Final Fantasy

Life of Clive: Ben Starr reflects back on FINAL FANTASY XVI

The actor who brings Clive Rosfield to life reflects on becoming part of the FINAL FANTASY family, reaction to the game and why he loves being a fan.
By Duncan Heaney

Clive Rosfield has made quite an impact. The “Eikonic“ protagonist of FINAL FANTASY XVI has quickly become one of the most beloved in the series, thanks in no small part to his English voice actor: Ben Starr.

Now it’s been more than a year since the launch of the game on PS5, and with the game’s arrival on PC via Steam and Epic Games Store, we thought it the perfect time to catch up with the talented actor, look back on the role of Clive, and Ben’s new life as a FINAL FANTASY protagonist.

Hi Ben - how has your life changed since the release of FINAL FANTASY XVI?

Oh, massively so! How hasn’t it changed!?

My greatest wish going into this was that people didn’t hate me. But there’s been this wonderful outpouring of love for the character. And I feel like I’m just kind of riding off the back of the love for the character to be honest (laughs).

It’s been amazing how the fans have embraced Clive, embraced the game, and embraced me.

As a fan, you’re always worried that you’re going to be ostracised from the one thing that you love the most, but it’s been quite the opposite. It’s been super-wonderful, and the support has been overwhelming.

I think people understand that I love this franchise as much as they do, and just being able to nerd out about FINAL FANTASY VIII with people has been the coolest thing.

You know, I think I probably have more FINAL FANTASY VIII memorabilia given to me by fans than I have FINAL FANTASY XVI! I’m starting to collect the original action figures of FINAL FANTASY VIII because people give them to me!

I’ve signed original copies of FINAL FANTASY VIII, I’ve been able to show my appreciation for every one of these games, and it’s been really, really awesome. And now I get to do other games outside of this!

When we spoke before launch, you predicted that ‘Come to me Ifrit’ would be the thing you’re asked to say for people most. Did that turn out to be prophetic?

I never stop saying it (laughs).

Also “Accept the truth” and “The only fantasy here is yours, and we will be its final witness!”

(Thinks) No wait, is it “I shall be its final witness?”

I mean, I’ve played through the game at least three times - I should know this…

I was in it!

Oh my God, the fact that neither of us can suddenly remember… I mean I’ve written this on people’s arms (laughs). It’s tattooed on people’s arms!

No, it is: “The only fantasy here is yours and we shall be its final witness!”

It’s an amazing line…

It’s very cool. I love watching streamers do it and I can’t wait to watch people encounter it again on PC.

When the game first came out, I would nip into people’s streams when there are points of high drama or moments I particularly enjoy, and I always seeing their reactions to it. It’s really fun.

Making FINAL FANTASY XVI was a big part of your life for years…

Yeah, four years!

Now that it’s all in the rear-view mirror, how do you look back on that experience?

I look back on it in stages.

There was the secret period of me working on it with my friends. Well, colleagues who then became really close friends.

And then I had the year that it came out.

And now it’s kind of basking in the glow, the glory of having survived that year, because it was just so intense. I threw myself into it, maybe unhealthily so. But I did that because I really loved it. I saw that this is an amazing opportunity, and they don’t really come around very often.

I’m really glad I survived at the other end, and this sounds silly, but it was a lot. It was a lot of responsibility to become a kind of figurehead for a game and then by proxy a franchise as well. Because I really loved talking not just about FINAL FANTASY XVI, but FINAL FANTASY as a whole - and celebrating it.

I was turning up to award ceremonies in FINAL FANTASY VIII T-Shirts. I turned up to the Game Awards with my favorite FINAL FANTASY party on it. I wanted to at all points feel like I could be a vector for this franchise, for people to experience this franchise and almost give them permission to talk about the things they love.

I wanted to be very front-faced in the video game community and say: “FINAL FANTASY is cool, let’s talk about it.”

Yes, my favorite is FINAL FANTASY VIII, but I want people to feel like they can share their love of Terra or Vivi, or Rydia or… whoever you love, you should be able to love them in the way that you love them.

If I can be the person who’s opening the door for someone to talk about it, then let’s go!

But that’s a lot of pressure to take on and I felt like I put that on myself. But now, a bit like Thanos at the end of Infinity War, I can relax a little bit and it’s all been worth it (laughs).

Have there been any particularly memorable moments?

Oh yeah. People love a meme, and I made a load of them.

There was one where me and some of the cast were doing a livestream, and in the hotel room we all put on the bathrobes and joked we were at a spa day. And, I think, within an hour there was artwork of all our characters respectively dressed up in those clothes.

And then about two weeks later, some amazing fans turned up and met me dressed as the characters in those clothes!

It’s such a unique and brilliant thing and the joy and playfulness with which fans have received our characters is amazing. There have been so many examples it feels awful to leave things out.

Such as when you dressed up as Tifa, and then later met her actor, Britt Baron?

(Laughs) I actually messaged Britt a couple of days afterwards apologising!

That’s been a real treat, actually - having two FINAL FANTASY games come out in such a short period of time means I’ve had the opportunity to interact with people whose performances I really admire.

I think what the FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE and REBIRTH cast have done is really remarkable - to take these characters who are so beloved and to put their stamp on it and allow fans to fall in love with them all over again.

So Britt’s amazing, and so is Brianna White (Aerith) and Suzie Yeung (Yuffie) - I got to spend time with them. And John Bentley (Barret) is one of the most outgoing, charismatic individuals I’ve ever met in my life!

Yeah, I love all their enthusiasm and I feel lucky to even exist in the same space as them.

Now that you’ve played the final game, are there any scenes that stand out to you as particularly effective?

There’s obviously the ‘accept the truth’ scene, which is iconic.

But there’s also a scene that when we recorded it, I didn’t think it would have the effect it has. I mean, I knew it was good, but I didn’t think it would have that effect on people. And that’s the scene when Clive meets his mother again for the first time after the prologue.

It seems to have really stuck out to people - Clive almost regresses into a child again, he’s less controlled. He’s like a child shouting at his mother, and it’s really aggressive and unleashed and it seems to really resonate with people.

What’s the most important thing you learned working on FINAL FANTASY XVI?

Be nice. The big thing I realised is: be nice and allow for collaboration.

This whole project has been a labor of love for so many people and it was that generosity of spirit that meant we were able to create what we did.

I’m very fortunate to play Clive, but so many people went into that process with the intentions of making this one of the most interesting protagonists that FINAL FANTASY has ever created.This is a collaboration at heart, the work of multiple people, and it’s only through the appreciation of everyone’s work that he exists.

So even though I’m talking on behalf of him right now, there are so many people that went into this and hopefully I will take that same generosity of spirit into every project I do.

Many thanks to Ben Starr for his insight and look back at this incredible game.You can experience it, and Ben’s powerful performance as Clive, right now on both PS5 and PC.

Two editions are available:

FINAL FANTASY XVI Standard Edition

This includes:

  • The base game

It's available now:

FINAL FANTASY XVI Complete Edition

This includes:

  • The base game

  • Echoes of the Fallen, DLC chapter - the discovery of an artificial Mothercrystal leads Clive to the treacherous Sagespire, a ruin of the mysterious, and long since gone, Fallen civilization. It’s an action-packed ascent to the top that features some truly spectacular boss fights!

  • The Rising Tide, DLC chapter - Clive and his allies are drawn into a new adventure involving the hidden village of Haven, and the lost Eikon of Water: Leviathan! This is a longer adventure that takes you to a brand-new area with blue skies, new quests, new accessories, weapons and - uh-oh - tonberries aplenty!

It's available now:

A free demo is also available. It lets you play through the opening prologue of the game and carry your progress over to the full game.

To stay up to date with news and information about this and other FINAL FANTASY games, be sure to follow us on social media:

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FINAL FANTASY Pixel Remaster comes to Xbox Series X|S - also available on PS4, Switch and PC via Steam

FINAL FANTASY I - VI have been remastered with some awesome features, including HD visuals, new music, gameplay boosts and font options.
By Duncan Heaney

Exciting news! The FINAL FANTASY Pixel Remaster games are out now digitally for Xbox Series X|S consoles!

The release means the first six FINAL FANTASY titles are now playable on multiple platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC via Steam, iOS and Android.

What is the FINAL FANTASY Pixel Remaster Series?

The first six FINAL FANTASY games have been updated with beautiful new 2D pixel graphics designed to look great on HD displays, rearranged soundtracks overseen by original composer Nobuo Uematsu and improved gameplay features, including modernised user interface, auto-battle options and more.

The games are available on PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam now digitally, either separately or as a collection comprising FINAL FANTASY I - VI.

The games are also available on iOS and Android devices.

A new physical edition has also been announced: the FINAL FANTASY I-VI COLLECTION ANNIVERSARY EDITION! It’s coming to PS4 and Nintendo Switch October 8, 2024, and includes a sticker sheet featuring some familiar FINAL FANTASY figures!

What features are included in the games?

The pixel remaster versions of these classic games have some awesome features that make them even more enjoyable to play than before.

These include the option to:

  • Change soundtracks: The Pixel Remaster series features utterly superb new orchestral arrangements of FINAL FANTASY I - VI’s soundtracks. However, we know some of you may want to recreate the original experience of playing these games, so you’ll be able to switch between the original and rearranged soundtracks.

  • Change fonts: The console release of FINAL FANTASY I - VI gives you the option to switch between two different fonts: the default font and a new pixel-based font that recreates the feel of the original games.

  • Turn off random encounters: Sometimes you just want to explore in peace, so a feature in the Pixel Remaster games lets you turn off random encounters completely. This means you can roam the world without being harassed by monsters. That also means you won’t get stronger, so be careful how you use it…

  • Adjust experience: Speaking of getting stronger, want to speed things up a little? Boost features let you adjust the experience gained by up to four times. Perfect if you want an easier run through the games.

  • Auto-battle: With a press of a button, you can make characters automatically perform their last action. It makes battles fly by!

  • View extras: Get a closer look at the many monsters you’ll face in the bestiary, marvel at the beautiful illustrations in a gallery, and enjoy the incredible soundtracks in a music player.

All these features are, of course, optional, but they mean that players of all types - from those who played the originals to those who have never played a classic FINAL FANTASY game before - can have a great time with these six awesome adventures.

What games are part of FINAL FANTASY Pixel Remaster series?

For those who haven’t experienced these incredible games on PC and mobile, the FINAL FANTASY Pixel Remaster series comprises FINAL FANTASY I through FINAL FANTASY VI, giving fans a chance to relive some of the most beloved RPGs of all time in a way that perfectly captures the spirit of those original games.

But if anything, we’re even more excited for new fans who’ll get to experience them for the very first time. These games are true masterpieces, and the FINAL FANTASY Pixel Remaster series offers the best way to play them yet!

Let’s take a closer look at the games in the series.

FINAL FANTASY

This is the ironically named game that started it all. You take control of the Warriors of Light, off on a journey to defeat four fiends and restore peace to the world.

So many of the elements of the series that we’ve come to know and love make their debut right here in this very first entry: a massive world full of mystery, some iconic monster designs and that incredible music.

FINAL FANTASY II

The second game in the series introduces a new world, new characters and something that would become a trademark of the series: innovation.

The story focuses on the conflict between the hostile Empire of Palamecia and the rebel resistance. A small group of heroes is all that stands between the world and ruin.

FINAL FANTASY II demonstrates the developers’ willingness to push their boundaries and try new things. For example, rather than sticking to the predictable, the game features a proficiency system in which characters skill with weapons and abilities increase the more they used them.

Fun fact: this is the FINAL FANTASY game that introduced the world to chocobos! Now that’s a legacy.

FINAL FANTASY III

When darkness falls and the land is robbed of light, four young heroes are chosen by the crystals to head off an exciting journey across a vast and hostile land.

This critically-acclaimed entry in the series innovated with a flexible job system, which lets characters change their roles in combat at any time. Many of the most famous elements of FINAL FANTASY started here too - for example, it was the first to introduce summons, including series mainstays Bahamut and Shiva!

FINAL FANTASY IV

FINAL FANTASY IV delivers one of the richest and most powerful stories in the series. It’s filled with characters and scenarios that fans continue to love to this day.

It focuses on the dark knight Cecil, who finds himself stripped of his position and rank when he questions his king’s increasingly troubling orders. When he’s sent on a simple delivery mission with his friend Kain, the shocking events that follow send him and a group of allies on an incredible journey of betrayal, love and redemption.

This is the first game to feature the Active Time Battle (ATB) system, which combines turn-based and real-time elements to create fast-paced and strategic combat.

FINAL FANTASY V

The world of FINAL FANTASY V is on the verge of destruction because the elemental crystals that bring life and prosperity to the lands have lost their power.

The only hope lies in four heroes: Bartz, Princess Lenna of Castle Tycoon, pirate Faris and the mysterious Galuf. Driven together by fate, they set off on a quest that to save the planet itself.

As well as refining the ATB system, FINAL FANTASY V expands your strategic options massively through a greatly expanded job system, which let you customize your characters with 22 different jobs.

FINAL FANTASY VI

FINAL FANTASY VI is a game that’s beloved by fans and critics alike.

That’s partly thanks to its incredible setting and story. It’s set in a land where magic has disappeared, and humanity has instead turned to iron, gunpowder, steam and other technology.

Actually, it would be more accurate to say that magic is mostly gone - a young woman enslaved by the evil Empire still has the power. When she encounters a powerful ancient being called an Esper, she sets off a chain of events that will have epic and terrible consequences.

How do you get the FINAL FANTASY Pixel Remaster Series?

All six games in the FINAL FANTASY pixel remaster series are available to buy now digitally for PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam. Each title can be bought individually or as a complete series in the FINAL FANTASY I - VI BUNDLE.

In addition, the physical FINAL FANTASY I-VI COLLECTION ANNIVERSARY EDITION (which includes sticker sheet) will launch October 8, 2024 for PS4 and Nintendo Switch and is available to preorder now.

We hope you’re looking forward to experiencing these six incredible games. For news and updates, be sure to follow us on social media:

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These FINAL FANTASY XVI PCs have to be seen to be believed!

To celebrate the launch of FINAL FANTASY XVI on PC, we’re giving away some truly Eikonic PCs. Check them out here!
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY XVI is an amazing adventure, full of wonderful characters, incredible action and, of course, the all-powerful Eikons.

Now, FINAL FANTASY XVI is available via Steam and Epic Games Store and to celebrate the launch we’ve created the ultimate PC… or more accurately, seven of them. Created in collaboration with some of the best modders around the world, these mighty machines are inspired by the Eikons from the game, from the flaming power of Ifrit to the icy might of Shiva.

Even better, one of these PCs could be yours! Read on to see what PC is available in your region - and how you can win it!

United Kingdom - Shiva

Shiva PC

Created in collaboration with Chillblast, this hand-crafted machine is themed around Shiva - the Warden of Ice. Its minimalist exterior is hued blue like ice, and the visible interior is adorned with numerous glowing crystals that replicate the crisp essence of ice.

It is, in short, pretty cool and the perfect PC to chill out and play FINAL FANTASY XVI on. Check out the specs:

  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7950X3D
  • Motherboard: X670E AORUS PRO X
  • Graphics Card: GeForce RTX 4090
  • RAM: 2 x 32GB RGB DDR5 6000MT/s
  • SSD: 1TO
  • Power Supply: 1000W 80 PLUS Gold Certified
  • Operating System: Windows 11

To win this PC, head over to Chillblast’s website:

France - Ramuh

Ramuh PC

Ramuh is the Warden of Thunder with power over lightning, so unsurprisingly the PC themed around this Eikon is shockingly impressive. It was assembled by some bright sparks - FrenchHardware and modded by Vadu Amka - and we think you’ll be charged up when you see what they’ve created!

  • Case: M RED Stealth Fighter
  • CPU: i7-14700F
  • Motherboard: MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI
  • Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 Super MSI SUPRIM X
  • RAM: Kingstone 2x16go DDR5
  • SSD: 1TO
  • Power Supply: MSI MPG A850G
  • Fans: M RED
  • Operating System: Windows 11

For a chance to win this PC, enter here:

Germany - Garuda

Garuda PC

Garuda is the Warden of Wind - an appropriate Eikon for this rig because it’ll blow you away. In addition to Garuda’s mighty claw, it commits to the theme with multiple fans. And you’ll be one more when you check out the specs:

  • Case: NZXT H6 Flow RGB, black
  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D
  • Motherboard: ASUS TUF Gaming B650-Plus WIFI
  • Graphics card: ASUS TUF Gaming GeForce RTX 4080 Super
  • RAM: 32GB Corsair Vengeance RGB
  • SSD: 2TB WD_BLACK
  • Power Supply: 850W NZXT C850
  • Fans: NZXT Kraken Elite 360 RGB, black
  • Operating System: Windows 11 Pro

This high-flying PC is being given away in collaboration with Gamestar. Fans in Germany can head over their website to enter the sweepstake!

Australia - Ifrit

Ifrit PC

Modelled after Ifrit, the Warden of the Inferno, this incredible PC makes a real statement. Replicating Ifrit’s powerful head, horns and all, it’s an incredible piece of work by TagMods. Its innards are just as scorchingly impressive too:

  • CPU: Intel Core i9 14900K
  • Motherboard: Aorus Z790i Ultra
  • Graphics Card: Aorus GeForce RTX 4080 Master
  • RAM: Thermaltake TOUGHRAM XG RGB 32GB DDR5 C36
  • SSD: 1TB m.2
  • Power Supply: Thermaltake Toughpower SFX 1000W
  • Fans: Thermaltake CT120 EX ARGB Magnetic Quick Connect
  • Operating System: Windows 11

Accept the truth - this PC is pure fire. It can be yours by entering the competition:

Spain - Titan

Titan PC

One look at this PC is enough to tell you which Eikon it represents: Titan, the Warden of Earth! Like its inspiration, it rocks - both inside and out. That stony casing hides some truly powerful parts:

  • CPU: Intel Core i9 14900K
  • Motherboard: MRG Z790 Carbon Wifi
  • Graphics Card: MSI GeForce RTX 4080 SUPER GAMING X SLIM 16GB
  • SSD: 1TB
  • Operating System: Windows 11

We'll have more information on how residents of Spain can win this earth-shatteringly impressive machine soon - so watch this space!

USA - Bahamut

Bahamut PC

In FINAL FANTASY XVI, Bahamut is the Warden of Light, and this PC inspired by the icon will surely brighten your day. Adorned with Bahamut’s fearsome visage, it’s a real beast of a rig - just check out the specs:

  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
  • Motherboard: GIGABYTE B650 AORUS ELITE AX
  • Graphics Card: AMD Radeon RX 7900 XT
  • RAM: 4x DELTA RGB DDR5 16GB
  • Power Supply: CORSAIR RM1000E 80 PLUS GOLD
  • Fans: HYTE THICC DP12 FAN 3-PACK
  • Case: HYTE Y70 (Custom)
  • Operating System: Windows 11

This competition is now closed.

Canada - Odin

Odin PC

Odin is the Warden of Darkness, whose black blade is said to be capable of splitting the very seas themselves. That sense of power is perfectly captured by this darkly beautiful PC, and its powerful specs:

  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
  • Motherboard: GIGABYTE B650 AORUS ELITE AX
  • Graphics Card: AMD Radeon RX 7900 XT
  • RAM: 4x DELTA RGB DDR5 16GB
  • Power Supply: CORSAIR RM1000E 80 PLUS GOLD
  • Fans: HYTE THICC DP12 FAN 3-PACK
  • Case: HYTE Y70 (Custom)
  • Operating System: Windows 11

This competition is now closed.

Seven astonishing PCs, we think you’ll agree. Be sure to enter the competitions for a chance to win one in your region.

Visit the competition pages to see more information, including Terms and Conditions.

FINAL FANTASY XVI is available on PC now. Two editions of the game are available:

FINAL FANTASY XVI Standard Edition

This includes:

  • The base game

It's available now:

FINAL FANTASY XVI Complete Edition

This includes:

  • The base game

  • Echoes of the Fallen, DLC chapter - the discovery of an artificial mothercrystal leads Clive to the treacherous Sagespire, a ruin of the mysterious, and long since gone, Fallen civilization. It’s an action-packed ascent to the top that features some truly spectacular boss fights!

  • The Rising Tide, DLC chapter - Clive and his allies are drawn into a new adventure involving the hidden village of Haven, and the lost Eikon of Water: Leviathan! This is a longer adventure that takes you to a brand-new area with blue skies, new quests, new accessories, weapons and - uh-oh - tonberries aplenty!

It's available now:

To stay up to date with news and information about the game, follow us on social media:

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Start with XVI: why FINAL FANTASY XVI is the perfect introduction to the series

New to the FINAL FANTASY series and wondering where to start? Clive's Rosfield's incredible adventure is the perfect place - here’s why.
By Duncan Heaney

Where to begin?

That’s one of the big questions that gamers new to FINAL FANTASY often ask. It’s not surprising - with 16 mainline games in the series, it can be daunting to know which you should play first.

The official answer, of course, is: any of them. Each game is standalone, so players can start anywhere and have a good time. Even so, with FINAL FANTASY XVI winning hearts and minds on PC, they’ll inevitably wonder whether they can jump right into the new hotness.

Here’s the quick answer: yes, you can. In fact, FINAL FANTASY XVI is a truly fantastic entry point for new players. Here’s why:

It’s a complete, standalone adventure

As mentioned, every mainline FINAL FANTASY game is a completely standalone game. This is one of the defining aspects of the series - each entry has its own world, its own story, characters and even gameplay mechanics.

So, if it helps, don’t think of this as the 16th FINAL FANTASY game, but as the 1st ‘FINAL FANTASY XVI’ game.

No prior knowledge of the other games in the series is required to enjoy FINAL FANTASY XVI - in fact, there’s no narrative connection between the other games at all. The game tells a complete tale with a beginning, middle and end, featuring original characters and a fascinating new world.

So just jump in and enjoy the story… because what a story it is!

It tells a very approachable - and mature - story

The FINAL FANTASY series tells all kind of tales, from light-hearted romps to sprawling sci-fi sagas. The story in FINAL FANTASY XVI is an epic in the classical sense - a sweeping tale that runs the gamut from tragedy and injustice to hope and heroism.

It’s set in Valisthea - a land where select humans are able to call on the power of devastatingly powerful creatures called Eikons. Depending on the realm, these individuals - called ‘Dominants’ - are treated as royalty or forced into service as weapons of war.

You take command of Clive Rosfield - firstborn son of the Duke of Rosaria, and older brother to Joshua Rosfield - the Dominant of the Phoenix. When tragedy strikes his family, Clive sets out on a journey of revenge… one that will change the fate of Valisthea forever.

It’s one of the darkest stories in the series yet. It’s also exciting, easy to follow and - fair warning - powerfully affecting in places. Even the stoniest heart is going to feel something.

If you’re just a lore-fiend like me, you can even hold down the touch pad at almost any time to activate the ‘Active Time Lore’ system. This presents you with information about the current scene, from characters, to settlements, to the mechanics of the world itself.

It’s useful if you want a bit more information about anything in the game, or just a reminder as to what’s happened with certain characters or settings over the course of the story.

It all adds up to one of the most mature, most propulsive stories in the series to date… and a perfect entry point for new fans.

The action is intense… but welcoming

While combat is a big part of any RPG, the action in FINAL FANTASY is at another level. You’ll face off against all kinds of enemies, from monstrous beasts to even more monstrous humans, in exhilarating real-time battles that will put your skills to the test.

Playing as Clive, you’ll have access to an ever-expanding arsenal of amazing Eikonic abilities, letting you do everything from flaying enemies with a flaming claw, to shocking them with balls of powerful lightning. Combined with the responsive swordplay and oh-so-satisfying dodge mechanic, every encounter is a fast-paced joy.

What’s makes it a particularly great entry point, however, is how welcoming it is. It invites players of all skill levels and outlooks to enjoy it - if, for example, you’re not comfortable with action games, or just in it for the story, you can equip special Timely Accessories to make things more manageable.

For example, if you want to make dodging a snap, you can use the Ring of Timely Evasion, while the Ring of Timely Healing will keep you fighting fit by automatically using potions when in danger.

It’s a game for everyone.

You can try it for free

If you’re still on the fence as to whether you should start with XVI, then here’s the best advice we can give you: just try it for yourself.

There’s a massive demo available to download right now on both PC and PS5, which contains the entire prologue to the game… and a bit extra. You’ll get to play through the start of the adventure, battle some terrifying foes and experience the traumatic incident that forges a young and inexperienced Clive into a battle-hardened hero.

All your progress carries over to the final game too, so if you like what you play (spoilers: pretty sure you will), you can carry on later when you upgrade to the full experience.

There’s also an extra section unlocked when you complete the demo - the ‘Eikonic Challenge.’ This puts you in an area from later in the game, with many abilities unlocked so you can experience Clive’s expanded combat suite. It’s been specially curated for the demo, so progress doesn’t carry over, but you’ll get a taste of what combat’s like after the prologue eases you in.

To find out more about the demo, check out the Square Enix Blog:

As you hopefully now understand, FINAL FANTASY XVI is a perfect entry point to the FINAL FANTASY series, and potentially a first step into one of the best RPG series ever made. If you’d like more information of the other games and the series as a whole, be sure to check out our article:

FINAL FANTASY XVI is out now on PC via Steam and Epic Games Store. Two editions of the game are available:

FINAL FANTASY XVI Standard Edition

This includes:

  • The base game

It's available now:

FINAL FANTASY XVI Complete Edition

This includes:

  • The base game

  • Echoes of the Fallen, DLC chapter - the discovery of an artificial mothercrystal leads Clive to the treacherous Sagespire, a ruin of the mysterious, and long since gone, Fallen civilization. It’s an action-packed ascent to the top that features some truly spectacular boss fights!

  • The Rising Tide, DLC chapter - Clive and his allies are drawn into a new adventure involving the hidden village of Haven, and the lost Eikon of Water: Leviathan! This is a longer adventure that takes you to a brand-new area with blue skies, new quests, new accessories, weapons and - uh-oh - tonberries aplenty!

It's available now:

The game is also available on PS5:

To stay up to date with news and information about the game, be sure to follow us on social media:

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FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS Producer talks Bahamut, Costumes and what’s to come in Year 2

Shoichi Ichikawa, the Producer of FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS reflects on the first year of the game, the story of Sephiroth, future content and much more.
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS is currently enjoying its first-year anniversary in a big way! There’s a new event, focused on Bahamut and the Cetra, some eye-catching new gear and outfits, free draws and much more for players. You can get the full list of activities here:

We recently had the opportunity to put some questions to the game’s Producer Shoichi Ichikawa about the first year of FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS and its story of Sephiroth, the new story event, the challenges of making gear, and what’s still to come.

We hope you enjoy reading it!

Hello Ichikawa-san! So, how does it feel to reach the first anniversary for FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS?

To be honest, one year went by in a flash! But looking back, there were various events, so I feel that it was a very fulfilling year.

The one-year anniversary began on September 7, but we’ve been preparing and considering for this since more than half a year ago. Now that we’re able to deliver this to all of our players, it feels very real that we’ve reached the one-year mark.

The first year of the game has shed new light on Sephiroth. What was the appeal of focusing on the early years of the character?

That was actually Tetsuya Nomura’s idea.

Early on, we’d been planning a story in which we shine a light on Glenn and the P0 SOLDIERS, but he wanted Sephiroth to appear along with them. Now that I look back on it, by depicting the younger days of the Hero, Sephiroth, he may have aimed to add another level of depth to the FINAL FANTASY VII remake series.

I still remember when I saw the brand-new illustration, and the impact it had on me!

Some of the gear and costumes in the game are extremely beautiful. But what’s the most challenging thing about designing the gear?

Ensuring Cloud and his cohorts can wear them.

When we need to come up with ideas for Christmas or Halloween outfits for example, there are lots of things to consider, such as their personality or characteristics - like, “if Cloud would wear this, it would need to change like this…”.

At the same time, we need to maintain the flavor of the seasonal event, which makes the process quite challenging.

That said, there aren’t very many titles that give us the freedom to play around with Cloud and company to the extent that EVER CRISIS does, so the development team tackles the challenge in very good spirits. It’s a lot of fun!

The new Anniversary content focuses on Bahamut. Why did you make the decision to use the iconic summon?

There are many Summons in FINAL FANTASY VII, but among them, Bahamut has multiple different forms. Plus, it’s a special summon in the realm of FINAL FANTASY VII. From that perspective, we believed Bahamut would be the perfect choice to commemorate the first anniversary.

But the Event Story focuses doesn’t merely focus on Bahamut, but also the people of Cetra. They’ve been rarely talked about, including in the original game, so, I believe this is going to be a really interesting from a story perspective as well.

What can we expect from Year 2 of the game? Can you give us some hints?

First of all, I would like to convey my gratitude to all the players that continued to play FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS. With that, we the development team are already making preparations for 1.5-year and 2-year anniversaries!

It goes without saying that we’ll bring new seasonal events, but we are considering crossovers with several FINAL FANTASY series titles, so I’d love for you all to look forward to future updates!

Many thanks to Ichikawa-san for answering our questions. FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS is available to download for free on iOS, Android, and PC via Steam.

The first-year celebrations are still underway, with new gear for Aerith available now!

To stay up to date with news and information about the game, be sure to follow the team on social media:

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FINAL FANTASY XVI out now on PC

Clive Rosfield’s Eikonic adventure is out now on PC. Here's everything you need to know!
By Duncan Heaney

Let’s start with the big news: FANTASY XVI is out now on PC via Steam and Epic Games Store!

Read on, and we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the PC version, including the DLC episodes, and the demo. First though, we should introduce the game itself:

What is FINAL FANTASY XVI?

FINAL FANTASY XVI is an epic action RPG set in the world of Valisthea - a once glorious land blessed by the light of the mothercrystals, slowly becoming plagued by the Blight. This phenomenon causes lifeless deadlands to spread across the land - and as the land has weakened, so has the relative peace between nations.

The fate of the land is decided by the Eikons - the most powerful and deadly creatures in Valisthea. Each one resides within a single man or woman who are able to call upon them and wield their power. These people are called Dominants; both revered and feared by the nations of the world.

You play as Clive Rosfield - firstborn son to the Duke of Rosaria, and older brother of Joshua Rosfield - the Dominant of the Phoenix. Clive acts as protector to his powerful but sickly sibling, but his life is changed forever following a sudden attack on his home, and the emergence of a new Eikon: Ifrit.

This devastating event sets Clive on a dangerous journey of revenge… one that will change him and Valisthea forever.

As Clive, you’ll follow this gripping story, while taking on hordes of foes in thrillingly fast and responsive real-time combat. Our hero is able to call on the power of the Eikons, as he earns them, giving him access to an enormous selection of offensive and defensive abilities from pounding foes with a giant stony fist, to scalding them in searing flames.

And, of course, when Dominants face off, an Eikonic clash will ensue. You’ll take direct control of Ifrit in these massive battles - they’re exciting, impactful and a true spectacle!

It’s a thrilling rollercoaster of a game - and now PC players can enjoy it too!

Can you start with FINAL FANTASY XVI?

If you’ve never played a FINAL FANTASY game before, you may be thinking: can I start with the sixteenth game?? The short answer that you can, and you should.

The longer, more useful answer is that every mainline FINAL FANTASY game is a standalone adventure with its own unique world, characters, story and gameplay mechanics. If it helps, don’t think of it as the sixteenth FINAL FANTASY game, but as the first FINAL FANTASY XVI.

So, yes you can start with any game, and FINAL FANTASY XVI makes for a great entry point. It has a mature story, superb combat and tons of spectacle. If that appeals, start with XVI!

How do you get the PC version of FINAL FANTASY XVI?

FINAL FANTASY XVI is available now on Steam and Epic Games Store. Two editions of the game are available:

FINAL FANTASY XVI Standard Edition

This includes:

  • The base game

It's available now:

FINAL FANTASY XVI Complete Edition

This includes:

  • The base game

  • Echoes of the Fallen, DLC chapter - the discovery of an artificial mothercrystal leads Clive to the treacherous Sagespire, a ruin of the mysterious, and long since gone, Fallen civilization. It’s an action-packed ascent to the top that features some truly spectacular boss fights!

  • The Rising Tide, DLC chapter - Clive and his allies are drawn into a new adventure involving the hidden village of Haven, and the lost Eikon of Water: Leviathan! This is a longer adventure that takes you to a brand-new area with blue skies, new quests, new accessories, weapons and - uh-oh - tonberries aplenty!

It's available now:

The FINAL FANTASY XVI demo

If you want to try the game first, a free demo is also available now! It lets you play through the prologue, which puts you into the well-appointed shoes of a younger Clive as the specter of war threatens the peaceful kingdom of Rosaria.

You’ll get to take on a daring mission to a goblin-infested village and face off against a spectacular boss - one that FINAL FANTASY fans may well recognize. You’ll also experience the tragic events that forge Clive into the hardened hero he’ll ultimately become.

It’s a lengthy section, full of twists and turns, and with lots of exhilarating action. Even better, you’ll be able to carry your progress over to the full game and continue the story.

The demo also includes a special Trial mode, which you can play once you’ve completed the opening prologue. It gives you a chance to explore more of Clive’s awesome Eikonic abilities. Progress for this section doesn’t carry over to the full game - it’s just a chance to experiment with the combat, take on some super-fun foes and enjoy some frenetic fights!

The FINAL FANTASY XVI demo is available to download now via Steam and Epic Games Store:

We hope you enjoy this amazing adventure. To stay up to date with news and information about the game, be sure to follow us on social media:

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Join the FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS 1st Anniversary Celebrations!

What can you expect from FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS’s 1st year Anniversary? How’s about free gear, free draws, and a whole lot of Bahamut?
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS has been going for a year - and what a year it’s been!

Fans have experienced a new take on the original FINAL FANTASY VII, re-experienced Zack’s adventures from CRISIS CORE -FINAL FANTASY VII- and, excitingly, been given a glimpse into the earliest days of SOLDIER and Sephiroth’s formative experiences. Plus, there have been incredible costumes and awesome weapons a-plenty. As we said, quite a year!

But that’s enough looking back because there’s still so much to come! The Anniversary celebration brings new events, new gear and loads of fun

Check out the preview trailer:

Read on, and we’ll go over what you can expect:

New story event: “The Cetra's Story: Birth of the Destroyer”

In celebration of the 1st Anniversary, you’ll be able to play through a new event, “The Cetra's Story: Birth of the Destroyer”… starring a name very familiar to FINAL FANTASY fans: Bahamut!

Cloud and his friends suddenly find themselves the target of a white Bahamut's wrath—only to be saved by an Ancient. Learn the story of Bahamut and the dragonmasters as told by the Cetra!

New Bahamut-inspired gear

Alongside the new story content is special Anniversary gear for Cloud, Aerith, Tifa and Yuffie! This too is themed around Bahamut - and looks appropriately awesome:

Free gear*

As part of the celebrations, you can get a set of gear of your choice from a selection of those released over the last year. Had your eye on a particular set that you haven’t managed to snag yet? This may be your chance!

  • Available 7:00pm September 6 until 6:59am March 6, 2025 (PDT)
  • Exchange a special ticket that will be distributed as a gift on the day of the event Sep. 6 PDT to obtain Gear.
  • The exchange applies to all Gear that was released up until Apr. 29 PDT 2024.
  • Certain limited Gear, such as Crossovers, are not included in the lineup.
  • Players who already have all sets of Gear included in the lineup can exchange the above mentioned ticket for Mythril Ingot x10 instead.

Free draws and more

There are more perks to playing during the Anniversary celebrations too, including:

  • 5★ Weapon x26 Login Bonus - In celebration of the 1st Anniversary, a campaign is being held in which you can obtain a total of twenty-six 5★ Weapons. From the current selection of 13 playable characters, 2 weapons for each character can be obtained in the Login Bonus. It means that new players, or players who have had trouble advancing in the past, can enjoy FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS even more!

  • Raise 26 5★ Weapons to Lv. 80 - Raise 26 5★ Weapons to Lv. 80 with Enhancement Material & Gil! You can obtain these as rewards in the Panel Missions or the Login Bonus.

  • Up-to 300 Free Draws - A free Draw that guarantees one or more 5★ weapons will be available, in which players can get up to Draw x300 during the anniversary! The character weapons available for this Draw change daily, so make sure to check it out to strengthen your FFVIIEC team.

Battle Tower: Singularity The Maelstrom Tower Chaos of the Corrupted

Get ready for a new challenge. In preparation for changes to the battle experience coming in the 1st Anniversary, the new event, “Battle Tower: Singularity The Maelstrom Tower Chaos of the Corrupted” is also taking place.

This event will feature a wide range of quests, from low difficulty quests that are easy for new players to try, to high difficulty quests that only a handful people on the management team were able to complete… and even then, just barely!

As Clear Rewards for each level, you’ll earn special items that can be exchanged for Ultimate Weapons*, a total of Blue Crystal x10,000, and other luxurious rewards. Good luck!

*The Ultimate Weapons that can be exchanged in this event differ from the Ultimate Weapons that appear in the Draw.

We’ll finish off with a big thank you to all the players of FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS. It’s been a great year, and we’re excited for what’s to come.

If you’re yet to try the game for yourself, it’s available to download now for iOS, Android, and Steam.

To stay up to date with news and information about the game, be sure to follow us on social media:

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5 moments from FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH that live in our heads rent-free

We celebrate some of our favorite moments from this incredible new RPG.
By Duncan Heaney

To describe FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH as ‘memorable’ would be an understatement.

From shocking plot points to poignant character moments, the game overflows with incredible moments that stick with you long after the credits have rolled. It’s no wonder that it’s one of the most critically acclaimed games of the year!

With the game now a few months old, we thought we’d share some of the moments and sequences that we can’t stop thinking about.

A found family in Junon

Cloud, Tifa, and Aerith plan to infiltrate the city of Junon disguised as Shinra security. Their plan hits a small snag when they’re roped into participating in new CEO Rufus’s inauguration parade.

Cloud’s impressive agility comes to the fore, not for the first time in the series. His co-ordination and agility impress the top brass, and he’s immediately promoted to Captain and ordered to amass the Midgar Seventh Infantry ahead of the march.

You’re let loose in upper Junon as you search the shops and streets for your new comrades. It’s an area that is packed full of detail and fun (and funny!) things to discover - bars for the bald, sultry jazz bars, specialist model shops to name a few. It’s a joy to explore as you build your squad.

Then, it’s time for your performance. You choose your formation and routines and then it’s simply a matter of wowing the crowd by hitting button prompts. Do well enough and you’ll even get the coveted Outstanding Performance Award.

Eventually, however, all hell breaks loose thanks to an assassination attempt on Rufus Shinra’s life. Cloud races through the city for an escape, unable to shake the fiercely loyal members of the Seventh, who refuse to even entertain the possibility he may not be on the level.

It all culminates in a heartfelt farewell with the team, who thanks to Cloud’s begrudging leadership feel more like a family than ever. Be honest - who didn’t shed a tear for these nameless, yet lovable, NPCs.

All said, the sequence is a perfect representation of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH as a whole - imaginative, quirky, exciting, and surprisingly emotional.

Victory in the cards

After all the excitement in Junon, a break would be welcome for both the team and the player. And what better way to relax than with a high-energy Queen’s Blood tournament?

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH’s card game is incredibly fun - easy to learn, strategically deep, and accompanied by a sensationally jazzy soundtrack. So, when you discover that the ship between Junon and Costa del Sol is hosting a Queen’s Blood tournament, it’s pretty exciting.

Unless you’re Red XIII of course - our four-legged friend is denied entry and none too happy about it…

What follows is a concentrated burst of card game fun, as you face off against friends, familiar faces, and some new opponents to boot. I must admit, it feels particularly good to take down Chadley - cyborg he may be, but he’s got nothing on Cloud’s card skills.

But the best moment? When Red XIII crashes into the tournament at the last possible moment in a cunning disguise.

Two legs? Nothing to it.

Us? Gongaga!

Like FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE before it, FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH jumps at the opportunity to expand the story of the original game, from adding new details to iconic moments to introducing new scenes altogether.

The party’s visit to Gongaga is a perfect example of this. After resting in Gongaga Village, the team is woken by mysterious sounds from the destroyed mako reactor nearby. Having experienced a similar incident near North Corel, Cloud, Barret, Red XIII and Cait Sith race off to investigate.

Unfortunately, they’re not the only ones. Shinra executive Scarlet is also on the way, and she’s coming armed. It’s a tense standoff in the ruins of the reactor as the boys are confronted with the company’s latest biological horrors - and as if that’s not stressful enough, the concentrated mako in the air seems to be having a… negative effect on Cloud.

It’s up to Tifa, Aerith and Yuffie to race to their rescue. It’s a thrillingly exciting action sequence with some exceptional boss fights - but it’s what happens next that truly makes this segment unforgettable.

If you’ve played the game, you’re already nodding. If not… well, go find out for yourselves!

The trial of Red XIII

Red XIII has some pretty serious daddy issues.

On his return to his hometown of Cosmo Canyon, we learn of his deep shame for his father, who fled when the Gi Tribe attacked the Vale.

Of course, things are rarely so black and white, and his grandfather, Bugenhagen, decides he’s old enough to learn the truth… provided he can overcome a treacherous trial first. This test puts you in control of Red XIII, using his impressive ability to traverse the treacherous caves by way of ground… and the walls.

The freedom of movement makes for a great change of pace - as does teaming Red XIII with Barret for this section. The pair’s spikey banter makes for great entertainment as they bicker their way through the dangers ahead.

All said, it’s a tremendously fun section of the game - and one that ends with a true emotional gut punch.

A lot of love for Loveless

Loveless is a fantasy epic that has echoed through the FINAL FANTASY VII games from the very beginning.

There are posters for the play adaptation everywhere, the CRISIS CORE -FINAL FANTASY VII- REUNION antagonist Genesis regularly quotes it, and there’s even a street named after it in Midgar. But its biggest appearance yet is in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, where you not only get to see the play… but star in it!

In this VR production, Cloud takes the role of Alphried, who is broken out of prison by his love Rosa (played by Aerith, Tifa or Yuffie) to face off against the Dragon King Varvados and his hound Garm.

What follows is a brilliantly choreographed series of battle scenes, where you get some control over the order of scenes and even how they play out. Seeing our heroes in this more traditional fantasy setting is a hoot, especially when coupled with the stilted, awkward line delivery. The game’s talented actors do an amazing job pretending to be bad ones!

But even better is when it gives you the opportunity to go off-script. Why not profess your love to Varvados instead of Rosa?

All said, it’s an amazing time at the theater. But Cloud’s night is just beginning…

Those were just five of our favorite moments from FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - but there could be 50. The game is packed full of unforgettable sequences and scenarios - teaming up with Mr. Dolphin, fun in the sun at Costa del Sol, arriving at the Gold Saucer for the first time, the iconic Nibelheim flashback… the list goes on and on.

You can experience them all for yourselves in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - available now for PS5.

