We tried Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth and the changes from the remake suited it perfectly.

The Final Fantasy VII remake has no doubt caused controversy. For many, the best remake in PlayStation history (perhaps with forgiveness from some Resident Evil), for others, part of the essence of the game was betrayed. Regardless, it was one of the greatest launches ever, and without a doubt, enchanted locals and strangers. Its direct sequel, which will be released soon, promises much more. We had the opportunity to try out Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, the second part of the trilogy that makes up the story of the original game.

We don’t know a priori whether it will be as controversial as the previous game, since Rebirth will also change the dynamics of the original game. But what we can tell you is that it is an improvement in every aspect over the Final Fantasy VII Remake.. In both the storytelling, the combat, and the exploration, without going into spoilers, there are occasional surprises that will delight fans.

We had the opportunity to try out two different phases of the game: one more linear, combat-oriented, and another that gives freedom when playing in a certain area of ​​the many that will be, They operate as a free but limited sandbox.. Similar, with some nuances, to the recent Final Fantasy XVI.

In fact, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth borrows some of the latter’s mechanics while combining other aspects of the previous remake. A subtle mixture that works like a glove for the remake sequel and certainly offers a dynamism that we are sure will convince both original players and those who entered the saga for the first time with the VII remake.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth: Semi-open worlds with full control over playable characters

The “open world” sections allow you to control five characters in three pre-made teams in battle, allowing you to team up Cloud, Tifa and Aerith. Or Aerith, Red XIII and Barret. Free choice of the player according to the needs of the battle. Very interesting.

As in the first part, the game will offer two modes: “Graphics/Performance”, the first of which is focused on 4K, and the second on 60 FPS. We were able to test the graphics mode, andor is it true that graphically it looks impressivewith bright, colorful environments and particle effects in combat that look great on PS5.

Of the combat, perhaps the most significant change, besides being faster and more frantic, and having the ability to control multiple characters in real time. In this regard, the player has several combinations at his disposal. Standard attacks launch a melee combo, while holding the attack button launches a ranged attack.

But what’s really new in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the inclusion of new synergies. It’s a skill which allow two characters to combine an extremely powerful attack. For example, Cloud and Sephiroth’s attacks can be combined (wink, wink) into a devastating team attack called Twin Blade Dance.

Overall, these are very interesting mechanics that we’re looking forward to testing in detail when Final Fantasy VII Rebirth launches exclusively on PS5 early next year.