When Square Enix confirmed that neither Vincent Valentine nor Cid Highwind would be playable in the sequel, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, most weren’t too worried. After all, it’s not unreasonable to expect either if not both to formally join the party in a post-launch DLC, similar to Yuffie Kirasagi. Unfortunately, it appears that Creative Business Unit I wants to move on to the third and final game in the trilogy as soon as FF7 Rebirth comes out on February 29, 2024.
FF7’s Creative Director, Tetsuya Nomura, confirmed this at the Tokyo Game Show, saying that there are no plans to release DLC content for FF7 Rebirth.
While this comes as a surprise after the success of the FF7 Remake re-release on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S/X as well as the InterMISSION DLC, it makes sense.
FFVII Rebirth creative director Nomura has confirmed that the team is not planning any DLC for the second entry of the Remake series. (Vandal/El Español, 9/22) pic.twitter.com/CHmmQPp8oL
— Shinra Archaeology Department (@ShinraArch) September 22, 2023
Previously, we reported that Square Enix is using the decade-old video game engine, Unreal Engine 4, for FF7 Rebirth. This may not seem like the “best” idea in terms of visuals, but judging from the trailers we’ve seen so far, Square Enix is deserving of the benefit of the doubt. Also, this continuity in the engine means that Square Enix can reuse and improve assets from the first game, Final Fantasy 7 Remake, all the way through the finale. This helps the studio cut down on the development time, allowing it to release two entries in four years and possibly three in seven with minimal compromise.
Considering that Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is exclusive to the PlayStation 5, it makes sense to skip the post-launch DLC and go straight to work on the third game.
Unlike the FF7 Remake, Square Enix only has to worry about a PC port or an Xbox port. The latter would be a first, but we’re pretty sure Microsoft will lend the studio a hand.
Ultimately, Square Enix’s plan to NOT release a DLC for FF7 Rebirth is ideal.
Of course, that doesn’t mean that plans won’t change. Creative Business Unit III said the same thing about Final Fantasy 16 ahead of its launch. After the game received much critical acclaim and sold millions, FF16 is now getting a PC port and at least two post-launch premium content, which may or may not feature Cidolfus Telamon.
TLDR; there’s just not enough financial incentive for Square Enix to release a DLC for Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.
Square Enix’s recent financial struggles shed light on the company’s multiple failed ventures between FF7 Remake and FF16. Hopefully, FF7 Rebirth can help it regain its financial footing.
Square Enix is heavily invested in AAA games, specifically, the world of Final Fantasy. Although it’s still unconfirmed, the company is believed to be working on a remake of Final Fantasy 9, Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy Tactics. The idea for remakes of Final Fantasy V and Final Fantasy VI have been floated around within the company’s ranks as well.
Finally, Final Fantasy XIV will arrive on the Xbox platform next year.