If you’re yet to experience the series, you can also get both FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH and its predecessor FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE together as a twin pack. That previous game is full of incredible moments of its own too:

Finally, to share your own favorite moments, or just stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY VII and other Square Enix games, be sure to follow us on social media:

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5 moments in FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE that live in our heads rent-free

An unforgettable game full of unforgettable moments. Here are 5 that lingered in our memories long after the credits rolled.
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE is an amazing adventure.

Every chapter offers something new to the player, and its rich characters and story create memorable moment after moment. Once experienced, the game is very difficult to get out of your head, so we wanted to take a beat to recognize and reminisce about some of the best sequences in the game.

SPOILER WARNING: Naturally, this article will discuss events that happen in FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE. If you're wary of spoilers, play the game and come back later.

The Bombing Mission

Tell us a game with a better opening than FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE. Don’t worry - we’ll wait.

(Drums fingers on table)

…nope? We can’t think of one either. The opening of the game (and the original FINAL FANTASY VII for that matter) is a masterclass on how to kick off a game.

It throws you into the action immediately as mercenary Cloud Strife joins Avalanche on a mission to bomb one of Shinra’s planet-sapping reactors. Within minutes you’re introduced to the characters, the state of the world, and its key conflicts. It also smoothly tutorializes you, as you take on the reactor’s security forces with the brilliant combat system.

It’s fast-paced, and economically told - not a moment is wasted. Combined with the beautiful visuals and sweeping soundtrack, it perfectly sets the scene for the incredible adventure to come.

Mission to the upper plate

One of the most exciting things about the FINAL FANTASY VII remake project is that it offers an opportunity to expand the original story, see more of the world and get to know its characters even better than before.

This is why Chapter 4 - Mad Dash - is such a joy. Cloud accompanies Avalanche members Jessie, Biggs, and Wedge on a mission to raid a Shinra depot on the upper plate. Before they can get through the gates, however, they need to visit Jessie’s parents’ home and ‘borrow’ her father’s door pass.

The suburban streets of the residential district show a side of Midgar that we’ve never seen before - and seeing Jessie’s comatose father is an effective way to show the personal cost of Shinra’s aggressive industrialization.

We then have the raid itself - and while it starts simply, it soon explodes into utter chaos. Cloud takes on a horde of enemies, while Biggs and Wedge run support in the background - culminating in a spectacular swordfight against the wild wheeled warrior Roche!

It’s an superb sequence that provides thrills and makes your Avalanche teammates even more lovable than before.

Cloud gets his groove on

In order to infiltrate the sleazy Don Corneo’s mansion, Cloud and Aerith decide to audition to be the next ‘Mrs. Corneo’. Of course, Cloud doesn’t exactly look the part.

He needs to transform into a vision of beauty, which means he has to win the approval of Andrea Rhodea - the owner and star performer at the Honeybee Inn. How could he possibly do that?

Dance battle baby!

Earlier in the game, Cloud says: “I don’t dance”… but note that he doesn’t say he can’t. Faced with no way out, Cloud steps into the spotlight to utterly tear up the dance floor. Well, if you hit the prompts at least.

It’s hilarious, joyful, brilliantly choreographed and truly an unforgettable moment.

The Battle for Sector 7

Things take a more serious turn when Shinra implements a plan to drop the Sector 7 plate, crushing the slums and the resistance there alike.

This tense sequence sees Cloud and Tifa race up the connecting pillar to join Barret, Wedge, Biggs, and Jessie in their defense of the sector. It’s an adrenaline-fueled race to the top, as Cloud tears through Shinra special ops forces and mechs alike, dodges helicopter fire and much more.

It's a tough battle, made all the more urgent and impactful thanks to the friendships you've formed with your allies. A sensational cavalcade of action with real emotional heft.

Ride, Ride, Ride!

Here’s a riddle for you. A mercenary, bartender, freedom fighter, local florist and ‘lab rat dog’ are trapped in a heavily fortified skyscraper. How do they get out?

The answer? In the most extra way possible.

Cloud steals the iconic Hardy-Daytona motorcycle, runs literal rings around the Shinra security troops and launches himself right out of the window right onto the elevated freeway - with his allies in a truck not far behind.

Then it’s a high-speed chase down the highway with the company’s best and brightest road warriors in hot pursuit. The sound, the gameplay, the music - everything’s dialed up to maximum intensity.

It’s an awesome sequence - one we still think about even today.

Those were just five of our favorite moments in FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE - but it barely scratches the surface. What about the Airbuster? Taking on the Hell House? The gauntlet of the Drum? The list goes on and on.

You can experience all these - and discover more of your own - in FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, available now for PS5, PS4 and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store.

It’s also available as a twin pack with its critically acclaimed sequel, FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, allowing you to get both adventures together at a reduced price.

Played the game already and have moments that still live in your head? Let us know on social media:

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Q&A: Against the Current’s Chrissy Costanza talks FINAL FANTASY XIV: Dawntrail

Chrissy Costanza’s musical talents make the new Arcadion raid series hit hard. We find out what it’s like to be part of Dawntrail and why music and gaming are so interconnected.
By Duncan Heaney

Are you ready for The Arcadion?

The new raid series for FINAL FANTASY XIV: Dawntrail is now available, allowing parties of up to 8 players take on the challenge of the realm’s greatest arena. You’ll take on some of the toughest fighters, taking on clash after clash to the roar of the crowd.

Of course, a spectacle such as this needs music to match - and it more than delivers thanks to the musical talents of Chrissy Costanza! The singer songwriter is the lead vocalist for Against the Current, and she’s also just released her first solo track, “7 Minutes In Hell”!

If you’ve played through AAC Light-heavyweight M4, you’ll have heard the new track, titled “Give It All” - and you’ll agree it’s pretty epic! But how does Costanza feel about it? We recently sat down with the talented artist to find out:

What excited you the most about being a part of this project? What was your reaction when you found out about it?

As a lifelong gamer, getting to be a part of a series as iconic as FINAL FANTASY is such an incredible honor. For this song in particular, getting to be the voice of one of the “villains” is something completely new to me, so I was really excited to get to showcase such a different kind of character’s voice and story.

How does it feel to have your music featured in FINAL FANTASY XIV and the FINAL FANTASY series as a whole?

It’s a complete dream come true! I’ve been surrounded by the FINAL FANTASY series for most of my life, and FINAL FANTASY XIV completely took the world by storm. Hearing my voice as a feature in it is a completely surreal experience.

What was your reaction when you first heard the final version of the theme song?

Whenever I hear a song in its final form it’s always emotional, but this one in particular was even more so. The voice of this song is extremely passionate and determined, it really evokes a lot of feelings from the listener.

What personal touches or influences did you give to the vocals of the song?

I wanted to make sure I played into the nuance of the emotions of the song and didn’t just sing it straight through. I tried to really put myself into the character’s head and heart and sing as if I were truly feeling everything they would be feeling during the raid battle.

How do you hope your fans will respond to hearing your voice in-game?

I hope they will be really excited! I’ve always had a bit more of a rock voice, and I think it fits this song really well and I hopefully will help empower their experience.

Can you share your thoughts on how music and video games intersect?

I’ve been both a musician and a gamer my entire life and LOVE both worlds so much. I think music is the foundation of so much of the world, whether it’s the soundtrack of movies or just playing in a store while you’re shopping, it can completely change the emotional landscape of your experience.

Gaming itself is an immersive experience - video games can be exhilarating, exciting, scary, sad, awe-inspiring, and more. Pairing the right music with the right game just completely enhances the players’ experience, and also brings the game out into the real world. It’s more than just a song, it’s more than just a game.

How do you feel about the growing trend of musicians collaborating with video game developers?

I really love it! My favorite collaborations though, will always be when musicians collaborate with games, franchises, or types of games that they truly love and are passionate about. I think that authentic passion always comes through and makes it such an epic experience for fans of both the musician and the game.

What aspects of the game (or game music) do you think align well with you and your music style?

I’ve always leaned more into the rock world, so I think doing anthemic theme songs and battle music is where I shine best. Though I would love to try some different genres and themes as well! But definitely anthems are where I am most passionate.

How do you balance your passion for music with your interest in gaming?

Luckily in today’s world they intersect so much! I listen to the soundtracks of my favorite games as often as I listen to any other of my favorite albums. They’ve both been part of my life since I was just three years old, so the balance has always naturally been there.

What message would you like to send to your fans who are also gamers?

I would love to say THANK YOU for all of the time you’ve given to me, it’s such an honor to make music for you. Getting to bond together over our favorite games is the best, I am so grateful for fans that feel much more like friends since we share so many of the same passions.

I love the time we get to game together, and I hope to continue to make you proud!

Many thanks to Chrissy for her insight - and her incredible vocal talents. You can hear her in action during FINAL FANTASY XIV: Dawntrail’s new raid series, the Arcadion!

The expansion is available now:

If you’re yet to experience FINAL FANTASY XIV Online for yourselves, then you should check out the substantial Free Trial, available on Windows, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Mac and Steam. It lets you play through the base game, A Realm Reborn, as well as two full expansions: Heavensward and Stormblood - and with no restrictions on play time!

That’s the equivalent of three full FINAL FANTASY games that can be played with friends, or experienced solo if you prefer!

Finally, to stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY XIV, be sure to follow us on social media:

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Which FINAL FANTASY spinoff should I play?

FINAL FANTASY has seen many incredible adventures beyond the numbered entries, from RPGs to fighting games and more. But which should you play?
By Ryan Walsh

The numbered FINAL FANTASY games are unique experiences each to themselves, with playable characters ranging from one to fourteen, varieties of gameplay styles, and a myriad of mini-games. So, it should come to no surprise that the spinoff series’ entries don’t disappoint either.

They cover a wide range of genres, tones, styles, and gameplay and offer unique experiences you can’t get elsewhere. Of course, if you’ve never played on, it may be daunting to know where to start - there are so many after all - so we’ve got a way to help you make the decision.

What follows is a breakdown of some of the best available options, and what makes them stand out from their mainline siblings.

STRANGER OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN

  • Available on: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Epic Games Store, Steam

There’s nothing wrong with starting at the beginning, and this action game inspired by the very first FINAL FANTASY will most certainly keep you engaged.

You play as Jack, along with his four comrades, as they sweep through the land to restore balance and order, and ultimately defeat Chaos… if it even exists.

The game has incredibly satisfying action gameplay. You fight in real time in this action RPG earning points to level up your jobs, gradually giving yourself access to more abilities to mix and match capabilities for each fight.

STRANGER OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN might just be your next favorite game…

  • If you want challenging, hard-hitting gameplay
  • If you like tailoring characters to suit various situations
  • If you love FINAL FANTASY – the game is very connected to the original game, and features familiar motifs from across the series

Get STRANGER OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN

FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES Remastered Edition

  • Available on: PS4, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android

CRYSTAL CHRONICLES is a light and charming RPG where you work together with friends to save the world.

You create your own character who gets appointed to the town role of myrrh hunter. Myrrh is a substance from a rare tree that keeps crystals imbued with power and the dangerous miasma that infects the land at bay. You quest into caves and dungeons once a year for the resources to keep yours and neighboring towns’ crystals in peak condition.

This is a multiplayer FINAL FANTASY game, which on its own makes it a unique addition to the series. There are some endgame dungeons that crank the difficulty up a lot, so if you’re hungry for a challenge, you’re covered.

You can try the game for yourself with FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES Remastered Edition Lite, and even play the entire game with a friend, so long as one of you has purchased the full adventure!

Go ahead and load up FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES Remastered Edition…

  • If you’re looking for a charming, easy to play game you can enjoy with friends online
  • If you enjoy non-linear exploration and character advancement
  • If you can’t get enough of crafting

Get FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES Remastered Edition

CRISIS CORE ーFINAL FANTASY VIIー REUNION

  • Available on: PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Steam

A prequel to the original FINAL FANTASY VII, CRISIS CORE follows the story of Zack Fair and his growth from rookie to SOLDIER 1st Class. It features encounters with the likes of Cloud and Sephiroth as well as brand new characters.

CRISIS CORE is an action-RPG with a few twists, the most obvious being a slot reel that constantly plays during combat. Depending on the results of the spin, Zack can acquire a buff, throw out an extra attack, summon a monster, or activate a limit break. It could also result in nothing, so there’s no letting the reels fight for you during the action.

Get yourself ready for CRISIS CORE ーFINAL FANTASY VIIー REUNION…

  • If you played FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE or FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH and thought, “I want more of this world!”
  • If you played the original CRISIS CORE and want to experience the game with dramatically improved graphics and gameplay
  • If you want a pickup and play RPG that’s packed with memorable characters

Get CRISIS CORE ーFINAL FANTASY VIIー REUNION

Chocobo’s Mystery Dungeon EVERY BUDDY!

  • Available on: PS4, Nintendo Switch

For most of the FINAL FANTASY series, chocobos are stalwart companions, mighty steeds, collectors of loot, and more besides. With Chocobo’s Mystery Dungeon EVERY BUDDY! the series’ famous feathered friends take center stage.

Chocobo and his friend Cid come upon a mysterious town where everyone loses their memory when the town bell rings. The brave bird and his allies venture into the victims’ mindscapes to puzzle out what’s going on and how they can restore the people’s missing memories.

It may sound intense, but it’s a very relaxed experience. Time only passes when you move, so you can explore the many mystery dungeons at your own pace - and with lots of classic FINAL FANTASY jobs available there are tons of options for taking on the monsters within.

It’s a gameplay style that everyone can pick up quickly, but without feeling basic - which also makes it a great co-op game!

Chocobo’s Mystery Dungeon EVERY BUDDY! will prove a lot of fun…

  • If you want a game that’s simple to play, but with surprising challenge and depth.
  • If you played the original FINAL FANTASY FABLES: Chocobo's Dungeon on the Wii and want to see an improved version of this classic game
  • If you like dressing up super-cute animals

Get Chocobo’s Mystery Dungeon EVERY BUDDY!

Chocobo GP

  • Available on: Nintendo Switch

Since we can’t get enough of Chocobo, let’s get the burly bird on roller skates and onto the track! That’s the premise behind Chocobo GP . It’s not just Chocobo, of course - there are new characters and even a story, all built around the core of a tremendously fun racing game.

The game features playable characters and locations from throughout the main FINAL FANTASY series. You can race Terra from FINAL FANTASY VI against Vivi from FINAL FANTASY IX, race with a buddy locally, or hop online and race as many as 63 other players.

Chocobo GP is as much a celebration of FINAL FANTASY as it is a spinoff, and definitely worth your time. Go ahead and load it up…

  • If you can’t get enough challenging racing games
  • If you crave characters with quirky and perky personalities
  • If you love adorable Chibi-style art

Get Chocobo GP

THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE

  • Available on: PS4, Steam

The FINAL FANTASY series is known to have some of the best music in video games. THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE gives players a chance to embrace the music… and use it to smite their foes.

With more than a hundred playable characters and 385 songs in the standard edition alone, to call THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE’s library extensive would be an understatement. The game lifts tracks from 29 entries in the FINAL FANTASY series, so no matter what your favorite tune might be, you’ll probably play it here.

Add the additional music packs, which feature tracks from other Square Enix series, including the SaGa, Mana, NieR, The World Ends with You franchise and more, and you have a near endless extravaganza of music.

Like other rhythm action games, the objective is to press buttons and move the analog stick in time with the on-screen prompts. Now take that sentence but add “addictive” to every third word or so, and you’ve got a good idea of the game’s structure.

THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE should be the next game you play…

  • If you like rhythm-based gameplay
  • If you want a joyous celebration of the FINAL FANTASY series - and Square Enix games as a whole
  • If you would rather wrestle a behemoth than pick a “favorite” FINAL FANTASY

Get THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE

DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY NT

  • Available on: PS4, Steam

Take the iconic heroes and villains of the FINAL FANTASY series and pit them against each other in explosive battles in this flashy fighting game. Between the counters, dodges, attacks (physical and magical), you’ve got two other characters to engage with as the battles are all three-on-three.

The goddess Materia and the god Spiritus clash against each other and have brought in characters from the FINAL FANTASY series to resolve the fighting. Everyone from FINAL FANTASY VII’s Cloud Strife to FINAL FANTASY XV’s Noctis Lucis Caelum come together in epic battles for dominance.

DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY NT is a good time …

  • If you’re looking for a fighting game with mechanics you can really sink your teeth into
  • If you’re hungry for a competitive multiplayer FINAL FANTASY experience
  • If you want to build a team out of the most iconic FINAL FANTASY heroes and villains

Get DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY NT

WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY MAXIMA

  • Available on: PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Steam

This utterly charming RPG captures the spirit of classic FINAL FANTASY with fast turn-based battles, familiar monsters and some of the greatest characters from the series.

You play as Reynn and Lann - two siblings who are sent into the vast world of Grymoire in order to rediscover their lost past. This mysterious land is home to many familiar monsters from the FINAL FANTASY series, many of which can be captured and used to support you in battle.

You’ll also be able to call on the support of some of FINAL FANTASY’s greatest heroes, from the original Warrior of Light, to Cloud Strife, Lightning and many more!

It features a satisfying and strategic turn-based battle system that lets you stack your monsters and heroes to gain an advantage over your foes. Add a compelling story, marvelous music and lashings of FINAL FANTASY fan service, and it makes for an incredible celebration of the series!

Enter the WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY MAXIMA…

  • If you enjoy classic turn-based RPGs with great combat
  • If you enjoy capturing and evolving monsters
  • If you like adventures with a light-hearted and whimsical vibe

Get WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY MAXIMA

FINAL FANTASY TYPE-0 HD

  • Available on: PS4, Xbox One, Steam

In FINAL FANTASY TYPE-0 HD, you take command of Class Zero – a group of 14 students from a magical academy. When the Militesi Empire instigates a war, these young heroes rise up to defend their country.

The game tells a much darker tale than most FINAL FANTASY games, with a grittier feel and more serious presentation than much of the rest of series. It balances that with the series’ more fantastical elements to create a tone that remains unique within the series.

It’s also memorable for its thrilling combat. You control up to three members of Class Zero at a time, each with their own weapon and special attacks. The real-time action balances strategy and timing to create very satisfying and endlessly compelling battles.

The mission-based structure means that you’re never doing the same thing for too long, making for a great pick-up-and-play experience too.

So, join Class Zero in FINAL FANTASY TYPE-0…

  • If you like a large cast with distinct abilities and personalities
  • If you enjoy games with a mission-based structure you can dip in and out of
  • If you want to experience a grittier tale than most FINAL FANTASY games

Get FINAL FANTASY TYPE-0

FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS

  • Available on: Steam, iOS, Android,

FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS doesn’t just remake FINAL FANTASY VII for mobile platforms, it zooms out to provide a comprehensive look at the world through multiple points of view. Cloud is a major character, obviously, but you can also play chapters as Zack, or even a young Sephiroth if you’re curious what his upbringing was like.

The turn-based gameplay definitely aims for a nostalgic tempo, while the stunning graphics attest that we do indeed live in the future. It’s an awesome FINAL FANTASY VII experience, and with regular updates, one that fans must play.

Add FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS to your to-play stack…

  • If you’re eager for classic turn-based combat on the go
  • If you want a comprehensive FINAL FANTASY VII experience
  • If you’re a phone game fan

Get FINAL FANTASY VII EVER CRISIS

WAR OF THE VISIONS FINAL FANTASY BRAVE EXVIUS

  • Available on: iOS, Android, PC

On the continent of Ardra, any number of different nations have broken into open warfare. As Mont Leonis, the prince of the Kingdom of Leonis, You can experience the story of the history of the battle.

WAR OF THE VISIONS FINAL FANTASY BRAVE EXVIUS takes a deep roster of characters, throws in guests from a variety of games, and marries them to the gameplay style of FINAL FANTASY TACTICS. The result is, well, glorious.

Install WAR OF THE VISIONS FINAL FANTASY BRAVE EXVIUS on your phone right now…

  • If you need to play a deep and strategic tactical RPG
  • If you want to engage other players in PVP battles and play cooperatively in a guild
  • If you like mobile games with a rich narrative

Get WAR OF THE VISIONS FINAL FANTASY BRAVE EXVIUS

That will do it for the key FINAL FANTASY spinoffs playable today. Did we mention your favorite? Let us know on social media!

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Which FINAL FANTASY game should I play first?

What’s the best starting point for new players? We help you make the big decision
By Duncan Heaney

“Which FINAL FANTASY game should I start with?”

It’s one of the most common questions we see from people yet to dive into the series, and a hotly debated topic online - ask five fans and you’re likely to get five different answers.

The actual ‘correct’ answer, of course, is… any of them. After all, almost every game in the series acts as a standalone adventure with its own distinct world, characters and even gameplay mechanics. There really isn’t a wrong or right place to start.

But we also realize that’s not particularly helpful for new players, who have a lot of options available - particularly with re-releases and new FINAL FANTASY pixel remaster series.

So to lend a hand, we’ll run through the mainline FINAL FANTASY games that are available and give you a sense of what to expect from each adventure.

Then, you can simply choose the game that most appeals most to you - we’re confident that whichever you pick, you’ll have a good time.

FINAL FANTASY pixel remaster

This is the game that started it all - and it’s better than ever in the pixel remaster edition.

FINAL FANTASY follows the Warriors of Light, who set off on a quest to defeat four fiends and restore their tainted crystals back to their former glory.

It may be the first, but it immediately established many of the elements that would come to define the series - vast, sprawling worlds, deep strategic combat (turn-based in this case), creative character and enemy designs and sublime music.

The pixel remaster edition updates the game with amazing new 2D art, quality of life features, such as auto-battle, and a rearranged soundtrack that’s just… *chef’s kiss.

Play this first if…

  • You want to see where the FINAL FANTASY series began
  • You want to play a traditional Japanese RPG with turn-based battles
  • You also want to play STRANGER OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN - it directly connects to this game

FINAL FANTASY II pixel remaster

The second FINAL FANTASY game focuses on four war-orphaned heroes: Firion, Maria, Guy and Leon. The group becomes embroiled in a conflict between the hostile Empire of Palamecia and the rebel resistance, with the fate of the whole world hanging in the balance.

Combat is once again turn-based, but even in this early stage, FINAL FANTASY was a series that innovated. Rather than sticking with traditional leveling, FINAL FANTASY II introduced a new proficiency system, in which characters’ skill with weapons and abilities increased the more they used them.

The pixel remaster offers the definitive way to play this classic RPG. As with the other pixel remaster games, it features new 2D art that’s beautiful in HD, a rearranged soundtrack and more!

Play this first if…

  • You’ve played RPGs before and are looking for something unconventional
  • You’re excited to see one of the more experimental games in the series
  • You want to see the origin of Chocobos! The iconic birds make their first appearance in this game.

FINAL FANTASY III pixel remaster

When darkness falls and the land is robbed of light, four young heroes are chosen by the crystals to head off an exciting journey across a vast and hostile land.

This critically acclaimed entry in the series introduced a flexible job system, which lets characters change their roles in combat at any time. It was also the first to introduce powerful summons, including series mainstays Bahamut and Shiva.

The pixel remaster edition is out now, and brings with it a number of improvements to the original game, including new visuals, new music and more.

Play this first if…

  • You want to play an RPG that has a lot of strategic depth
  • You like having a lot of control over your characters and party composition
  • You relish a challenge - FINAL FANTASY III is one of the tougher games in the series

FINAL FANTASY IV pixel remaster

FINAL FANTASY IV innovated once again, with the deepest narrative and most beloved characters in the series so far.

After questioning some troubling orders from his King, the dark knight Cecil is demoted and sent on a simple delivery job with his friend Kain. The shocking events that follow send Cecil and a group of heroes on a dramatic journey of betrayal, love and redemption.

As well as delivering one of the most powerful stories in the series, FINAL FANTASY IV was the first game to feature the Active Time Battle system, which combined turn-based and real-time elements together to create a faster, but equally strategic, battle system.

It was already a true classic, but the pixel remaster makes it even better, thanks to its new visuals, music and gameplay features.

Play this first if…

  • You love games with a strong story
  • You want to meet some of the best characters in the series
  • You enjoy fast, dynamic battles

FINAL FANTASY V pixel remaster

The world of FINAL FANTASY V is reliant on elemental crystals with the power of earth, water, fire and wind. These crystals bring life to and prosperity, but they have lost their power and are on the verge of destruction.

Four characters are driven together by fate: Bartz, Princess Lenna of Castle Tycoon, the pirate captain Faris and the deeply mysterious Galuf. Together, they embark on a journey to save the planet.

As with its predecessor, FINAL FANTASY V features the ATB battle system, but expands the possibilities dramatically with an incredibly deep and flexible new class system that lets you customize your characters with 26 unique jobs.

Play this first if…

  • You enjoy battle systems with a lot of depth
  • You want as many options as possible in how you build your party
  • You like to laugh - FINAL FANTASY V is one of the funniest games in the series

FINAL FANTASY VI pixel remaster

  • Available on: PC, iOS, Android (coming soon)

FINAL FANTASY VI is one of the most popular entries in the FINAL FANTASY series - acclaimed by fans and critics alike.

This game introduced several interesting ideas, including a story with strong characters, but no central protagonist - each member of the party gets their own moment center stage and you can choose who to control for much of the game.

It’s set in a world where magic has vanished, and humankind has embraced the power of iron, gunpowder, steam engines and other technologies. But one still does have the power of magic - a young woman named Terra, who is enslaved by the evil Empire.

An encounter with an Esper - an ancient being of incredible power - frees Terra from the Empire’s clutches and sets off a chain of events that touches countless lives, and leads to epic and terrible consequences.

And, of course we should mention that FINAL FANTASY VI features Kefka - regarded by many as one of the greatest villains of all time…

Play this first if…

  • You want to start with one of the most critically acclaimed games in the series
  • You like games with memorable villains
  • You like surprises - this game goes places you may not expect…

FINAL FANTASY VII

FINAL FANTASY VII changed the face of gaming forever.

It’s inspired a legion of fans thanks to its epic story, legendary characters and unsurpassed presentation. It’s gone on to inspire spin-offs, movies and even a full-blown remake.

The story starts in Midgar, a city controlled by Shinra Inc - a less than ethical multi-conglomerate that is absorbing Mako energy and destroying the natural resources of the planet.

Cloud, a former member of Shinra’s elite SOLDIER unit, joins AVALANCHE in a daring mission to bomb one of the city’s reactors, but in the chaos that follows, he makes a discovery that will change his life, and the world, forever.

The game also made waves with its cinematic presentation and innovative Materia system that essentially lets you slot abilities and magic into armor - this allows for an incredible level of flexibility in how you set up the party.

The version available now on current platforms features a number of useful features, including the ability to speed up time, turn off random encounters or even boost your characters to full health.

Play this first if…

  • You want an adventure with unforgettable characters
  • You want an easy-to-understand combat system that has a lot of depth
  • You want to understand what all the hype is about

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE

The most recent game in the series reimagines FINAL FANTASY VII and the iconic city of Midgar for modern platforms.

The story follows the same storyline as the original game up to the party’s escape from the city but the game uses the increased fidelity and scale to deepen the already-beloved characters, add new scenarios and even additional story elements.

The battle system is especially noteworthy, fusing real-time action with menu-based commands to create something that’s exciting, fast-paced and agreeably strategic.

Add in amazing minigames (Motorcycle battles! Dance offs! Competitive squatting!), loads of side quests, battles and challenges to complete, stunning graphics and a truly incredible soundtrack and you have one of the greatest games in the series to date.

Let’s just say there’s a reason it won ‘Best RPG’ in the 2020 Game Awards.

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE is available both standalone and in a Twin Pack, which also includes next entry in the trilogy, FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH! It’s more cost-effective than buying each game separately so if you want both of these amazing games, it’s the way to go:

Play this first if…

  • You want an exciting story that’s full of very memorable moments and characters
  • You want an amazing combat system that fuses real-time action and command-based strategy
  • You want to see jaw-dropping visuals - this game is beautiful

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH

  • Available on: PS5

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH expands on REMAKE with a bigger world to explore, masses of side content and even more options in combat. Although it’s the second game in the FINAL FANTASY VII remake trilogy, it’s designed to be welcoming to new players.

The story sees Cloud Strife and his allies travel across the world in pursuit of the sinister Sephiroth. You’ll see how this iconic antagonist fell to darkness, help the heroes face their tragic pasts and enjoy an epic journey that’s exciting, funny and dramatic in equal measure.

The excellent battle system that debuted in FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE has been expanded - now characters can combine their skills to deal devastating (and visually spectacular) Synergy attacks, for example - and there’s so much to see and do that it’ll make your head spin. Amazing side content, fun minigames and more await.

And we have to give special mention to Queen’s Blood - a fully featured card game that lives within the game. It’s fun, it’s tactical and it even has its own story, should you wish to engage with it!

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is, in short, an amazing game - and a fabulous first FINAL FANTASY game.

Play this first if…

  • You want to play one of the most critically-acclaimed games in the series history - check out the amazing reviews!
  • You want to experience the incredible story that changed gaming forever in a fresh, modern style
  • You want variety - this game is stuffed full of things to do: combat, side content, card games, chocobo racing, animal soccer, shooting galleries… and so much more!

FINAL FANTASY VIII Remastered

In FINAL FANTASY VIII, the militarized nation of Galbadia has formed an alliance with the Sorceress Edea and is making a bid for world conquest.

Amid the conflict, Squall Leonhart and a group of fellow students from Balamb Garden’s mercenary force, SeeD, are dispatched into action. But Squall’s universe it turned upside down when he meets the free-spirited Rinoa Heartilly and starts to dream that he is a Galbadian soldier named Laguna Loire…

FINAL FANTASY VIII upped the ante with presentation once again, with more detailed characters models, jaw-dropping cinematics and one of the most adored soundtracks in the series.

It also innovated in terms of gameplay, with more real-time elements like timed button presses to enhance damage in combat, and the strategically deep ‘Junction’ system, which lets you enhance your party’s stats with magic. Also, it featured the card game Triple Triad - one of the best mini-games in the series to date!

FINAL FANTASY VIII Remastered is out now for Switch, PS4, Xbox One and Steam. It's an updated version of the game with enhanced visuals, and useful boosters, such as the ability to speed up time.

Play this first if…

  • You have a soft spot for romance
  • You want to see some of the most impressive cinematics in the series
  • You like card games - Triple Triad is great!

FINAL FANTASY IX

FINAL FANTASY IX is an epic story of love, war and betrayal. The game begins with an elaborate plan by the roguish Zidane and the Tantalus Theater Troupe to kidnap Princess Garnet, the heir of Alexandria.

But to their surprise, the princess wants to be kidnapped, and make her escape from the castle. Before long Garnet, her personal guard Steiner, have joined Zidane and a colorful cast of misfits, including Vivi, Freya and Quina, on an unforgettable journey across a dangerous land.

This game marks a return to the series traditional fantasy roots, after the sci-fi inspired worlds of the prior two games. More than that, it operates as a love letter to the FINAL FANTASY series as a whole. The game contains lots of references that serve to reward series veterans, while introducing many elements of the franchise to newcomers.

Play this first if:

  • You want a charming, light-hearted story and characters
  • You want a gentle introduction to all the iconic elements of the series
  • You prefer fantasy settings over science fiction

FINAL FANTASY X HD Remaster

FINAL FANTASY X tells the story of Tidus - a talented blitzball player, who journeys with a young summoner named Yuna on a quest to save the world of Spira from an endless cycle of destruction wrought by the colossal menace Sin.

The game features exciting turn-based battles and introduced the sphere grid system of character progression.

Rather than characters levelling up automatically as in prior games, in FINAL FANTASY X, you manually build their stats and abilities by inserting orbs into a massive grid. It’s very simple system to use, but it gives you greater control over how your party develops than many of the older games.

FINAL FANTASY X|X-2 HD Remaster is available now, and updates the game with high-definition visuals, and a remastered soundtrack. The collection also includes the sequel FINAL FANTASY X-2 - a memorable game in its own right - as well bonus material and extras.

Play this first if:

  • You want to play one of the most popular and successful games in the series
  • You want a battle system that’s fast-paced, turn-based and tactical
  • You also want to play its sequel FINAL FANTASY X|X-2 - it’s included in FINAL FANTASY X|X-2 HD Remaster

FINAL FANTASY XI

  • Available on: PC

FINAL FANTASY XI was even more of a departure for the series - rather than an epic single player adventure, the game was a massively multiplayer online RPG (MMORPG). Still pretty epic though.

It’s set in the vast world of Vana'diel, and allows players team up to battle, explore, chat and trade their way through a huge number of quests, full of drama and intrigue.

With the game set to celebrate its 20th anniversary soon, it's clear that this game has staying power!

Play this first if:

  • If you want to play a traditional old-school MMORPG
  • You like having a vast world to explore and lots of things to do
  • You have friends who play the game, and can join you on quests

FINAL FANTASY XII THE ZODIAC AGE

Available on: Switch / PS4 / Xbox One / PC

The world of Ivalice is at war. The small kingdom of Dalmasca has been conquered by the Archadian Empire, leaving Princess Ashe the one and only heir to the throne. Meanwhile, Vaan, a street urchin and orphan, dreams of flying freely in the skies.

The two will join forces with friends, pirates and warriors to form a resistance, find a way to restore Dalmasca to its former glory, and maybe even save the world.

FINAL FANTASY XII’s biggest innovations were in the critically-acclaimed Gambit system, which allows players to set the behaviors of your party to an incredibly precise degree, enabling them to act automatically in battle.

The ZODIAC AGE edition of the game - available on most platforms - expanded the options further, with even more gambits and the ability to give characters a second job in combat. It also features improved HD visuals, a remastered soundtrack and the ability to speed up time.

Play this first if:

  • You want your fantasy to be full of large scale and full of political intrigue. Also pirates.
  • You’d like to be able to control and experiment with your party’s AI
  • You want a seamless world with no separation between exploration and combat

FINAL FANTASY XIII

  • Available on: PC / Xbox One (via backwards compatibility)

A deepening crisis threatens to plunge the floating world of Cocoon into chaos. A powerful and dangerous being called a Fal'Cie has been discovered, and in the aftermath a group of unsuspecting strangers are branded enemies of the state.

With the terrified population baying for their blood, and the military eager to fulfil that request, the group has no choice but to run - but will they be able to escape the destiny that has been thrust upon them?

One of the best things about FINAL FANTASY XIII is the paradigm system - fast paced, strategic battles in which characters must change roles on the fly to suit the constantly changing conditions. It also introduced popular characters like Lightning and spawned two direct sequels.

FINAL FANTASY XIII (and its sequels) can be played on PC and Xbox One via backward compatibility.

Play this first if…

  • You’d prefer a more guided RPG than others in the series
  • You like your games with an ensemble cast of characters
  • You like a combat system that’s strategic and makes you adapt on the fly

FINAL FANTASY XIV Online

Available on: PC / Mac / PS5 / PS4 / Xbox Series X|S

FINAL FANTASY XIV Online is a massively multiplayer game set in Eorzea - a realm embraced by gods and forged by heroes.

It has everything you could want from a FINAL FANTASY game - an intricate, engaging storyline, fantastic graphics, and a deep job system that lets you change roles as much as you want. It also includes one of the most welcoming MMO communities out there for newcomers. The game eases players in gently to the adventure, and features a mentor system that helps new players find answers and get up to speed quickly through interacting with veterans.

Even better, it’s getting bigger all the time. The most recent expansion, FINAL FANTASY XIV: Dawntrail is out now, and it adds loads more content, including two new jobs, new areas, new storylines, and more.

It’s a game with hundreds of hours-worth of quests and content to sink your teeth into - not to mention some of the most compelling stories in the whole FINAL FANTASY series.

Play this first if…

  • You want a FINAL FANTASY game that you can enjoy with others
  • You want a massive world with literally hundreds of hours of content available
  • You want to be part of one of the most supportive communities in gaming - plenty of players would be delighted to help you get started

FINAL FANTASY XV

After years of fighting, the nations of Lucis and Niflheim agree to an armistice.

As a symbol of the peace, Noctis, crown prince of Lucis, plans to wed Lady Lunafreya of Tenebrae. Joined by his friends and bodyguards - Gladiolus, Ignis and Prompto - the young prince sets off on a road trip towards his bride to be. But the group is unaware of the many dangers that lie ahead.

FINAL FANTASY XV opens with a statement of intent - “A FINAL FANTASY for Fans and First-Timers”.

It offers up a large world, filled with quests to complete, vicious monsters to hunt and secrets to discover and - for the first time for a numbered FINAL FANTASY game - a spectacular action-oriented battle system.

It’s an unconventional FINAL FANTASY game in that respect, but the core of the series shines through - wonderful characters, a compelling story, exciting battles and incredible presentation.

Play this first if…

  • You want a battle system that’s action-oriented rather than command-based
  • You want a large world full of side quests and monsters to hunt
  • You’re a foodie - the meals in this game are something else!

FINAL FANTASY XVI

  • Available on: PS5

The most recent numbered FINAL FANTASY game is set in Valisthea - a land where a select few are able to channel and even become massively powerful and destructive entities called Eikons. These individuals are known as Dominants, and are both revered and feared.

You play as Clive Rosfield - firstborn son to the Archduke of Rosaria, and protector of his younger brother Joshua, who also happens to be the Dominant of the Phoenix. But when tragedy strikes his family, Clive is set on a path of revenge - one that will have profound implications on the world.

FINAL FANTASY XVI is a fast-paced and exciting entry in the series, focusing on action-based combat. Clive is able to call on the power of the Eikons to unleash all kinds of amazing abilities, from immolating enemies with flaming strikes to pounding them into a pulp with fists of stone. He can also issue commands to his faithful hound Torgal, instructing him to attack enemies, heal wounds and more. Torgal’s a very good boy.

Add dodges, counters, parries and more into the mix and you have a wonderfully dynamic and satisfying action combat system that’s a joy from start to finish.

And then there are the Eikon vs Eikon battles. These massive scale brawls between towering creatures are some of the most imaginative and visually spectacular in the series yet. Best of all, you don’t just get to watch these - you get to play them.

In short, it’s an epic in every respect.

Play this first if:

  • You want a mature tale that doesn’t hold back
  • You enjoy action games with combat that’s fast-paced, flashy and ferocious fun.
  • You want to witness some of the most jaw-dropping moments of spectacle in the series… and take control of it!

What about the spin-offs?

FINAL FANTASY has been around for a long time, and has spawned direct sequels, like FINAL FANTASY X-2 and FINAL FANTASY XIII-2, as well as spin-off games like FINAL FANTASY TACTICS or WORLD OF FINAL FANTASY.

But to be frank, this article is more than long enough already. Maybe we’ll cover them in a future post, but much like the main numbered titles, each is designed to be played standalone, so you can’t really go wrong.

As we said at the start, there’s no right answer to where you should start with the FINAL FANTASY series. As each game is its own unique entity, you really can begin wherever you want. Hopefully the descriptions here will help you make that decision.

Even so, we’re sure that any fans reading have strong views, so why not let us know on social media?

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The Games That Made Us: OCTOPATH TRAVELER II team

Director Keisuke Miyauchi, Composer Yasunori Nishiki, Character Designer Naoki Ikushima and Scenario Writer Kakunoshin Futsuzawa reveal the games that shaped them.
By Duncan Heaney

OCTOPATH TRAVELER II is an incredible RPG. It’s clearly the work of a passionate and talented team, who worked hard to create something special.

But what made them?

We spoke to key members of the team to discover the games that shaped them and their careers. Kind enough to answer our questions were:

  • Keisuke Miyauchi-san (Director/ACQUIRE Corp.)
  • Yasunori Nishiki (Composer)
  • Naoki Ikushima (Character Designer/SQUARE ENIX)
  • Kakunoshin Futsuzawa (Scenario Writer/SQUARE ENIX)

So read on as the OCTOPATH TRAVELER II team reveal The Games That Made Us:

Hello everyone and thanks for your time! First, we’ll ask you to cast your minds back to a long time ago: what was the first game you ever played?

Keisuke Miyauchi-san (Director): It would have been… Pinball on the NES, I think!

Yasunori Nishiki (Composer): I have an older brother, so I can remember watching him play from over his shoulder - I have vague memories of watching him play FINAL FANTASY IV.

Hmm… but I’m sorry, but I don’t really remember what my first game was (laughs)!

There was a little traditional sweet shop near my house, which had a STREET FIGHTER II arcade cabinet. I remember this distinctive voice coming from it: “Hadouken!”

That caught my interest, and I gave it a go.

I can still remember how excited I was when I heard that you’d be able to play the game to your heart’s content in your own home on the SNES!

The release date was actually just before my birthday. My parents bought the game ahead of time and told me: “No playing until your birthday!” But I took it out of the box when my parents weren’t looking and played it in secret. I have really clear memories of that (laughs).

Naoki Ikushima (Character Designer): For me, it would have been Super Mario Brothers.

I was drawn into the world of the game. I loved picture books and being able to play an interactive game inside a world that looked like a picture book itself was a new experience for me.

Although I would die right away because I was useless at it (laughs).

Kakunoshin Futsuzawa (Scenario Writer): The first game I remember playing would probably be STREET FIGHTER II.

I remember thinking something like,“Blanka is so cool!”

What was the first Square Enix game you ever played?

Miyauchi-san: For me, it was DRAGON QUEST IV.

I remember that I liked how the stories of different characters with a wide range of backgrounds came together in the end, and I was really drawn to the art style on the box and the strategy guide.

Ikushima-san: DRAGON QUEST III. Naturally, I liked the sense of fantasy, and I also loved the monster design!

I was a child, so I didn’t pay proper attention to what the king says, so I didn’t realise for a while that other characters could join your party! I ended up going on the quest all by myself.

I still remember the shock when a friend at school told me (laughs)!

Futsuzawa-san: I think it was FINAL FANTASY V. I was drawn into that epic fantasy world right from the opening of the game!

Nishiki-san: Mine was either THE FINAL FANTASY LEGEND or FINAL FANTASY V… to be honest, I don’t remember too clearly.

I do remember liking the music in both cases. Nobuo Uematsu’s music has had such a huge impact on my life!

Above: FINAL FANTASY V Pixel Remaster

Which single Square Enix game could you not live without?

Miyauchi-san: I think it would be FINAL FANTASY VII.

It was the first game that made me interested in the people who were making games. I found myself curious about what kind of person had created this world, crammed so full of life and detail!

Nishiki-san: Wow, that’s a tricky question (laughs)!

I don’t think I could give up any FINAL FANTASY, putting aside the exact number.

The worlds that the series creates are great, of course, but honestly, it would have to be because of the music. As I said, Uematsu-san’s music and philosophy have been such a huge influence on me.

Ikushima-san: BRAVELY DEFAULT.

That game was the trigger for me joining Team Asano. It made me think: “this is the kind of game I’ve been wanting to make!” I put in a request and joined the team from BRAVELY SECOND.

To this day, I still dearly wish that I could have worked on the first game!

Futsuzawa-san: OCTOPATH TRAVELER. This was the game that started me on a new journey as a creator!

