Square Enix introduced a fresh design for Moogles in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, which drew mixed reactions among fans. The new design, which diverges significantly from the more traditionally “cute” appearances, has been the subject of lively discussion across social media platforms.
Moogles, the long-standing mascots of the Final Fantasy series, have been redesigned with features such as rounded bodies, bear-like ears, mammalian eyes, and rodent-like front teeth. This update has led some fans to describe the Moogles as “freaky” and “creepy,” leaving few aspects of the redesign to appreciate.
Square Enix typically portrays Moogles with cat-like features, including in Final Fantasy 7, which was originally released on the PS1. Their design and purpose has varied across the series as a reflection of each installment’s unique aesthetic and world-building. For instance, in Final Fantasy 12, the Moogles were more naturalistic and rabbit-like. Thus, the redesign in FF7 Rebirth has continued this tradition of evolution, placing Moogles in special shops known as Moogle Emporiums, accessible after completing the Moogle Mischief minigame.
FF7 Rebirth Moogle has been trending in Japan with users saying it looks super creepy!
Some users are comparing it to the FF16 Moogle and saying it’s like the one in the online profile picture vs the one in real life! 😭 #FF7R pic.twitter.com/NztPzTSb38
— Genki✨ (@Genki_JPN) March 5, 2024
Reactions to the new Moogle design have ranged from amusement and mild horror to outright criticism. The more unreasonable fans have even suggested that the historically high review scores for FF7 Rebirth should be lower due to the updated Moogle design. Meanwhile, comparisons have been drawn between the new design and those from the other Final Fantasy titles. A viral post in Japan compared the FF7 Rebirth Moogles to the ones in Final Fantasy 14 and Final Fantasy 16, implying that the latest redesign is a step backwards in terms of aesthetics.
As the redesign is part of Final Fantasy‘s long history of reinvention, Square Enix is now stepping up to defend these cute fantastical creatures. In a post on X, the official Square Enix account exclaimed, “We’re addressing the discourse… We love all of our Moogles and will not stand for this, kupo! 😤.”
Curiously, the redesigned Moogle didn’t draw as much negativity in its first appearance in Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Final Fantasy 7 – Crisis Core Reunion.
We're addressing the discourse… We love all of our Moogles and will not stand for this, kupo! 😤 pic.twitter.com/Z9JfSuhPyU
— Square Enix (@SquareEnix) March 6, 2024
Given the strong fan reactions, Square Enix might fold and revise the Moogle design for the final installment in the Final Fantasy 7 remake trilogy, which might not be released until 2027 if not later. However, it’s possible that the company may prioritize consistency across games over redesigning the characters in response to feedback. This would align with the practical and financial considerations of video game development, suggesting players may need to adjust to the new look of the Moogles as a permanent feature of the Final Fantasy 7 remake universe.
As Square Enix continues to develop and release new entries in the series, the evolving design of iconic characters such as the Moogles will likely remain a topic of interest and debate among fans.
For now, Final Fantasy fans can enjoy the latest entry in the series, which has a unique take on New Game Plus and a relatively long playing time if you want to get the Platinum Trophy.
