved franchise. The addition of new locations, including the previously unknown Crow’s Nest, marks a distinct effort to broaden the scope of the game beyond its celebrated predecessor.
Director Naoki Hamaguchi, in an interview with Game Informer, detailed the inclusion of new cities like Crow’s Nest, a sister town to the classic Under Junon from the classic title. The additions aren’t just mere extensions but strategically integrated into the game’s narrative and world-building. Crow’s Nest, for example, is an anti-Shinra settlement, offering itself as a hub for side quests and mini-games, significantly enhancing the player’s experience.
The game’s design philosophy aims to balance the main storyline with the freedom to explore these new areas. After a series of specific quests, such as saving Yuffie in Under Junon, players can choose to venture towards Junon or diverge into these newly introduced cities for side adventures. This design choice aligns with the game’s ambition to offer the fans a more immersive and player-driven experience, allowing gamers to embark on journeys fueled by their interests.
Ultimately, FF7 Rebirth promises to be a richer and more immersive experience, offering JRPG fans unique exploratory opportunities. The game encourages players to actively seek out these new areas, with the developers envisioning a world where players can traverse seamlessly between multiple regions for more intuitive and engaging gameplay.
While the main storyline will continue to revolve around the central characters and the pursuit of Sephiroth, adding a handful of new cities provides an opportunity to add depth to the narrative. These new locations will likely serve as stages for both main and side quests, offering insights into the game’s broader universe and characters.
So, if you’re wondering if Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth will pick up exactly where the first game left off, the answer is both a yes and a no.
After Final Fantasy 7 Remake teases a divergence from the events of the 1997 classic, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is going an entirely different route albeit one that should still feel familiar.
Scheduled for release on February 29, 2024, exclusively on PlayStation 5, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is expected to offer a unique blend of nostalgia and innovation. While it very much remains a remake, these new elements make it a distinct experience in its own right.
The commitment to expanding the game’s universe reflects Square Enix’s understanding of the evolving expectations of gamers and the need to innovate within the boundaries of a beloved franchise. By introducing new locales and a unique narrative direction, the studio is not only paying homage to the original game but also charting a new course for the series.
With a blend of familiar and new elements, the game is shaping up to be a compelling experience for both long-time fans and newcomers to the franchise.
It’s no wonder, then, that fans have rallied behind the development team, cheering them on amidst the controversies and backlash.