Above: The original OCTOPATH TRAVELER

If you could only listen to one Square Enix soundtrack or album ever again, what would it be?

Nishiki-san: This is another really tricky question (laughs)!!

They’re all wonderful albums, so I can’t pick just one… but if I absolutely had to, I might go with FINAL FANTASY V.

Miyauchi-san: Definitely OCTOPATH TRAVELER II.

I’ve been listening to all the music since they were demo tracks, so I’m really attached to them. I might be a bit biased though (laughs).

In terms of specific songs, I love “At Your Back.”

Futsuzawa-san: OCTOPATH TRAVELER - because I have so many memories from it, and they’re connected to the songs as well.

The main theme is my favorite. It makes me want to set out on a journey!

Listen to the full OCTOPATH TRAVELER soundtrack on the Square Enix Music channel on YouTube.

Ikushima-san: Other than the OCTOPATH TRAVELER series? It would have to be BRAVELY DEFAULT.

I like all of the tracks in the game, but I really like the music that plays in the overworld. It always cheers me up.

What game do you think the entire world should play?

Miyauchi-san: Shadow of the Colossus.

I feel like the design is perfect in every aspect, neither underdone or too much - gameplay, the world and setting, the sound… everything.

Ikushima-san: OCTOPATH TRAVELER II!

The developers and creators loved the first game and have worked to make the sequel even better.

Futsuzawa-san: OCTOPATH TRAVELER II!

At the moment, rather than thinking about what people “should” play, I guess I just really want people to play it (laughs).

What’s your proudest career achievement?

Miyauchi-san: It’s probably the fact that so many people played the series’ previous title, OCTOPATH TRAVELER.

I’m so happy and proud about that!

Ikushima-san: The fact that I’ve been entrusted with character design - that was my dream!

When I was in elementary school, I entered a competition to design a character for a game. Predictably, I didn’t win (laughs).

At the time, I was really frustrated - that’s when I made up my mind that I was definitely going to become a designer for games!

Futsuzawa-san: For me, it’s the fact that I’m writing the scenario for the OCTOPATH TRAVELER series! I’m proud because the series is loved by so many people all around the world.

Of course, I count myself in that number!

Nishiki-san: The thing that I’m most proud of in and of itself, is that I’m now in a position to create new game music.

I think that, at times, everyone is drawn to the idea of becoming someone who creates the kind of thing that influenced their life when they were younger. However, not everyone can make that happen - not everyone ends up in their dream job. The world can be harsh.

And so, I’m really proud that I’ve made it in spite of that and have the good fortune to be in such a position myself!

What are you most proud of about OCTOPATH TRAVELER II?

Miyauchi-san: There’s so much I’m proud of about the game.

The graphics are more beautiful than the previous game, and the story structure really brings out the individual personalities of each protagonist. Plus, the game balances a lot of different elements without becoming overly busy.

Nishiki-san: Listing specific things is tricky. Besides, I think it all comes down to being able to present the players with a new OCTOPATH TRAVELER story - that means everything to me.

Ikushima-san: This might be a few things that made me happy, rather than what I’m proud of!

The first is that Octopuff became one of the official characters. Second, that we were able to create a sequel to the first game as the same team. And third, that I’ve heard people talking about much they love the characters!

Futsuzawa-san: I’m proud of writing the scenarios for the eight protagonists - and that I was unwavering and kept going with my convictions right until the entire scenario was completed.

I’m also proud of Ochette - and the fact that I introduced the Beastlings as something completely new to the OCTOPATH series!

Finally, what do you hope players take from your game?

Miyauchi-san: No matter what kind of game I’m making, I tend to be exacting about the details and insert some jokes – I’m always happy when players notice and enjoy these things.

OCTOPATH TRAVELER II has lots of those kinds of touches, so I hope you’ll keep an eye out, and that some of them become your personal favourites!

Nishiki-san: The fact that we’ve been able to make this sequel is thanks to everyone who picked up and played OCTOPATH TRAVELER when it was a completely new title.

When we created OCTOPATH TRAVELER II, we wanted it to be a thank you to everyone who believed in the first game. And, since we grew up playing RPGs, we wanted the game to pay homage to those games and pass along the favour.

I really, genuinely hope people have a wonderful journey in OCTOPATH TRAVELER II.

Ikushima-san: I would just like to say thank you so much to the players for warming to the eight new protagonists! I hope you have a great journey together!

Futsuzawa-san: Games will always have an ending. But if the characters I’ve written live on in your heart, then it’s not the end for them.

Have a great trip!

Many thanks to Miyauchi-san, Nishiki-san, Ikushima-san and Futsuzawa-san for sharing their experiences and opinions.

You can see how their love of RPGs has influenced OCTOPATH TRAVELER II - it’s an amazing game that celebrates the genre while modernising it with bold and fun ideas. The love of the developers comes through in every one of the HD-2D pixels!

If you’re yet to experience the game, OCTOPATH TRAVELER II is available now for Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, PS4 and PC via Steam.

We hope you enjoy the game! If you’re about to get started, check out our guide:

And be sure to follow us on social media for news and updates about this and other Square Enix games:

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Everything you need to know about FINAL FANTASY XIV: Dawntrail

Sunny skies and blue seas beckon you to the continent of Tural! Here’s what you’ll be doing in the new expansion for FINAL FANTASY XIV!
By Duncan Heaney

Get ready for sunny skies and blue seas because FINAL FANTASY XIV: Dawntrail is out now!

This expansion takes your Warrior of Light and the Scions of the Seventh Dawn to a brand-new continent full of new adventures. But what exactly can you expect from the land of Tural - and what’s been added to the game?

Here’s what to expect:

A new story begins!

Although only freshly returned from the Thirteenth, there’s little time to rest for your brave adventurer and the Scions of the Seventh Dawn.

Far to the west in the nation of Tuliyollal, claimants prepare to compete for the throne of the Dawnservant. As Eorzea’s champion, you’re asked to accompany Wuk Lamat as her ally in this rite of succession - an endeavor which takes you across the glittering seas to the distant continent of Tural.

The contest ahead promises to offer challenges far beyond simple combat. Little by little you’ll start to unravel the mystery of the legendary golden city - and begin a new tale for FINAL FANTASY XIV!

Travel to new parts of the world

Gorgeous landscapes beckon you in FINAL FANTASY XIV: Dawntrail. The continent of Tural is comprised of two landmasses - Xak Tural to the north, and Yok Tural to the south. Each is comprised of beautiful new areas full of amazing sights and sounds.

You’ll get to meet Tural’s many and diverse peoples in two new cities:

Tuliyollal

This striking city marches up the side of a mountain, the path from its coastal harbor to the lofty palace at its summit marked by a profusion of slopes and stairs. Embodying the ideals of the nation with which it shares its name, this ever-bustling metropolis is home to a population drawn from all the lands of Tural.

Solution Nine

A city of towering facades constructed by an entirely different civilization than that of Tuliyollal. As for what chain of events could lead you to such a strange place… well, play the expansion to find out!

You’ll also adventure across multiple new areas, including:

Urqopacha

This mountainous region of Yok Tural is inhabited by two peoples of vastly different stature: the child sized Pelupelu, and the gargantuan Yok Huy. Such disparities, however, shrink into insignificance before the brooding majesty of Worqor Zormor, the tallest peak in Tural!

Kozama'uka

To the south of Tuliyollal stretch the verdant forests of Kozama'uka. Rivers great and small flow from mountains to the west and pour into the region, creating breathtaking waterfalls. Although the peoples which inhabit the region resemble goblins and the Vanu Vanu, they have each built unique cultures within this vast wilderness.

Yak T'el

These dense woodlands can be reached by dirigibles which cross the mountain range to the southeast of Tuliyollal. The highlands are rich in game and settled by the Xbr'aal. The lowlands, where the thick canopy blocks the sunlight, are inhabited by the Mamool Ja.

The region is dotted with naturally occurring wells, known as cenotes, which are formed when water accumulates in sinkholes.

Shaaloani

The rain-starved plains of this region located in central Tural makes for a striking contrast with the verdant surrounds of its largest lake. The discovery of ceruleum deposits in recent years has brought sweeping change to the area, including the construction of a railroad, even as local peoples maintain their cultural traditions.

Heritage Found

In this region overflowing with lightning energies, thick thunderclouds blot out the sun, while streaks of purple levin illuminate the land day and night.

Explore two new jobs

Dawntrail introduces two new jobs: pictomancer and viper.

Pictomancer is an artistically-minded magical ranged DPS job that lets you use specialized brushes to bring incredible creations to life - from weapons and creatures to stunning landscapes. If you like to dish out damage at a distance - and as creatively as possible - you’ll find much to enjoy.

If you’d rather get up close and personal, you should check out the new viper job. This melee DPS job uses dual blades to deal damage quickly and efficiently at close range. These blades can even be combined into a single powerful weapon.

New dungeons

You’ll have plenty of opportunity to try out the pictomancer and viper jobs in multiple new dungeons. You’ll traverse a treacherous river, explore ancient ruins, climb otherworldly mountains, and much more.

Here’s just a glimpse of what awaits:

A new 8-player raid series: The Arcadion

The launch of Dawntrail brings a new raid series - and it’s something special!

In the Arcadion, the realm’s greatest fighters pit fist against fist and magick against magick, putting their lives on the line as the crowds howl and clamor. Do you dare step into the arena, and if you do, will you rise to become champion or fall forever in ignominy?

The upcoming alliance raid crossover with FINAL FANTASY XI

The next alliance raid beckons you to an altogether different world—Vana’diel also known as the world of FINAL FANTASY XI! Many adventures and challenges await in this highly anticipated crossover series set to release in future updates!

A new ultimate raid: Futures Rewritten (Ultimate)

If you’re up for a challenge, Dawntrail will introduce a new ultimate raid. The super-challenging Futures Rewritten (Ultimate) will put you and your allies to the ultimate test.

New playable race: female Hrothgar

Ever since the Hrothgar arrived with FINAL FANTASY XIV: Shadowbringers, fans have been excited to see their female counterparts. Now they’re here, opening many new ways to create and customize your Warrior of Light!

The level cap has gone up!

Long-time players rejoice because Dawntrail ups the level cap from 90 to 100. Enjoy that sweet sense of progression as you surge in strength once more.

New lifestyle content: Cosmic Exploration

Take to the stars and work together in a cosmic journey that will fuel your curiosity and creativity.

And loads more.

That’s barely scratching the surface of what you’ll get to do in Dawntrail. As you’d hope, there’s loads of new gear and recipes, new side quests, new FATEs, new hunts, new treasure hunts, new monsters… the list goes on.

Plus, there’s loads more content coming in the Patch 7.x series, so look out for that.

New graphical update

The world of FINAL FANTASY XIV gets even more beautiful with a new visual update, also available today. It improves texture and shadow quality, refines character models, improves materials and more.

It doesn’t require Dawntrail, so even if you’re yet to purchase the new expansion, you can still enjoy a much prettier Hydaelyn!

FINAL FANTASY XIV: Dawntrail is out now for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Mac and Steam:

If you’ve yet to try this incredible RPG, be sure to check out the free trial. It lets you play through A Realm Reborn, as well as two whole expansions: Heavensward and Stormblood, and take your character to level 70 - all with no restrictions on playtime.

That’s the equivalent of three full length FINAL FANTASY games - and it’s completely free. To find out more, check out the official site:

Finally, to stay up to date with news and updates about Dawntrail and FINAL FANTASY XIV as a whole, please follow us on social media:

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FANTASIAN Neo Dimension: Everything you need to know

The father of FINAL FANTASY returns with this definitive version of the acclaimed adventure!
By Duncan Heaney

Did you hear the news? The critically acclaimed RPG FANTASIAN is coming to Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam this Winter!

Titled FANTASIAN Neo Dimension, this beautiful, stylized adventure comes from Hironobu Sakaguchi, the creator of the FINAL FANTASY series, and features music by the celebrated FINAL FANTASY composer Nobuo Uematsu.

With such a developer pedigree you’d expect something special, and that’s exactly what they’ve delivered. FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is a bold adventure that captures everything great about classic Japanese RPGs, while adding some awesome innovations that make it feel distinctly fresh. You can get a taste of what to expect in the trailer, or read on to learn all about it:

What is FANTASIAN Neo Dimension?

The protagonist Leo wakes up from a massive explosion only to find himself lost in a strange land. That’s not the only thing lost - his memories have almost entirely vanished too!

With only a single memory to guide him, he sets out on a journey to reclaim his lost past and unravel the mysteries of a bizarre mechanical infection that’s slowly engulfing all known to man.

This journey will take Leo and his growing party of allies through more than 150 hand-crafted dioramas, which combine physical environments with 3D characters. These were created by masters of the craft and include everything from dense forests and arid deserts to some… less conventional regions.

FANTASIAN New Dimension’s battle system

Of course, you won’t explore unopposed - inevitably you’ll have to face off against hordes of monsters and worse in battle. FANTASIAN New Dimension’s turn-based battles will feel comfortable to fans of classic RPGs like the FINAL FANTASY and DRAGON QUEST series, but it has some unique mechanics that make it feel unique and modern.

One such mechanic the ability to aim attacks to hit enemies in straight or curved lines. The key to success lies in observing your foes’ turn order and position on the battlefield and using the right skills and trajectory of attacks to take multiple foes out efficiently.

The game also introduces the Dimengeon System, which allows you to avoid the interruptions of random encounters by sending previously encountered enemies to a dimensional dungeon. You can open the ‘Dimengeon’ at any point to battle everything stored inside at a time that’s convenient for you - and with some handy enhancements that make these thrilling large-scale battles fly by.

Of course, the longer you wait to open the Dimengeon, the more enemies you’ll have to take on, so you’ll need to think carefully about when to take on the challenge. Once it reaches capacity, the battle will start automatically!

It all adds up to combat that is very easy to understand yet has enormous depth to master - a killer combo that makes the game hard to put down!

What’s been added to FANTASIAN New Dimension?

FANTASIAN originally released on iOS for Apple Arcade, but this new console and PC version has received some significant enhancements, which makes it the definitive way to play the game. These include:

  • English and Japanese voiceovers - All cutscenes, and many optional scenes in the game are now voice acted. You’ll be able to play the game with either the English or Japanese voice actors.

  • 4K visuals - the PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S and Steam versions of the game will offer support for 4K displays, making this already beautiful game look even prettier.

  • Normal difficulty mode - FANTASIAN was a very difficult game upon release, with many bosses pounding players before they worked out the optimal strategies to defeat them. FANTASIAN Neo Dimension adds a new ‘Normal’ difficulty, to make the game a little more approachable. Of course, if you crave the challenge of the original game, that’s still there too!

FANTASIAN Neo Dimension launches this Winter for Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S and PC via Steam.

We’ll have more to share, including the final release date, in the future, so be sure to follow Square Enix on social media for news and updates:

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Do these things before you play FINAL FANTASY XIV: Dawntrail

The new expansion launches July 2, 2024, or June 28, 2024 with early access. Here are some things you can do to prepare for the big day!
By Duncan Heaney

The world of FINAL FANTASY XIV Online is about to get bigger!

On July 2 (or June 28 for those who preorder), the next expansion, Dawntrail will be released, bringing with it a massive amount of new content to the game. We’re talking a new story in a beautiful new setting, a new player race, new jobs, new quests, new dungeons, new raids and loads more fun (and yes, new) stuff.

Final Fantasy XIV Dawntrail art

It’s all very exciting - and an agonizing wait for some of you, we’re sure. But rather than just twiddling your thumbs, there are some things you can do to get ready for all the new adventures that await.

Such as:

Complete all Main Scenario Quests

Let’s get the obvious one out of the way. Before you can start the story of Dawntrail, you must have completed all of the main scenario quests up to this point. Some of you may be caught up already, but if you haven’t played for a while there may be main scenario quests released in updates that you need to finish. That’s a good thing though, as they're pretty exciting.

Once you have finished all main scenario quests of the Endwalker expansion, you’ll be ready for Dawntrail’s story - and there’s a lot to look forward to. This new tale sends your Warrior of Light and the Scions of the Seven Dawn to the faraway continent of Tural - a land of blue seas, clear skies, and boundless possibilities.

We’ll say no more for fear of spoilers, but suffice to say this sunny sojourn is not without its dark corners…

Prepare to level up

Dawntrail introduces two new jobs: the pictomancer and the viper.

The artistically-inclined pictomancer is a magical ranged DPS job that lets you use a specialized brush to bring wonderous creations to life - from creatures and weapons to stunning landscapes.

The viper is more to the point - literally. It’s a melee DPS job and uses dual blades that deal swift strikes or can be combined into a single powerful weapon.

As with other jobs, you’ll need to level these new ones up, so stockpiling various means to do so faster could be to your benefit. For example, fill your saddlebags with food for an EXP bonus, get ready to grab some “The Heat of Battle” Free Company buffs, and use your rested EXP bonus to level them up more efficiently.

You could also prepare some level 80 to 90 casting gear for your pictomancer and scouting gear for your viper, so you’re ready to dress to impress with stronger builds right from the get-go.

One final tip - the pair of Azeyma earrings grant a 30% increase in EXP gained by defeating enemies when worn through level 90 . They’re available as a bonus if you pre-order Dawntrail, so get it before release if you want the handy boost.

On the subject of pre-orders…

If you have preordered on PC or Mac, make sure to register your Early Access code!

By preordering Dawntrail, you’ll be eligible to play the game from June 28, 2024 - four days earlier than its official release date of July 2, 2024! To do so on PC and Mac, you need to make sure you register your Early Access code.

Simply head over to the Mog Station and on the Service Account Dashboard (i.e. the Home (Manage your Account) screen) select ‘Enter Pre-order Bonus Code’. Then simply add your Early Access code and you’ll be able to play from June 28.

PlayStation and Xbox players don’t need to enter an Early Access code - preorder bonuses are automatically linked to the account when you preorder the game.

For full details on how to register your Early Access code, check out this article on the Square Enix Support Center site:

Have a big clear out

A new expansion means new loot! Your pockets are soon going to be filling up with new weapons, armor, items, and clothes, so before that happens why not have a bit of a de-clutter?

It could be a good idea to clear some space in your inventory and your armoury chest to prepare for new levelling gear, quest rewards and all the other lovely goodies that will be coming your way.\

But what to do with all your old stuff? If there’s something you want to keep, you can leave it with retainers or even drop it in the glamour dresser and armoire.

If you have unwanted items (and if you’re anything like us, there will be some junk in the trunk), then it’s the perfect opportunity to sell it and line your pockets with gil.

Try out the Windows PC benchmark to test your rig…

If you have a Windows PC and want to see how the game will run on your rig, you should check out the Dawntrail Official Benchmark.

This uses actual maps and playable characters from the expansion and will assign a score to your PC to rate its performance. It will help you test the performance of the game and allow you to adjust the settings you’ll need to get optimum performance when the full expansion releases.

Plus, you’ll get a glimpse of some new areas early. It’s worth it just for that.

... get a sneak peek at the new graphical update…

A new graphical update comes to FINAL FANTASY XIV alongside Dawntrail - and you can get a preview of some of the enhancements in the PC benchmark.

For example, the game will receive improved texture and shadow resolution, better material qualities, improved character models and more - all while preserving the distinctive visual style of the game.

In other words, Hydaelyn’s about to get a whole lot prettier.

…and use the new player race in the character creator

One more cool thing you can do with the PC benchmark - create your first female Hrothgar!

It’s something many fans have requested since the male Hrothgar were added as a new race in FINAL FANTASY XIV: Shadowbringers and they’re nearly here. The benchmark tool will let you experience the new customization options available and preview your character in actual in-game environments.

Female Hrothgar art

A new quest will become available with the release of the Dawntrail in which you can obtain a Fantasia for free, so if you’re really proud of your new Hrothgar, you can use the appearance data saved in the Benchmark and carry her into the full game at no extra cost!

Those were just a few tips for ways to get ready for FINAL FANTASY XIV: Dawntrail. The new expansion launches July 2, 2024, with early access available June 28, 2024 for players who preorder.

To stay up to date with news and updates about the game - or to share your own preparations for Dawntrail - be sure to follow FINAL FANTASY XIV on social media:

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7 brilliant boss battles in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH

You’ll face plenty of threats on your journey around the world of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH. We celebrate some of our favourite boss fights!
By Duncan Heaney

There are few things as satisfying as smacking down a difficult boss (in a game obviously - we’re not suggesting you assault any managers).

This is something that FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH excels at. The game is packed full of incredible battles, from snarling monsters to Shinra’s seemingly endless supply of war machines. Today, we wanted to celebrate just a few of our favorites… but first a bit of a disclaimer.

There are some obviously amazing battles in the main story that are truly breathtaking, but not listed here. We haven’t included these because… well, the surprise is part of the fun!

Actually, if we’re being completely honest, this piece should probably be titled ‘7 brilliant boss battles in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH (that we don’t think are too spoilery to share)’. It’s just not very catchy, is it?

That said, you can’t deny the awesome spectacle of these incredible confrontations:

Materia Guardian

The Materia Guardian is the first boss you face in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, and it makes an impression.

This multi-limbed monstrosity stands between Cloud and Sephiroth and their goal in their mission to Nibelheim, during the flashback sequence that opens the game. It’s a thrillingly action-packed fight that forces you to really dig into the combat system and use all the techniques at your disposal.

In our recent deep dive into the Nibelheim flashback in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH (read that here), the game’s Director Naoki Hamaguchi explained that this is the key to a good ‘first’ boss - it’s a test of everything you’ve learned, and in that respect, the Materia Guardian more than delivers.

But that’s not the only thing that makes this confrontation so memorable. It introduces the Synergy Abilities - it’s the first time you can combine two characters for spectacular attacks. Plus, one of those characters is the game’s antagonist Sephiroth - a genuinely iconic character that you get to control directly!

Add the pulse-pounding soundtrack and it makes for makes for a sweat-inducingly exhilarating bout.

And - again - this is only the first boss in the game!

Midgardsormr

This sinister serpent lurks in the swamps between the Grasslands and Junon. It doesn’t just sit pretty at the top of the food chain - it basically is the food chain.

Step into those murky waters and it’ll gobble you up, so the only chance you have to avoid that grisly fate is to ride through on a chocobo. But even then, you may run into it… or, in the case of Cloud and company, onto it.

The battle with the Midgardsormr is a multi-phase affair of increasing intensity. It’ll start with simple bites and sweeps - powerful, but nothing a good block won’t protect you against. But fight back enough, and you’ll have to contend with brutal lunges, underwater attacks and… oh, did we mention it breathes fire?!

It takes skill, strategy, and teamwork to survive this gauntlet, and even then you get the impression that this frightening fiend might be more than Cloud and his friends can handle…

Terror of the Deep

The Midgardsormr’s not the only moist menace that you’ll have to face in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - you’ll also take on the Terror of the Deep.

This ferocious fiend more than lives up to its name. You encounter it in Under Junon, when you rush to the defense of none other than Yuffie Kisaragi - the fan-favorite ninja who later becomes a full member of the team.

It’s an exciting battle - the Terror of the Deep hangs in the air, which encourages you to lean on ranged attacks and magic to take it on. It uses a range of dangerously damp water attacks, the worst of which is ‘Water Cell’, which traps your party in bubbles.

The battle becomes like spinning plates, as you try to damage your foe while keeping your friends in the fight.

It’s a perfect example of why FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH’s boss fights are so strong. It’s fun, fast, strategic and pushes you to play in new ways.

It helps that it’s beautiful too.

Odin

This classic Summon has a big sword and a short attention span. That’s not a good combo for our heroes.

As you expand the world of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, you’ll be able to take on mythical Summons in a battle simulator. Win the bout, and your resident cyborg scientist, Chadley, will create special materia that lets you set them loose against your foes.

Each of these fights is a true test of your combat prowess - particularly if you take them on before you discover any Divine Intel in the world to weaken them. You could fill this list with Summon battles alone, but my personal favorite is Odin!

Hitting him with powerful abilities, while avoiding and blocking attacks keeps him on the hook but take too many hits too quickly he'll unleash his powerful Zantetsuken attack. That's the end for you - or at least a restart of the battle simulator.

I greatly appreciate Odin. As someone who can be pretty sloppy when it comes to combat (and, y’know, life in general) this horned horseback rider forced me to really raise my game. And it makes it oh-so-satisfying to beat him.

Tonberry King

FINAL FANTASY fans have long learned to fear tonberries. These slow-moving psychopaths are devilishly dangerous - and boy, do they hold a grudge.

They’re a recurring enemy in the series and appear in many of the games (including most recently The Rising Tide DLC for FINAL FANTASY XVI), but they’re particularly trouser-browning in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

The Tonberry King is possibly the scariest version of all! It has all the hallmarks of this classic enemy: it moves as though in molasses, batters you with ranged attacks that paralyze and can take you out with a single stab of its chef’s knife. But it’s also huge!

There’s an extra wrinkle to deal with too. That’s crown’s not just a fashion statement (although the King makes it look good) - it’s your objective. You’re asked to steal it - something that’s much easier said than done.

So, not only do you have to survive your encounter with this waddling weirdo, you have to get hold of the crown without breaking it. It’s stressful - in the most fun way possible!

Great Malboro

Another classic FINAL FANTASY foe makes a memorable appearance in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH: the Great Malboro!

This man-eating monster plant has terrifying tendrils, tons of teeth and a serious case of halitosis.

In fact, it’s that Bad Breath that’s the biggest threat in this fight. Get hit by this malodorous miasma and you’ll be hit by a deluge of detrimental status effects that will make you slow, unable to cast magic and more. The Malboro can even turn you into a toad, at which point you’re even more likely to croak.

In short, go in unprepared and you’re in for a tough - and you have to assume - pretty smelly time! We hope you have an iron stomach.

Rude and Elena

When Shinra wants something done right, they send in the professionals.

The Turks are the company’s go-to operatives, doing everything from escorting executives to assassination. No matter how dirty the job, the group will do their best to see that it’s done.

In FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, there’s a new member of the team: Elena. This new Turk is as formidable as she is petulant, and teamed up with her partner, Rude, a real threat on the battlefield.

Cloud and company encounter the pair a few times throughout the story, notably in the Mythril Mines where they take them on in a pulse-pounding boss fight.

Each of the pair has their own fighting style, which you’ll have to adapt to when you take them on. Rude is calm and collected - he’ll counter your attacks and launch devastating shockwaves that keep you on the move. Elena is a hyperactive force of nature, zipping round the battlefield and out of range of your attacks. But as dangerous as they are, they’re even more deadly when they combine their skills.

What - you thought you were the only ones who could use Synergy Abilities?

Those were just seven of the boss fights in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, but it barely scratches the surface of what’s in the game. There are so many incredible battles to experience in the game, from horrifying monsters to Shinra’s many war machines.

And, of course, Sephiroth might have a few surprises up his sleeve too.

You can discover them all in the full game, available now for PS5:

You can also try your hand against both the Materia Guardian and the Terror of the Deep in the free FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH demo:

Want to read more about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH? Check out these articles:

Finally, to stay up to date with news and information about the game, be sure to follow us on social media:

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Let’s celebrate the antagonists of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH!

Sephiroth may get all the attention, but FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is blessed with quite the rogue’s gallery! Let’s take some time to appreciate some awesome antagonism!
By Duncan Heaney

Sephiroth is a formidable foe for the heroes of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - but he’s not the only threat they face. Cloud and company are confronted by a who’s who of rivals, criminals and ne’er do wells as they explore the regions of the world, each one an incredible character in their own right. In fact, it’s a real strength of the game that each one is a strong and memorable character in their own right.

So today, we wanted to take the spotlight off Sephiroth and pay tribute some of the other awesome antagonists in the game.

Which one is your favorite?

Scarlet

  • Voice actor: Erin Cottrell

As the head of Shinra’s weapons division, Scarlet is responsible for the design and deployment of tools of destruction. It’s a job she takes to with disturbing relish.

You see the toll of her work throughout FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH. It’s in the mental and physical scars that affect Barret, the devastation of Wutai and the traumatic events Yuffie went through in FF7 EPISODE INTERmission (the DLC for FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE).

But what truly makes her one of the great villains of the game is her cruelty. She’s a hands-on boss and all too happy to take direct command of her troops or jump into a mech to cause some destruction.

And the smile on her face when she causes pain and suffering can be genuinely disturbing…

Mayor Kapono

  • Voice actor: Mick Wingert

The mayor of Costa del Sol uses his position to wheel, deal and make a comfortable life for himself at the expense of others. He takes advantage of Johnny’s… let’s politely call it ‘naiveite,’ to con him into buying a wreck of a hotel, and into a life of indentured servitude.

Later in the game, he recruits Cloud to help him deal with a problem in a way that demonstrates his lack of moral scruples even further.

You could argue that in a world of world-threatening villains, evil corporations, and other formidable foes, he’s a minor nuisance at best. Still, it sure would be nice if someone would teach him a lesson…

Don Corneo (and Scotch and Kotch)

(Screenshot from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE)

  • Voice actor (Don Corneo): Fred Tatsciore
  • Voice actor (Scotch): Greg Chun
  • Voice actor (Kotch): Chris Jai Alex

The former Don of Wall Market is like a bad case of piles - just when you think he’s gone, he pops up again to be a pain in the butt.

Corneo returns in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH and he’s just as hilariously sleazy and repulsive as in the previous game. This time, he’s set his sights on the Gold Saucer, which once again puts him on a collision course with Cloud and company.

As you’d expect, he makes for a delightful villain. While you can feel a certain level of sympathy for villains like Sephiroth, the Don is a slippery scumbag through and through. It makes it all the more delightful when you rub the smile off his face.

And we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention his faithful entourage Kotch and Scotch. For all their toadying to the Don, you can’t deny that the pair bring flair!

Roche

  • Voice actor: Austin Lee Matthews

In truth, we’d hesitate to call Roche a true villain. He’s antagonistic to be sure, but he’s not committed to any grand evil schemes, or the Shinra Creed. He just really, really likes Cloud, and wants to beat him in a fight.

As part of Shinra’s mobile division, Roche lives life in the fast lane. He fights hard, rides hard and lives loud - so when he finally meets someone who can keep up with him, it’s a life-changing experience for him.

After crossing swords (and bikes) in FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, Roche returns in REBIRTH to face off against his rival once more. It’s quite a show, and one that makes his admiration for our spikey-haired hero grow all the more - and his desire to be stronger.

Let’s hope that doesn’t lead to any rash decisions…

Palmer

  • Voice actor: William Salyers

You have to feel a little for Palmer. His Space and Aeronautics Division within Shinra has essentially been mothballed, his subordinates visibly dislike him, his hotel bookings are canceled by Cait Sith…

It’s one thing after another - and often entirely self-inflicted. You get the sense that for Palmer, dignity is as far off as the stars themselves.

He tries to claw back some respect by taking on the team in a giant mech, but unlike his colleague Scarlet who approaches the fight with grace and skill, he takes a more pathetic and petulant approach.

It doesn’t go well for him, but his loss is our gain. Palmer may be a perpetual sad sack, but it’s very entertaining to watch him fail.

Gi Nattak

  • Voice actor: Bruce Thomas

The Gi Tribe play a prominent role in the story of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - one that we’re not going to spoil here. But during the adventure, you get to talk to their leader Gi Nattak, and find out why these undead antagonists are so angry and dangerous.

He offers some fascinating revelations - particularly for fans of the original FINAL FANTASY VII - and some questions, too. Are he and his people evil, or just desperate? Were the Ancients - the mostly extinct stewards of the planet - as benevolent as we assumed?

He’s a memorable character who adds some intriguing moral complexity to the world of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

Rufus

  • Voice actor: Josh Bowman

The new President of Shira is cold, calculating… and insanely busy.

The dramatic conclusion of FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE has left a lot on his plate - the damage to Midgar, an ongoing conspiracy to reignite war with Wutai, his inauguration, the re-emergence of Sephiroth and much more.

All this means that he takes a surprisingly measured approach to Cloud’s and his friends - but don’t mistake pragmatism for morality. He’s ruthless, decisive, and willing to do anything to further his goals. In short, and all-round great villain - and a serious threat to our heroes.

Professor Hojo

  • Voice actor: James Sie

If there’s one positive thing we can say about Hojo (and even that’s a struggle), it’s that the man really loves science.

Of course, in his case that’s not a good thing. The sinister scientist is twisted to his core. He’s willing to sacrifice anything and anyone in the pursuit of knowledge, especially when it comes to Jenova and Sephiroth.

His dark machinations are unsettling enough, but REBIRTH also sheds more light into his abuses beyond, and the pain and suffering he has caused to both our heroes and the world itself. Red XIII and Aerith in particular have suffered at his hands, and their scars are on full display in this story.

It’s telling that in a world where you fight literal fiends, Hojo is probably the greatest monster of all.

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is blessed with one of the greatest casts of characters in gaming, and the people on this list are a perfect example why. They may be weird, malicious, or just utterly awful, but we love them anyway for what they bring to the game!

If you’re yet to meet any of them, FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is available now for PS5, either standalone or as a twin pack also containing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE!

Want to read more about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH? Check out these articles:

Got a favorite villain of your own? Want to stay up to date with information about the game? Follow us on social media:

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Square Enix locations we’d actually like to live in

From FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH to STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R, we pick the towns in Square Enix games we’d move into if we could.
By Duncan Heaney

You’ve probably spent many hours saving the worlds of various Square Enix games, but have you ever thought about living in them?

Our rich and detailed locales are full of cities, towns and village, many of which are so beautiful and richly detailed that you almost want to move in yourself.

That got us thinking: if you could live anywhere in a Square Enix game, where would it be? With that in mind, here are seven of the settlements in Square Enix games that we think you could legitimately live in (if… y’know, they weren’t fictional).

Nemea Town - HARVESTELLA

Spring is the best season, and I won’t hear any arguments otherwise.

The plants are blooming, temperatures are on the rise without becoming sweltering, and there’s new life everywhere you look. It’s all rather inspiring. That’s why there’s no place I’d rather live in HARVESTELLA than Nemea Town.

This is a town of perpetual Spring. Beautiful cherry blossoms line its streets, framing its beautiful white buildings. It’s well protected thanks to the spear-wielding Asyl and the Argus Brigade. It’s full of loving people, who help run the very wholesome orphanage.

And the food. Oh man, the food! Nemea Bolognese, Zucchini and mince sandwiches, Peach Rose Mousse… I’m drooling just thinking about it all.

Time for some shameless pictures of food? I think so:

Rosehill - DRAGON QUEST MONSTERS: The Dark Prince

Rosehill is a modest settlement, but if you’ve played DRAGON QUEST MONSTERS: The Dark Prince, you know it’s much more than that.

This is a safe space that you’ll return to time and time throughout the adventure. It's the place where your monsters reside in a paddock, and also where you can synthesize new monsters at Rosehill Tower.

Add some truly charming human residents and you have something that’s far more than a town or village. It’s a home.

Haven - FINAL FANTASY XVI

FINAL FANTASY XVI’s world of Valisthea can be a harsh and brutal place.

Bearers, people born with the ability to use magic, are persecuted and enslaved, and the encroaching Blight drives nations into bloody wars. And even though Clive Rosfield and his allies work towards a better future, they know things will get worse before they get better.

That’s why Haven makes such an impression. Located in the Northern Territories, it’s home to unspoiled nature, a thriving ecosystem and clean water - the ideal place for a settlement. It’s also untouched by the conflicts that plague the rest of the realm thanks to a magical glamour that conceals it from view.

It contains a close-knit population who work together to support and protect their community - and where even Bearers are treated equally. In an often unkind world, it’s a real ray of light.

Bath Vegas - FOAMSTARS

Now this is what I call a party town! Well, technically, a party city.

Bath Vegas is the home of the fabled FOAMSMASH tournament - where the world’s best, brightest and… um, foamiest get together to compete in numerous high-octane competitions.

If I moved there, would I have a shot of becoming a FOAMSTAR? Probably not - sometimes I can’t even walk through a door without missing. Even so, Bath Vegas would be great - the scenery is stunning, the music scene is incredible (seriously - stream the soundtrack if you haven’t) and there’s always an awesome match to watch.

Living in Bath Vegas wouldn’t be a peaceful life, but boy it would be fun!

Cropdale - OCTOPATH TRAVELER II

Now if it’s a peaceful life you want, you won’t find better than Cropdale.

Nestled in the wooded Leaflands, this charming settlement is quiet, friendly and quite beautiful. Not only is it full of supportive people, such as Agnea’s family, it’s also relatively safe - while not without dangers, the local fauna is less malicious than some other parts of OCTOPATH TRAVELER II’s world of Solistia.

Not only that, but the eating’s good too - Cropdale has the best raspberries and peaches around! Fan of raspberry pie? This place has the best around. It even has a local festival, where the village gets together to eat, drink and enjoy each other’s company.

So, while there are more spectacular settlements in Solistia, such as the shining city of New Delsta, there are few locations as charmingly wholesome.

Lacuer City - STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R

On the other end of the scale to Cropdale, we have STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R’s vibrant Lacuer.

It’s the largest city on the planet Expel and full of awesome things to see. It has a top class hotel, a great tavern, a massive library and even a castle. Plus if you’re into your weapons - and considering the monster-filled world it’s in you probably should be - there are loads of different weapons shops to browse. Those in the know may also of some super-skilled artisans there too.

Best of all though, each year Lacuer hosts the Armory Contest - a hot ticket whether you’re competing or just sitting in the stands to watch.

With all that, and even more to see and do, I don’t think I’d ever get bored of living in Laceur.

Kalm - FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH has no shortage of towns so vibrant and well-realized that any of them could be on this list.

For fun in the sun, it’s hard to beat the sun-kissed beaches and party vibes of Costa del Sol. Does the Gold Saucer count as a town, because the good times never stop there? And if you asked for someone’s recommendation to get away from it all? Me? Gongaga.

But upon careful consideration, I think the best place to live would be Kalm - a town that, save for the occasional visit from Shinra, lives up to its name.

It’s got beautiful architecture, bustling shops, live music from visiting artists and - most importantly - a thriving Queen’s Blood scene. What more could you want?

Those were just a few of the most livable towns and cities in Square Enix games, but we’re sure you have thoughts of your own. Let us know on social media where you wish you could take up residence:

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The Big Question: What are your tips for FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH's Queen’s Blood?

We asked you to share your tips and scores for FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH’s amazing card game. You certainly delivered!
By Duncan Heaney

It’s no secret that Queen’s Blood is pretty great.

We recently posted some tips and tricks for FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH’s endlessly compelling card game (read them here), and when we asked your own, you delivered.

It’s a testament to the game that there was so much viable Queen’s Blood advice submitted, from awesome cards to entire strategies. Here are just a few of our favorites:

Kemiia has an interesting strategy for those of you with a destructive streak. Tonberry King increases in power by 2 for every card destroyed and Skeeskee increases by 1. So, if you cull those cards, you’ll see your score skyrocket!

When territory management is key, the utility of the humble Security Officer cannot be overstated!

Sometimes you just find that card that makes it all click. Ironically, there’s a lot of love for Loveless.

This is great advice. It’s not always about power - it’s about how your cards work together! Belramyo gets it.

LevvyXIII calls out the power of replace cards - and how you don’t have to win every lane to win the match. And yes, Titan is a great card!

The Chocobo & Moogle card increases in power by 1 for each other enhanced card - very useful if you’re about boosting your strength. It’s a great card, and you can get it very early in the adventure by completing the ‘A Rare Card Lost’ side quest.

Also, it’s super adorable.

Some good advice here - you don’t have to take the first move. Sometimes it’s an advantage to let your opponent play the first card and see what they’re up to.

More good advice. Sometimes to achieve victory, sacrifices must be made. Your most powerful cards won’t always be your best. Destroying them in the game can be painful, but if it gives you more territory or boosts other cards, it can be worth it.

Perhaps the best tip of all. Never give up - victory is always within your reach!

Super scores!

Some of you have achieved some incredible scores in Queen’s Blood, some even breaking triple figures!

Here are some impressive feats:

What do you mean ONLY 124?

Goblin up those points. Impressive!

Welcome to the hundred club… um… well, you’re an unknown gamer so we dunno.

A destruction-focused Tonberry King player strikes hard!

Ramy prefers to buff cards - and the results speak for themselves!

Thanks to everyone who submitted their tips and scores. Queen’s Blood is a game of impressive depth, and we love how many ways there are to play, from high-tension matches in towns across FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH’s world, to complex challenges and puzzles in the Gold Saucer and Costa del Sol.

If you’re yet to try it out for yourself, you should check out FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - available now for PS5!

And be sure to follow us on social media for more news and updates about your favorite games!

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New FINAL FANTASY XVI DLC, The Rising Tide, available now!

Leviathan the Lost has been located! Here’s everything you can expect from this epic new expansion for FINAL FANTASY XVI!
By Duncan Heaney

Leviathan has arrived and a new adventure for Clive Rosfield is about to begin! The Rising Tide, the new expansion for FINAL FANTASY XVI, is now available to download!

As well as introducing a new Eikon in Leviathan, it also offers new abilities for Clive, a massive new region to explore, a challenging new endgame mode and much more. What’s more, it's launched alongside a new patch that delivers new features and quality-of-life improvements!

You can expect action, intrigue, and a heck of a lot of water… but what exactly does the DLC and Patch 1.03 deliver?

What is The Rising Tide about?

Set before the end of the FINAL FANTASY XVI story, this new DLC story begins when an unmarked letter arrives at the hideaway. It contains a most curious request - the Dominant of Leviathan, long lost Eikon of Water, is in need of rescue.

In response to this plea, Clive and his companions journey to the hidden land of Mysidia, where they encounter the tragic history of a forgotten people.

Joined by a mysterious new ally named Shula, you’ll explore a beautiful new region full of new sights and sounds, side stories that reveal more about the area and its people, and new threats - including tonberries! The classic FINAL FANTASY icon can be found in the ominous Aire of Hours - once a bastion of civilization, now silent save for the incessant sharpening of knives.

What new abilities does Clive have access to?

It’s probably not too much of a spoiler to say that Clive gains access to a whole new set of Eikonic Abilities, based around Leviathan the Lost.

Armed with the might of the Eikon of Water, Clive can tame the tides to drown enemies near and far and utilize Serpent’s Cry to call for a sea-spitting serpent that deals precision strikes to foes at great distances.

Clive will grow stronger in another way too. The level cap has increased from 50 to 60 in Story Focused and Action Focused Modes and from 100 to 110 in FINAL FANTASY mode (New Game+).

Introducing Kairos Gate

Once you complete The Rising Tide and the main game, you’ll unlock an awesome new endgame mode: Kairos Gate.

Available through the Arete Stone, Kairos Gate lets you delve into the depths of a virtual underworld, taking on wave after wave of increasingly tougher foes. In addition to earning materials and weapons through completing stages, you’ll earn points as you play, which can be used to upgrade Clive. The better you battle, the more points you’ll get, so you’d best bring your A-game.

Do you have what it takes to rank on the global leaderboard?

How do you get The Rising Tide DLC?

The new DLC is available as part of the FINAL FANTASY XVI Expansion Pass, which also includes the previously-released Echoes of the Fallen DLC. This is the most cost-effective way to get access to both DLC packs.

If preferred, the DLC can also be purchased separately. Regardless of whether you get it standalone or in the Expansion Pass, you’ll gain access to some awesome bonuses, including:

  • A reimagined version of the ‘Curtana’ the signature weapon of FINAL FANTASY XIV Online’s Warrior of Light.

  • Two new Orchestrion Rolls to play in the hideaway featuring music from FINAL FANTASY XIV - Torn from the Heavens and Through the Maelstrom.

But The Rising Tide isn’t the only new thing coming to FINAL FANTASY XVI…

What’s in Update Ver. 1.30?

The new update for FINAL FANTASY XVI adds loads of new quality-of-life improvements to the full game, making for an even smoother and more enjoyable adventure. These include:

  • A new ‘Quick Complete’ feature, which lets you return to a quest giver immediately

  • Icon updates for important character quests

  • A new Skill Set feature, which allows you to save up to five unique Feat and Ability sets

  • Abilities and Accessories have been adjusted for easier use

  • You can now customize button layouts

  • New Photo Mode features, including tone correction, screen effects and more

  • Loads of new Orchestrion Rolls

The new update is out now - you do not need to own the DLC to get it.

We hope you’re excited to return to the world of FINAL FANTASY XVI! The Rising Tide is available to download now!

The previous DLC, Echoes of the Fallen is also available as part of the Expansion Pass or as a separate purchase. It sends Clive and his friends off on a new quest to investigate some mysterious new crystals… and up the mysterious Sagespire. It features a gripping new story with some fascinating lore, and some of the best boss battles of the game - especially the terrifying Omega.

To stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY XVI and other Square Enix games, be sure to follow us on social media:

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FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH: Flashback to the flashback part 2 - Fall of a Hero

Director Naoki Hamaguchi explains what went into making Sephiroth playable, Cloud’s improved combat skills, and recreating one of the most iconic scenes in gaming.
By Duncan Heaney

Welcome back to our deep dive into FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH’s iconic Nibelheim incident!

We recently sat down with the game’s Director, Naoki Hamaguchi, to explore this beloved part of the game. Previously, we looked at how the team rebuilt the village of Nibelheim and gave it more life than ever before. You can check that out here if you missed it:

Today, we explore the rest of the flashback up to the iconic scene where a fallen Sephiroth disappears into the flames of the village. Hamaguchi-san talked us through the journey to the reactor and beyond, but we started by discussing Cloud and the future one-winged angel himself…

SOLDIER First Class

Unlike the original FINAL FANTASY VII, this new game gives you full control of Sephiroth in battle - and as you’d expect he feels every bit the experienced SOLDIER he is. From the start of development, the team knew they wanted to let players control the character.

Director Naoki Hamaguchi says: “The way Sephiroth appears in the Nibelheim incident is one of the most famous parts of the original game, and we know that many players had wondered how it would be done in the Remake series.

“I think that when you consider what people would want to see, and perhaps even what they’d expect, it would be disappointing if you didn’t get to play as Sephiroth in battle. So, making him playable was a natural decision.”

Of course, Sephiroth appears in the opening sections of the game - in fact he’s one of the first characters you control in combat. That means the developers had a lot to consider about how they designed his moveset.

“Bear in mind, this is essentially first part of the game, so we felt we needed a character who was easy to control,” says Hamaguchi-san. “You should be able to use him fairly intuitively, without even watching a tutorial or seeing anything - he should just feel good.”

But ease of use wasn’t enough. Sephiroth is meant to be the best of the best - as Cloud himself says in the game, “He was in a different league to the rest of us.” That meant that the team faced the challenge of getting that across in the gameplay.

Hamaguchi-san says: “He had to feel strong. We had to give the impression that was fighting on another level to Cloud, so we made his moves really powerful and also very flashy to convey his much greater strength and experience.”

The strife of Cloud

Of course, Sephiroth doesn’t do all the fighting. As you ascend up the mountain, an enthusiastic Cloud takes the lead. But fans of the original game may notice that he seems more powerful and effective than he was in the original game’s flashback.

As it turns out, this was a conscious decision. “Making Cloud more capable was done deliberately,” explains Hamaguchi-san. “People who have played the original FINAL FANTASY VII story understand that the version of Cloud who appears in that scene is not entirely the character that people know.

“He’s misremembering certain aspects, and you can see that in the way he talks, the way he acts, his body language…”

If you’ve played the original game, you know why this is the case, but the Hamaguchi-san and the team wanted to signal to new players that something is amiss.

“People who don’t know the story should pick this stuff up - we definitely want to communicate to them that this doesn’t seem quite right. Why is he behaving so differently to the Cloud we know from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, for example?”

That dissonance wasn’t limited to the cutscenes though - in fact, it’s why the character feels stronger than he is in the original. Hamaguchi-san explains:

“We made some deliberate choices in terms of presentation, but we also wanted to reflect it through gameplay too. He is deliberately much stronger than fans may remember because it’s not just Cloud’s strength.”

Clearly, we’re dancing rather inelegantly around spoilers here, so Hamaguchi sums it up:

“Everything was done to make it feel paradoxical - like this isn’t the character you remember. And it was intended to communicate what’s happening in Cloud’s mental state.”

Suck it up, SOLDIER!

Cloud and Sephiroth’s journey to the reactor takes them through an abandoned Shinra facility. Amidst the monsters, the team also has to deal with additional hazards like a toxic mako gas leak. In order to progress and unlock the lift, Cloud must suck up the gas and make the area safe to traverse.

“There are various reasons we put interactive obstacles or mechanics like the gas extractors in the game,” says Hamaguchi-san. “Sometimes it can be to give the player a puzzle or a challenge that’s outside normal gameplay. That helps them think in a different way.

"With the gas extractors, however, it was more about giving players a hands-on experience of the world itself. To get them to interact in a way that helps them get a secondary look at the lore or setting of the game.“

This short section sees Cloud push a large machine, which inhales the pockets of gas - something added to convey important information to the player.

Hamaguchi-san says: “This section of the flashback sets up how mako is dangerous to the human body and what type of company Shinra is. For example, before it was abandoned, the employees would have to use these type of safety mechanisms to lower the gas level to where it’s safe to work.

“By letting players suck up the gas themselves, it directly shows what kind of substance mako is and what Shinra is like. It throws them into the world much deeper than if we just told them about it because they get to touch and experience it themselves.”

It’s only a short section, but even a brief mechanic like using the extractor required significant effort from the team. Hamaguchi-san says:

“We put in a lot of work to make the act of sucking up the gas feel satisfying. We had lots of different tests in terms of the visual effects, the sound, the level of vibration and so on. It took a lot of polishing in order to get right.

"In fact, this section originally had a lot more gas coming out than the final game. There were six points on the ground that you had to clean up - and it was this way for most of development. Then, about two weeks from final master, I was looking at it and thought, ‘it might be stressful if the player had to such up so many,’ so I knocked it down to three!“

The Materia Guardian unleashed

After the rope bridge leading to the reactor snaps, our heroes plummet into the raging river below. In addition to a regrettable loss of a companion, it also forces them to take a diversion through the mountain.

This leads them into a cave full of natural materia and ultimately a creature that protects it: the Materia Guardian. People who played the original game may recognize it as the Materia Keeper - a fiend that appears much further on in the story. So, why bring this boss forward into the flashback?

Hamaguchi explains: “We felt that to make that a nicely balanced section in terms of gameplay, we needed a boss fight at the end of it. That meant we had to make a decision: do we create a new enemy type, or is there something we could bring back from the original FINAL FANTASY VII?

“We very quickly realized that we wanted something from the original because it would delight fans to see something recognizable as the first boss.

“As we looked through the Mt. Nibel area, we felt like the Materia Keeper - or Materia Guardian as it’s named now - was the only real option, even though it originally appeared later in the game.

"It worked so well thematically - you have the reactor where mako is processed, and the lifespring before that, so the idea of a creature that protects the lifestream from intruders felt like a really great option.“

For the team it felt like a logical choice but were some caveats - particularly when you consider the game that had come before: FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE.

“We did have concerns,” admits Hamaguchi-san. “The first boss of REMAKE was the Scorpion Sentinel, and even though the Materia Guardian is a living creature rather than a mech, they do look quite similar. They’ve both got that arachnoid or insectoid body, for example.

“To get around those comparisons, we made a lot of effort to ensure that even if it looked similar visually, the new boss felt very different to the Scorpion Sentinel.”

Boss logic

With the enemy decided, the team set to work at making it a fun battle. It was an important fight to get right because the Materia Guardian is the first boss you face in the game - and that means it has a lot to do.

Hamaguchi-san says: “A good first boss works as an opportunity to really test the player on everything they’ve learned so far.

“The idea is that you have various battles that lead up to the boss, and they tutorialize you on the different battle mechanics, and the different things your characters can do. Then, you get an opportunity to try them all out.

“As an example, the Materia Guardian puts you in different situations and encourages you to use the different mechanics to get out of them.

“There are parts of the fight where the boss climbs on the ceiling. That encourages the use of the enhanced aerial movement that characters have and helps players to familiarize themselves with these new abilities. Or there are times where the Materia Guardian restrains a character, encouraging you to switch to the other and free them.”

But as well giving players a test, the Materia Guardian also provides lessons of its own: Hamaguchi-san says: “We use the Materia Keeper to introduce the Synergy Abilities, where two characters can fight together - in this case Cloud and Sephiroth.

“Placing that lesson within the first boss makes for a really memorable moment for players, as they realize what this new system can do. It also gives them the motivation to really dig into Synergy Skills and Abilities from Chapter 2 onwards, when they can use in other battles.”

Mother’s Day

When Cloud and Sephiroth arrive at the reactor, they make a startling discovery - one that seems to throw Sephiroth for a loop. Upon their return to Nibelheim, the silver-haired SOLDIER locks himself in the Shinra Manor, where he pores over tome after tome.

“I think this is one of the moments I’m proudest of in the whole flashback,” says Hamaguchi-san. “That scene where you see Sephiroth reading through all the old books and documents and coming to the conclusion that he was created from Jenova.

“This whole sequence shows the changes in Sephiroth, so it’s really important. The way it was portrayed had to be perfect - and we worked really hard to ensure that it was.”

One thing that the team wanted to achieve was a far more naturalistic feeling than the original. Hamaguchi-san says: “There were moments in the mansion in original game that always looked a little comical to me. For example, there’s a moment later in the story where Sephiroth flies up into the air, spins around and flies through a corridor!

“So, getting everything to feel more natural in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH was important to me.”

House renovations

The Shinra Manor is a particularly memorable location in the original game, and it’s been recreated in extreme detail in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH. However, the team did discover that they would have to make some changes from the original design. For example, you now descend into the basement via an elevator, rather than with a spiral staircase.

“We did actually try to make the spiral staircase and incorporate it into the game,” recalls Hamaguchi-san. “The problem was that it just didn’t feel right.

“When we tried to do it at the realistic scale of the building, it become very steep and very narrow. When you tried to go down it, the camera flew everywhere - it just felt really odd!

"We tried out a few things, but ultimately thought that if we were to go with realistic proportions, it just doesn’t work. That’s why we ultimately made the decision to switch to using the elevator.“

The basement of the Shinra Manor was also given special attention - particularly given that a rather popular character is power-napping down there.

“We paid quite a bit of attention to the door to Vincent Valentine’s room,” says Hamaguchi-san. “People who have played the original game know that he’s resting there, and we wanted to draw attention to that - make it obvious where that door is.

“I think it’s a fun moment for fans to try to interact with the door and see it’s locked, because they know who’s in there. It builds anticipation for later!”

That moment

When Cloud revisits Sephiroth in the mansion, he finds a changed man. After a brief altercation, which doesn’t go well for poor Cloud, Sephiroth leaves the mansion. What happens next is one of the most famous scenes in gaming - as Sephiroth burns Nibelheim to the ground and walks into the flames.

“This is such an iconic scene, and it was the major focus of that section of the game,” says Hamaguchi-san. “Everything we did was to make sure we could depict that scene where Sephiroth disappears into the flames in the most dramatic way possible.”

One of the key decisions that the team made was that this section would be playable - although that wasn’t always planned. Hamaguchi-san says:

“When we got the first draft of the script from (Story and Scenario) Kazushige Nojima, the whole sequence of events, from Sephiroth discovering who he is, through to when he disappears into the flames, was done as cutscenes. And to be honest, it would have worked on a certain level.

“But what we really wanted to achieve was that feeling that Cloud, or the player, is desperately pursuing Sephiroth into the flames. To create that kind of emotional reaction.

“That’s why we added extra scenes of Cloud desperately, painfully going through the burning village, worrying about his mother and her safety while still keeping an eye on Sephiroth.

“By making it all playable, I do think it elicits the right feeling we wanted for the scene - it does have emotional impact.”

The shot of Sephiroth disappearing into the flickering flames remains as affecting as ever - a testament to the care and attention that the team has put into the Nibelheim incident - and FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH as a whole.

You can experience it all for yourselves in the full game - available now for PS5.

Alternatively, if you want to try before you buy, a free demo is available. It allows you to play through a large part of the Nibelheim incident, including all the scenes discussed in this series, and also freely explore a part of the Junon region.

Many thanks to Hamaguchi-san for sharing his insight with us. We hope you enjoy the series and the game - be sure to check the Square Enix Blog regularly for more articles about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, as well as other Square Enix games.

And be sure to follow FINAL FANTASY VII on social media for news and information about the game:

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10 Square Enix series FINAL FANTASY fans will love

Are you a big fan of FINAL FANTASY games? Here are 10 more series of games that we think you’ll adore!
By Duncan Heaney
The Hero from DRAGON QUEST XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age: Definitive Edition

Square Enix has a lot of FINAL FANTASY fans - and with good reason. But once you’ve taken down Shinra, defeated Sin or reached the end of the road with Noctis and chums, what’s next?

Fortunately, we have plenty of other amazing series, that we think that FINAL FANTASY fans will adore.

You may have already played some of these, others you may yet to discover. Either way, here are 10 suggestions for games and series that are well worth your time.

KINGDOM HEARTS

The Hero from DRAGON QUEST XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age: Definitive Edition

What do you get if you take some of the most beloved Disney and Pixar characters of all time, and some of the most popular FINAL FANTASY characters, and then put them together in the same series?

You get KINGDOM HEARTS - and it’s amazing.

The series typically puts you into the protagonist Sora - a young boy with the power to wield a keyblade. Accompanied by Donald and Goofy, he travels between worlds, facing off against the shadowy Heartless and interacting with some familiar faces for both Disney and FINAL FANTASY fans.

Which KINGDOM HEARTS game should I play?

There’s no ‘correct’ place to start the KINGDOM HEARTS series - each entry is a chapter of the larger story, but each is also enjoyable and distinct in its own right.

Fortunately, the games are available in collections that comprise multiple titles, so it’s easy to start exploring the wonders of the series.

Here are some starting points you might consider:

  • KINGDOM HEARTS HD 1.5 + 2.5 ReMIX: this collection contains four full games, and two additional story experiences. For a good starting point, try KINGDOM HEARTS Final Mix and KINGDOM HEARTS II Final Mix. These classic action RPGs have been lovingly remastered with HD visuals, improved controls, remastered music and more.

  • KINGDOM HEARTS III + Re Mind DLC: the most recent mainline entry in the series, KINGDOM HEARTS III features some truly inspiring worlds, amazing combat and jaw-droppingly gorgeous visuals.

  • KINGDOM HEARTS Melody of Memory: this is a little different to the rest of the series in that it’s not an RPG - it’s a rhythm action game, similar to FINAL FANTASY’s Theatrhythm series. As well as being an entertaining music game (with some incredible tunes by series composer Yoko Shimomura), it also recaps the story of the entire saga, making it a great way for new fans to experience the story so far.

DRAGON QUEST series

The Hero from DRAGON QUEST XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age: Definitive Edition

FINAL FANTASY is one giant of the Japanese RPG genre. DRAGON QUEST is another.

Not only is it a very popular series, it’s an influential one too. It was one of the first console RPGs and in many ways set the template for the whole genre - many games released today continue to hold a debt to this prestigious series.

As for the games themselves… they’re terrific. Like FINAL FANTASY, each entry works as a standalone adventure, but share common enemies and themes.

Every one is packed with personality, and many of the elements have become truly iconic - even if you’ve never played one before, you’ll surely recognise a humble slime.

Which DRAGON QUEST game should I play?

There are plenty of DRAGON QUEST games available, and each one offers a great experience in its own right. There’s no correct starting point then, but if I had to give some personal picks, I would point new players to the following titles:

  • DRAGON QUEST XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age - Definitive Edition: The most recent entry in the DRAGON QUEST series brings modern concepts with traditional RPG gameplay together to create an unforgettable adventure. Incredible characters, exciting turn-based combat and a gripping story…if you’re a fan of RPGs, you simply must play DRAGON QUEST XI S. It’s a modern classic.

  • DRAGON QUEST Builders 2: If you’re after something a little less traditional, check out the DRAGON QUEST BUILDERS 2. The game fuses a substantial story-based RPG with building and crafting mechanics to create a literal blockbuster. It’s one of those games that’s so fun it’s hard to stop playing.

Mana series

The Hero from DRAGON QUEST XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age: Definitive Edition

The Mana series and the FINAL FANTASY series are inextricably linked. The original Mana game was released as a Nintendo Game Boy spinoff of the FINAL FANTASY series, known as Seiken Densetsu: Final Fantasy Gaiden in Japan, and FINAL FANTASY Adventure in the US.

Since then, of course, the series has gone on to carve out a wholly unique identity across handheld and consoles, and it’s now highly regarded as one of the most inventive action RPG series out there.

Like FINAL FANTASY, each game in the Mana series works as a standalone experience - monsters, items and themes carry over between games rather than narrative elements. While different games present markedly different experiences (again, like FINAL FANTASY), each one is brimming with color, imagination and charm.

Which Mana game should I play?

There are plenty of options to start your journey with the Mana series. Here are some recommendations:

  • Trials of Mana: a full 3D remake of Trials of Mana, this fast-paced action RPG features beautiful visuals, snappy, satisfying combat and a good amount of replayability - the narrative plays out differently depending on the characters you pick.

  • Legend of Mana: the classic RPG has been recently rereleased with newly remastered backgrounds, rearranged music and more. It’s an impressively free form adventure and has a non-linear narrative where you choose how to experience the story.

  • Collection of Mana (Switch): this retro collection features the first three games in the series: the Game Boy’s FINAL FANTASY ADVENTURE and the SNES games Secret of Mana and Trials of Mana. If you want to see how the series begins, it’s a great way to do it.

CHRONO Series

The Hero from DRAGON QUEST XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age: Definitive Edition

The two CHRONO games have a reputation for being some of the best RPGs of all time - and they more than live up to it!

Both titles in the series feature amazing characters, stellar soundtracks, exciting and strategic combat systems, and compellingly twisty-turny plots that feature everything from time travel to parallel worlds.

Some might even call them masterpieces - if you’re a dedicated RPG fan, consider them required reading.

Which Chrono game should I play?

Both Chrono games work as standalone adventures, so you should feel free to start with whichever you like. That said, there are some fun connections between the two, and if you do play both (again, order doesn’t matter), you’ll enjoy spotting them.

  • CHRONO TRIGGER: This 16-bit adventure sends a young man onto a time-hopping adventure into the distant past and the far-flung future. It’s available now on Steam, iOS and Android. What’s more, the game’s been updated with 21:9 widescreen support, so it looks better than ever (well, wider than ever at least).

  • CHRONO CROSS: THE RADICAL DREAMERS EDITION: An enhanced version of CHRONO CROSS is available for Switch, PS4, Xbox One and PC! In this tale, you play as a hero who finds himself transported to a world where he apparently died as a child. Along with a thief named Kid, he embarks on a quest across two parallel words to investigate the connection between his existence and the future of his planet. This version of the game also includes RADICAL DREAMERS – Le Trésor Interdit - a previously Japan-exclusive text adventure with links to both CHRONO games!

The SaGa series

The Hero from DRAGON QUEST XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age: Definitive Edition

The SaGa series is another with strong connections to FINAL FANTASY. While the original Game Boy release was known as Makai Toushi SaGa, in the US it was titled FINAL FANTASY LEGEND.

Despite the name, the SaGa games are very distinctly their own thing - a collection of RPGs that typically focus on expansive casts, open-ended character growth and non-linear exploration.

Still, if you’re a fan of the classic FINAL FANTASY games, and you’re looking for an RPG that will scratch a similar itch, then make sure the SaGa series is on your radar.

Which SaGa game should I play?

A number of SaGa titles have been released in the last few years, and each one offers a fantastic starting point for new fans. Here’s what you should check out:

  • SaGa Emerald Beyond: Releasing on April 25, 2024, this bold new RPG is set across 17 unique worlds, each with their own aesthetic and cultures. You choose between five protagonists (well, technically six because one of the choices is a duo) and experience a narrative that changes depending on who you pick and the worlds you visit. There's a demo available now if you want an early look.

  • SaGa SCARLET GRACE: AMBITIONS: this is an RPG that’s all about choice. There’s no fixed narrative in the game - your adventure changes depending on who you play as and the decisions you make. It also features a richly tactical turn-based battle system that rewards planning with some of the most satisfying attacks out there.

  • Romancing SaGa -Minstrel Song- Remastered: This new edition of the classic PlayStation 2 RPG has been enhanced with a host of new features, including HD visuals, refined gameplay, and even brand new content. With great characters, music and super-satisfying turn-based combat it's a real treat.

  • Romancing SaGa 3: Originally released back in 1995, Romancing SaGa 3 has been recently remastered with optimized graphics, new content and more. As with SaGa SCARLET GRACE: AMBITIONS, the game features a unique free-form scenario system that lets you experience a different narrative depending on which character you choose. If you’re looking for a classic-style RPG with unique ideas, it’s an essential play.

  • Collection of SaGa: See where the SaGa started with this collection of FINAL FANTASY LEGEND I - III. These three classic Game Boy RPGs stand up as great games even today, with engaging worlds, satisfying mechanics and tons of replayability.

Voice of Cards series

The Hero from DRAGON QUEST XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age: Definitive Edition

The Voice of Cards series presents a fresh take on traditional RPGs.

It features everything you could want from an RPG - wonderful stories, excellent music and exciting battles. And… everything is presented through the medium of cards.

Yes, cards.

The world is made of cards, the items are made from cards… it’s all cards. As you’d expect from the creators of NieR and Drakengard, each entry is packed with stunning visuals, offbeat humour and imaginative encounters.

If you’re looking for a laid-back RPG full of wit and charm, look no further than a Voice of Cards game.

Which Voice of Cards game should I play?

Two Voice of Cards adventures have been released, and each is a standalone game that requires no knowledge of the other. They’re also both excellent, so we’d say go with the setup that sounds most appealing to you.

  • Voice of Cards: The Isle Dragon Roars: an… erm… less than noble hero sets off on a journey to defeat a dragon that threatens the land and its people… and maybe earn a nice fat reward in the process.

  • Voice of Cards: The Forsaken Maiden: A remote chain of islands holds off destruction thanks to the Maidens that protect them. Well, most of them - one island finds itself without a maiden, but one resident refuses to let it die. Accompanied by a voiceless young woman and a self-proclaimed ‘spirt’ that looks like a soft toy, he sets sail to save his home.

  • Voice of Cards: The Beasts of Burden: you play as a young girl, who lives in a subterranean village. A secure wall prevents monsters from entering the village, but one day it falls under attack. With her once stable life in ruins, she sets out into the unknown to seek revenge… and unravel the fate of this broken world. As well as a fascinating new story, this entry in the series also introduced a new mechanic: the ability to trap monsters and use them in battle!

DUNGEON ENCOUNTERS

The Hero from DRAGON QUEST XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age: Definitive Edition

There’s a lot of FINAL FANTASY DNA in DUNGEON ENCOUNTERS - it’s directed by the FINAL FANTASY series’ Hiroyuki Ito, produced by Hiroaki Kato, and with a soundtrack overseen by Nobuo Uematsu, the legendary composer who’s synonymous with the FINAL FANTASY series.

Players can enjoy a newly polished and refined iteration of FINAL FANTASY’s classic Active Time Battle (ATB) system brought to you by original creator, Hiroyuki Ito.

All this talent has produced a compelling dungeon-crawling adventure, that marries minimalist presentation with extremely strategic combat. It’s as pure an RPG as you’ll find - and once it gets its hooks into you, one that’s very difficult to stop thinking about.

Life is Strange series

The Hero from DRAGON QUEST XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age: Definitive Edition

If you play FINAL FANTASY because you love strong stories, then you should definitely check out Life is Strange. It’s a narrative-focused series where your decisions impact the story, the characters and their relationships.

While some characters appear across multiple games, each entry in the series stands alone as an enjoyable and satisfying tale in its own right. Add some fascinating supernatural twists and you have a series that consistently delivers some of the best tales in gaming.

Which Life is Strange game should I play?

  • Life is Strange: True Colors: Why will FINAL FANTASY fans love Life is Strange: True Colors? Because Life is Strange: True Colors loves FINAL FANTASY! The game features some wonderful references to RPGs, both in background detail and gameplay segments - but to say any more would ruin the surprises. Rest assured that the rest of the game is terrific too - an emotional adventure with wonderful characters, visuals and plenty of twists and turns.

  • Life is Strange Remastered Collection: The original Life is Strange and Life is Strange: Before the Storm are back, with updated visuals, improved lip syncing, a new lighting system and much more. It’s the best way to experience these classic games and see why the series has gained such a legion of fans.

STAR OCEAN series

The Hero from DRAGON QUEST XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age: Definitive Edition

The STAR OCEAN series is another long-standing series that RPG fans should check out - if you haven’t already.

The science fiction series features numerous titles that lean into science fiction concepts, like space exploration and alien worlds, and meld them with fantasy elements. Since its first entry in 1996, the series has become famous for the sheer imagination and personality that’s packed into each entry.

Which STAR OCEAN game should I play?

  • STAR OCEAN THE DIVINE FORCE: the most recent STAR OCEAN game one of the best in the series yet. As well as an amazing setting that fuses science fiction and fantasy, it also hands you an impressive amount of choice over how you traverse the world. Sick of always being on foot? This game lets you fly!

  • STAR OCEAN THE SECOND STORY R: the second STAR OCEAN game is considered the crown jewel of the series, and it returns on November 2, 2023 as a full remake. It features a beautiful new 2.5D art style, revamped combat system, new story content, a rearranged soundtrack and more!

  • STAR OCEAN First Departure R: this remastered version of the very first game in the series has been enhanced to make it even more enjoyable to play. Already a very highly regarded adventure, it now benefits from full voiceovers, new character illustrations, a high-speed mode to accelerate traversal, and rebalanced combat.

  • STAR OCEAN: THE LAST HOPE - 4K and FULL HD REMASTER: a fantastically action-packed RPG with an uber-satisfying battle system, some memorable characters and - as the name implies - lovely super-crisp visuals.

Those are just some of the series we think that FINAL FANTASY fans will love… but we’re sure that some of you have your own top tips for what to play.

Share your thoughts with fans on social media:

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FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH: Flashback to the flashback part 1: Building Nibelheim

We dive deep into the Nibelheim Flashback with Director Naoki Hamaguchi to discover the secrets behind recreating iconic scenes.
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY VII’s iconic Nibelheim incident has always been a revelatory experience.

It explains what led a noble war hero like Sephiroth to fall into darkness. It reveals what happened in Cloud and Tifa's hometown and the traumatic events that forged them into the characters we know today.

In other words, it’s a hugely important part of the story… which makes it the perfect place for FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH to start! The incident forms the first chapter of the game and sees SOLDIER operatives Cloud and Sephiroth head to the small village of Nibelheim on a seemingly routine mission.

Obviously, things don’t stay routine for long.

The scene was already iconic, but the new game makes it even more impactful than ever before. So much so, that we thought it would be interesting to dive in deep and explore this chapter fully.

To that end, we recently sat down with the Director of the game, Naoki Hamaguchi, to go beat by beat through FINAL FANTASY REBIRTH’s take on the Nibelheim incident and discover what went into remaking it for a new generation.

In this first part (of two), we started by talking about the setting itself…

Homecoming

After a thrilling introduction in which Sephiroth makes short work of a monstrous fiend (we'll talk about his combat more in part 2), the group arrives at their destination: the small village of Nibelheim.

As mentioned, it’s a location that’s very important to the FINAL FANTASY VII story. It’s not only the scene of some pivotal story beats, but also the hometown of Cloud and Tifa - a place with great emotional resonance for the characters and the fans alike.

In other words, the REBIRTH team could not afford to get it wrong.

Fortunately, they had a small head start in building the area to fit the new realistic scale of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

“We didn’t have to do much to redevelop Nibelheim,” says Director Naoki Hamaguchi.

"We’ve gone back to the village several times, including in CRISIS CORE -FINAL FANTASY VII-, so over the years it’s slowly been expanded out.

“What we did have to expand massively, though, is the level of detail.”

That didn’t just mean creating more detailed buildings and scenery for the higher fidelity of the game - though the team did do that, of course. But it was also about giving the village a greater sense of life than previous versions achieved.

Hamaguchi says: “If we just did a one-to-one replica of the original FINAL FANTASY VII, or even CRISIS CORE, it probably wouldn’t resonate with people the way it should. So, we had to add that extra level of detail.

“In order to recreate the Nibelheim as people remember it and give this part of the story the same feeling as the original, we had to add many extra details. We had to show things in a much more comprehensive way."

This dedication to detail can be seen in that opening section, as you are let loose to wander around the settlement, meet its people and explore Cloud’s past.

Tourist attractions

There’s a lot you can do in Nibelheim. You can visit Cloud’s mother, Claudia, reminisce on the water tower, head into Tifa’s room to play the piano or examine her wardrobe and more. Many of these may be familiar to fans of the original game.

“Obviously people have a lot of memories about some of the interactions you can find,” says Hamaguchi-san. “We wanted to include those in there to give the authentic experience.”

But the team didn’t stop at recreating moments from the original - they also added new elements for players to discover too.

Hamaguchi-san explains: “The reason why we added these things into Nibelheim, and the game in general, was not because of a desire to add something. It was very much a case of: how do we make this village more real? How do we make it feel lived in and give it its own atmosphere?

“For example, there are little interactions, such as Zangan’s exercise class – that’s something that felt real, and right for the village itself. It conveys the idea that people are actually living their lives there.

"And actually, when you return to the village in the present day, you’ll see that exercise has been carried on in a certain way.”

The little details

This focus on giving the village and its people life and character wasn’t just limited to interactable elements. The village is full of little details and environmental storytelling that help give it a sense of place and authenticity - and some of them even set up things that happen later in the game.

“For example, there’s an empty lot at the back of the village where loads of cats just hang around and gather together,” says Hamaguchi-san. “Later on, when you come back, one of those cats even has a part to play in a quest.

"By adding these things, and even involving them in quests, we felt that it really tied together this feeling that this is an organic place - a living, breathing village. That’s how we want the player to perceive it.”

Fan service

In Tifa’s room, the eagle-eyed among you may have spotted a poster featuring the silhouette of a certain bequiffed martial artist - one who may look familiar to players of FINAL FANTASY VIII.

It’s one Zell of a reference, and just one example of how the team has paid loving homage to the FINAL FANTASY series in Nibelheim and beyond.

“We set out to put as much of that stuff as we could into the game,” says Hamaguchi-san with a grin. “Certainly, you’ll spot plenty of references to the Compilation of FINAL FANTASY VII titles, as well as the wider FINAL FANTASY series.

“You’ll find plenty of stuff that we added just to make dedicated fans smile.”

In other words, fans should pay attention to posters and other details throughout the game!

Expanding Mt. Nibel

While Nibelheim was well-established, the area around the village was far less defined. After all, fans had never really been given the opportunity to explore it before.

As Hamaguchi-san points out: “The important thing to remember about the journey from Nibelheim to the reactor is that most of that section wasn’t playable in the original FINAL FANTASY VII.

“It was told through cutscenes up to the part where the party falls down from the rope bridge. So, while memorable, none of that was an explorable area.”

The team realised that reusing this structure for FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH wouldn’t lead to a satisfying experience - and would go against the philosophy of the game itself.

“One of the main concepts for the whole of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is to allow players to experience the actual scale of the world,” says Hamaguchi-san.

“We thought that if we replicated this section from the original, from arriving in the village through to the rope bridge, it just wouldn’t communicate that sense of scale.

“You also wouldn’t get the geography of the region - how far Mt. Nibel is from the village itself, where the mako reactor is in comparison and so on. That’s why we added lots of extra playable sections in there - to give you a feeling of how big it’s supposed to be.”

The team built the Nibel Region to communicate that sense of realistic scale, and let you walk from the village to the bridge in real-time. When creating the area around Mt Nibel, the team looked at some existing sources from previous titles in the FINAL FANTASY VII series.

Hamaguchi-san says: “As well as scale, we also wanted to ensure connectivity with other games in the series. For example, there were some parts added to the Nibel area in CRISIS CORE. We wanted to pull from those in order to make the games feel consistent.”

Credits where they’re due

While there are plenty of threats on the way to the Mt. Nibel reactor, the first section of the journey there is surprisingly peaceful. In fact, it serves as an introduction to the game, as the camera pulls back, a wonderful new arrangement of the main theme plays, and credits display on the screen.

Why add the credit crawl here? Hamaguchi says: “In most FINAL FANTASY games, you have an opening movie, which typically includes the logo, and sometimes credits. It’s been handled in that traditional fashion for quite a long time.

“For this game, we wanted to do it a bit differently - not as a cut scene but instead have the credits over the screen while people were actually playing. That was one reason we decided to do it this way.”

But it wasn’t just a desire to be different that led to this evocative sequence. Hamaguchi-san explains:

“There was another reason, too. When I first saw (STORY & SCENARIO ) Kazushige Nojima’s storyline for that section, we worked out that there’s this journey from the village of Nibelheim through to the reactor - that’s about a kilometer of distance, so travel takes up a fair amount of time.

“We thought that rather than just fill out the area with battles, it’d be a nicer pace if we just had players experience the scenery, the nature around Mt. Nibel to see what kind of area it actually is. We also thought we could have some conversations between characters and start setting the scene as well. Adding the credits over the top of that let us do all that in a nice and balanced way.”

The final sequence is very effective - the combination of visuals, music and dialogue create a feeling of anticipation for the mission ahead of our heroes. As Hamaguchi says:

“It also acts as a kind of a notice to the player that this is where things get going. You’ve had time to explore the village and meet the characters. Now it’s time to step into the wilderness, and to where the game really begins.”

But as the game really begins, this deep dive must end… for now. Bookmark the Square Enix Blog and join us next week on Tuesday 16 April for Part 2 as Hamaguchi-san goes into the rest of the flashback, including Cloud and Sephiroth’s combat prowess, the journey to the reactor and THAT iconic moment.

For more articles about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, check these out:

If you’re yet to experience the flashback for yourself, you can do so in the full FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - available now for PS5:

Alternatively, a free demo featuring the flashback is also available:

We’ll see you back on the Square Enix Blog for part 2, but for now be sure to follow us on social media for news and updates about the game:

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FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH: Tips and tricks for playing Queen’s Blood

Want to dominate the board in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH’s incredible card game? We offer up some tips and tricks and share our own personal strategies.
By Duncan Heaney
Queen's Blood match

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH’s card game is fast, fun, challenging and compelling in equal measure. It’s possible to lose countless hours within the game’s impressive world just challenging its eccentric residents to match after match.

Of course, it’s not always easy. The game is strategically deep and climbing the ranks requires thought, strategy and a deck full of great cards. Don’t worry though - we’re here to help.

We’ve put together some tips and tricks to help you conquer this most compelling of card games. Hopefully these suggestions will give you the edge you need to ascend all the way to Blood Champion!

Queen's Blood match

There is no ‘correct’ deck

Not so much a tip, as just a disclaimer I want to make upfront. While simple to learn, Queen’s Blood is a game of enormous strategic depth. There are so many tactics and strategies you can consider. This means that there is no single viable deck, and no one set of cards that is categorically the right one to use.

For example, when compiling this guide, I asked numerous people across Square Enix HQ for their own tips, and quickly discovered that no two players used the same deck. Few even shared the same strategies.

For example, one of my favorite things to do is buff cards to absurd levels of strength and dominate the game with sheer power. But someone else on the team favored a more elegant approach based on dominating and maintaining board territory, while another plays a very aggressive game based on destroying and debuffing opponent cards.

All approaches are ‘correct’, and part of the fun is finding your own way. So, when you read on, bear in mind that the following tips are advice and suggestions, not hard and fast rules you must follow.

Buy every card you come across

Be sure to visit item shops in every town - they usually sell Queen’s Blood Booster Packs, which contain new cards to add to your deck. The more cards you have, the more options you have, so it’s well worth the investment.

You can buy cards in other places too, such as certain vending machines, Thorin’s Card Shop in the Grasslands and various stalls in the Gold Saucer. Don’t be picky - splash the cash (or GP) and get everything!

Queen's Blood match

Visit Thorin’s shop each time you reach a new region

The card shop in the Grasslands only has a couple of cards to start with (though they’re very good ones!). However, the stock will increase as you progress through the game and reach other regions. These cards are themed around the Summons you’ll earn in the game, such as Phoenix and Alexander - powerful and very cool.

You’ll have to travel back to the Grasslands to get them, but with the game’s ample fast travel options and super-fast load times, that’s not exactly a problem.

Play everyone you come across

The world of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is full of people eager to play Queen’s Blood with a passing merc, so you should take them up on it as often as you can. If you beat them, you’ll earn a new card - this is key to strengthen your deck and prepare you for the challenges ahead.

If you’re struggling to beat someone, you can go away and come back later - the game doesn’t lock out any content through story progression. But make sure you do come back and face them again.

Queen's Blood match

It’s okay to lose a match

There are no penalties for losing a match - your opponent won’t take any of your cards and you can just restart or play them again. In fact, paying attention to your opponent’s strategies can teach you how to use certain cards or even inspire strategies of your own.

‘Failure is the best teacher’ may be a cliché, but it’s no less true when it comes to Queen’s Blood.

Build a balanced deck

When building your deck, you’ll want to make sure that you have a good balance of 1-rank, 2-rank and 3-rank cards (and maybe a few special cards later in the game - we’ll come onto them).

  • Rank 1 cards (1 pawn): You’ll likely want (more) of these than any other. (to be successful you will probably need more these cards than any other rank carrds)These may not always score very highly, but they’re essential for building your control of the board, taking control away from your opponent and strengthening other squares for more impactful cards. You’ll want enough that you always have a few during the initial draw of the game.

  • Rank 2 cards (2 pawns): These offer a range of benefits including increased strength, more flexible capture patterns and many more. Try to have a good number of them, as they’ll likely become the difference between victory and defeat.

  • Rank 3 cards (3 pawns): These are extraordinarily powerful cards that can change the game entirely when used well. They’re also quite tricky to deploy, as you need a board square with three pawns on to use them. As a result, you shouldn’t carry too many - I found one or two at most was enough.

Finally, later in the game, you’ll get access to options that don’t fall into these three categories - for example, cards that replace other cards. These in particular can be useful against the harder opponents, so it’s worth adding a couple to your deck.

Queen's Blood match

Choose cards that synergize with each other

When it comes to the cards you should fill your deck with… well, that’s up to you. However, try to choose cards that can support each other’s strengths.

For example, the Chocobo & Moogle card raises power for every other enhanced allied card on the board. That combines well with things like the Cactuar and Crystalline Crab in the early game. Add Ifrit as a Rank 3 card, which increases in power for each of your enhanced cards and you can win matches through sheer power. (Ifrit gains power for each enhanced cards)

That’s just an example, of course - there are plenty of strategies as previously mentioned. So, try to use cards that work together in interesting ways.

Use a prebuilt deck if preferred

Perhaps you’re not really into deckbuilding games, but you still want to see where the Queen’s Blood story goes. Or maybe you just want to choose a viable selection of cards very quickly. If so, FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH lets you choose from a selection of pre-built decks so you can get into the action right away.

You’ll need to own the right cards, of course, and the number of decks increases as the game progresses, so if you’re playing regularly and buying new cards, you should always be ready to compete.

Queen's Blood match

Tread carefully around the middle of the board

If you’re like me, when you first start Queen’s Blood your first instinct is to probably try to rush and capture as much territory as quickly as possible. Resist those urges because that approach can be fatal.

Success in Queen’s Blood is about tactically controlling the board, and you want to limit your opponent’s opportunities to play cards. If you create an opening in the middle, they will likely drop a card that turns all your lovely green pawns into their nasty red ones.

Play it slow and think ahead. If you have a single green pawn next to a red after your turn, there’s a good chance you’re about to lose it. Instead focus on the edges. Try to let the computer take the first move into the middle squares - then you can be the one to swoop in and convert their pawns.

Sometimes it’s best to let your opponent play first

If you’re nervous about the implications of playing a card - for example, it gives your opponent an opening to steal your territory - remember that you can pass your turn. Your AI opponents don’t tend to do this to you, so you can force them into the less favorable position as a result.

A word of warning though - only do this if you’re currently winning or drawing across the lanes. If the computer has more points lit up than you, it will also pass and bring the game to a close.

Queen's Blood match

A single lane can be enough to win

Even though you’re competing for control of three lanes, that doesn’t mean you necessarily have to win them all.

Victory is determined by your total score across all the lanes your control. That means that a really high number from a single lane can be enough to beat your opponent, even if they win the other two.

Something to bear in mind against certain opponents…

A quick tip for the final part

No spoilers here, but the finale of the Queen’s Blood story will test everything you’ve learned about the game so far, and possibly even force you to change up your strategy. It certainly took me more than a few tries to beat it.

As with all Queen’s Blood, there are different ways to win, but for me one card was the MVP here: the Chocobo Jockey (purchasable with GP at the Gold Saucer). It adds 10 points to any winning row, which may give you the edge on points against this very tricky opponent.

We’ll say no more for spoilers, but if you’re struggling, then consider adding it to your deck. It’s not an auto-win by any means, but it may help you as it did me.

Experiment!

As I said at the start, these are all merely suggestions. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different decks and strategies and try things out. You can replay opponents, even when beaten, and the Gold Saucer in particular offers a range of matches that are great for trying out new cards and ideas.

The more you dig into Queen’s Blood, the more you get out of it, so play around, try things out, and generally have fun.

Queen's Blood match

Some deck and card suggestions from the team

To round things off, here are some examples of some decks we used in the game, so you can see how the above can be applied. These worked for us, so perhaps they’ll work for you too.

Make it big, buffed and burly

This one is mine - it’s all about controlling space while making cards as strong as possible.

Queen's Blood match

Typical Strategy:

  • Focus on using cards that enhance others
  • Use Titan to build a three-pawn square quickly
  • Play Ifrit and watch his strength skyrocket as more cards are enhanced
  • Use Insectoid Chimera and Griffin to replace cards next to enemy pawns and capture those squares for yourself
  • Use Chocobo Jockey to add a massive 10 points to a row you win. That extra score is often enough to win the game!

Build up and destroy

Community Manager Madelyn suggests this deck, which is based boosting her cards by destroying her own or enemy cards.

Queen's Blood match
  • Mulligan to ensure you start with a rank 1 card, but keep Tonberry King, Midgardsormr, Chocobo & Moogle, and/or Sea Devil if in starting hand
  • Try to get Sea Devil, Midgardsormr, and Tonberry King out before you replace other cards with Insectoid Chimera, Gigantoad, Grandhorn, or Griffon
  • Try to fill as much area as possible to corner your opponent before placing Rank 3 cards in Rows 1 and 2
  • Start to replace and destroy cards after Midgardsormr and /or Tonberry King have been placed. Remember, you can also take back spots or increase the rank of spots using replacement cards.

We hope these tips help you in your quest to become Blood Champion. If you’re yet to experience the glory of Queen’s Blood for yourself, FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is out now for PS5:

To stay up to date with news and information about the game, be sure to follow us on social media:

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FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH: Suzie Yeung talks Yuffie Kisaragi

The actress who brings the materia-obsessed ninja to life talks explains finding new depth to the character, what Yuffie means to her and what’s new for FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH.
By Duncan Heaney

Yuffie Kisaragi is back!

After headlining FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE’s DLC, EPISODE INTERmission, the materia-loving ninja is joining Cloud and company as a fully playable member of the party in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

This young warrior from Wutai adds fresh energy to the team, thanks partly to a brilliant voice performance from Suzie Yeung. We recently spoke to the actor about her experiences on the game, Yuffie’s new role in REBIRTH and how she made this character sing… literally.

In your own words, who is Yuffie Kisaragi?

Yuffie is… a huge goober (laughs)!

She has such grandiose visions of herself and the world around her. She’s this kid who has such wide-open sparkly eyes. She looks at the world and is like, “This is so much! And there’s so much to do!”

Except for Midgar, which she actively trashes on (laughs).

She has a mission to restore the former glory of Wutai and she will do anything in her power to do that. And have lots of fun along the way.

How did you feel when you saw people react positively to your portrayal of Yuffie in FF7R EPISODE INTERmission?

I was really stunned by all the positive reactions from everyone.

I’ve seen some comments online where they were really excited by the interpretation of Yuffie, because prior to that, she wasn’t super-developed. The EPISODE INTERmission DLC was the first time we got to see much more of her character, and I’m grateful that people were happy with my rendition of it!

To see them say things like, “She’s just like when I imagined the game back in 1997”… I was very excited to see that!

Do you remember any moments where you realized it had gone down well?

Even before I met any fans, I had seen some reactions to the FINAL FANTASY VII INTERGRADE trailer. Just seeing the reaction from everybody was so exciting for me. Just watching them be like, “Is that Yuffie?! Is that my daughter?” (laughs).

It was very heartwarming. I specifically remember that I was streaming FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE because I’m such a big fan. And when I got to the end and the credits started rolling, I began crying. I was just thinking to myself, “I’m going to be part of this team.”

It made me so emotional and the fans on the other side reacting were just as excited as I was.

How has Yuffie changed between EPISODE INTERmission and FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

The core of Yuffie pretty much stays the same, but she definitely carries a weight to her since INTERmission because of all the events that happened.

She doesn’t necessarily let it show at first when she interacts with everybody, but she’s still very much focused on her goals.

Now she has a definite mission, whereas before it was a lot of fun and games. It still is for REBIRTH, but there’s a serious side we get to explore later on in the game. Her coming to terms with what happened - it’ll be an emotional scene, I think.

What was the most challenging thing about playing her in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

Yuffie is a very reactive character. Everything about her is very ‘big’ - in contrast to the existing team, who I think are relatively serious and a lot more grounded.

So, it was kind of challenging to balance that - to make her into something that’s not a caricature, or something that will stick out like a sore thumb.

We don’t always get visuals or really know how she’s going to react, so it was all about toeing that balance between expressive and contained. We had to play around a lot to find that perfect balance where she’s not too goofy.

How did you find that right balance?

Yuffie is very exuberant, very full of life. But also, likeable and she can be down to earth sometimes - surprisingly!

But the credit goes to the writing of her character. She has been expanded in such a way that we haven’t really seen before, and I can’t be more grateful to the people who developed her character and gave her so many aspects that you wouldn’t expect.

In the original game, she was presented as this really bratty, sassy character and that was pretty much all she had to her. So, I was pleasantly surprised to see she has a lot of depth to her.

At the end of the day, she is a kid. Although she has really lofty opinions of herself, she can still be a little insecure sometimes.

What was the most memorable moment you had during the recording process?

It was when Yuffie got motion sick - and there are not too few of those scenes (laughs).

I just remember when we were playing it out, my director, Kirk Thornton, was like, “Ok, I need you to really act like you’re vomiting right now. I need you actually hurl chunks!” So, I was trying to give my grossest reaction - and it was great and really fun!

I’m sorry to all the sympathetic vomiters out there.

But then the team were like, “Actually, you need to tone it down - they don’t really like that.”

In the original take it was quite a lot! Hopefully it’s scaled back a little in the actual game (laughs).

What was your favorite scene to play in FF7R EPISODE INTERmission?

I like all the scenes where Yuffie interacts with Sonon. I think she has a really good rapport with him.

I specifically liked that scene when she tells him to calm down because I think that’s the first time that we saw Yuffie be really serious and sure of herself. Where she’s the adult in the situation, when she normally wouldn’t be.

So having that purview into that side of her character was really awesome to explore.

What was your favorite scene to play in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

Oh man, so much happens in REBIRTH!

I distinctly remember an interaction where she starts singing. I had to memorize the tune and they had actual lyrics written out. I think it took the entire session because I am not a singer and they had to try really hard to get it right (laughs).

Can you sing something for us now?

Umm… (Suzie starts humming the chocobo theme, while Red XIII actor Max Mittelman starts laying a beat from elsewhere in the room).

Heck yeah! That’s Red XIII beatboxing in the background (laughs).

(To Max) Thanks for the backup!

What is your favorite memory of working on the FINAL FANTASY VII remake series?

We were invited to the FINAL FANTASY VII 25th Anniversary orchestra concert. I love all the music in FINAL FANTASY in general, so being there and hearing all the tracks really hit a wave of nostalgia for me. It took me through the entire game again.

I distinctly remember that before intermission, they played Yuffie’s battle theme - and as soon as the music started swelling, I freaked out. I had no idea that was going to be included - and to hear it… I was so excited!

Aleks Le, who plays Sonon, was sitting next to me and we were just geeking out. It was a really special moment!

What’s your favorite thing about Yuffie?

That’s so hard because I love everything about her! She’s so precious and I just want to protect her at all times!

I just love that she’s a big kid who’s excited for adventures. She’s super-sarcastic and witty and bratty, which I love - especially when she interacts with more serious characters.

She just brings the life to a lot of situations she’s in. But surprisingly, she can be mature when the situation calls for it.

Who’s your favorite character other than Yuffie?

My favorite character besides Yuffie is maybe Aerith. She’s like the light of the entire party, especially in REMAKE where Cloud is super serious and gloomy. So, Aerith brings levity to a lot of situations.

I love that about her. She’s sassy, while at the same time being kind. All of the characters in REMAKE have so many different dimensions to them and I really, really appreciated her scenes.

I think Briana White does an amazing job at bringing her to life.

What are you most excited for fans to discover about the game?

Everything!

REBIRTH feels to me like it is massive, and epic. The first game was restricted to Midgar, but now they get to go out into this huge world, meet tons of new characters and explore new places… there’s just so much to do.

I’m excited to experience it myself because there are so many side quests and minigames. But I’m most excited for the team dynamic - for the team to meet each other.

Finally, is there anything you want to say to fans?

Thank you so much for all your support!

Everything I’ve seen has been super-positive and everyone is so excited for this game. It has such a legacy and has been in everyone’s hearts for such a long time. To be in this game is an honor, and it’s changed my life.

So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you to all the fans who enjoy the game.

Yuffie joins Cloud and company on their adventures in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, available now for PS5:

For more from the cast, check out our interviews:

Finally, to stay up to date with news and information about the game, be sure to follow us on social media:

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FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH: Max Mittelman talks Red XIII

The English voice actor behind FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH’s furriest hero reveals how he found a unique voice for Red XIII.
By Duncan Heaney

Red XIII made quite the impression when he joined Cloud and the team as a guest character near the finale of FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE. Now he’s stepping up as a fully playable member of party!

In FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, the Cosmo Canyon native plays an important part in the story, and the new game takes both you and him on quite the journey. This richer portrayal is aided by an incredible English voice performance by actor Max Mittelman, who helps brings the four-legged hero to life like never before.

We recently had a chance to speak to Max about the role and what to expect from Red XIII in the new RPG.

Warning: Spoilers for FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH

In your own words, who is Red XIII?

Red XIII is… hmm… I was about to say what species he is, but I realize I don’t know (laughs)! He’s not a dog (laughs).

Red XIII is a “lab rat dog”. He’s defensive and guarded when we first meet him, and we find out a little later why that is. He’s also very protective, including of his crew who he gets to know and falls in love with. Even if he might not show it at times.

He’s got a lot of complexity about him, and the more you find out in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, the more you realize just how complex he is.

How familiar were you with FINAL FANTASY VII before taking the role of Red XIII?

I never played FINAL FANTASY VII, but my favorite game of all time was FINAL FANTASY VIII!

I played it on PC and fell in love the music and the cutscenes. There were no voices, but it didn’t matter at the time. It was a type of storytelling I’d never experienced before in a videogame and for me at the time - maybe 8 or 9 years old - I was so immersed.

It was incredible.

I didn’t have a PlayStation growing up, no matter how much I begged my parents, so I didn’t play FINAL FANTASY VII. If I did, I’d have fallen in love just as much, I’m sure.

But I love the whole world of FINAL FANTASY. I played on Nintendo consoles too - it’s my favorite franchise of all time!

What did you think of the reaction of the character in FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE?

When REMAKE came out and people heard my voice, I was very nervous because everyone has a different version of what that voice should sound like in their head. You can’t please everyone, but that said, when the game came out…

I try to avoid online comments, but when the game came out, I couldn’t help myself and looked at a few of your comments online. Overwhelmingly fans loved the voice, which couldn’t have made me happier. To know I was doing the character justice.

I was thrilled when I heard the fan reaction, people coming up to me in conventions and saying how it was perfect, exactly what they had in their minds. So, I was really happy about it.

How did you find Red XIII’ distinctive voice?

When I was auditioning for Red XIII, I actually gave two takes for the character. The first was like you hear in the game, and the second was a little more… dynamic shall we say.

I kept wanting to do that more dynamic version of the voice and push it in a direction that the team didn’t want it to go. I wanted him to be a little spunkier, and have a little more energy, but we save that. I won’t say why we hold it back, but you get to find why he is as reserved he is.

Oh, and obviously, we also tried the Christopher Walken take, and the Joe Pesci take, but they didn’t like those. So, I went back to my original takes (laughs).

How has your performance changed in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

Well, REBIRTH gives you a lot more time with Red XIII, and it has affected how I play the character in a couple of different ways.

The first is that the more I know about the character, and the more he interacts with others in the game, the more three dimensional I can make him. Consciously or sub-consciously my own understanding of who Red XIII is deepens, and that adds layers to the performance.

The other way is when he is in Cosmo Canyon and talks as Nanaki for the first time… that that was a big day for me. When I originally did the audition, I was two voices - the original Red XIII voice and the Nanaki voice. So, for me, there was a lot riding on that scene.

I’m glad it ended up the way it did because I’m really proud of it. The team was happy, and hopefully the fans will be happy too!

On the subject of fans, Red XIII is a very popular character, so do you feel the weight of that expectation

Yes, I always want to live up to fans expectations.

It’s very difficult when you’re in the booth recording, as you don’t want to think about that. You want to stay present to the scene you’re currently working on. But that’s always in my mind a little bit.

That might be why I’m one of the most annoying people in the booth to work with. I’m always going, “Can I get another take? Just one more?”

And by take six or seven, the Director’s like, “I got it!” And I’m like, “You sure though?” (laughs).

So yes, I always feel the fans’ expectations, I always want to live up to it. But at the same time, to give a full performance, I have to be very present with the character.

Red XIII has some quite intense and emotional scenes in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH. What was it like performing these moments?

Red has some big moments, especially with his family. I’m typically a big joker in the booth. Between me and the Director, Kirk, we’ll throw impressions around and joke with each other - we like to play around, we like to have to fun.

But when it gets serious and emotional, I hold back from that because I want to put my heart into it. Which also means that if Kirk makes a joke, I just don’t respond! Sorry Kirk!

It’s for the good of the game, so he understands (laughs).

What has been the most challenging thing about playing Red XIII?

It’s probably keeping so reserved. I think Red XIII is, at his core, very child-like. So, it can be tough for me to stay in Red XIII and not let Nanaki slip out. Not let that inner child come out to play.

It’s also tough to ride a line between being defensive and protective and hiding the love he has for his team. There are all these things that I want to incorporate into the performance, and I have to selectively choose the bits I want for each recording.。

I rely very heavily on the director and producer to guide me through the process, and they have done a masterful job of guiding me along.

Which party member do you think Red XIII has your favorite interactions with?

Hmm… Suzie (Yeung - Yuffie voice actor) is standing over there raising her hand! Well, I do feel like I have a very special relationship with Yuffie in the game (laughs).

It’s true though! Yuffie and I have a cool thing going on. I think Aerith and Red XIII have a special connection as well.

So, who’s your personal favorite character in the game?

My favorite character is Cait Sith for one specific reason: I am a sucker for dialects.

I love dialects and I fell in love with Cait Sith’s. I asked for it to be played in the recording booth - Paul Tinto does a bang-up job as that character!

What did you think when you saw Red XIII on a chocobo for the first time?

Actually, I was off social media at the time you revealed that, so I didn’t watch the trailer until my friend Emma sent me a screenshot of Red XIII on the chocobo. And I said, “I’m sorry, what’s this?” and she sent me the full video.

I think it’s fantastic - probably the best decision a FINAL FANTASY game has ever made throughout all FINAL FANTASY games of all time. I couldn’t be prouder (laughs).

Actually, two people sent that trailer to me! I think Suzie did too…?

PR: She has the actual text here!

Max: Oh no! Sorry Suzie! (laughs).

What’s your favorite experience of working on FINAL FANTASY VII remake series?

I think my favorite memory was when I finally got to meet some of the cast at the FINAL FANTASY VII 25th Symphony Orchestra event.

There were two reasons: I got to meet the cast, and nothing makes me happier than connecting with the people I’m involved in a project with.

The other reason that was that I had never in my adult life seen a live orchestra. It brought me back to my favorite type of music when I was a kid, which was classical music, (getting increasingly animated) and since then I’ve seen a bunch of cool symphony orchestras, so that was a really cool moment for me!

Everyone’s laughing at me - but it was a really cool moment (laughs)!

Also, at New York Comic-Con, I got to meet the last two members of the core cast, Cody (Cloud) and John (Barret). So that was pretty special for me.

Finally, is there anything you want to say to fans?

I just hope you love the game.

We pulled our hearts and souls into the game, and I know the developers did too. Thank you for playing, thank you for your comments and your love. You guys are amazing!

Many thanks to Max for his time - and his exceptional performance as everyone’s favorite Cosmo Canyon native.

You can experience Red XIII’s journey with Cloud and his allies in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, available now for PS5:

Want to read more articles about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH? Check these out:

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FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH developer messages

The creators of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH have shared their thoughts on this epic new RPG - read them here!
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH has arrived - and we're sure many of you have already started your journey across this vibrant and evocative world!

To celebrate the game's release, some members of the development team have shared their thoughts on working on the game and provided messages for fans.

We hope you enjoy reading them!

Yoshinori Kitase - Producer

Working as the Director of the original FINAL FANTASY VII, I had the opportunity to deliver a next-gen RPG to an audience of gaming fans. FINAL FANTASY VII’s compelling cast of characters and dramatic story impacted the hearts and minds of many, many players, and I am tremendously proud of the fact that it has continued to be so beloved for more than 27 years.

And today, I feel that same sense of pride when I look at what the Development Team has accomplished with FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH. I think that this latest adventure will delight long-time fans with its blend of familiar and new, while also giving new fans a chance to experience the same emotional impact that players felt in 1997 as they begin their own FINAL FANTASY journey.

I hope that FINAL FANTASY fans and newcomers alike will enjoy this new adventure.

Tetsuya Nomura - Creative Director

The unknown journey begins at last.

I’m sure that we will surprise a great many of you with the unexpected twists and turns that this story will take from beginning to end.

Please take as many detours as possible to stop in on your friends and experience more of the world as you set about your own adventure in REBIRTH.

I have already talked a lot about the story in interviews and other conversations, so I don't think that there is too much left for me to say.

Thank you for your patience. I hope that you enjoy FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

Naoki Hamaguchi - Director

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is brought to you by the main creative minds behind the original FINAL FANTASY VII - Yoshinori Kitase, Tetsuya Nomura, Kazushige Nojima and Motomu Toriyama - and a team of the current generation of creators who played the original back when it was first released, such as myself. It represents a tremendous creative undertaking, in which both sides brought their own perspectives to bear, and bounced ideas off one another. In addition, a huge number of creators from all around the world, whose lives were hugely impacted by the original game, have contributed to the development of this title. Together, we have produced a rich game world with a distinctly international feel, without losing sight of this title’s roots in the original FINAL FANTASY VII.

REBIRTH is the fruit of this highly diverse development team’s efforts, and the second title in the FINAL FANTASY VII remake project. Against the backdrop of a vast world map, players will adventure across the various regions of the world in pursuit of Sephiroth. We have prepared a wealth of different content across the game world, and we have designed this game with an emphasis on allowing players to make their own decisions and decide for themselves which parts they would like to play as they explore the world map.

REBIRTH tells the story of Cloud and the party’s escape from Midgar, and follows their adventures up to the Forgotten Capital, where Aerith’s fate will be revealed. Across the course of this new adventure, we have explored the theme of bonds between friends. I have been involved in game development for many years, but REBIRTH has come together as the best one yet. I can’t wait for everybody to experience it for themselves.

Motomu Toriyama - Co-Director

FFVII REBIRTH starts with Cloud and the party's escape from Midgar, and tells the story of their journey across the vast world of FFVII. REBIRTH features a number of important locations from the original FFVII that formed the backdrop to some of its famous scenes, including Junon, Costa del Sol, The Gold Saucer and Cosmo Canyon. The finished product is like a FFVII round-the-world tour. But of course, FFVII REBIRTH doesn’t just reimagine famous scenes from the original game; it adds a number of iconic moments that were newly conceived for this title.

In REBIRTH, Cloud and his companions are on the run from Shinra, while at the same time pursuing Sephiroth. They will also have the chance to relax together on their journey, although you could go as far as to say that this is exclusive to the FFVII REBIRTH experience. If you are already familiar with the original FFVII, the day-to-day atmosphere of its settings, and Cloud’s exciting journey with his companions, then please just pretend that your memories were stolen by the Whispers, and try to experience the game with fresh eyes. I hope that you all make lots of new FFVII memories.

Kazushige Nojima - Story and Scenario

Around the time that we finished making the original FINAL FANTASY VII, a senior Programmer turned to me and said, “It sure seems like Aerith and Tifa don’t like each other, don’t you think?”.

I was shocked to hear this, as they had obviously been on an amazing journey together and formed a close friendship because of it. But once I asked myself if I had really conveyed that part of their relationship, I found that I wasn't too confident. Not only were there not enough specific scenes to convey this, but there also wasn’t enough dialogue that hinted at their friendship. I regretted this for a long time.

When the remake project first began, one of the challenges that I set for myself was to properly portray Aerith and Tifa’s friendship. At the same time, I also made an effort to convey the various relationships between the other characters, through their choices of words and various different scenes.

As I undertook this challenge, the word “connectedness” came to the fore as a key concept for the story. It’s because of this connectedness that the characters and the planet on which they live were born. This discovery was a fresh new shock to me. This is how the character of “The Planet”, which plays an important role in this game, came to be portrayed. The Planet, and the world in which it resides, play very active roles in REBIRTH. I can’t wait for players to experience this for themselves.

And finally, thank you to that Programmer from all those years ago.

Shintaro Takai - Art Director

I handled the Art Direction for FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

That mostly involved deciding on the overall direction of the graphics, and overseeing quality management.

Since the last title, REMAKE, was set in the iconic location of Midgar, we stuck to a consistent visual style and direction. REBIRTH, however, allows players to explore a vast and diverse world, so in the truest sense of the phrase, it felt like the show really began in REBIRTH.

In performing my role as Art Director, I actually didn’t pay as much attention to the original FF7 as people think. My goal was to use convincing and detailed graphics to reexamine and reconstruct, without relying too heavily on the original game’s design.

I worked with a fantastic team of staff, and we poured our heart and souls into creating the characters, backgrounds, animations, staging, visual effects, menus and lighting for this game.

And it’s not just the graphics - the whole game is crammed full of content.

We hope that you will take your time in unravelling Cloud and his friends' story, and that you will empathise with the characters on their journey. Please enjoy soaking up everything that the world of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH has to offer!

Teruki Endo - Battle Director

From start to finish, the development of this game has been a long journey in which everybody involved has given their all throughout. The end result is a huge game where every aspect of the gameplay has been expertly crafted and stuffed to the brim, and of course, the combat is no exception.

When I first saw how much content would need to be created for this game, even just for the combat, I honestly wasn’t sure that we could put it all together in time - from the huge amount of character abilities to the summons and the systems that allow you to fight alongside them, to the rich variety of enemy types that keeps the game feeling fresh whenever players enter a new location, to the boss battles that we crafted to have their own distinctive feel, and each and every one of these elements featuring its own rich variety of gameplay and visual elements. But the Development team put their all into making something great, and as a result of this, we were able to put everything together in a way that showed great attention to detail in every aspect.

For REBIRTH, we took a similar approach to the one that we took for REMAKE, where we didn’t bind ourselves too closely to the original FINAL FANTASY VII, even for elements that originated from that game. Instead, we reconsidered every element of the game to make it fit with REBIRTH’s gameplay.

This means that the game feels nostalgic, while also offering an exciting new gameplay experience, and I think that’s one of the quirks of this project that makes it so interesting.

I hope that players who have picked up the game will enjoy this game so much that they lose track of time.

Takako Miyake - Environment Director

The field environments for FFVII REBIRTH have been reimagined using new technology, and with a “dig deep” mindset, and I believe that this approach truly lives up to the name of REBIRTH.

The diversity on display in the original FINAL FANTASY VII, as well as the way that everything felt distinct and jumbled together (in a good way) might just have been one of the most appealing aspects of the original game. This is also expressed in the world outside of Midgar, with the party having escaped Midgar in the previous game, though this means that the level of breadth and complexity has increased significantly as well. The development of this title was really tough, but even during development, the staff were unanimous that the experience is worth the effort that we put in. So much so that during development, whenever we were wandering around inside the game environment in order to check that everything was working properly, we would sometimes forget that we were supposed to be performing checks, and just get lost in enjoying the game.

We worked hard to make sure that each and every field environment would offer something fresh and surprising to both players of the original FINAL FANTASY VII and REMAKE and to new players alike, and that they would give players that same sense of adventure that the gameplay and character encounters do.

Please enjoy FFVII REBIRTH, everybody.

Iichiro Yamaguchi - Lighting Director

The first game that I worked on after joining Square Enix was Dirge of Cerberus FINAL FANTASY VII, so I was so excited to see Vincent and all the other characters who did not appear in the first part of the REMAKE series again.

The previous game featured many indoor locations and dark nighttime scenes in Midgar, and it was hard working on a lot of those. However, for REBIRTH, the lighting team were able to escape the dark confines of Midgar alongside Cloud and his friends and see all the bright and open locations outside of the city. We were overwhelmed by the sheer number and size of all these areas and came up against many tricky obstacles, but I feel that the whole team came together, and we made an amazing game in the end.

I hope you enjoy the endlessly vast world of FFVII REBIRTH, where so many different elements come together and intertwine.

Hidekazu Miyake - Cutscene Director

For FFVII REBIRTH, I was in charge of the Cutscene team’s operations including scheduling and personnel, and the staging for battle-related action scenes such as summons and bosses, and the parade.

The total volume for this title has exceeded the previous title, but our efforts in creating the “dance”, “parade”, “play” and “mural” scenes rival that of the Honey Bee Inn dance scene in the previous title. We worked with many experts to recreate the scenes to modern standards while maintaining elements of the original, so while we are proud of what we have produced, we're also worried as to whether the changes will be accepted by the players.

The entire team was relieved that Sephiroth’s “Night” and the unrelenting turn of events that follow it in the demo were well received, but we are looking forward to finding out whether the rest will be accepted to the same degree!

With new friends joining the team, please experience the changes in their emotions while exploring the vast world right until the end. We have prepared a wide variety of events including the main character enjoying card games perhaps a bit too much, reacknowledging family bonds, and reuniting with “that” rival, so I think that there will definitely be experiences that bring emotional highs and lows!

Masaaki Kazeno - Character Modelling Director

Escape Midgar to the outside world!

At the start of development, I enjoyed imagining the adventures in FFVII REBIRTH while recalling the original game. For Cloud and his friends to go on their adventure in this outside world, the Character Creation team discussed how to polish the characters who have appeared in the previous game in an appealing manner.

We decided to modify their outfits, adjust their hair...looking back on it, we touched on almost everything. Of course, we have worked hard to create the new characters joining the team - Cait Sith, Vincent and Cid - so that the world of REBIRTH stands out even more.

I hope that you will enjoy taking shots of these characters in the Photo Mode when you play as them.

However, it’s not just the playable characters that we would like you to see. From summons to bosses, there are even more unique characters than the previous title, some being nostalgic, while some are new. If we start talking about the others such as townspeople and minigame characters, the list is endless. We look forward to finding out if the thoughts that we put into it will appeal to people who know the original game, as well as new players.

Yoshiyuki Soma - Animation Director

Three years and ten months since the previous title REMAKE, and two years and eight months since INTERGRADE with the additional Yuffie episode, I’m relieved that we have been able to release REBIRTH. From the development side, time flew by so quickly that I barely have any memory outside of working on the game, especially for the year and a half during the second half of development.

Every member has put their heart and soul into the animations so that the unique charms of each character are fully expressed. Exhilarating battle animations that also let you feel the bonds between the members of the team. Field actions and travelling with vehicles, full of enjoyable exploration elements through flying and swimming through the vast world. Minigames with unique, individual appeals.

Furthermore, in order to illustrate the epic story and plenty of side quests through event scenes, we have drastically changed the structure of generic events and focused on raising the overall quality. Also, people in the street who are often overlooked when playing through quickly have been worked on to an even larger volume than the previous game. I would love for players to enjoy every corner of the world of FFVII REBIRTH outside of the main story, each player in their own playstyle.

Akira Iwasawa - Facial Director

In FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, I was in charge of the Facial Direction of the characters.

I was still in high school when the original game was released, and I can still remember playing it with my older brother. After joining Square Enix, I was involved in the development of FINAL FANTASY VII ADVENT CHILDREN and CRISIS CORE –FINAL FANTASY VII–, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of the facial expressions of Cloud and the other characters. I think that I was able to build on that experience in the previous title, REMAKE.

The members of staff who created the facial animations are a group of people like me who have fond memories of FINAL FANTASY VII. We put our heart and soul into each of the characters’ facial expressions, so I hope that the players will pay attention to them. In this title, even more new characters appear. They all have unique and charming facial expressions. Of course, Cloud and his friends are also even more expressive than they were in the previous title.

This game can be enjoyed by people who played the original game as well as those who play it for the first time, so I hope that all kinds of people will play and experience the new FINAL FANTASY VII.

Hsueh Huei Liao - Lead UI Artist

And there it was! The first step on our new journey.

This line has stuck with me since the start of development. Much like this “first step” of Cloud and the party's journey, one of the big goals for REBIRTH was not just to carry everything over as-is from REMAKE, but to come up with a new look for the UI.

The 3D characters shown on the main menu help to connect players to the story, and they occasionally have uncomfortably serious expressions on their faces, except when they’re decked out in their tropical resort outfits. This helps players to feel more connected to the story whenever they open the menu. I am very grateful for all the support that we received for various sections of the UI during development.

This game features such a wide variety of minigames that it’s almost like an amusement park, and we have worked on some dedicated UIs for each of them that fit with the game’s lore. Only REBIRTH could require so many different genres of UI design in a single title. As a creator, it was very fun to work on, but the workload was also pretty tough. Even so, the UI team worked hard and without compromise on each and every one of them, to such a high standard that each one is almost like its own standalone game.

Why not take a break from adventuring and chill out with your favourite minigame?

Yuuki Akama - Director of Photography

My first experience of working at SQUARE ENIX was on FINAL FANTASY VII ADVENT CHILDREN.

Having the opportunity to work on the REMAKE project for FFVII, which set the stage for ADVENT CHILDREN, was just as exciting and delightful as when I first played the original game as a student. I am so happy that I got to go on this emotional journey with the players.

I worked on directing the graphical portion of the cutscenes in FFVII REBIRTH, and I faced a huge challenge along the way: How can I give players the same sense of a vast open world outside of Midgar that players of the original FINAL FANTASY VII felt?

Of course, there are some conventional ways to do this, such as atmospheric perspective and other similar techniques, but I couldn’t help but wonder if there was something more that I could make players feel... And to be honest, I didn’t find the solution to this challenge while working on this title. When I think about this now, I think that the one thing I could add on top of the information conveyed through just the five senses would be my feelings towards this title .

I made sure to incorporate the feelings that I have held in my heart for more than 26 years since I played the original FINAL FANTASY VII.

I feel that something is different and I can’t tell you how happy I am to be able to experience the same feelings as the players through this game. In fact, my heart is pounding even just writing that sentence.

I hope that you will enjoy FFVII REBIRTH!

Mitsuto Suzuki - Music

""We'd like to start with the music to create this scene ..."

Just like with FFVII REMAKE, there were scenes in this game where the Development team requested that I compose the music first, as they wanted to start with the music and build the rest of the scene around that.

This involved matching the music to the backstory, direction and story progression of the scene, and figuring the pacing out in my head from there. This required an even more sophisticated approach and workflow over REMAKE, and an even greater level of enthusiasm. It feels weirdly recent while also feeling like it was many years ago that I started writing excitedly.

We recorded content for the game world in a variety of different settings, and I met a lot of people along the way. Working on vocal performances in 4 different languages, each with their own different melodies and rhythms, was a really challenging and unforgettable experience.

There are sections that dig deeper into music from the original game, and sections that were newly crafted for REBIRTH. I hope that players will have a little giggle at some of the musical elements and discoveries to be made, and that they will enjoy, and in some cases be surprised by, what they find.

That obviously goes for players who played the original FINAL FANTASY VII, but I hope that newcomers will experience this too.

I am delighted that, just like the rich cast of unique characters and party allies in the game, the sound team joined forces with a great number of allies, each offering their own unique polish, to produce the music that you hear in the game. Please enjoy it.

Masashi Hamauzu - Music

As with the previous title, my main role was focused around the orchestral tracks. I spent a lot of time and effort tweaking the huge amount of scene transitions in the game, but in the end, I think I got them to a point where I was happy with almost every single one.

In particular, when I saw the rough footage for the stage show scenes, I came out in a cold sweat. I thought to myself, “You’d need to be as skilled as a historic classical composer to pull this off”. “I’ve barely done anything like this before”. But once I made a start on it, I was able to call to mind the experience that I had of studying opera and religious music as a student, and when I sent the demo to Toriyama-san, he responded by saying, “Bravo!”, so I feel like it really resonated with him.

Also, when it came to composing for opera singers in particular, I specifically thought of compositions by the likes of Mozart and Leoncavallo, and singers such as Ettore Bastianini and Carlo Tagliabue. For me personally, I got a sense of nostalgia seeing how much specialist terminology was floating about the production and recording space. It gave me a sense that I wasn’t composing incidental music so much as I was recording music for the stage. In all my years of composing music, it was the first time that I felt that enrolling in vocal music at university actually came in useful.

I also worked on some important scenes in the game’s final act. I hope that you enjoy them.

Makoto Ise - Sound Director

I’m delighted that we have made it to the launch of FFVII REBIRTH, the second title in the FFVII remake project.

I got to play the original FINAL FANTASY VII back when it first came out, so I was quite particular as I worked on the sound for this project.

With the adventure opening up onto a huge world map, and a variety of new elements being added, this game marks a shift from REMAKE, and presents a new and exciting evolution of gameplay. And from a sound perspective as well, we had to reconsider and reconstruct the sound design from scratch to match up with this huge amount of new content. The game design, and in particular the world map, offers players a high degree of freedom of movement, so I wracked my brains a fair bit about the sound design as well, but in the end we pushed the sound design forwards while paying greater respect to the original game than REMAKE did, and I think that we succeeded in producing sound that is both nostalgic and fresh.

From beautiful music that expresses emotions and situations, to immersive environmental sounds, to the sound effects that underscore the frenzied combat, to the voicework that breathes life into the characters — these are the sounds that make up the world of FFVII REBIRTH. I hope that people who played REMAKE and new players alike will experience this adventure!

Keiji Kawamori - Music Supervisor

For the music for this title, we followed the same approach that we took for REMAKE, while also incorporating new challenges into practically every aspect. Also, with the world expanding considerably for this title, we composed about twice as much music as we did for the last game, in a wide variety of different genres.

There are some areas where the musical arrangement changes depending on the situation, so I hope that players will go back to hear how the arrangement changes under different circumstances, even if they have already played through that section. I think that players will also find it interesting to discover new arrangements that blend together motifs in ways that have never been heard before, such as sections from Let the Battles Begin! and One-Winged Angel, which have never been presented together in one composition in any previous game, being included in the same composition.

And one other thing: one of the unique and characteristic things about REBIRTH is that the side content has its own musical accompaniments, so I hope that players will listen out for this as they complete lots of varied side quests.

I hope that the music in this game will help to enhance players’ experience of the game.

Asako Suga - Lead Dialogue Editor

Having fled Midgar, Cloud and his companions will meet a huge number of new characters as they journey across the world.

This game features the voice talents of more than 250 voice actors, and the recording process took around two years to complete. And in addition to Japanese, we also recorded voices for English, French and German, adding up to a total of more than 1000 performers in a single game!

These performers put a lot of hours into recording conversations that help to immerse the player in the story: increasing the tension for more intense moments in the plot, and laughing at well-paced dialogue with other characters.

This title also features characters who appeared in the original FINAL FANTASY VII and have waited a long time for their voices to finally be heard, so I hope that players who played the original will take note of this. There are also many people populating the streets of the towns of REBIRTH who are brimming with personality, so I hope that players will listen in on their conversations as they move about the world.

This game makes great use of a wide variety of voices, so I hope that lots and lots of people will play it.

Many thanks to all the developers for their comments. FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is out now for PS5:

To stay up to date with news and information about the game, be sure to follow us on social media:

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The Games that Made Us: FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Director Naoki Hamaguchi

The Director of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH has made a truly exceptional experience, but what were the games that made him the creator he is today?
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is quite an achievement.

It’s the result of years of hard work by an immensely talented development team, including Director Naoki Hamaguchi. Along with his colleagues, Hamaguchi-san has produced an RPG of incredible quality.

In short, he’s made a pretty special game. But what were the special games that made him? We asked him to find out:

What was the first game you ever played?

I was in first grade or so, but my father bought the first generation Famicom along with the Super Mario Bros. game. And I vaguely remember playing together with my family.

Super Mario Bros. is a game played by tons of people, with simple operations,and it made people who have never played a game before like those in my parents' generation, participate while taking turns.

When you think of entertainment that could be enjoyed by the whole family, there were things like cards, but this was something that took its place and felt extremely new.

It’s not like I saw a future in games from it as a child, but it was very stimulating. I clearly remember thinking that this was a new gaming and entertainment experience.

What was the first Square Enix game you ever played?

I think FINAL FANTASY IV was the first, but at that time, my older brother was playing it and I was mostly watching.

I recall playing on my own from around FINAL FANTASY V.

At that time in Japan, you'd experience a specific worldview, and a continuous story in something like Weekly Shonen Jump, in which you can experience many different stories, but this was something that replaced that.

Instead of reading, to play on my own and be immersed in the story, characters, and worldview was very stimulating.

It was Squaresoft at the time, but I still believe that Squaresoft games were very unique.

Above: FINAL FANTASY V Pixel Remaster

Other than FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, what game could you not live without?

As a creator of these kinds of games, the title I respect the most is The Witcher series. Especially The Witcher 3, it's already a title from 10 years ago or so but I truly believe this is an extremely well made title that stands the test of time.

For The Witcher series as well, especially The Witcher 3, the detailed construction of the world and the gameplay immersion is truly wonderful.

So, in that way, yes, for me there may be no other gameplay experience like it.

If you could only listen to one Square Enix soundtrack, what would it be?

FINAL FANTASY VI and VII happened right around the time of my adolescence, so around middle school or high school, I bought the FINAL FANTASY VII soundtrack and listened to it all the time.

I had a part time job at a video rental store back then, and have fond memories of playing the VII soundtrack in the store and such.

When I listen to the music, it brings to mind the gameplay experience and the emotions that I felt at the time. In that sense, the FINAL FANTASY VII soundtrack was special to me, even as a child.

Especially the music at the beginning of the game when you enter Midgar. Even when I was making FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, I listened to that song a lot. There’s a nostalgia and brings back a rush of memories from those days.

What game do you think the whole world should play?

Of course, FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE and REBIRTH are titles I'd love for people to play.

There's also The Witcher series I mentioned earlier, and I’d like people to try playing The Witcher 3 especially.

But there’s one Japanese title called Zero, it's a horror game. I think it’s released overseas as Fatal Frame. It deals with real Japanese ghosts and isn't something with zombies that North American and European users tend to like, so culturally, it might not appeal to everyone.

The game is not so much about zombie attacks and shooting them; it's more about taking pictures of the ghosts and getting rid of them.

It has a very Japanese style to it, which I like so much that I play it every time a new title comes out.

It's a bit niche, but I really hope it will spread to the rest of the world as a Japanese horror game.

What’s your favorite Square Enix game?

Well, I think my #1 will have to be FINAL FANTASY VI.

I was probably in middle school when I played FINAL FANTASY VI, and it was such an entertaining experience for me as a child.

I was so impressed how it could move players' hearts as a work of art.

I truly felt this at the time, and then I had a vague thought that: "it would be nice if I could become an adult who creates games like this in the future."

That was really the title that was the catalyst that led to my present, so it was a very memorable experience for me.

Above: FINAL FANTASY VI Pixel Remaster

What’s the saddest moment you’ve experienced in a game?

The saddest…

I think it was Aerith's fate from FINAL FANTASY VII that made the biggest impact on me.

It was when I was in high school or so, and I'm sure there were experiences like that back then in movies and such, but no game existed at the time that posed such a dramatic development to the users.

I'm sure it left an impression not only on me, but also to many other people. It certainly made a strong impression on me.

What does the original FINAL FANTASY VII mean to you?

I played this when I was at high school, and I think it is the game that served as a catalyst towards me becoming a game creator in this industry, so I respect it very much.

I am now in the position of directing a remake of the game, and (Yoshinori) Kitase and (Tetsuya) Nomura are the people who made the game back then. From my perspective, I enjoyed the game as a user back then, and now I am involved in the creation of the game.

By approaching the work from our various perspectives, I believe we were able to maintain a balanced creation process for both this title and the last.

What three things are you most proud of in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

Firstly, the FINAL FANTASY remake project is worked on as a trilogy and naturally I think there is high anticipation from the users as to how the second instalment will be after the first one.

So, I create each title noting the reaction of the customers, and try to incorporate the expressions suitable for that era into it. In that way, this will be a different game experience from the previous one.

Delivering a game into customers' hands after having properly evolved it, is probably one of the most important points.

As for the other two points, regarding the battle system...

In the previous instalment, the battle system was a fusion of actions and commands. It was a new form that was created and delivered to the users and I believe it received very positive feedback.

With that, we developed a new system that expresses the bond between the characters, called Synergy attacks.

The new game has a slightly different feel from the previous one, and the game strategy has increased in its depth. This is one of the appeals of this title.

Another is the world map. People are very much looking forward to seeing how the world map will be made. There are people who think we can't recreate everything if we attempt it, but there are also those who want us to make it right.

To wonder how we would then respond to these expectations, I am sure is on the minds of all users waiting for REBIRTH.

We have kept the feeling of the original FINAL FANTASY VII world map intact and reincarnated it in a form that is best expressed in this day and age.

This is what I'd like players to look forward to most.

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is available now for PS5.

Want to read more about the game? Check out our other interviews with the team and cast:

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Tips and Tricks for playing FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH

About to start your adventures in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH? Here are some useful tips, tricks and nuggets of advice to get you started!
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is out!

This epic new RPG sends Cloud Strife and his allies on a globe-trotting adventure, as they pursue the sinister Sephiroth. The journey takes you through many areas, from the sweeping vistas of the Grasslands to the rocky ridges of Corel, all filled with secrets, surprises, and savage foes.

To help you get started on your adventure, we’ve put together some handy hints for combat and exploring the more expansive worlds. We hope you find them helpful.

Combat tips

ATB is everything

Let’s start with the basics. Standard attacks will damage foes, but their ultimate value is that they fill the ATB gauge. You can then expend this for more powerful Abilities and Spells.

Get into the routine of using attacks to fill your ATB, and using your Abilities and Skills to damage and stagger foes. By combining standard attacks and ATB actions in this way, you’ll be able to deliver damage much more effectively than just mashing the square button.

Blocking is safer than dodging

You have two basic defensive options in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - blocking and dodging. Dodging lets you avoid a hit entirely, so you might assume it’s the way to go, but that’s not the case.

Enemies hit hard and they hit fast. It’s far more reliable to block with R1 - you’ll take a small amount of damage, but far less than if the enemy hits you. You’ll also get a small increase to ATB when the hit attacks.

Even better, if you perfectly time your block, you’ll eliminate all damage entirely, and sometimes knock the enemy down. Also, it’s extremely satisfying. Just bear in mind that the timing window on these parries can be tight, so it often safer to just do a standard block and soak up the hits.

Watch out for exclamation marks on attacks

Enemies will call out their attacks above their heads, which lets you know they’re about to unleash powerful strikes, and that it’s time to play defense.

Be alert if you see an exclamation mark next to the attack name though. This is an unblockable attack, no matter how firmly you hold down R1, it’s going to hit you for full damage.

Your only recourse is to get out of the way. Watch your enemy’s movements and get ready to dodge or run into a new position to evade the attack.

Exploit weaknesses and stagger enemies

Many enemies in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH have weaknesses, which you can exploit for additional damage. For example, flying enemies are often susceptible to Wind attacks, so Aero spells can be helpful in taking them out fast.

They also often increase their stagger bar - if this fills up, the enemy will be stunned and take more damage from your attacks. In fact, staggering enemies is typically the best way to take them out quickly.

Assess is your greatest weapon

You may think the Buster Sword is the greatest weapon in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH. Maybe it’s Junon’s giant cannon. Nope - it’s the Assess materia, and you should have one equipped at all times.

Every enemy is different, and the requirements for staggering them is different too. Sometimes it can be just to exploit an elemental weakness, but other times it can be interrupting specific attacks, doing lots of damage, or even more unique actions.

Using Assess on an enemy will reveal all their secrets - their weaknesses, resistances and - most importantly - what you need to do to pressure or stagger them. It’s particularly useful in the Fiend Intel activities, where you’ll have special objectives to complete as you fight.

Once you’ve assessed a fiend or foe, it’s details are recorded forever - if you face the same enemy type again, a press of the touch pad in battle will show all their information again.

So Assess everything you fight!

Focus attacks are great for increasing stagger

When you hit enemies’ vulnerabilities, you will pressure them. Pressured enemies take more stagger damage, so use ‘Focused’ attacks to fill that bar quickly.

There’s Focused Thrust for Cloud, Focused Shot for Barret, and Focused Strike for Tifa - each one of these attacks specifically raises the stagger bar. Use them on a pressured foe, and they’ll be that much closer to being knocked down.

Exploit weaknesses as much as possible to make battles much easier. It also often pressures them, making it easier to fill the stagger bar under their health.

Switch partners to fill ATB…

Left to their own devices, the other members of your party will fight competently, but if you want to fill their ATB quickly so you can use their Abilities, it’s best to take direct control.

You can switch between any of the three members of your active party at any time - it’s highly advisable to do this, as you’ll be able to fight more efficiently and take enemies much more quickly.

So, get used to cycling between characters during the flow of battle.

… and build towards Synergy Abilities

New to FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH are Synergy Abilities. These special attacks see two heroes join forces for super-powerful attacks, buffs, and other effects.

Of course, you can’t just use these - you have to earn them. Each ability costs a synergy guage, earned by using certain abilities and spells. Both heroes must each fill up their synergy gauges to be able to pull off the combined attack.

It’s another reason to switch between characters in battle. If you don’t take the time to build these charges, you won’t be able to pull of the biggest, flashiest, most grin-inducing moves in the game.

Unleash Synergy Abilities at the right time

Synergy Abilities have additional effects, such as raising characters’ Limit Break levels to unlock more powerful attacks, giving them unlimited MP and more.

Choose when best to unleash these powerful attacks to maximize their benefits. For example, if you have a Synergy Ability that extends stagger time, then it’s best to use it on a staggered enemy, whereas if you’re trying to get enemies pressured, unlimited MP can be very helpful.

There’s much more to dig into, but experiment with the different combinations to find your own effective strategies.

Synergy Skills let you build two characters’ ATB at once

As well as Synergy Abilities, you also have access to Synergy Skills.

These are activated by using the face buttons while blocking - you can see your options on the left hands side of the screen when holding R1. These are great because they don’t require ATB to use - instead, some can actually help you fill two characters’ bars at once.

Each Synergy Skill has a different function, so take some time to get try them out and how you can work them into battles.

Heal between battles

If you take a beating in a fight, be sure to stop to heal up afterwards - with items, Healing materia or a nearby bench.

Heading into a battle with reduced health puts you on the backfoot right from the start, so stay hale and hearty to ensure you avoid any careless KOs.

Elemental Abilities can save you materia slots… but don’t over-rely on them.

Using Folios to unlock elemental attacks be very helpful if you want to save Materia slots. They give our heroes access to elemental attacks without using MP or having to have the associated materia equipped - very handy for pressuring certain foes, for example.

That said, don’t over-rely on these because they don’t build any bars for Synergy abilities. If you want to exploit elemental weaknesses while earning bars for those powerful team-up attacks, you can use spells from materia instead.

Backline Commands can save your life

Two of your party are KO-ed and it looks like your goose is cooked. You need a Hail Mary and fast!

That’s where Backline Commands come in. When you’re in dire straits, you can press Triangle on the Command Menu to call in your non-active allies to perform a Synergy Ability in a last-gasp attempt to claw back control of the battle.

Don’t forget about this because it might just save your life!

Exploration and Intel tips

Get a chocobo ASAP

Chocobos play a big role in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - they help you get around faster, can cross otherwise impenetrable parts of the environment and they play frankly incredible versions of the iconic chocobo theme. What more could you ask for in a mount?

In other words, you’d be kweh-zy not to prioritize Chocobo Intel when you step into the wide expanses of the world. Finding your feathered friend might take some wark, but they’re often located close to where you’re guided for the critical story path.

Explore the world - don’t just follow the icons

Activating the Remnawave Towers around the world will show you the general location of dangerous fiends, Lifestream springs and more activities that Chadley wants your help with. However, they don’t show you everything.

If you see an interesting structure of piece of geography, go check it out. You may discover hidden caches that contain items, gear, money and more, for example. Some elements, including some side contents, also only show up after completing other activities too, so stay alert for these.

Check noticeboards for side quests

If you want to make sure you’re not missing any of the excellent side contents, you can check noticeboards in various settlements around the world.

These will mark the location of the prospective client on your map, making it easier to find them. If you notice a green exclamation point on a noticeboard on the map, that means a new quest has become available so go check it out!

Some of the notices are quite funny and well-written, so be sure to read them too!

If you can’t find a route to your destination, follow the roads

You can see an icon on your map, but there’s a big cliff-face in the way and you don’t know how to get there. What to do…

One good way is to follow the roads in each area. Many Intel activities are off the beaten path, but roads typically lead you close to them. Watch out for things like springseeker owls, glowing crystals or climbable walls as you travel and they’ll guide you towards your destination.

Complete Chadley’s battle simulations

Chadley’s new portable battle simulator is loaded with a generous portion of challenges right from the start, and more will unlock as you Assess enemies, complete Fiend Intel and more.

It’s worth taking some time to complete these, as they reward you with excellent Materia. For example, in the Grasslands, you can earn one of my personal favorites - the First Strike materia, which lets you start with a partially filled ATB gauge. Very handy!

Titan is a great Queen’s Blood card early on

Honestly, Queen’s Blood is such an entertaining and full-featured card game that we could do a whole article of tips and tricks just for that. And yet might.

However, for now, I had a lot of success in the early game thanks to the Titan card. You can purchase this relatively early, and its high value, useful shape, and relatively low cost to play make it a real boon.

It’s not enough to let you sleep through the matches, of course. You’ll still have to think strategically, especially as the rank of your opponents goes up. But I found it a real ace up my sleeve when I was just starting out.

Play at your own pace

The final tip I want to give you is this: take your time.

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is an extraordinarily generous game - a packed playground of secrets, skirmishes, and stories that beg to be discovered. But don’t feel you have to do everything all at once.

None of the side activities can be fully missed, and nothing is locked out even when the main story is complete, so play as you like. If you want to dawdle in the extended world, feel free. Alternatively, if you want to push forward on the main story path, that’s okay too.

There’s no wrong way to play.

We hope these tips help you on your search for Sephiroth. If you’re yet to experience the game for yourself, FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is available now for PS5.

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What are the critics saying about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

What are critics saying about Cloud and co’s new adventure? We’ve pulled together links to their coverage so you can see for yourselves.
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is out today!

This new game sees Cloud Strife and his allies travel the world in pursuit of the sinister Sephiroth. It’s a journey fraught with drama and danger… but also a lot of fun. That’s the message from the critics, who have shared their thoughts on this RPG epic.

We’ve collated many of the reviews here to make them easy to find. Simply click a link to head over to read that coverage.

Reviews

Videos

Easy Allies

Backlog Battle

GamingBolt

Happy Console Gamer

Arekkz Gaming

DevilNeverCry

Schrodingersbabyseal

Mrhappy1227

Retro Rebound

Final Fantasy Union

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is out now for PS5:

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FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH devs talk world, minigames and more

Producer Yoshinori Kitase and Director Naoki Hamaguchi on their philosophy for the game’s side content, the difficulty of making a planet and why copying the original game can sometimes feel weird.
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH has arrived!

This epic new RPG sends Cloud Strife and his allies on a thrilling journey around the world in pursuit of the sinister Sephiroth. But it’s not all about the chase - the world is overflowing with amazing things to see and do, from story-driven side quests to marvellous minigames. To call it generous in variety would be an understatement.

That’s all by design. I recently sat down with Producer Yoshinori Kitase and Director Naoki Hamaguchi for an interview, but we didn’t want to talk about the story, characters or anything that would spoil some of the surprises in store.

Instead, we chatted about other aspects of the game, including the more open structure, the evolution from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE and the card game Queen’s Blood.

Or, ‘my new personal obsession’ as it’s quickly becoming known.

It was a fascinating chat, and we hope you enjoy it. If so, be sure to experience the game for yourselves - FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is out now for PS5:

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is the second game in the trilogy. How has this format helped you and the project?

Yoshinori Kitase (Producer): The original FINAL FANTASY VII was so big and had so much content, so by remaking it into a trilogy, we are able to recreate every part of the original at the quality we’re aiming for, without having to cut anything down or shave anything off. That’s only possible with multiple games, and that was something we understood from the beginning.

However, another advantage we’ve come to realize after doing the first game and getting into the rest of the trilogy, is that we can actually take feedback from the previous game on board. We can see what players feel, what they liked, what they wanted, what we maybe could have done better, and essentially keep making the game alongside the fans.

What feedback did you particularly want to address with REBIRTH?

Naoki Hamaguchi (Director): The original FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE was very much a story-driven game. It offered a very dramatic narrative experience that seemed to be very highly regarded by fans.

But at the same time, I think a lot of people asked for a bit more player choice - the ability to make decisions about what to do next, rather than just getting drawn along by the story. We’ve definitely tried to respond to that and added many more layers of freedom, choice, and exploration into FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

So, it’s a new approach, but at the same time, we’re keeping the same level of dramatic and engaging storytelling that people responded to from the previous game. That’s all there, too.

What challenges did this new more open structure give you?

Hamaguchi-san: Perhaps the biggest challenge we faced was setting the actual scale for the world that the game is set in.

Of course, there are already quite a few games that let you explore an open area, but it’s typically only one chunk of that world. I think there are very few games that try to give you experience of exploring the whole planet.

The original FINAL FANTASY VII told a story that involved travelling around the whole world, so we felt it was important to give players that same experience - the feeling that they are exploring a planet.

Obviously, in trying to realize that we can’t create a one-to-one scale of a whole planet. In terms of development costs and resources it would be far too hard to achieve that! Not to mention the difficulty of getting the right density of content in the game to make it fun to play - it would be extremely difficult at that level of scale (laughs)!

But we also couldn’t cop out. We had to somehow give the feel of exploring a whole planet and get the balance just right in terms of gameplay, too!

How did you find that balance?

Hamaguchi-san: A lot of trial and error!

The other thing we paid a lot of attention to was to make sure that even though we were adding all this content, all these side activities for players to find and engage with, the experience didn’t get dull. It all had to be varied, with unique gameplay features for each one.

If we just made a lot of content, but it was basically all the same, I think players would get bored with it very quickly. So, we prioritized making each individual activity feel unique and different to the others.

For example, each side quest has its own unique storyline that you can follow and there are unique elements that you can only play while doing that particular quest. They can be unique obstacles, puzzles or minigames - things that you don’t find elsewhere in the game.

Looking for that kind of uniqueness in each individual piece of content was a big focus of development.

Was there anything planned that didn’t make the cut?

Hamaguchi-san: Hmm… (thinks)… in terms of things we wanted to put in but had to cut out, there really weren’t that many. I think we got the vast majority of the things we wanted to do into the final version of the game.

Oh - there was one thing. There’s a scene under Junon in the original FINAL FANTASY VII where Cloud has to get to Upper Junon and into the military base. To do this, there’s a mini game where you jumped on a dolphin, timed your jump to grab onto a piece of metal, and climbed up from there.

Early in development, we actually tried making that pretty much as it was in the original game. We got the prototype working, but quickly realized that because of the modern graphical style, and the fact that the camera can now be moved around freely, it just didn’t look right.

It just felt a bit… odd. Not very convincing, and not much fun to play either.

So, we went for a slightly different direction. Cloud still grabs onto the dolphin, but now there's a sort of water racing game where you try to get around at speed. So trying to replicate the original without change didn't seem to work for this game - the new approach is much more fun.

Of all the minigames, I am particularly in love with the card game Queen’s Blood! It’s really compelling - but what made you add it in?

Hamaguchi-san: As I mentioned earlier, we wanted to get a unique element in each minigame and make them all feel different and special. That also means the way we had to present them wouldn’t be same either.

Some would be very closely tied to the main story - very much a core part of the game - while others would be more like one-off experiences that you’d see in a specific quest and be self-contained within it.

I thought as a third type, it would be really good to have a minigame that had its own separate storyline. It’s not the main narrative - it’s a different storyline entirely - but it continues throughout the whole game in parallel. That’s what Queen’s Blood does.

So, I thought that having all these different positionings or ways to incorporate the minigames into the overall structure would help add to the sense of variety.

Why choose a card game for this type of content?

Hamaguchi-san: Well, this goes back to my own personal experiences with FINAL FANTASY when I was a child, playing through FINAL FANTASY VIII and IX.

I guess it was just my preconception that if FINAL FANTASY has a minigame which continues throughout the whole game, and acts as a break from the main story, a card game is the best fit.

You get your Queen’s Blood deck very early - I imagine a lot of players like me are going to find themselves spending a long time just playing cards.

Hamaguchi-san: I’m glad to say you fell into our trap there (laughs). That’s exactly what we were aiming for!

How did you decide when to introduce Queen’s Blood into the game?

Hamaguchi san: We teach players the game right at the start of Chapter Two, and there’s a reason for that.

Chapter One is very story-driven. It’s a dramatic experience that sets the scene for the story and is intensely focused on the narrative events that set the scene. Once it’s finished, we wanted to show players the direction for the rest of the game - that it’s not just following the story. From here, you’ll have side quests and minigames, which branch out. Also, you’ve got the extended world to explore.

That’s why we put the Queen’s Blood tutorial there. I felt that putting one of the core minigames at that point would basically be a statement of intent to the players that, yes you can just follow the story if you want, but there’s a whole world of other content for you to explore now, too.

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is out now for PS5:

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FINAL FANTASY XIV Online Open Beta is now available on Xbox Series X|S

Join the open beta and play the award-winning online RPG on Xbox today! Here’s everything you need to know about the open beta, including how to join and starter tips.
By Duncan Heaney

Xbox owners: it is time. The realm of Eorzea is open for new adventurers from today, as the FINAL FANTASY XIV Online open beta goes live on Xbox Series X|S consoles.

More than 30 million adventurers have forged their destinies in this critically acclaimed MMORPG, and now a whole host of new players can experience the magic for themselves. You’ll explore vast locations, from dense forests to desolate deserts, embark on dangerous quests inside sprawling dungeons and uncover a rich and engaging story that puts you in the role of the hero.

In other words, it’s a really good time, whether you’re venturing forth with friends or jumping in solo. Read on and we'll do our best to answer any questions you may have about what’s in the beta.

What’s in the open beta?

The beta includes all content that’s available in the free trial. That means you can play through the original A Realm Reborn story, as well as the acclaimed expansions Heavensward and Stormblood, up to level 70 with no restrictions on playtime.

That’s a lot of content - essentially the equivalent of three full FINAL FANTASY games - absolutely free.

What’s more, all the progress you make in the beta will carry over to the full game on release, so you can pick up where you left off, dive into the superb Shadowbringers and Endwalker expansions and be ready for the upcoming Dawntrail when it releases this summer!

Do note that there are several in-game feature restrictions during the open beta period which can be reviewed here.

How do I join the open beta?

To join the open beta, simply download the free trial from the Xbox Store. When you start FINAL FANTASY XIV Online, you’ll be guided through registration and sign-in, be able to create your character, choose a server to play on and more.

It’s all designed to be quick and easy to understand, so you’ll be playing the game in no time!

Can I join the beta if I’m an existing player?

If you’re already playing the free trial or full game on a different platform, you won’t be able to join on Xbox during the open beta. However, you will be able to play with your existing account and characters when you purchase the Xbox version once official service begins.

Can I enjoy the game as a solo player?

FINAL FANTASY XIV Online is always online, it’s right there in the name, but if you prefer to adventure alone rather than with friends, then you absolutely can. The Xbox version also includes the Duty Support system, which lets you tackle main scenario content with NPCs rather than other players.

Every main scenario dungeon in the game supports this, so it’s possible to enjoy the entire story (and it’s a great story) on your lonesome.

Do you have any tips and tricks for new players?

FINAL FANTASY XIV Online is a big game with a massive amount to both see and do. So, to help you get started, we’ve put together some simple advice for getting to grips with the game.

Don’t be daunted

As mentioned, FINAL FANTASY XIV Online has a frankly enormous amount of content, and a very passionate player base. You may have seen people excitedly talking about characters, the world, and the things they’ve done… and not had a clue what they’re going on about.

It can make starting the game feel quite daunting, but don’t worry. The game is specifically designed to be welcoming to new players. So just dive in, have fun, explore the world at your own pace, engage with the activities you want to engage with and just relax and enjoy yourself. The world will reveal its many secrets to you in time - and soon you’ll be one of those people talking excitedly about your experiences!

Prioritize quests marked with a meteor or a ‘plus’ sign

There are a lot of side quests in FINAL FANTASY XIV Online, and they’re a great way to earn additional experience and other rewards. However, when you’re just starting out, we recommend you prioritize the main scenario quests, as this will let you level up quickly, introduce you to key characters and acclimatize you to the world.

Also, some side quests are marked with a golden ‘plus’ symbol. These indicate that you’ll get a significant reward for completing them that will enhance your experience with the game.

You can earn a chocobo to ride, unlock new dungeons to traverse, uncover new features like the ability to change up your look and more. Plus, they’re usually pretty fun.

Visit the Hall of Novice to learn how to play

The Hall of the Novice is a good first port of call once you're ready to begin tackling dungeons – around level 15. This series of quests are marked with a sprout icon and are specifically designed to teach you the basic ins and outs of the game.

You can do as many or as few of them as you want, but if you’re ever unsure about a mechanic or a system in the game, it’s a good place to go for help.

Always attune to an aetheryte

Throughout Eorzea (and beyond), you’ll find special crystals called aetherytes that you are able to attune to. Once you’ve attuned to a particular crystal you can teleport to that location from pretty much anywhere in the world.

Of course, you can’t travel to any aetheryte you haven’t touched, so be sure to take the time to attune to each one you see. They’re scattered all over the city-states of Gridania, Ul'dah and Limsa Lominsa, providing quick and easy access to various guilds, stores, and other notable landmarks.

You’ll also find them out in the wilds, usually in a settlement. Make sure to take the time to seek these out and attune, as it will make traversing the massive world of the game that little bit easier.

Understand the strengths and weaknesses of your class

The various classes and jobs in FINAL FANTASY XIV boil down to three basic types: Healers, Tanks and DPS (Damage Dealers). While each can hold its own against foes, they also have defined roles in larger combat encounters. Understanding this can mean the difference between success and failure in the dungeons.

For example, marauders are a Tank class, and specialize in taking one for the team, while dealing out some of their own. Many of their abilities are based around attracting attention, so foes attack them instead of their frailer allies.

Alternatively, a Healer class like the conjurer has the important job of keeping the team hale and hearty with plenty of spells and abilities that heal and buff allies, while a DPS like the pugilist is all about dishing out pain as quickly as possible.

Each offers a very different playstyle, so explore the possibilities.

Prioritize class quests

Once you’ve chosen a class, you can visit its guild and pick up class quests. You should undertake these whenever you can because not only will they teach you the ins and outs, they’ll also eventually unlock associated jobs.

Jobs are more specialized roles that add more abilities and opportunities to develop your character - so be sure to complete the quests to earn them!

You can try out different classes

In FINAL FANTASY XIV Online, you’re not bound to the class you pick at the start. After reaching level 10, you can switch to any other class at any time by simply equipping its weapon.

Bear in mind that each class levels up independently and you’ll start each new one at level one, but this gives you a lot of flexibility to experiment with the game’s different options and playstyles.

Watch the Starter Guide video series

This video series follows a new player as they get their start in the game across multiple short episodes. It’s a really entertaining way to learn the ins and outs of the game, and well worth a watch.

The FINAL FANTASY XIV Online open beta is available on Xbox today - we hope you enjoy your first steps into Eorzea.

To stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY XIV Online, be sure to follow us on social media:

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FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH: John Eric Bentley talks Barret Wallace

What makes Barret such an incredible character and what can we expect from FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH? We spoke to voice actor John Eric Bentley to find out.
By Duncan Heaney

Barret Wallace is a big man with a bigger heart. That unique combination of strength and passion come through loud and strong thanks to actor John Eric Bentley. Having portrayed the Avalanche leader in FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, he’s excited to return to the role for FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

This new game goes deeper into the characters and their relationships than ever before. You’ll get to see some of the events that make Barret the man he is and explore his developing relationships with Cloud, Tifa, and the rest of his allies - and John’s pitch perfect performance brings it all together superbly.

We recently spoke to John about what to expect from Barret in the new game, and his experiences with the series as a whole:

How familiar with FINAL FANTASY VII were you before you took the role of Barret?

Oh, very because I played the original! I’m playing the game, and I’m like: “Oh, there’s a Black character! This is awesome - I’ve never seen a Black character in an RPG!”

And then I’m like: “Oh surely he’s about to die” - and he didn’t! And I’m like: “Oh, I’m hooked!”

What would you say defines your portrayal of Barret?

I wanted to make sure that when I portrayed Barret, he wasn't a caricature. I just didn’t want that to happen for the sake of my culture, my community, me as a Black man, my family… anything.

So, I was very diligent in making sure that people could see the different levels and layers that Barret as a man had. Especially with his relationship with Marlene, and the team, and even more so with Cloud, Tifa, and Aerith.

So, I just wanted to make sure that there were layers that were being presented that allowed the audience to see that he just wasn't an angry Black man who, like the polygon figures, shook when he got mad, you know?

As you say, Barret can be in-your-face, but he’s also good-hearted and caring. How did you find that balance in your performance?

Barret is Barret! He's a leader. He's big dude, he's boisterous and he is kind of a commander. So, for me to portray it, I just wanted to make sure that he didn't come off as a blowhard, as a buffoon or as your typical drill sergeant.

So, yes, he is loud and I’m loud myself! As many people in this room know, I’ll walk in and I’m like (shouts) “What up!” So doing Barret is a little bit like, let me put a bit of John in there, but a bit of this in there - it’s a like a recipe for me to make sure it’s balanced right.

Do you have a favorite interaction with another character in the cast?

I think it’s with everybody. He has to be the leader, so any time he’s with the party, or with Cloud, he has to be demanding and strict, but also - and you’ll see this in the new one - he has to care. There has to be a throughline of Barret caring for everyone he interacts with.

Except for Shinra, or people he has to fight against, right? He doesn’t have to care about them because he has a different mindset.

But as far as everyone else goes… I love my interactions with Marlene. And Cloud, and Red XIII - when we go back and forth with each other, that’s fun! That’s bro stuff.

But my relationship with Tifa is very fatherly as well. Then again, you have characters like Jessie and Wedge who he finds endearing, but still has to lead.

So, all the relationships are important because they make the story go!

How did you feel about the positive reaction to FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE and your role in particular?

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE kind of threw me. I'm not going to lie, because I'd been waiting for it forever as so many fans had. But Barret in the original, I guess, wasn't as big a character as the rest of the party - Cloud is running the show.

So, for me to actually see people loving this dude, it kind of threw me. I wasn't ready for it and several people said: “Hey, man, you better get ready because you’re doing a good job!” And I was like: “Really, am I though?” because as an actor you always doubt yourself.

And then people come up and are like: “(shouting) I love you as such and such!” Ok cool - I’m glad! They’re louder than me (laughs).

Is that your favorite kind of fan interaction?

My favorite fan interactions aren’t “Hey, I love your work!” Those are cool and they’re great. It’s a little pat on the back and you’re like: “Good, I’m doing a good job.”

But the biggest fan reactions I have are where kids come up and they go “Barret!” Or “Barry” because they can’t really say Barret yet. And they want you to pick them up and want you to be that father figure!

But the ones that really got me were the folks who said: “Hey, COVID was a tough time, and during the time the game came out, I thought about taking myself out.” Those interactions are priceless, to go: “I’m so glad you didn’t, what can I do to make sure you don’t?”

Because if I’ve got platform to play a videogame character, but also to be able to speak into someone’s life and let them know that they’re worthy, worth something, loved… if I get a chance to do that, to me this is the best job in the world!

How has Barret changed between FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE and FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

He’s still loud, he’s still big, he’s still handsome as all get up. I ain’t gonna lie, Barret’s a handsome dude - when he takes the glasses off, it’s like: “Hoo, that’s me? (laughs)”

But anyway, how is he different? You saw the emotion in REMAKE because of the plate falling and his first-time interactions. This is different because we get to see a slice of Barret that… unless you’re a fan, you don’t know his backstory. You don’t know why Barret is who he is in REMAKE.

So, REBIRTH allows you to figure that out. There’s a lot of discovery for fans and I can’t wait to see all the reactions. A lot of questions will get answered.

Barret has a very emotional arc in this game as he confronts his past. How did you approach these more powerful scenes?

Same as we did the plate falling. A lot of people believe in method and stuff like that, and I don’t knock those people. I’m not really a method actor, but I do like to take situations that I’ve experienced in life and bring them to the project.

The only thing is that when we go into record, you never know what scenes you’re going to do! So, you have to be emotionally ready for anything that comes your way. So prep work has to go in usually, but because I was a fan of the original, I’m like: “Oh yeah, this is what where we’re going to do this.”

So, you have to prepare for it, but the emotional part for me is easy. But I’m not going to lie - in REBIRTH, he goes through it! There are scenes that I can’t talk about - and I can’t wait for gamers to experience that - where he takes you on a journey with relationships that are deep. And deep-seated.

So, you have to be ready when you go into a booth at any time, because you might come back to that scene next time you do a session and remember where you were. And it’s heavy - his past is HEAVY heavy!

What was your favorite scene to play in FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE?

Any scene that I got to do with Marlene was awesome! Anything towards the end, when I got to hang out with Red and go back and forth: hilariously fun.

But to see the plate collapse is one of my favorite scenes because…, it's just it's just that kind of scene. As actors we like to get to the meat of the matter, and that was meat of the matter from 0 - 60. And then you have to snap right back out of it and lead, not knowing what you’re going into.

So, that was very emotional because - and I’m giving my secrets away - I substituted my relationship as Barret with Marlene, with my relationship with my sons. I have four boys, and I substituted my ‘sense memory’, as it’s called. What if that was one of my sons or all of my sons on the other side of that plate?

What was your favorite scene to play in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

Ha, there’s a lot! I can’t really say because I’m not meant to talk about stuff - Square Enix will have my NDA contract, so I can’t really say my favorite scenes (laughs).

But I will say my favorite things are going to this particular place and overlooking particular events that are happening that are actually stunningly beautiful. That's the only thing I can say about that scene.

And then there's another scene where I get to interact with Yuffie. Suzie (Yeung) is killing it and it's actually hilarious. And then that actually allowed me to go: okay, well here's Tifa who I already have a relationship with, here's Marlene, who's my baby girl, but now Yuffie’s coming in. She’s got the same kind of energy that I have, but she’s a baby girl - she’s in between Tifa and Marlene.

I always joke about this that Britt (Baron) and Suzie are like baby sisters, and that’s how I can do what I do with them. Those scenes are fun.

And then any of my scenes with Cloud… man, I’m just going to say this candidly -Cody (Christian) came in to do voiceover stuff not knowing how big this game was - I didn't even know how big it was! But any time I got to do scenes with Cody, I would ask: “Hey, has Cody recorded this yet? Can I hear what he does? Can I hear what he does, so I can feel what I would say or how I would say it?

It gave me a groundedness and a sense of direction of how to lead the team and where we were going to go.

I mean, that dude is incredible. I don't think people understand the work he puts into it. I call Cody “Today’s Keanu Reeves.” Because Keanu is one of the most generous guys in the world, but he’s real. He’ll be down on the street or on a subway train chilling with everybody else. That’s how Cody is.

Music! He’s musically inclined. Y’all don’t understand how much he does. So, for him to say: “Hey, this is how I approach things”, I’m like, “Damn John - well go ahead too!”

What’s the most challenging thing about being Barret?

The emotions. Because you got to go there.

Where you have to go emotionally, and where you have to know boundaries as an actor, especially an actor of color… they’re hard to juggle at times.

So, in order to do that emotionally, physically, mentally, spiritually, there are challenges, which I love.

But not only are you doing that, which is a task in itself, you also have a certain amount time to fit your lines in. You have to do what they say in your ear and say the words that they’ve given me on paper, BUT the character may also doing something physically that doesn’t relate to how you might want to do it.

So those are the challenging times. For example, how do I take the elevator scene in REMAKE where’s he’s just going off - how do you take that and balance it out so he’s not so big and being a caricature?

So, I'm always in my head when I'm in the booth. But like I said, that's the fun part and that's the challenging part.

What are you most excited for fans to discover in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in regard to Barret?

In regard to Barret? Man, I want them to experience the whole damn game!

As far as experiencing Barret, I’m not a selfish actor. I want them to experience the journey that Tifa goes on, that Aerith goes on, the journey that Cloud REALLY goes on, the journey that Yuffie all of a sudden jumps into, the journey that a character who’s also a robot goes on…

But for Barret? I guess the only thing that I want people to understand is his past. If you understand his past, you understand his actions. If you experience his past, and what he’s dealing with, and the weight of the world being on this man’s shoulders as a leader, you’ll understand REMAKE better.

That’s what I can’t wait for people to experience!

Who is your favorite character…?

Red (XIII)! You don’t even have to finish that question!

Red, first of all, is drawn, created, done beautifully. If you haven't done it, look at the details in Red - what’s on him, what the doc marked him up as, his branding, his braids, his hair. If you look at him, Red represents a culture in America, probably the world, that has gone through it, been tested upon, been beat down, been counted out and survived it all.

So, you think about all of these different things about Red, and he’s the ultimate underdog, right? You just become a fan to go: “Oh he’s still alive, he’s still fighting.”

Red’s incredible - and he’s beautiful. I mean, he’s Red! He’s cool - half dog, half wolf, loyal (except for when he talks about me, especially in the truck). And then in this one, you get to see Red… oh I can’t say it! You get to see Red at different times…

Red’s voice actor (Max Mittelman) kills it! He’s another one where I say: “Can you play me what he did?” Thank God they had some stuff recorded because I was able to play off that, like: “Damn!”

(At this point in the interview Max Mittelman runs in for a hug)

That’s my little Red!

Max: We just met today!

John: Yeah! We just met! I’ve known about him forever, and everyone and their momma brags about him, but… he’s the man.

And on that heart-warming note we end but you can hear John’s fantastic in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, coming February 29, 2024, for PS5.

Preorder any digital edition of the game to get the following bonus item:

  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in game item)

What’s more, if you have a save file from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE or FF7R EPISODE INTERmission, you will be able to claim the following items in FINAL FANTASY REBIRTH:

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE (PS4 / PS5) save file

  • Summon Materia: Leviathan

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE EPISODE INTERmission save file

  • Summon Materia: Ramuh

Please note that save data must be saved on the PS5 system.

Standard Edition (physical and digital)

Available both digitally and physically. The physical version comes across two discs and includes a reversible cover.

This edition includes:

  • The full game

It’s available to preorder now:

A Digital Deluxe Edition Upgrade will also be available to purchase for the digital Standard Edition, which adds Digital Deluxe Edition content. This cannot be preordered and will become available when the game launches.

Deluxe Edition (physical only)

The physical Deluxe Edition also includes the below:

  • The full game
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD (in jewel case)
  • Physical artbook

It's available to preorder now:

Digital Deluxe Edition (digital only)

Available to preorder from the PlayStation Store, this edition includes:

  • The full game
  • Digital mini soundtrack
  • Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Collector’s Edition

Available from the Square Enix Store, this edition is a real treat for fans. It includes:

  • The full game (across two discs)
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH STATIC ARTS - SEPHIROTH - a large, highly detailed statue of Sephiroth
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD
  • Physical artbook features stunning illustrations and concept art from the game
  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Twin Pack (digital only)

This terrific twin pack gives you access to both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the upcoming game FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

Once ordered, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE right away and be ready to continue the adventure in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH on release day.

The set includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - full game

Purchase this twin set before launch to get a substantial discount - essentially you can get both titles together for the same price as one standard edition! Check the PlayStation Store to see prices in your region:

Digital Deluxe Twin Pack (digital only)

This bumper bundle gives you both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE Digital Deluxe Edition, and all the awesome content that comes with it.

Once purchased, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE right away:

It includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game, including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital Deluxe Edition - full game
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital mini soundtrack
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)

It’s available to order now. What’s more, purchase before launch for a significant discount on the price of both games!

To stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, please follow us on social media:

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FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH: find previews and interviews here

Media and influencers recently got to play the upcoming RPG. We’ve pulled together links to their coverage so you can read their impressions!
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is just a few weeks away! On February 29, 2024, you’ll be able to join Cloud Strife and his allies on an epic adventure around a spectacular world full of incredible things to see and do.

As for what those things are… members of the press and influencers from around the world were recently given an extended hands-on with the game. They experienced the exciting Nibelheim flashback and had a chance to roam around a part of the expanded world and explore some of the side content.

Want to know what they had to say about it? We’ve gathered links to some of their coverage - click through to read or watch their impressions.

(Please note: this page will be updated as more previews are published)

Hands-on impressions

Interviews

Videos

DevilNeverCry

CuriousJoi

Easy Allies

Genesis VII

Maximilian Dood

Jesse Cox

Davidvinc RPGs

Alex Moukala Music

Marignetic

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH launches February 29, 2024 for PS5.

Preorder any digital edition of the game to get the following bonus item:

  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in game item)

What’s more, if you have a save file from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE or FF7R EPISODE INTERmission, you will be able to claim the following items in FINAL FANTASY REBIRTH:

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE (PS4 / PS5) save file

  • Summon Materia: Leviathan

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE EPISODE INTERmission save file

  • Summon Materia: Ramuh

Please note that save data must be saved on the PS5 system.

Standard Edition (physical and digital)

Available both digitally and physically. The physical version comes across two discs and includes a reversible cover.

This edition includes:

  • The full game

It’s available to preorder now:

A Digital Deluxe Edition Upgrade will also be available to purchase for the digital Standard Edition, which adds Digital Deluxe Edition content. This cannot be preordered and will become available when the game launches.

Deluxe Edition (physical only)

The physical Deluxe Edition also includes the below:

  • The full game
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD (in jewel case)
  • Physical artbook

It's available to preorder now:

Digital Deluxe Edition (digital only)

Available to preorder from the PlayStation Store, this edition includes:

  • The full game
  • Digital mini soundtrack
  • Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Collector’s Edition

Available from the Square Enix Store, this edition is a real treat for fans. It includes:

  • The full game (across two discs)
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH STATIC ARTS - SEPHIROTH - a large, highly detailed statue of Sephiroth
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD
  • Physical artbook features stunning illustrations and concept art from the game
  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Twin Pack (digital only)

This terrific twin pack gives you access to both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the upcoming game FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

Once ordered, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE right away and be ready to continue the adventure in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH on release day.

The set includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - full game

Purchase this twin set before launch to get a substantial discount - essentially you can get both titles together for the same price as one standard edition! Check the PlayStation Store to see prices in your region:

Digital Deluxe Twin Pack (digital only)

This bumper bundle gives you both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE Digital Deluxe Edition, and all the awesome content that comes with it.

Once purchased, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE right away:

It includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game, including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital Deluxe Edition - full game
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital mini soundtrack
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)

It’s available to order now. What’s more, purchase before launch for a significant discount on the price of both games!

To stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, please follow us on social media:

0Read More

New FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH demo: here’s what’s included

A free demo for FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is available now. Here’s what’s ready to play now - and what’s coming later this month!
By Duncan Heaney

Many questions have been swirling around since we announced FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH. What’s the story of this new entry in the series? How has the combat system evolved? What will happen to our beloved heroes?

And perhaps most importantly… when can we play it for ourselves?

The short answer to that last question is… today! A new demo for FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is available to download now on the PlayStation Store. It lets you play through an early section of the game - part of the Nibelheim flashback.

Then, on February 21, an update will add new content to the demo: the chance to explore some of the expanded area around Junon.

You can get the demo from the PlayStation Store now.

We’re sure you’re eager to know more, so while you wait for the game to download, here’s a little about what to expect:

Available today: Nibelheim episode

This demo episode takes you back in time, as Cloud Strife recounts the story of an early mission with Sephiroth. In this flashback, Cloud and Sephiroth have been sent on a mission to investigate a malfunctioning reactor in Mt. Nibel, near Cloud’s hometown.

Guided by a young Tifa, the SOLDIERs traverse the treacherous path to the reactor, facing many challenges from terrifying beasts to industrial waste.

It’s a fast-paced section of the early game that will teach you the ins and outs of the combat system, let you get to grips with the new Synergy Abilities… oh, and you get to play as Sephiroth!

There’s more to experience in the full game if you complete the Nibelheim episode in the demo, you’ll be given the option to skip the same section in the full game.

Why would you want to though? It’s well worth experiencing twice, just to get more hands-on time with Sephiroth!

Available Feb 21, 2024: Junon area episode

On February 21, an update for the demo will include an additional episode, set in the area around Junon (you must have completed the Nibelheim episode to access it).

This will let you roam freely around a small area of the world at your own pace. You can seek out special monsters to hunt, with their own objectives to fulfil, ride a chocobo and more.

When you’re ready for some more structured fun, you can head into Junon for some more story too.

It’s a great way to get a taste of the freedom and variety that’s available in the world of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, and a tantalizing tease of what’s in store in the full experience

Please note that the area in the demo has been significantly altered to make the content more compact. You can expect much more in the full game - a much larger space to explore, more side content to find and undertake, more monsters to battle, more secrets to find… the list goes on.

Demo bonuses for the full game

If you have save data from the demo on your PS5, you’ll be able to claim some awesome items when you play the full game:

  • Kupo charm: An accessory that increases the number of resource items extracted at a set rate.

  • Survival set: A selection of items to aid on your adventure, such as potions and ethers.

Be sure to have applied the latest update before diving into FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH to ensure you can get items, and the ability to skip part of the Nibelheim episode in the full game.

We hope you’re excited to dive into FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in the new demo. The full experience isn’t far away - it launches for PS5 this month, on February 29, 2024!

Preorder any digital edition of the game to get the following bonus item:

  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in game item)

What’s more, if you have a save file from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE or FF7R EPISODE INTERmission, you will be able to claim the following items in FINAL FANTASY REBIRTH:

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE (PS4 / PS5) save file

  • Summon Materia: Leviathan

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE EPISODE INTERmission save file

  • Summon Materia: Ramuh

Please note that save data must be saved on the PS5 system.

Standard Edition (physical and digital)

Available both digitally and physically. The physical version comes across two discs and includes a reversible cover.

This edition includes:

  • The full game

It’s available to preorder now:

A Digital Deluxe Edition Upgrade will also be available to purchase for the digital Standard Edition, which adds Digital Deluxe Edition content. This cannot be preordered and will become available when the game launches.

Deluxe Edition (physical only)

The physical Deluxe Edition also includes the below:

  • The full game
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD (in jewel case)
  • Physical artbook

It's available to preorder now:

Digital Deluxe Edition (digital only)

Available to preorder from the PlayStation Store, this edition includes:

  • The full game
  • Digital mini soundtrack
  • Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Collector’s Edition

Available from the Square Enix Store, this edition is a real treat for fans. It includes:

  • The full game (across two discs)
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH STATIC ARTS - SEPHIROTH - a large, highly detailed statue of Sephiroth
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD
  • Physical artbook features stunning illustrations and concept art from the game
  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Twin Pack (digital only)

This terrific twin pack gives you access to both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the upcoming game FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

Once ordered, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE right away and be ready to continue the adventure in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH on release day.

The set includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - full game

Purchase this twin set before launch to get a substantial discount - essentially you can get both titles together for the same price as one standard edition! Check the PlayStation Store to see prices in your region:

Digital Deluxe Twin Pack (digital only)

This bumper bundle gives you both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE Digital Deluxe Edition, and all the awesome content that comes with it.

Once purchased, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE right away:

It includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game, including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital Deluxe Edition - full game
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital mini soundtrack
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)

It’s available to order now. What’s more, purchase before launch for a significant discount on the price of both games!

To stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, please follow us on social media:

0Read More

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH: Britt Baron talks Tifa Lockhart

The actress who brings Tifa to life explains why she loves the character, her role in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH and her favorite scene from the upcoming game.
By Duncan Heaney

In many ways, Tifa Lockhart is the beating heart of the team in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH. She’s a voice of reason, one heck of a martial artist, and she makes a mean cocktail to boot.

Despite being a loyal member of Avalanche - an underground organization that opposes Shinra - Tifa questions the group’s extremist tactics, struggling to reconcile her cause with her conscience. This internal conflict reaches a fever pitch when her group’s actions effectively led to the fall of the Sector 7 plate. Racked with guilt, she leaves Midgar in search of a new path to tread.

Her unique combination of strength and compassion is captured in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH through a fantastic performance by her English voice actress Britt Baron.

We recently had the opportunity to talk with Britt about her experiences with the character, the things that make Tifa so beloved, and what we can expect from her in the upcoming game.

HI Britt. Your character, Tifa, is one of the most popular in the game. Why do you think that is?

I think Tifa is so beloved because she’s so multidimensional. I think she’s incredibly empathetic, she’s passionate, she’s kind and a motherly figure to a lot of the other characters.

She’s very relatable, at least to me - probably because I spent so many hours voicing her, I find her incredibly relatable. And I think that her ability to want justice, but also to care about all of the morals behind what they’re doing makes her stand out amongst this whole story and plotline.

And I think that she’s really dimensional, fully written. I think that’s why this game is so successful - because all of the characters are really fully fleshed out. They’re realistic humans and I think Tifa definitely is one of those.

Obviously, this isn’t your first time voicing the character. How did you find the reaction to FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE and your performance in that game?

I think the reaction to REMAKE was crazy and incredible. I wasn’t that well versed with the game going in and people in my life tried to warn me, but I was just really blown away.

I think the stakes were so high, so it’s really scary as an actor because all of these fans hold this game so dear to their heart, they grew up playing it. I mean, how can you ever live up to expectations?

So, I was just really blown away and grateful because you always want to do the fans justice and you want to do the character justice because she’s so beloved by so many people. So, the pressure I felt… (laughs).

But the reaction was amazing. It was also mid COVID, so it was a really fun time in a really dark moment of the world.

When did you realize just how much expectation there is for your portrayal of Tifa?

It was strange because when I found out I was cast, I had auditioned for a few roles in FINAL FANTASY, so I didn’t at first even know who I was cast as. And once I told my husband, he was the one that was like: “You are Tifa!!!!”. And that kind of began the journey of” “Wow, I have really big shoes to fill.”

This always happens with any project I’m a part of: when you you’re filming it, when you’re recording it, it feels all very intimate, safe, and protected. You’re working with the creative team in a very intimate setting. And it’s not until when you’re about to wrap up, you realize: Oh my gosh, this baby that we’ve been working on is going to be released into the world. And you hope you hope it’ll be received well.

I think you just try to do the best in the moment and do your best work as an actor. But I try not to focus so much on the pressure in the moment when we’re recording. I think afterwards, once it’s out of my hands, that’s when I start to get a little more anxious. Which probably is bad, but that’s my method (laughs).

How has Tifa changed between FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE and REBIRTH?

We see a lot more of her backstory in REBIRTH. We get to go back to some of Tifa’s trauma and see more of why she is the way she is, and what vengeance she is seeking; and also trying to figure out her own past - what’s true and what isn’t. And she’s working through that with Cloud.

I think it’s more muddied, and I don’t want to say ‘darker’, but the stakes feel higher in this game. The first game was more of an introduction, and I think we really delve deep in REBIRTH.

You also play a younger version of Tifa in this game. How did you have to change your performance for this?

To voice young Tifa was slightly challenging because I’m already an alto and just regular aged Tifa is already in a higher placement for me. So, playing young Tifa, I had to figure out how to go even higher. To get technical, it was just placing my voice more to the front of my mouth.

We really rely on our directors too. So, Kirk Thornton is amazing, and he really helped me stay the course as young Tifa. But we were jumping all around, so it’s definitely a challenge - a fun challenge - as an actor.

Is there a particular scene in FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE that you were particularly proud of?

My favorite scene to play in REMAKE, might have been on the train when Tifa saves one of the Shinra employees.

It was such a high action paced, intense scene. We recorded it early on, and I think that it really illuminates who Tifa is as a human. It encapsulates who she is, so I really enjoyed that. And I think it was one of those pivotal scenes where I really got to solidify what voice I was using, who she was as a character and my portrayal.

Do you have a favorite scene in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

It might have been with Tifa and Cloud. I think it’s pretty emotional. It was one of the earlier scenes that we recorded, and at that time we were recording Japanese hours, so it was really late night in Los Angeles which, when you get a little tired, feels even more intimate.

She’s trying to express her feelings for Cloud, She’s trying to figure out what’s going on with him and I think those kind of scenes are really fun for me because a lot of our recording is so disjointed and that was one of the instances in REBIRTH where I got to record the scene start to finish, and Cody might have already recorded.

Sometimes they’ll play his lines for me, which is also really nice and helpful because I’m then playing off of him, which I think I did get to do in that scene.

What’s the most challenging thing about playing Tifa?

One of the most challenging things about playing Tifa is making everyone happy. I mean, it’s a hard challenge to come in as an actor and play a character that so many people have different opinions of and different emotional attachments to, and different ideas of how she should sound or how she should react to certain moments.

Just navigating, doing the fans justice, and also doing myself justice in terms of relying on my own choices as an actor, and with our directors, is the fun balancing act of being a part of such a massive game with such a huge history, versus a completely new IP.

That’s one of the fun challenges of her. And I think she’s very dynamic, so some days you’re doing efforts and really loud. She’s in her warrior mode and fighter mode. And other days it’s these really emotional scenes that are so quiet and intimate.

So, that juxtaposition is also super-challenging because you’re really jumping from one mode to the next when you’re recording. But it’s fun!

How did you overcome that challenge and balance that softness and fierceness?

Just through my training as an actor! I don’t want to speak for all of us, but this is kind of why you want to become an actor. You want to play the high highs and the low lows.

That’s one of the best parts of getting to be part of a game like this and getting to play a character like this. I get the opportunity to get really soft and grounded and intimate, and have these emotional scenes, and these super high stakes…

And we get to do these really silly, fun side quests, we’re joking around in scenes and we’re fighting. It’s a challenge - I’m not sure how I navigate it other than to just be in the moment and believe in the given circumstances.

Acting 101 (laughs).

What’s your favorite thing about playing Tifa?

My favorite thing about playing Tifa is her kindness. When she gets to be really empathetic and is leading with her heart and her moral compass, those are kind of my favorite scenes. That’s when I feel like Tifa shines as a human and those are the scenes that I just personally really enjoy recording.

As a martial artist, Tifa has to make a lot of grunts, or ‘efforts’. Is this a physical task for you? How do you approach it?

I think I am acting it out a little bit, however you can’t move much because you don’t want to move off mic. Voice acting is super-technical, especially for my character. It’s very different than John (Eric Bentley) playing… (thinks) Barret… (bursts out laughing) Oh my God, I forgot his character’s name! I’m like “Who does that guy play again?”

John Eric Bentley: Did somebody say your name!?

Britt Baron: (laughing) Ok, let me go back. What was the question again?

Efforts…

Oh yeah! When I’m recording Tifa’s efforts I’m absolutely standing up. I can’t sit down to do that. It’s very technical - you can’t move off mic. So, as much as I wish I could really be throwing punches or kicks, you can’t. It’s just about being grounded.

Also, our director Kirk, really helps me because it’s very easy when you’re doing, like 100 efforts to just keep doing the same sound over and over again. So sometimes you really do need an extra ear to be like” “Okay, try something with your mouth closed”, or “Maybe you’re pulling yourself up or you’re pulling yourself down”. Because otherwise it can get really repetitive.

We have a great team behind us, which I’m very grateful for.

What is your favorite memory of recording FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

I got to bring my dog to a recording session in the second game, and that was really fun! She did ruin a few takes snoring, but besides that, it was just really fun to have her with me.

And, you know, she can’t spoil anything because she did sign an NDA. That was a fun memory, though, for me.

Other than Tifa, are there any other game characters that you’d really love to play?

I don’t have a ton of gaming experience. However, I did spend many hours playing Mario Kart on N64. And even to this day, even on the Switch where there’s all these new characters, I only play as Yoshi, I actually will not play the game if I’m not Yoshi.

So, I guess I would say Yoshi. Not that I can do an impression. Please don’t ask me to do that!

Please can you do an impression of Yoshi?

(Laughing) Oh no!

Yoshi!

(Everyone cheers at the surprisingly spot-on impression)

Did I get the part?

Sadly, not one of our games. What aspects of Tifa do you wish you had in real life?

Getting to see my voice behind these insane moves that Tifa is performing is pretty incredible. I like to take some of her abilities and pretend that I could do that because I was cast to portray that. So, I will take her strength and talent and pretend that I can do that. Even though I can’t.

But I did grow up as a dancer, so, you know, that’s something (laughs). I can’t do backflips and land on my feet, but in this game I can and it’s pretty cool to see my voice alongside that.

I live vicariously through Tifa.

Who would you say are your personal favorite characters in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

Oh, I don’t know… it might be Aerith. Or Yuffie. Both of them are so fun. Not that Tifa’s not fun, but I love that Aerith gets to be kind of sarcastic and bold and she’s really confident. Same with Yuffie - they both bring that energy. I think Tifa is a little more grounded.

What message would you give to fans about the upcoming FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

My message to fans is… oh god, how much can I spoil?

Ok, my message to fans is to be excited, be open-minded because I think we have some really fun surprises, and I think we also have some awesome fan service that will make everyone happy. I’m hoping, knock on wood (taps her own head).

Let’s not jinx anything, but I’m really proud. I think it’s a really exciting new chapter and we’ve really expanded this world.

Many thanks to Britt Baron. You can hear her as Tifa in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, coming February 29 2024 to PS5.

Preorder any digital edition of the game to get the following bonus item:

  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in game item)

What’s more, if you have a save file from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE or FF7R EPISODE INTERmission, you will be able to claim the following items in FINAL FANTASY REBIRTH:

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE (PS4 / PS5) save file

  • Summon Materia: Leviathan

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE EPISODE INTERmission save file

  • Summon Materia: Ramuh

Please note that save data must be saved on the PS5 system.

Standard Edition (physical and digital)

Available both digitally and physically. The physical version comes across two discs and includes a reversible cover.

This edition includes:

  • The full game

It’s available to preorder now:

A Digital Deluxe Edition Upgrade will also be available to purchase for the digital Standard Edition, which adds Digital Deluxe Edition content. This cannot be preordered and will become available when the game launches.

Deluxe Edition (physical only)

The physical Deluxe Edition also includes the below:

  • The full game
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD (in jewel case)
  • Physical artbook

It's available to preorder now:

Digital Deluxe Edition (digital only)

Available to preorder from the PlayStation Store, this edition includes:

  • The full game
  • Digital mini soundtrack
  • Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Collector’s Edition

Available from the Square Enix Store, this edition is a real treat for fans. It includes:

  • The full game (across two discs)
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH STATIC ARTS - SEPHIROTH - a large, highly detailed statue of Sephiroth
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD
  • Physical artbook features stunning illustrations and concept art from the game
  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Twin Pack (digital only)

This terrific twin pack gives you access to both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the upcoming game FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

Once ordered, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE right away and be ready to continue the adventure in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH on release day.

The set includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - full game

Purchase this twin set before launch to get a substantial discount - essentially you can get both titles together for the same price as one standard edition! Check the PlayStation Store to see prices in your region:

Digital Deluxe Twin Pack (digital only)

This bumper bundle gives you both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE Digital Deluxe Edition, and all the awesome content that comes with it.

Once purchased, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE right away:

It includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game, including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital Deluxe Edition - full game
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital mini soundtrack
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)

It’s available to order now. What’s more, purchase before launch for a significant discount on the price of both games!

To stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, please follow us on social media:

0Read More

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH: Cody Christian talks Cloud Strife

The actor who brings the iconic Cloud Strife to life in FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE and FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH shares his take on the Buster Sword-wielding hero!
By Duncan Heaney

Few characters in gaming are as beloved as Cloud Strife.

This spikey-haired protagonist of FINAL FANTASY VII is a former SOLDIER operative who arrived in Midgar to start a new chapter of his life as a mercenary. After many adventures in the city, he leaves Midgar behind in pursuit of Sephiroth and the truth – a quest which will lead him to defy destiny itself.

He is, to put it mildly, a complex figure, so it needs a talented performer to bring him to life.

Actor Cody Christian has done just that, portraying the character in the acclaimed FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE. And that was no one-time gig - he’s back in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - coming to PS5 on February 29, 2023.

This new game goes deeper into Cloud and his fellow party members’ backgrounds than ever before. You’ll experience new depths to his personality and develop an even deeper insight into this most complicated of heroes. In short, there’s plenty for an actor of Cody’s calibre to get his teeth into!

We spoke to Cody about his experiences portraying Cloud - and his excitement now that he’s part of the FINAL FANTASY family.

Hi Cody. How did you feel when you saw the positive reaction to FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, and your portrayal of Cloud?

I went from being incredibly overwhelmed to feeling as if I could take a deep breath.

I think the first game, especially more than the second, was a lot of weight. There was a lot of expectations, whether they were what I put on myself, or what I expected for the fans - what they deserved in the game.

But finally having it be received and received well - especially during a crazy time because that was the pandemic – I couldn’t have been happier, honestly. And it gave me so much confidence moving forward, and so much more excitement going into the second part of the game and potentially the third as well.

So, I’m cool now, man! I feel like I’m finally able to live in this and enjoy it!

How has Cloud changed between that game and FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

I think in the first game we saw a much more guarded, closed off version of Cloud. A lot of stoicism involved, right? The second game allows us to go a bit deeper in his character and his emotional journey, and there’s a lot more depth to explore.

One of my favorite aspects of Cloud, and bringing it to life, is the vulnerability within him. I think we really get a chance to kind of dive deep into the second game, which opens up a whole new side of Cloud in my opinion.

How difficult was it to balance Cloud’s practiced aloofness, with his heart and humanity? There are so many sides to the character so it must have been tricky to capture them all…

I don’t think the execution of it was that difficult. You got to keep in mind - and I would love to share this publicly - I had so much help and assistance in the studio behind the scenes. Not only with my Director, Kirk, but also the sound engineer, and especially Ben - he’s one of our translators that works with Square Enix. So, I had so much knowledge, so much support which provided comfortability.

That helped alleviate a lot. But I think for me, executing the part of Cloud and really pulling it off… it has to go with just humanizing as much as possible. You know, he has a crazy storyline and crazy history. A lot of stuff has happened. There’s a lot of trauma, a lot of things impacting him.

So, seeing him grow out of his shell has been a journey. Again, it wasn’t too difficult to execute - more or less just trying to understand who he is at the core and then let everything else breathe naturally from there!

You get to play through Cloud’s memories of the past Cloud in this game. How did you change your performance for the younger version of the character?

Honestly, I had to do some actual physical changes, kind of lightening up the tone, trying to reach a higher octave. Naturally, my voice sits a little lower, so that was fun to explore.

There were two different age brackets. There was like a younger, younger cloud and then a slightly older version of that. And then the current state that I voice them in.

But outside of physically changing the voice, it was just also changing the mindset depending on where it was in the story. What had happened, what had occurred, what was his life really like, what was his relationships like? Because again, there’s such a duality to the character. And as an actor, something that has excited me the most about portraying him is there’s just so many sides, there’s so many things acting all at once.

We see young Cloud in the village, we see Cloud beginning SOLDIER training… there’s all different phases of his life. So, it’s really just about understanding the context of where he’s at and letting it all come from there.

Are there any scenes you’re particularly proud of in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH?

There is actually. There’s a whole sequence - I don’t know where exactly in the game and I don’t want to give away too much - but we’ll just say that we see a very… unhinged side of Cloud.

Exploring that, and the interactions with the core characters and who know him… I’m getting chills thinking about it - it was really, really cool! I’m excited for fans to see it.

What was the most challenging thing about portraying Cloud in this game?

I mean, the realest answer that I can give you is that the way the recording process works, we’re constantly jumping from the beginning to the middle, back to the beginning of a scene.

We don’t record anything chronologically, so it’s difficult to kind of figure out where you are in that exact moment, what has happened previously, what’s about to happen next. There’s a lot of like questioning, and really making sure you know where you’re at.

And quite honestly, I’d say that was the most difficult process. Because, again, having had the first game come out and people not go on a rampage to try to get me out, I was like: “okay” (laughs). It was so much easier and so much more comfortable.

What’s the best thing about playing Cloud Strife?

The best thing about playing Cloud Strife… is being able to play Cloud Strife, man (laughs)!

I mean, there it is - it’s iconic, it’s legendary and to be part of such a crazy franchise with such a rich history and fanbase… I’m a gamer myself so I really know what it’s like and what it feels like to be connected with a videogame, a character, a franchise, series or whatever it may be.

So, to be part of something so special to so many people in all their own ways… I feel that’s art in the best form!

What is your favorite memory involving FINAL FANTASY VII?

I have a couple and they came in different phases. There’s a funny story about booking the job because I auditioned for it with no real context about what it was. I got these crazy instructions about what to do, and I remember in the actual session, they were like, “Okay, so imagine seven or eight people around you and you have a really big weapon, and you just swing and take them all out at once.”

I’ve never done that before in my life, so just out of nowhere, I just went (shouts) “argh!” and started doing crazy stuff.

So, this audition happens, and I don’t hear anything for a month or a month and a half. So, I’m assuming: “Okay, I completely wrecked that!” Then I get the phone call, and they tell me what it is, the role, the project because everything was under code names at the time.

As soon as I found out what it was, I called my brother who’s a massive fan of FINAL FANTASY. I told him the news and he freaked out, and when he freaked out, the magnitude of kind of what was about to happen hit me.

It was just a really cool moment for me. It was cool moment for my brother and I to share. So that was like the first one.

My second one was New York Comic Con. I hadn’t had the chance to publicly be a part of this game yet and interact with fans. New York Comic Con was my first time being able to do it, so I was excited to see it. I’m excited for the fans to see what’s in store!

So, be honest, who’s your favorite character in the game?

I mean, I’m pretty cool. (Looks at Barret’s voice actor John Eric Bentley, who is sitting nearby) But that Barret guy is all right. He’s all right too, I guess (laughs).

What’s your favorite thing about your character?

I think I have the coolest weapon in the game for sure, hands down. But on the deeper side of things, I think just the emotional journey of the character, the depth and everything that he’s going through and has been through is very cool, very unique, and it makes him really one of one. So, it’s pretty legendary to be able to bring it to life.

Finally, is there anything you want to say to fans?

I just want to say thank you. I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart. And I’m going to keep it short and sweet and as genuine as possible.

This was a very daunting experience to tackle the first go around. The second one has been much more enjoyable and much easier. I hope whatever is to come, you guys will continue to love it.

And I thank you so much for the support!

Many thanks to Cody for his time - and his amazing performance as Cloud Strife. You can hear him in action in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, coming to PS5 on February 29, 2023.

Preorder any digital edition of the game to get the following bonus item:

  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in game item)

What’s more, if you have a save file from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE or FF7R EPISODE INTERmission, you will be able to claim the following items in FINAL FANTASY REBIRTH:

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE (PS4 / PS5) save file

  • Summon Materia: Leviathan

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE EPISODE INTERmission save file

  • Summon Materia: Ramuh

Please note that save data must be saved on the PS5 system.

Standard Edition (physical and digital)

Available both digitally and physically. The physical version comes across two discs and includes a reversible cover.

This edition includes:

  • The full game

It’s available to preorder now:

A Digital Deluxe Edition Upgrade will also be available to purchase for the digital Standard Edition, which adds Digital Deluxe Edition content. This cannot be preordered and will become available when the game launches.

Deluxe Edition (physical only)

The physical Deluxe Edition also includes the below:

  • The full game
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD (in jewel case)
  • Physical artbook

It's available to preorder now:

Digital Deluxe Edition (digital only)

Available to preorder from the PlayStation Store, this edition includes:

  • The full game
  • Digital mini soundtrack
  • Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Collector’s Edition

Available from the Square Enix Store, this edition is a real treat for fans. It includes:

  • The full game (across two discs)
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH STATIC ARTS - SEPHIROTH - a large, highly detailed statue of Sephiroth
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD
  • Physical artbook features stunning illustrations and concept art from the game
  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Twin Pack (digital only)

This terrific twin pack gives you access to both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the upcoming game FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

Once ordered, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE right away and be ready to continue the adventure in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH on release day.

The set includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - full game

Purchase this twin set before launch to get a substantial discount - essentially you can get both titles together for the same price as one standard edition! Check the PlayStation Store to see prices in your region:

Digital Deluxe Twin Pack (digital only)

This bumper bundle gives you both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE Digital Deluxe Edition, and all the awesome content that comes with it.

Once purchased, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE right away:

It includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game, including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital Deluxe Edition - full game
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital mini soundtrack
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)

It’s available to order now. What’s more, purchase before launch for a significant discount on the price of both games!

To stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, please follow us on social media:

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FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH preview: Get a closer look at Cait Sith, Yuffie, Elena and more!

We reveal some new areas of the game, showcase some of Yuffie and Cait Sith’s amazing combat abilities and much more!
By Duncan Heaney

It’s the start of a New Year, and what better way to celebrate than with a new look at one of 2024’s most exciting games!

Our brand new trailer takes you deeper into the game to offer another tantalizing tease of what to expect. Take a look:

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH launches for PS5 on February 29, 2024 and is set to be a truly epic adventure. Here’s just a taste of some of the places you’ll get to explore… and some of the compelling characters you’ll meet along the way.

Regions of the World

The world of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is comprised of multiple regions. Each boasts unique environments for you to explore. Let's take a look at a couple now:

Starboard Junon

An urban residential zone within the fortified metropolis overlooking the ocean. In addition to housing for Shinra personnel, high-end boutiques and restaurants line its streets.

Currently, preparations are underway here for Rufus Shinra’s presidential inauguration parade.

Shinra-8

A Shinra cruise ship that ferries travelers between the planet’s eastern and western continents. After departing the port of Junon, it heads for the resort town of Costa del Sol.

As part of the on-board entertainment, the ship plays host to a Queen’s Blood tournament.

New Characters: Cait Sith & Moogle

This gregarious cat fights from atop his sturdy moogle mount, who provides both mobility and support during battle.

When Cait’s not duking it out, his high-tech helper aids him in hacking computer systems and telling fortunes.

New Characters: Elena

  • Voice Actor: Piper Reese

Though she may be a rookie, she’s as skilled with her fists and a gun as anyone else in the Turks unit of Shinra’s General Affairs Division.

She and her partner Rude are tasked with pursuing the black-robed figures, which she is more than happy to do if it means being assigned a mission with Tseng.

New Characters: Captain Titov

  • Voice Actor: Jonathan Lipow

The captain of the Shinra-8, responsible for overseeing safe passage for all who travel between Junon and Costa del Sol. He’s earned a sterling reputation among his crew, thanks to his unerring devotion to his duties.

This is most evident during the various festivities held aboard his vessel, which he personally - and passionately - emcees.

Combat

Next up, let's take a look at what some of the new additions to the party can do in battle!

Yuffie

Basic Attacks: Yuffie quickly strikes enemies with a large throwing star. The speed with which she attacks allows you to charge ATB faster than most.

While her throwing star is out, Yuffie can unleash magic-infused "ninjutsu" to punish foes.

Abilities: Yuffie excels at chaining her attacks together and switching their elemental affinity.

Her Doppelgänger ability allows her to attack in tandem with her clone, enabling her to exploit enemies’ weaknesses even more effectively.

Unique ability: Hurling her throwing star at enemies allows Yuffie to keep up the pressure from adistance.

While her throwing star’s out, she can also pelt her foes with ninjutsu. Whatever element her target’s weak against, Yuffie has a ninjutsu spell for it.

Cait Sith

Basic attacks: Cait Sith darts about the battlefield with the agility of an acrobat (or perhaps a cat?), assailing enemies from every side.

When he wants to switch things up, he brings out his moogle pal, changing his attacks.

Abilities: These Cait Sith-exclusive moves can hurt enemies or buff allies, but most rely on luck in some way.

“Let's Ride!,” however, allows him to hop on his moogle, enhancing his regular attacks and his unique abilities.

Unique Abilities: While riding his moogle, Cait Sith can give enemies the boot with Dropkick.

Once his moogle’s attacks have filled the Moogle Meter, he can also buff his companions with abilities like “Defense!”

Synergy Abilities

Synergy abilities are powerful attacks in which two characters team up to turn the tide of battle. More abilities will unlock as you increase the party level - a numerical expression of how closely-knit your team is - and deepen the affinity between party members.

Fill the synergy gauge by using abilities, then unleash a synchronized assault!

Moogle Pinwheel (Synergy Ability / Yuffie & Cait Sith)

Yuffie and Cait Sith attack in tandem with a secret ninja technique.

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH launches on February 29, 2024 for PS5. There’s still time to preorder too.

Preorder any digital edition of the game to get the following bonus item:

  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in game item)

What’s more, if you have a save file from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE or FF7R EPISODE INTERmission, you will be able to claim the following items in FINAL FANTASY REBIRTH:

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE (PS4 / PS5) save file

  • Summon Materia: Leviathan

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE EPISODE INTERmission save file

  • Summon Materia: Ramuh

Please note that save data must be saved on the PS5 system.

Standard Edition (physical and digital)

Available both digitally and physically. The physical version comes across two discs and includes a reversible cover.

This edition includes:

  • The full game

It’s available to preorder now:

A Digital Deluxe Edition Upgrade will also be available to purchase for the digital Standard Edition, which adds Digital Deluxe Edition content. This cannot be preordered and will become available when the game launches.

Deluxe Edition (physical only)

The physical Deluxe Edition also includes the below:

  • The full game
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD (in jewel case)
  • Physical artbook

It's available to preorder now:

Digital Deluxe Edition (digital only)

Available to preorder from the PlayStation Store, this edition includes:

  • The full game
  • Digital mini soundtrack
  • Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Collector’s Edition

Available from the Square Enix Store, this edition is a real treat for fans. It includes:

  • The full game (across two discs)
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH STATIC ARTS - SEPHIROTH - a large, highly detailed statue of Sephiroth
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD
  • Physical artbook features stunning illustrations and concept art from the game
  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Twin Pack (digital only)

This terrific twin pack gives you access to both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the upcoming game FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

Once ordered, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE right away and be ready to continue the adventure in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH on release day.

The set includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - full game

Purchase this twin set before launch to get a substantial discount - essentially you can get both titles together for the same price as one standard edition! Check the PlayStation Store to see prices in your region:

Digital Deluxe Twin Pack (digital only)

This bumper bundle gives you both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE Digital Deluxe Edition, and all the awesome content that comes with it.

Once purchased, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE right away:

It includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game, including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital Deluxe Edition - full game
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital mini soundtrack
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)

It’s available to order now. What’s more, purchase before launch for a significant discount on the price of both games!

To stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, please follow us on social media:

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Best bits of 2023: Accepting the Truth in FINAL FANTASY XVI

We’re celebrating our favorite gaming moments of 2023. Today, we explain why Clive accepting the truth is so darn satisfying!
By Duncan Heaney

In this new series, the Square Enix Blog team looks at some of our favorite moments from throughout the year and why we think they stand out. To be clear, we're not declaring them to be the pinnacle of the game, merely one of many moments that stand out. So, don't get cross at us if you disagree, okay?

FINAL FANTASY XVI is full of incredible moments that combine character-driven drama with eye-widening spectacle. When Producer Naoki Yoshida described it as a ‘rollercoaster,’ he wasn’t kidding!

WARNING: There are spoilers from this point on.

Some of the most powerful moments in the early game come about as Clive delves into his past and his true nature as a Dominant - someone who can channel an Eikon - in the ‘Buried Memories’ questline.

What happens in Buried Memories

Over the years, our battered hero has focused on one thing: revenge against the mysterious hooded figure he saw during the destruction of Phoenix Gate - a tragic assault that resulted in the death of his beloved brother Joshua. So, the discovery that he may have been responsible for the destruction of Phoenix Gate - and by extension his own friends and family - is a difficult one for him to bear.

Despite his anguish, questions about what really happened and the identity of who Clive saw still linger so, with his new ally Cid’s typically frank urging ringing in his ears, he and Jill head off to the site of the tragedy to discover what really happened.

It’s been a long trek through the remnants of his former nation, now part of the Holy Empire of Sanbreque, and the duo have witnessed many horrors along the way, including the suffering of Bearers in the realm. Now though, they have finally reached their destination: the ruins of Phoenix Gate.

Using the blessing of the Phoenix, bestowed on him by his late brother, Clive is able to open a mysterious door and enter the dark underbelly of the castle. He discovers a vast ruin of the Fallen - an ancient civilization long since vanished.

After battling through a gauntlet of hostile Fallen defenses, classic FINAL FANTASY Bombs and more, Clive discovers an ancient mural on the wall - and something awakens within our tormented hero.

He’s transported back to the past, where he is forced to confront Ifrit, the Infernal Eikon itself. It’s a true spectacle, as Clive is utterly dwarfed by this gigantic foe, but after surviving that assault, he then has to face a far tougher opponent - a dark, shadowy vision of himself.

It’s a brutal battle, but as the Infernal Shadow primes into the full-size Ifrit once more, Clive realizes that he can’t avoid the facts forever. There was no hooded figure - he is indeed the Dominant of Ifrit, and responsible for the death of his family. He accepts the truth, and gains the ability to draw power from his Eikon directly.

Filled with resolve, he steps forward, ready to forge a new path that will let him atone for his crimes.

What do we love about this section?

As far as we’re concerned, this is a hugely affecting part of the game - a perfect fusion of gameplay and story that showcases FINAL FANTASY XVI at its very best. It works on multiple levels:

It culminates in a moment of fist-pumping awesomeness

Let’s break tradition and start by talking about the end: Accepting the truth.

As Clive accepts his demons, the game holds still, waiting for you to activate your Limit Break for the first time with the prompt ‘Accept the Truth.’ Click in both sticks, Clive’s body bursts with flames and Composer Masayoshi Soken’s already iconic track, ‘Find the Flame’ explodes into action.

It’s an exhilarating, pulse-raising spectacle, but it doesn’t just work because it’s visually dazzling and audibly awesome - it’s because you experience the same burst of catharsis as the hero himself. It’s story, sound, spectacle and gameplay all working together to create a moment that’s purely unforgettable.

It’s the climax of Clive’s early journey

For most of the early game, Clive is driven by thoughts of revenge against the elusive Dominant of Fire. This hunt drives many of the game’s events, so the mission presents a palpable sense of climax - even if the result wasn’t what Clive expected.

It also sends our hero on a new path that will come to define him throughout the rest of the game - he abandons his selfish, single-minded quest for revenge, and starts a new path to free Valisthea from the injustices he has both seen and endured.

It constantly throws new challenges your way

Clive embracing his past is a big moment, and naturally has garnered a lot of attention from fans, but the lead up is no slouch either.

The Fallen ruins beneath Phoenix Gate is an area that is always ready to throw something new your way. It starts with the Fallen Hunters and Guardians - ancient mechanical devices that feel very different to anything encountered thus far.

Then, the game starts throwing new enemies your way - iconic FINAL FANTASY creatures like Bombs and the Iron Giant or the unsettlingly agile Lich. There’s always something new to battle, and it makes for some truly satisfying encounters.

As you can see, this section of FINAL FANTASY XVI left its mark on us, just as it did Clive. Of course, it’s just one of many magical moments in the game - there are so many more we could pick, from earth-shattering Eikon battles to tender moments between Clive and Jill.

If you’ve yet to discover your own best bits, the game is now available for PS5:

The Echoes of the Fallen DLC is also now out. It sends Clive and his allies up the dangerous Sagespire - and into conflict with the powerful Omega. It’s available standalone or as part of the Expansion Pass, which also includes The Rising Tide DLC, due for release in Spring 2024.

To share your own best bits, be sure to follow us on social media:

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Celebrate the Holiday with these awesome FINAL FANTASY-themed cards!

Embrace the spirit of the holidays with these awesome cards, themed on THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE and featuring some of your favorite FINAL FANTASY characters!
By Duncan Heaney

The Holiday season is upon us at last!

You can celebrate the season with these brand-new Holiday cards, themed on this year’s majestically musical THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE.

The cards feature many beloved characters from the FINAL FANTASY series, including Yuna, Garnet, Eiko, Noel, Snow and more!

To get the cards, click on the link beneath each image to download a high-quality version that you can print:

THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE Holiday Day Card

THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE Holiday Day Card

THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE Holiday Day Card

THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE Holiday Day Card

Happy Holidays from all of us at Square Enix!

For more FINAL FANTASY fun, be sure to follow the team on social media:

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7 Square Enix heroes who will heal your soul

Join us as we celebrate those Square Enix heroes who win the day through passion and positivity.
By Duncan Heaney

Never underestimate the power of positivity.

Square Enix games are full of heroes who showcase the best of humanity with their passionate personalities and sunny dispositions.

Whether they’re quick-witted rogues, pure-hearted heroes or just silly goofballs, these loveable leads inspire a sense of joy and hope in the player.

Today, we’re highlighting just a few of our favorites:

Zidane Tribal - FINAL FANTASY IX

FINAL FANTASY IX’s nimble-fingered protagonist is a ray of sunlight through the mist.

Zidane approaches life with a sense of joy and optimism that’s utterly infectious. He’s dependable, friendly with almost all he meets (even those out to get him), and boundlessly enthusiastic.

The story of FINAL FANTASY IX deals with some weighty subject matter, and the fact that the game’s tone remains relatively light-hearted and optimistic throughout is largely thanks to Zidane’s cheerful and optimistic personality.

Read more:

Bartz Klauser - FINAL FANTASY V Pixel Remaster

Of all the numbered FINAL FANTASY games, FINAL FANTASY V is the most light-hearted. It’s positively overflowing with humor and heart, and a lot of that comes from the characters – particularly Bartz.

This enthusiastic and slightly hapless hero is innately noble-hearted and hopeful. Even when he tries to act like the classic aloof loner, he can’t keep it up – he’s just too kind. That’s what leads him to get embroiled in the adventure in the first place!

True, he’s not the sharpest tool in the shed, which sometimes makes him the Butz of the other people’s jokes, but he’s rarely anything less than a delight to be around.

Read more:

Agnea Bristani - OCTOPATH TRAVELER II

Some heroes solve their problems with their wits. Others resort to force. OCTOPATH TRAVELER II’s Agnea uses something far more potent: kindness.

This warm-hearted dancer sets out around the world on a mission to become a star. But she’s not in it for the fame and fortune - she just wants to put a smile on people’s faces like her mother did.

What she discovers is a world tainted by cynicism and greed, but rather than let it pull her down Agnea lifts it up. Her strength of character and boundless compassion help the people she encounters find the hope they once lost and become better people as a result.

More than any star, she shines like the sun - warm, bright and life-affirming.

Read more:

Selphie Tilmitt - FINAL FANTASY VIII Remastered

With Squall at the helm of FINAL FANTASY VIII, there’s a lot of brooding in FINAL FANTASY VIII. Smoldering brooding, of course (he is the best looking guy there after all), but he’s not the most upbeat of heroes.

That’s a trait noticed by his teammate Selphie, who in contrast is a bubbly bundle of infectious positivity and barely contained energy.

She’s the kind of person who throws her heart and soul into everything she does - be it setting up school festivals, running her own website or - most challenging of all - trying to get Squall to come out of his shell.

Read more:

Jun Erio - PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries Of Honjo

Jun Erio is a young, idealistic detective working a case involving a series of strange deaths. This investigation embroils him in a twisty-turny case involving murderous curse-bearers, urban legends and one of his partner, Tetsuo Tsutsumi’s old cases.

It quickly becomes clear that this is no simple mystery, and as the layers of truth get peeled away, things can become increasingly shocking, morally complex, and personal for his partner. Jun, on the other hand, tends to view the world in more black and white terms, with the forces of good battling evil.

The story of PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo is as dark as it is dramatic, but Jun’s optimism, combined with his keen wit, offers light and humor to cut through that darkness.

You can’t help but fall in love with him.

Read more:

Zack Fair - CRISIS CORE –FINAL FANTASY VII– REUNION

This talented young SOLDIER is energetic, friendly, enthusiastic, and unflinchingly loyal. It’s no wonder that his mentor Angeal calls him ‘Zack the Puppy’.

Poor Zack experiences a lot over the course of this prequel adventure - love, friendship, pain, and betrayal. But throughout it all he retains a positive outlook, never giving into the darkness and approaching each situation with a smile on his face.

It’s what makes him such an endearing character and a joy to play. Even when the game is breaking your heart, Zack’s indefatigable spirit brings it life.

Read more:

Sora - KINGDOM HEARTS series

Sora is one of those heroes that exude positivity. Whatever situation on whichever world he finds himself in, he faces its challenges with a smile on his face and a spring in his step. It’s no wonder he makes friends wherever he goes.

Despite dealing with the darkness on a regular basis, Sora never gives in to hatred or despair. On the contrary, his strong heart, and unwavering bonds let him push through the many dangers he faces and build up those around him in the process.

Few characters can inspire such a clear sense of joy. It’s impossible to fill his giant shoes and not feel happy.

Read more:

Those were just some of the characters whose sunny dispositions bring light to our lives, but what do you think? We’re sure you have some suggestions of your own, so be sure to follow us on social media to share your thoughts!

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You must do these sidequests in FINAL FANTASY XVI

From blacksmith bothers to chocobo champions, we highlight some of the sidequests in FINAL FANTASY XVI you don’t want to miss!
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY XVI is full of things to do beyond the main story. The game features many sidequests, which add context and color to the game’s richly detailed world - and offer up some valuable rewards in the process!

Today, we’re highlighting some of our favorite quests in the game. Some give you valuable upgrades, some include awesome battles, while others contain story beats that showcase the various shades of living in Valisthea - but all of them are absolutely worth doing.

WARNING: The following article contains spoilers.

The Path to Echoes of the Fallen

We’ll start by highlighting the four sidequests that you’ll need to have completed to access the newly released Echoes of the Fallen DLC (In addition, you’ll have to have reached the ‘Back to Origin main quest).

Phoenix, Heal Thyself

When Joshua reunites with Clive, it’s clear that he’s not in perfect condition - drawing on the power of an Eikon does take its toll, after all.

Concerned for his brother’s wellbeing, Clive dives into the heart of danger to get him ingredients for the medicine that soothes his pain. This is a quest that proves that the bond between the Rosfield brothers holds as firm as ever and that each will do anything to protect the other.

Where there’s a Will

We don’t get to spend long with Elwin Rosfield, the Archduke of Roseria, as the tragedy at Phoenix Gate sends him to his rest. This late game quest gives us insight into the man he was, and the future he was fighting for.

Clive and Joshua discover something akin to their father’s will and head out to learn more. It’s a moving tale that delves deep into the history of our heroes, the land that they came from, and how despite Elwin’s abrupt end, his hope for a brighter future remains through the sons he loved.

Cut from the Cloth

Back in the Hideaway, Hortense has a problem - she’s ordered textiles for clothing the rescued Branded, but the delivery hasn’t arrived. Ever the helpful soul, Clive offers to go and collect the missing cloth.

What seems like a simple task soon escalates into a battle for survival against some surprisingly brutal bandits, and a choice that will affect a conversation with Jill, and the item you’ll get, later in the game.

Priceless

This romantic quest appears near the end of the game, and it’s utterly heart-warming. Clive wants to surprise Jill with Snow Daisies - a rare flower of great emotional value to her. Along with Joshua, he heads to Southern Rosaria to find some, and take down any threats in the area.

But what makes this quest great isn’t the action - it’s that it concludes with a quiet and tender moment between Clive and Jill that speaks to the love that they have for one another. These two heroes have both been through the wringer, and this quest shows just how they prop each other up.

It’s adorable.

Wonderful worldbuilding and excellent adventures

FINAL FANTASY XVI is full of fascinating sidequests that add detail and texture to the world of Valisthea, while still acting as satisfying mini-adventures for Clive. These are just some of our favorites:

Playthings

The Holy Empire of Sanbreque has little love for Branded - although they’re not afraid to make use of them. To the Imperials, these unfortunate souls are walking, talking tools, to be used and then discarded.

That is made painfully clear in this early sidequest, in which Clive helps a little girl locate her playmate, Chloe. Asking around, people describe her as a ‘filthy creature,’ but it turns out that Chloe is no beast. She’s a Branded, passed on due to being forced by the child to overuse her magic.

Even worse, the child implies this isn’t the first time it’s happened - and doesn’t even seem to understand why this is wrong. It’s up to Clive to set her right.

All Bark

The plight of the Branded in Sanbreque is driven home by another quest in Oriflamme, during which Clive is sent off to save a child from wolves. Upon finding the child and killing the ‘wild’ beasts, he is shocked to discover that the hounds belonged to the boy - and he’s none too happy about them being put down out.

As it turns out, this was no rescue mission - sending unsuspecting Branded to be savaged by dogs is how the family get their kicks. There are more surprises to be discovered as the quest runs to its conclusion, but it reveals the depths of inhumanity people show towards those different to them.

More than Words

Lady Charon approaches Clive with a concern - Torgal seems restless and unhappy. Clive heads out with his faithful friend to find out what’s wrong.

What follows is a deeper look into the relationship between hero and hound, as the pair explore their history and how the loyalty between true friends runs deeper than blood.

Plus, you get to spend more time with Torgal, which is reason enough to recommend it. He really is a good boy.

Trading Places (series)

This short series of quests focuses on the Crimson Caravans - a highly esteemed porterage firm in Boklad. Its owner Eloise helped her brother flee his family home when he awakened as a Bearer, and now they work to build a new life where his kind aren’t forced into slavery.

Clive gets embroiled in the world of commerce when he helps Eloise in a deal to help restock and rebuild the abandoned town of Kasjlok - a place that could potentially become a safe haven for displaced Bearers.

But things are never that simple, and between brutal bandits and the involvement of rival traders in the Silverpeak Consortium, Clive and his newfound friends have their work cut out for them.

It’s a sidequest that has lots of twists and turns as it he

Under New Management (series)

As the state of the world worsens, the political situation in Northreach becomes increasingly unstable. The self-interested schemes of the Duke of Oriflamme threaten the stability of the town, as the populace find themselves split over whether to side with him or stand with Isabelle, the beloved proprietress of the Veil.

Unless Clive can find a solution, it seems conflict is inevitable…

For Great Justice (series)

When you first meet Quinten, the landlord of Lostwing’s tavern, he comes across as somewhat inscrutable. Still, he’s a steadfast ally to Cid whose support is both valuable and appreciated.

The For Great Justice series of quests shine a light on his past, and it’s a complex web of betrayal and revenge. Quinten is revealed to be a man driven by darker desires than altruism and it not only threatens him, but all of Lostwing.

It’s a character-driven questline that balances action and story expertly and leads to a very satisfying conclusion.

Payback

When Otto’s loyal lackey Gaute notices some outstanding debts still unpaid to Cid’s allies, Clive leaves to pay them what they’re owed.

As he visits each one, he learns more about Cid, Otto and how much of an impact their cause has had on the realms of Valisthea.

While it’s not the most action-packed of adventures, it offers something just as exciting - window into two of the most important characters in the game.

Rich tales with rich rewards

Some sidequests in FINAL FANTASY XVI that some terribly tantalizing rewards, from new equipment to permanent upgrades for Clive. Quests like these, for example:

Blacksmith’s Blues (series)

Blackthorne, the hideaway’s resident blacksmith, is much more sensitive than his surly demeanor would suggest. Fortunately, August is able to recognize when his friend is troubled and repeatedly enlists Clive to help get him to open up.

This series starts with Clive heading off to find other examples of masterworks, so Blackthorne can improve his craft. Before long though, the secrets of his past are revealed, and the artisan is forced to confront his past.

These quests offer great rewards, including recipes for some of the best gear in the game. That’s not the only reason they’re worth doing though - they provide a fascinating and satisfying character study for Blackthorne that’s even more satisfying.

After these quests, you can’t help but love him.

Weird Science & Even Weirder Science

Owain, one of Mid’s assistants, needs Clive’s help to bring some of his inventions to life. Help that regularly involves taking on dangerous beasts or delving into dangerous Fallen ruins in search of materials.

Fortunately, both of these activities are great fun, providing some satisfying battles that will test your skills. The rewards are more than worth it too - complete these quests and Clive can carry more potions!

The Root of the Problem & Please Sir, Can I Have Some Morbol?

The hideaway’s botanist, Nigel, enlists Clive to help him cultivate medicinal plants, and alleviate the community’s shortage of healing items. Of course, Clive helps, and is richly rewarded with potions that are much more potent than they were before.

The second quest for Nigel, Please Sir, Can I Have Some Morbol, is particularly gratifying as it pits Clive against a more dangerous variant of the tentacled terror. It’s a fantastic fight as you take on this iconic FINAL FANTASY foe once more, using all the abilities at your disposal to stay away from its gaping maw and horrifying halitosis.

As before, success earns an upgrade that makes potions more potent, but honestly, the awesomeness of this battle is reward enough!

The White-Winged Wonder

What would FINAL FANTASY be without chocobos? Everyone’s favorite feathered friends take center stage in this quest, in which Clive is asked to protect Whitehart and his flock from bandits.

It’s a bite-sized adventure that leads to a surprising reunion - and gives Clive a chocobo to ride throughout the rest of the game!

You’d be kweh-zy not to do it!

Those are just some of the sidequests available in FINAL FANTASY XVI - there’s many more exciting moments to discover for yourselves.

And, of course, there’s brand new content in the form of Echoes of the Fallen - a new mission that takes Clive, Jill, Joshua and Torgal up the dangerous Sagespire, and into conflict with the powerful Omega.

Then, in 2024, The Rising Tide offers a massive story expansion that features a brand new Eikon - Leviathan.

To learn more about both of these, check out this interview with the development team:

Finally, to stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY XVI, be sure to follow us on social media:

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FINAL FANTASY XVI DLC Director talks ‘Echoes of the Fallen’ DLC… and beyond

FINAL FANTASY XVI DLC Director Takeo Kujiraoka reveals the secrets of the Sagespire and what to expect from this new DLC!
By Duncan Heaney

Let’s start with the big news: FINAL FANTASY XVI DLC has been announced… and released! The news was announced at The Game Awards 2023 - take a look at the trailer on YouTube:

The first DLC, titled “Echoes of the Fallen,” sends Clive and his allies on a new mission up the treacherous Sagespire - a mysterious Fallen ruin that houses a terrifying new threat. It’s available today, as part of the FINAL FANTASY XVI Expansion Pass or as a standalone purchase:

The next DLC, “The Rising Tide” was also announced. This massive chapter full of content introduces a fan-favorite Eikon to the story of FINAL FANTASY XVI: Leviathan.

FINAL FANTASY XVI DLC Director Takeo Kujiraoka has shared details about what to expect from this and subsequent DLC. We’re sharing unique insights and need-to-know details below.

We hope you enjoy it!

What is Echoes of the Fallen?

This new DLC for FINAL FANTASY XVI takes place prior to the game’s epic finale and begins when Clive and company discover a strange, dark crystal—one of a color they’ve never seen before.

The investigation leads Clive, Jill, Joshua and Torgal to the Sagespire - a ruin of the Fallen that contains many secrets… and many more dangers. This terrifying tower contains many challenging foes and some very valuable loot, including new accessories that will change the way you play.

And at the top is the most dangerous foe of them all… Omega!

How to start Echoes of the Fallen

To access the DLC, you must have reached “Back to their Origin” in the main story, and completed the sidequest, “Priceless.” In order to unlock, “Priceless,” you must have completed the “Cut from the Cloth,” “Phoenix, Heal Thyself” and “Where there’s a Will” sidequests.

If those conditions are met, you’ll be able to accept the new quest in the hideaway and get ready for the fight of your (well, Clive’s) life!

How this DLC came to be

Echoes of the Fallen is the first paid DLC release for FINAL FANTASY XVI, following a free update, which included new costumes for Clive, Jill, Joshua, Torgal and Ambrosia earlier this year, but DLC wasn’t a foregone conclusion. In fact, the team wasn’t sure whether they would do any at all as they didn’t want to use DLC as a crutch when developing the main story. In an interview with Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu, the development team shared that they didn’t want to presume that a DLC would be created for this title.

Outfit changes were discussed during development, but more serious conversations about the possibility of additional DLC content didn’t occur until halfway through development. The content would be based on elements that they wanted to explore further, such as the Sagespire or the Eikon Leviathan.

However, the decision to develop additional content was ultimately contingent on player demand. After gauging initial reactions from players, the team were able to bring these ideas to fruition.

An Omega-level threat

Clive and company’s ascent up Sagespire culminates in an epic battle with Omega! This ancient weapon of unfathomable power will test everything you’ve learned throughout FINAL FANTASY XVI - expect a truly spectacular clash!

But why choose Omega as this ultimate antagonist? FINAL FANTASY XVI DLC Director Takeo Kujiraoka explains:

“Initially, the plan was to have a completely different, original boss. However, through our conversations as we worked out the details of the story, we came to think that players might enjoy it more if we included a familiar foe from the FINAL FANTASY series - and that it would give Echoes of the Fallen more of that FINAL FANTASY identity.

"That was when we settled upon Omega. Players have a strong impression of Omega as a mighty foe, and it was a perfect fit for the theme of the Fallen. So, everyone was in unanimous agreement.

“But Omega has appeared as a strong enemy multiple times in other FINAL FANTASY games. That’s why we decided to be quite faithful to the image of Omega that has been built up in these other games during the first half of the battle - to make players really feel like they’re fighting the Omega they know.

“Then, in the second half of the battle, we’ve created a dramatic remix in terms of both appearance and fighting style that really creates an Omega unique to FINAL FANTASY XVI. So, please keep an eye out for that shift!"

The great eScape

Eagle-eared FINAL FANTASY XIV Online players may notice some familiar sounds when they face off against Omega - more than a few hints of the classic track eScape. You can listen to THE PRIMALS perform that original track here - your eardrums will thank you.

However, the team was keen to ensure that the epic new boss theme wasn’t just a retread of what had come before.

Kujiraoka-san says:

"In the main game, the world has a medieval European feel to it, with a predominantly orchestral soundtrack. On the other hand, the Sagespire that appears in this first DLC is a ruin from the age of the Fallen, a civilization that was far more advanced than that of Clive’s era.

“As such, we intentionally set out to create something that felt very distinct from the main game, both in terms of the world we were depicting and the soundtrack.

“The Omega battle takes place against the backdrop of this cybernetic world, and I wanted the music to reflect that. So, when requesting the soundtrack, I asked to change the genre to something like a futuristic and upbeat digital-rock sound.

“From there, our Main Composer Masayoshi Soken went away and built out his own impression and sense of Omega as it appears in FINAL FANTASY XVI. As a result, the final track is an arrangement of the Omega Theme from FINAL FANTASY XIV Online – eScape.

“It’s quite a drastic rearrangement, and I think it’s the perfect piece for the FINAL FANTASY XVI version of Omega: the boss of the DLC, and the ultimate weapon of the Fallen.

“There’s no narrative connection, but I imagine it will be fun for players of FINAL FANTASY XIV to listen to the track and compare it to the version they know."

A battle for the ages

You can expect many exhilarating battles in your ascent up the Sagespire, with the Omega boss fight a particularly memorable climax. It’s something that the team is very proud of - along with the changes to gameplay brought by new accessories. Kujiraoka-san says:

"Factors that can dramatically influence Clive’s playable build in FINAL FANTASY XVI include abilities and accessories that can make individual abilities stronger.

“However, as we’re not adding any new abilities in Echoes of the Fallen, I wondered if there was a different approach we could take – to add some kind of element that would make players want to experiment with different ability sets and fighting styles.

“The new accessories being added in Echoes of the Fallen are the result of that line of thinking.

“Let’s take the Aerial Bit accessory, for example. This increases the amount of damage dealt to the Will Gauge by aerial attacks by 20%, and triples the maximum number of times Clive can use stomp to kick off of enemies.

“This allows you to equip lots of aerial abilities and spend most of your time fighting in the air, overpowering enemies with a completely new fighting style.

“If you’ve already played FINAL FANTASY XVI, you might have a certain ability set that’s mostly set in stone. If so, you’re exactly the kind of player that I’m hoping will enjoy exploring some different options with the new accessories by using different abilities and trying out new fighting styles to go with them.

"And if you enjoy playing Arcade Mode, it may open up some new ways to approach existing stages."

Echoes of the Fallen

There’s much more in Echoes of the Fallen beyond the thrilling Omega battle, of course. In fact, fans of FINAL FANTASY XVI will have a lot to enjoy narratively - including new information about the mysterious Fallen. Kujiraoka-san reveals a little about what to expect in that regard:

"In the first DLC, the story will explore the Fallen, who were shrouded in mystery for much of the main game.

“Having said that, we have so much lore about the Fallen that trying to completely tell their story would end up with us making another full game! So, alongside the truths that will be revealed in Echoes of the Fallen, we’ve intentionally left some places where players can use their imagination to speculate on what else may have come before.

“I recommend paying close attention to the environment of the Sagespire and details in Active Time Lore, as well as the story itself.

“I’m sure you’ll uncover even more intrigue and information about Valisthea!”

The DLC is also designed to be replayable - for example, you can play through on any difficulty level and there’s no shortage of ways to play. Kujiraoka-san says:

“Of course, we’ve balanced both DLC to allow them to be played smoothly on all different modes. Anyone can load up their save file and continue from there - so I hope you’ll jump into the DLC if you’re keen to spend more time with FINAL FANTASY XVI.

“The battles have been made to feel satisfying and challenging as well - first and foremost the boss of Omega. The new stage will be added to Arcade Mode, and Final Fantasy Mode will also support it in Ultimaniac Mode.

“If you love battles, or if you think your skills are up to the task, then I encourage you to take on the challenge!"

The Rising Tide

There’s more DLC to come after Echoes of the Fallen - the next expansion is longer and includes an Eikon that many of you noticed was curiously absent from the main game: Leviathan!

Named ‘The Rising Tide’, it sees Clive finally encounter the delightfully damp deity, and earn the ability to utilize its power for himself. The Rising Tide will be included in the Expansion Pass, which also includes the newly released Echoes of the Fallen. It will also be available to buy separately upon release.

So, what can you expect from this next DLC? As Kujiraoka-san says:

"We’ve tried to keep the first DLC a relatively compact experience, so that we could tell a new story in the world of FINAL FANTASY XVI as soon as possible after the initial release of the game. But since we’re taking a bit more time to work on the second DLC, we’ll be cramming it full of content! So, allow me to tell you about it with quite a bit of depth!

“Firstly, the second DLC will be a story about Leviathan, who is only mentioned by name in the main game. It will include a sidequest to explore the lore in detail, including the reason why Leviathan hasn’t appeared up to this point.

“The fight with Leviathan has to be seen to be believed, so keep your hopes high for a real spectacle!

“We’ve also added a new field area for the DLC, with beautiful blue skies stretching out above. But how can there be blue skies in Valisthea, which is covered by the Arche? All will be revealed…

"Regardless of the reason, I hope you’ll enjoy a journey under the great blue sky with Joshua and Jill by your side.”

“The appearance of a new Eikon also means that Clive will obtain a new power. Leviathan’s Eikonic Feats and Abilities are completely different to other Eikons, with unique effects. The combat team headed by Combat Director Ryota Suzuki has taken a huge amount of care when creating these new additions to make sure that they will seamlessly fit into FINAL FANTASY XVI’s combat system, while also being strong enough to make players want to select Leviathan as one of the three Eikons in their loadout.

"Actually, in the save file I use to play test the game, I have Leviathan set as one of my Eikons. It’s so strong! I can recommend the abilities for completing the story and for Arcade Mode.

“And finally… gaining Leviathan’s power will mean that all the power of the Eikons has come together. What will happen to Clive when that happens?

"I can’t talk about that in any detail, but I can tell you that we’ve got even more in store for you to look forward to. So, I hope you’ll look forward to the release of The Rising Tide!"

How to get Echoes of the Fallen and The Rising Tide?

Echoes of the Fallen is available today and is available as part of the FINAL FANTASY XVI Expansion Pass. This also gives you the next expansion, The Rising Tide, due for release in 2024, at a lower cost than buying them individually.

The Expansion Pass is available now from the PlayStation Store:

Echoes of the Fallen is also available as a standalone purchase. Please check the PlayStation Store for details:

Finally, to stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY XVI, including future expansions, be sure to follow on social media:

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FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH: Theme song, Vincent and Cid revealed!

We have lots of new information to share about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, from new characters to returning favorites. Check out this preview to learn more.
By Duncan Heaney

We’re back with a new preview of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, and this time it’s as much a treat for the ears as it is the eyes.

Firstly, we’re excited to reveal our brand new trailer, which debuted at The Game Awards 2023 - alongside a dazzling live performance by featured vocalist Loren Allred! Take a look and listen with the extended Theme Song Trailer here:

The new song, titled ‘No Promises to Keep’, was written by the legendary Nobuo Uematsu, the composer for the original FINAL FANTASY VII. It’s performed by Loren Allred, the renowned, platinum-selling artist who captivated the world with her single “Never Enough” from The Greatest Showman.

The trailer features lots of new details about the game, including the first appearance of the courageous pilot Cid Highwind, a proper look at Vincent Valentine and the return of beloved characters Marlene and Biggs.

It’s a whirlwind tour, so let’s slow things down a little and take a closer look at some of these reveals:

Regions of the World

The world of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is comprised of multiple regions, each boasting unique environments for you to explore and experience on your adventure. Let's take a look at a couple:

Gold Saucer

Referred to as the gilded paradise, the Gold Saucer is a resplendent amusement park on an epic scale. It is divided into seven areas, called "squares," each with their own unique attractions. One such is the Skywheel, which takes guests high above the Saucer for an unforgettable view of the park, and has proven to be a popular date spot.

Corel Prison

A sprawling slum that infests the base of the Gold Saucer.

It's almost as if the Saucer's glimmering façade acts a beacon for vagabonds and ne'er-do-wells the world over, as they have flocked there in droves. So dangerous is the Dustbowl - Corel Prison's slightly kinder sobriquet - that those who enter its limits are said to never return.

New Characters

Next, let's introduce some of the new faces you'll encounter in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH:

Vincent Valentine

  • Voice Actor: Matthew Mercer

A self-proclaimed "security" guard who hibernates in a coffin deep below Shinra Manor. This man of mystery is swathed in a red cape and boasts the genes of a monster─as well as a hidden connection to Sephiroth.

Cid Highwind

  • Voice Actor: J. Michael Tatum

This rogue pilot of reputable skill runs a shuttle service out of various abandoned airstrips. After Cloud and company flag him down, he flies them around the globe in his beloved Tiny Bronco.

Dyne

  • Voice Actor: Dave B. Mitchell

Dyne was once Barret’s closest friend, back when the two used to make their living in the coal mines of Corel. Now, he is a wanted man with a gun grafted to his left arm, and his current whereabouts are unknown.

Dio

  • Voice Actor: Ian James Corlett

The charismatic owner of the Gold Saucer. Famous for his brawny physique and handlebar mustache, Dio is often found participating in his park’s parades, flexing his muscles before throngs of screaming guests.

Doctor Sheiran

  • Voice Actor: Lloyd Sherr

Though his clinic in North Corel may be small, Doctor Sheiran's heart and intellect are anything but. Lately, he has been caring for the black-robed figures that have stumbled into town, and is attempting to uncover the truth behind their mysterious illness.

Solemn Gus

  • Voice Actor: Jonah Scott

The sleazy kingpin of Corel Prison, Gus is as flamboyant as he is smooth-talking. Add to that a healthy dose of showmanship, and it's little wonder that the dregs of the Dustbowl have flocked to him.

Biggs

  • Voice Actor: Gideon Emery

After surviving the fall of the Sector 7 plate, Biggs awoke to find that he is the last remaining member of the ill-fated anti-Shinra rebels, Avalanche. Having recovered from his injuries, he now seeks revenge against the company that murdered his comrades.

Combat: Synergy attacks

Synergy attacks are powerful attacks in which two characters team up to turn the tide of battle. More abilities will unlock as you increase the party level - a numerical expression of how closely-knit your team is - and deepen the affinity between party members. Fill the synergy gauge by using abilities, then unleash a synchronized assault!

Here are some new examples:

Cloud/Aerith: Firework Blade

Cloud uses Aerith's magic to unleash a ranged attack

Tifa/Cait Sith: Moogle Dunk Shot

Tifa swings Cait Sith's moogle around and launches it at an enemy.

Combat: Summons

Setting summoning materia will grant access to the power of the gods.

A conjured deity will follow your lead and fight enemies automatically, but you can also instruct them to use special abilities.

Before they depart the battlefield, summons will unleash one final attack that will wreak immense havoc.

Titan

A titanic colossus whose arms of solid stone can rend the earth - and your enemies - asunder.

Titan excels at both powerful melee strikes and area-of-effect attacks, such as Boulder Hurl.

Upon leaving the battlefield, Titan unleashes Earthen Fury, calling forth giant pillars of rock from deep within the earth. This imposing magic attack harnesses the power of nature to cleave your enemies' resolve.

Bahamut Arisen

A massive dragon covered in resplendent red scales.

It cuts off any possible escape routes with its lightning-quick speed, and decimates its enemies with both sharp claws and a veritable arsenal of weaponry.

Bahamut Arisen excels at attacking in rapid succession, but can also obliterate foes with charged magic attacks from its limbs. Once its Umbral Bombardment lands, it releases two orbs of magic that fan out and annihilate all surrounding enemies.

When it leaves the battlefield, Bahamut Arisen activates Gigaflare - an extremely potent attack that sees the dragon unleash beams of magic from its wings and maw, burning any nearby foes alive.

Phoenix

A bird possessed of exquisite beauty and wings of brilliant flame. Phoenix not only flies about the battlefield assailing foes with its blisteringly hot attacks, but also heals the party's wounds.

In addition to engulfing enemies in flames with its wings of wildfire, Phoenix can grant buffs with healing effects. It can also revive incapacitated allies and fully recover their HP with Arise, allowing them to return to the front line and continue the fight.

When it departs the field of battle, Phoenix unleashes Rebirth Flame, which recovers the party's HP and spells a fiery death any foes within its wide range. A single feather falls from Phoenix's wings, enveloping the battlefield in burning flames, after which the bird rises from the cinders to deal the final blow.

Relationships: Bonds of Friendship

Cloud's actions and the way he responds to other party members while conversing with them will affect his relationship with them.

With a strong enough bond, you may even reap some benefits, so whenever you're faced with a decision, you might want to think hard before responding - especially if it concerns your favorite character.

Relationships: Loveless

A theatrical production based on the classic epic poem Loveless. It depicts a hero's fight against the Dragon King, the tyrannical ruler of Guardia, as well as his love for Princess Rosa.

Thanks to the latest in VR technology, the Gold Saucer's Golden Theatre brings this play to life like never before.

Depending on your relationship with your fellow theatergoers, the person playing Rosa may even change - along with parts of the script.

New screenshots

There’s not long to wait to experience FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH for yourselves. The game launches February 29, 2024, for PS5.

Preorder any digital edition of the game to get the following bonus item:

  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in game item)

What’s more, if you have a save file from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE or FF7R EPISODE INTERmission, you will be able to claim the following items in FINAL FANTASY REBIRTH:

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE (PS4 / PS5) save file

  • Summon Materia: Leviathan

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE EPISODE INTERmission save file

  • Summon Materia: Ramuh

Please note that save data must be saved on the PS5 system.

Standard Edition (physical and digital)

Available both digitally and physically. The physical version comes across two discs and includes a reversible cover.

This edition includes:

  • The full game

It’s available to preorder now:

A Digital Deluxe Edition Upgrade will also be available to purchase for the digital Standard Edition, which adds Digital Deluxe Edition content. This cannot be preordered and will become available when the game launches.

Deluxe Edition (physical only)

The physical Deluxe Edition also includes the below:

  • The full game
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD (in jewel case)
  • Physical artbook

It's available to preorder now:

Digital Deluxe Edition (digital only)

Available to preorder from the PlayStation Store, this edition includes:

  • The full game
  • Digital mini soundtrack
  • Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Collector’s Edition

Available from the Square Enix Store, this edition is a real treat for fans. It includes:

  • The full game (across two discs)
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH STATIC ARTS - SEPHIROTH - a large, highly detailed statue of Sephiroth
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD
  • Physical artbook features stunning illustrations and concept art from the game
  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Twin Pack (digital only)

This terrific twin pack gives you access to both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the upcoming game FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

Once ordered, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE right away and be ready to continue the adventure in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH on release day.

The set includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - full game

Purchase this twin set before launch to get a substantial discount - essentially you can get both titles together for the same price as one standard edition! Check the PlayStation Store to see prices in your region:

Digital Deluxe Twin Pack (digital only)

This bumper bundle gives you both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE Digital Deluxe Edition, and all the awesome content that comes with it.

Once purchased, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE right away:

It includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game, including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital Deluxe Edition - full game
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital mini soundtrack
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)

It’s available to order now. What’s more, purchase before launch for a significant discount on the price of both games!

To stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, please follow us on social media:

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5 betrayals in FINAL FANTASY games

The history of FINAL FANTASY is filled with heartbreak and betrayal. Check out some of the series’ best backstabs.
By Ryan Walsh

No plan survives contact with the enemy. That alone is a grave fact of life, but consider what it’d be like to bet everything on a plan when you’re not sure where the enemy is.

Things are simple and straightforward when the enemy’s in a uniform, brandishing a weapon and screaming at you, but it’s very different when your foe is someone you thought was an ally.

The FINAL FANTASY series is full of these famous betrayals - let’s look at some of its finest:

Note: This article contains spoilers for FINAL FANTASY, FINAL FANTASY VI, FINAL FANTASY VIII, FINAL FANTASY IX, FINAL FANTASY XVI

Garland becomes Chaos - FINAL FANTASY Pixel Remaster

Let’s start with the betrayal that started it all.

Garland was a respected knight in the kingdom of Cornelia, loved by peers and peasants alike. Then something happened.

Without warning, Garland turned his back on all of it. He kidnapped the daughter of the king he swore to protect, he soundly defeated the knights that he once led, and he demanded to be made ruler of Cornelia.

Few people know why (although STRANGER OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN may just suggest some possible answers). Whatever the reason, all hope seemed lost until the desperate king was approached by four Warriors of Light.

And that’s how a legendary franchise was born.

Read more:

Queen Brahne turns the tables on Kuja - FINAL FANTASY IX

This entry is notable for a few reasons.

First is how decisive Queen Brahne acts when she turns on Kuja, the man that supplied her with weapons for her war effort. Brahne doesn’t wait for Kuja to be close or alone - she loads up her entire navy with black mages, takes them to Kuja directly, and proceeds to lay waste to his home with cannon fire, summoned eidolons and more.

The second notable thing is how ineffectual this betrayal is. Kuja’s island survives the attack, with the man himself only slightly hurt in the process. As for what happens next… let’s just say there are consequences…

Read more:

Kefka betrays Emperor Gestahl - FINAL FANTASY VI PIXEL REMASTER

FINAL FANTASY VI is full of betrayals. For example, Emporer Gestahl works hard to get the party to trust him, only for him to betray their trust for his own ends. That was mean, but at least it didn’t blast the world to ruin or anything.

That was saved for his henchman Kefka, who tries to claim an ancient power for himself. This leads to an outpouring of destructive energies that rips apart and shifts the continents of the planet.

In doing so, Kefka doesn’t just betray his Emperor, or the heroes - he betrays the entire world.

Read more:

Anabella Rosfield betrays Rosaria - FINAL FANTASY XVI

Anabella Rosfield is the Duchess of Roseria, but unlike her husband Elwin and sons Clive and Joshua her loyalty isn’t to the Kingdom. Instead, she believes her purpose is to preserve her Phoenix-bearing bloodline.

It’s for this reason that she betrays her husband and enters into partnership with what she judges to be the mightier force - the Holy Empire of Sambreque.

It’s thanks to her treachery that the Imperial forces successfully infiltrate Phoenix Gate and attack the Roserian forces - a betrayal that costs her dear when her beloved son Josua, the current Dominant of the Phoenix, is killed by a mysterious Eikon.

Read more:

Seifer betrays his own dream - FINAL FANTASY VIII Remastered

Seifer, gunblade specialist and rival to FINAL FANTASY VIII’s protagonist Squall, had a dream of romantic adventure. He wanted to be the powerful knight for a sorceress, and go on to conquer an evil empire for her.

But a rash plan to help Rinoa and the Timber Wolves resistance group leads to the opposite happening - he confronts and ultimately pledges herself to the decidedly non-benevolent Sorceress Edea.

Before long, Seifer does some pretty shady things, from kidnapping kings and activating ancient weapons, to fighting against his former classmates.

By betraying his own dream, Seifer becomes the dictatorial villain he grew up convinced he’d fight against.

Read more:

Those are some of the more significant turnabouts in FINAL FANTASY history. Do you feel betrayed that your favorite didn’t make the list? Let us know via social media!

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New FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Preview - Plus FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE recap video revealed!

Learn about new characters, regions of the world, combat and more in this new preview. Plus watch a recap of FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE and the story so far!
By Duncan Heaney

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH launches in just a few short months on February 29, 2024 and we’re excited to be able to show you more about what to expect.

But, before we look at where we’re going, what about where we’ve been? We’ve just released a ‘Story So Far’ recap video, which will also be viewable from the game’s main menu.

Narrated by none other than Red XIII, it retells the events of FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE - perfect if you want a refresher ahead of the new game, or plan to dive right into the series with FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

Take a look:

Next up, let’s look at some of the things you’ll see in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, including some regions of the world, new characters, combat and more.

Regions of the world

The world is comprised of multiple regions, each boasting unique environments for you to explore and experience on your adventure.

Let's take a look at a couple:

Kalm

A halcyon hamlet kept safe from the outside world by a sturdy stone wall. Though it lacks a reactor of its own, it thrives thanks to a steady supply of mako piped in from the metropolis of Midgar, which is visible from atop the town’s famous clock tower.

Mythril Mine

A once-bustling mine that connects the grasslands with Junon. Though once prized for its rich mythril deposits, the quarry fell into disuse after Shinra developed a superior mineral of their own, and the miners that once worked its tunnels have been replaced with monsters.

New characters

Next up, we'll introduce a couple of new characters you'll meet on your journey!

Broden

  • Voice Actor: Mick Lauer

Owner and operator of the Inn at Kalm. He bears a grudge against Shinra, and offers to help Cloud and friends escape their would-be corporate captors. His gaunt appearance may be due to his recent bout with an unknown illness.

Rhonda

  • Voice Actor: G.K. Bowes

Mayor and sheriff of Under Junon. Her home, once a prosperous fishing village, fell into decline after Shinra constructed a military fortress overhead and a deep-sea mako reactor offshore. Despite Cloud and friends’ status as alleged terrorists, Rhonda still allows them to pass through her town.

Priscilla

  • Voice Actor: Reese Warren

A cheerful young girl who lives in Under Junon, often seen swimming with the dolphin she trains. The offshore mako reactor has contaminated the surrounding waters, and Priscilla fears for the safety of her dolphin friend and other aquatic creatures.

Billy

  • Voice Actor: Paul Castro Jr.

Grandson of Bill, owner of a chocobo ranch in the grasslands. Having lost his parents at a young age, he and his sister were raised by their grandfather. This young ranch hand kindly offers to teach Cloud and company the ropes of chocobo wrangling - on the condition that they patronize his sister’s shop.

Chloe

  • Voice Actor: Trinity Bliss

Billy’s younger sister, she runs a shop on the ranch where she sells crafting materials and other curios. Warm and kindhearted, she engages politely with Cloud and company and is grateful for their patronage. At the same time, she is worried about her brother’s fixation on making money.

Combat: Red XIII and Aerith

Next up, we'll look at some of the combat abilities for Red XIII and Aerith.

Red XIII: Basic attacks

Red XIII slashes at foes with his sharp claws. Hold down the button to unleash a wide-range attack that helps build ATB quickly.

Red XIII: Abilities

Red XIII boasts a vast array of skills, from lightning-fast physical strikes to ranged magical attacks. Stardust Ray conjures an exploding orb of light that scorches all foes caught in the blast.

Red XIII: Vengeance Mode (Unique Ability)

Block incoming attacks to fill the vengeance gauge, and unleash that energy to enter vengeance mode, enhancing his physical attacks and his evasive prowess. Siphon Fang delivers a powerful blow while absorbing some of the enemy's HP - all without expending ATB.

Aerith: Ward Shift (Unique Ability)

Aerith can instantaneously warp to any sigils she has created, allowing her to move about the field with ease and maximize the impact of her magic.

Combat: Synergy Abilities

Synergy abilities are powerful attacks in which two characters team up to turn the tide of battle. More abilities will unlock as you increase the party level - a numerical expression of how closely-knit your team is, and deepen the affinity between party members.

Fill the synergy gauge by using abilities, then unleash a synchronized assault! Here are some more examples:

Cloud/Tifa: Relentless Rush

Cloud launches Tifa toward an enemy to attack in tandem.

Barret/Red XIII: Overfang

Barret sends Red XIII flying toward an enemy at high velocity.

Combat: Synergy Skills

Two party members can team up to activate useful abilities without consuming ATB. These commands can be executed while blocking, and provide a wide array of beneficial effects. Each pair has their own unique set of abilities; some deal damage, while others offer support.

Here are some examples:

Cloud/Aerith: Spell Blade

Gather strength, then team up to unleash a charged magical attack.

Barret/Cloud: Mad Dash

Team up to charge forward while guarding against incoming attacks. Activate in sequence to trigger a three-hit combo.

Combat: Summons

Setting summoning materia will grant access to the power of the gods. A conjured deity will follow the player's lead and fight enemies automatically, but you can also instruct them to use special abilities.

Before they depart the battlefield, summons will unleash one final attack that will wreak immense havoc.

Kujata

A bovine deity that charges around the battlefield wielding the power of fire, ice, and lightning. It throws foes with its enormous horns and unleashes magical attacks that strike even distant enemies’ weaknesses.

Kujata bounds towards foes with reckless abandon and manipulates its elemental affinities to deliver magical attacks. Blazing Horn launches a concentrated burst of fiery energy at an enemy, blasting them back.

Kujata unleashes Tri-Disaster just before leaving the battlefield, a powerful wide-range attack imbued with the powers of fire, ice, and lightning--sure to hit many foes right where it hurts and potentially wipe them out.

World Intel

Chadley enlists your help with deepening his understanding of the world. As you explore the various regions, you will uncover new areas rich with treasures and natural wonders. Data points accumulated in your travels can then be spent to develop useful new materia.

Protorelics

Protorelics are artifacts of unknown origin that emit a unique energy signal. These elusive antiquities are hidden throughout the world─but with the aid of activated remnawave towers, Chadley should be able to point you in their direction. Be warned, however: they seem to alter space-time, and are known to cause strange phenomena.

Materia Development

Assisting Chadley with his world-spanning research will allow you to accrue data points, which can then be spent to develop new materia. Some offer access to spells of multiple affinities, while others grant the use of unique abilities - all of which are sure to prove useful against even the most formidable foes.

World: Chocoboutiques

Chocobo ranches are also home to chocoboutiques, stalls at which you can freely customize and recolor your bird’s equipment from head to talon. Gear will impact its performance in chocobo races, so find an ensemble that suits your style and go for the gold!

Combat Styles / Difficulty Levels

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH offers multiple combat styles and difficulty levels for players of all persuasions.

  • “Active” mode offers players total control over their characters’ every move, allowing them to execute advanced strategies.

  • “Classic” mode automates characters’ basic actions, giving players time to focus on specific command selection.

Easy” difficulty allows people to focus on the story rather than battles, while “Normal” provides a reasonable challenge for most players. In the newly added “Dynamic” difficulty, enemies grow stronger as your characters do - perfect for players who crave constant challenge.

We have one final treat - pease enjoy this stunning new art featuring Aerith and the Highwind airship:

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH art

We hope you’re excited to experience all this for yourselves when FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH launches for PS5 on February 29, 2024.

The game is available to preorder now.

Preorder any digital edition of the game to get the following bonus item:

  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in game item)

What’s more, if you have a save file from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE or FF7R EPISODE INTERmission, you will be able to claim the following items in FINAL FANTASY REBIRTH:

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE (PS4 / PS5) save file

  • Summon Materia: Leviathan

FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE EPISODE INTERmission save file

  • Summon Materia: Ramuh

Please note that save data must be saved on the PS5 system.

Standard Edition (physical and digital)

Available both digitally and physically. The physical version comes across two discs and includes a reversible cover.

This edition includes:

  • The full game

It’s available to preorder now:

A Digital Deluxe Edition Upgrade will also be available to purchase for the digital Standard Edition, which adds Digital Deluxe Edition content. This cannot be preordered and will become available when the game launches.

Deluxe Edition (physical only)

The physical Deluxe Edition also includes the below:

  • The full game
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD (in jewel case)
  • Physical artbook

It's available to preorder now:

Digital Deluxe Edition (digital only)

Available to preorder from the PlayStation Store, this edition includes:

  • The full game
  • Digital mini soundtrack
  • Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Collector’s Edition

Available from the Square Enix Store, this edition is a real treat for fans. It includes:

  • The full game (across two discs)
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH STATIC ARTS - SEPHIROTH - a large, highly detailed statue of Sephiroth
  • Steelbook® case
  • A mini soundtrack CD
  • Physical artbook features stunning illustrations and concept art from the game
  • Moogle Trio Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (in-game item)

It’s available to preorder now:

Twin Pack (digital only)

This terrific twin pack gives you access to both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the upcoming game FANTASY VII REBIRTH.

Once ordered, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE right away and be ready to continue the adventure in FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH on release day.

The set includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - full game

Purchase this twin set before launch to get a substantial discount - essentially you can get both titles together for the same price as one standard edition! Check the PlayStation Store to see prices in your region:

Digital Deluxe Twin Pack (digital only)

This bumper bundle gives you both FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE and the FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE Digital Deluxe Edition, and all the awesome content that comes with it.

Once purchased, you can start playing FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE right away:

It includes:

  • FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE - full game, including EPISODE INTERmission DLC
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital Deluxe Edition - full game
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital mini soundtrack
  • FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH Digital artbook
  • Magic Pot Summoning Materia (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Accessory: Reclaimant Choker (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)
  • Armor: Orchid Bracelet (FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH in-game item)

It’s available to order now. What’s more, purchase before launch for a significant discount on the price of both games!

To stay up to date with news and information about FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, please follow us on social media:

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Interview: Making music with Masashi Hamauzu

The legendary composer who worked on FINAL FANTASY X, FINAL FANTASY XIII and FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE looks back on his career and how to make unforgettable music.
By Square Enix

If you’re a fan of game music, you’ve almost certainly heard of Masashi Hamauzu - or at least listened to his work.

The legendary composer has contributed to some of the greatest soundtracks of all time, including SaGa Frontier 2, FINAL FANTASY X, FINAL FANTASY XIII and FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE.

Hamauzu-san was recently in Los Angeles to attend the DISTANT WORLDS concert series and kindly agreed to speak to us about his career, the concert and more.

How did you get your start as a professional composer?

I became interested in composing music in my late teens, and I went to college to study vocal music. I liked games a lot as well, so I thought it would be great if I could do that sort of work.

Square Enix - or Squaresoft as it was at the time - was looking for a composer, so I applied and got accepted.

How did you come to work on FINAL FANTASY?

During the development of FINAL FANTASY VII, I was involved as a chorus member. Because I went to college for vocal music and singing, when I joined SQUARE ENIX, I sang in the first recording Sephiroth’s song - One-Winged Angel.

A short time later, I was asked to participate in the development of FINAL FANTASY X as one of the composers - either by the development team or Nobuo Uematsu (Composer, FINAL FANTASY I-XI). I wrote about a third of the music overall.

A few years later, FINAL FANTASY XIII came about, and as development was about to begin, I was asked by the producer, Yoshinori Kitase, if I would be interested in composing the music. So, I took the job.

How would you describe your own process of composition?

For a long time, I did not really know what my style was, but recently I have come to feel that all I have done so far has been a lot of trial and error, which has not been very good.

If I continue to disregard the methods of academics and pioneers and rely only on my passion and the momentum, not only does it take time for trial and error, but it also tends to limit the range of my expression.

I have recently taken up DIY and illustration, and I have found that learning from the ground up allows me to progress very quickly and, more importantly, greatly expands my range of expression. When I applied this perspective to composing music, I now find that my work efficiency has improved dramatically.

So much so that I think it would be faster to learn composition from scratch now as well (laughs).

You’ve also worked on games in the SaGa series. How would you say composing for SaGa differs to FINAL FANTASY?

That was a long time ago - the last title I worked on was more than 20 years ago now (laughs). It's hard to compare because those tracks were made when I was just starting out.

Nowadays it’s possible to record the music, but in the past, the SaGa series had a lot of sounds that were completely confined to the computer.

So, the approach to composing must be fundamentally different now…

Basically, you now have to make something on par with movies or anime.

In the past, sound sources were built into the games, which in today’s terms made it “cheap.” But we had to make do with those limitations.

Fans know your name and admire your work - does this add extra pressure when composing for a project now?

Honestly, no, not so much. Once I start making something, all I can think about is the world of the project on hand, so I don't really think about my surroundings.

You were part of the music team for FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE and now FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - did you feel any extra responsibility working on such a beloved game and soundtrack?

No, I didn’t feel any extra responsibility (laughs).

I guess that’s because you’ve been involved since the original.

Well, regardless of that…

You know, I’ve composed music for various media, including anime or movies, but I don’t feel any pressure at all from the fact that a title is well known. It’s all the same. It comes down to whether the work feels fulfilling.

If there is a difference, it would be when the director is more involved in the work. Whether it’s a game or anime, what kind of vision a director has, or how much passion they have for a project will really impact my level of motivation.

So, the mere fact that this is a remake doesn’t necessarily make too much of a difference to me.

We’re talking here at DISTANT WORLDS, and I think “Jessie’s Theme” from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE is in today's set list. Hearing this track really elevated Jessie to heroine status in my mind. Did you compose this newly for REMAKE?

Yes, I did. Many composers took part in FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, but there was a distinction of roles, such as me being in charge of basically the new characters and themes. It wasn’t an absolute rule, but I was put in charge of the newer parts.

What sort of style or feel did you want “Jessie’s Theme” to convey to the fans?

Actually, when I’m composing a piece, I don’t think about what I want to communicate to fans at all. The priority for me is the scene or how to portray a character, so I think about what kind of song I personally would want to hear if I was a viewer or player.

I feel you really need to pursue that point, otherwise the music won’t come across to players in a good way.

How does it feel to see your work performed live in series like DISTANT WORLDS?

I always get quite nervous! Making music for a game and having it performed by an orchestra in front of an audience are two very different things, so I have mixed feelings about it. I always wonder how it will turn out or what kind of reaction it will receive.

For example, the original game music itself may be for recording purposes only and not necessarily be composed for a stage performance. Such music is arranged for an orchestra, so it’s hard to tell how that would turn out.

So, I may ask someone else to arrange the music, but we’d have to determine whether it’s suitable for the stage - it’s a major consideration.

Which other composers do you admire?

I’m trying to be completely honest these days, so the answer is, there are none.

There’s a simple reason for that: I don’t know. I don’t really listen to much music.

Of course, there are composers I like. I like classical musicians, and I like a composer named Koichi Sakata, who wrote music for Taiga dramas (Japanese historical dramas) and such, though many people today may not be familiar with him.

But I don't actually listen to too much music. I don't know why, but I stopped listening to a lot of music after entering my 20s. I’m easily influenced by anything I hear, so I get overloaded just going through my daily life.

What would you say is your proudest career achievement?

There’s a music group that I established and am a part of called IMERUAT (which means “flash of light” in the Ainu language). It’s an independent project, which is something that I’ve put a lot of effort into.

With games and anime, you add music on top of a pre-existing story or theme, but with my own group, I can come up with the theme or story myself, write my own lyrics, and ultimately write my own songs, so it's always interesting to see how my world expands.

For example, I design my own cover art and make my own music videos, and to do that I studied how to use After Effects, so that sort of thing is fun.

That's great! And you are also a part of this group, Mina-san (Manager)?

Mina (Manager): Yes, I'm the vocalist!

Hamauzu-san: In live shows I play piano and keyboards.

Many thanks to Hamauzu-san for his time! You can listen to this great composer’s works on FINAL FANTASY X, FINAL FANTASY XII, FINAL FANTASY XIII and FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE via the Square Enix Music YouTube channel, or streaming services, including Amazon Music, Apple Music, and Spotify.

You can also play along with many of his tracks in THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE! The rhythm action extravaganza is available now on PS4 and Switch:

Of course, Hamauzu-san’s work also features in the DISTANT WORLDS concert series - check the website for tour dates. A number of soundtracks are also available - the most recent, DISTANT WORLDS VI, which includes an incredible orchestral version of Jessie’s Theme from FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE, is available to buy or stream now:

Finally, if you’d like to check out IMERUAT (and you should), check out the group’s website. Multiple albums are also available to listen to now on streaming services including Spotify, Amaztron Music, and Apple Music.

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6 of the best Blue Mages in Square Enix games

What’s better than taking down a foe? Defeating them with their own abilities, that’s what! That’s the Blue Mage specialty - let's celebrate some of our favorites.
By Duncan Heaney

Here’s a serious question: why should the monsters have all the fun?

The ferocious fiends of FINAL FANTASY can use all manner of abilities, but a special few heroes can turn those powers against them. We’re talking, of course, about Blue Mages.

There are few things as satisfying as giving your foes a taste of their own medicine, so we thought it was high time we celebrated these masters of magical mayhem.

We’ve put together a list of some of our favorites from across the FINAL FANTASY series - take a look:

Quistis Trepe - FINAL FANTASY VIII Remastered

As an instructor at Balamb Garden, Quistis is responsible for training the next generation of SeeD mercenaries. Of course, when your charges include the taciturn Squall, hyperactive Zell and rebellious Seifer, that task is easier said than done.

It’s no wonder that she doubts her abilities as a leader - doubts that are borne out as her teaching career is cut short. One thing that’s never in question, however, is her skills in battle - particularly her ability to use Blue Magic when in a pinch.

By using items that drop from fallen foes, Quistis can learn an astonishing array of skills: Micro Missiles that damage enemies, the classic Malboro Bad Breath to weaken foes with debilitating status effects, Mighty Guard to give the party a much-needed boost.

No wonder she’s got her own fan club. We’re all Trepies at heart!

Kimahri Ronso- FINAL FANTASY X/X-2 HD Remaster

Of all the guardians that accompany Yuna on her pilgrimage, Kimahri is perhaps the most steadfast.

Proud and stoic, he only speaks when he has to, and typically only to those who have earned his trust. Instead, he lets his combat skills do the talking… and they at least have a lot to say.

Foremost among this vocabulary is his Lancet ability, which lets him copy abilities from fiends. Once learned, he can use these abilities as an Overdrive attack - and these various skills can really turn the tide of battle.

It just goes to show - it’s the quiet ones you have to look out for.

Quina - FINAL FANTASY IX

In FINAL FANTASY IX, Quina journeys the world on a mission of discovery… specifically to find out what everything tastes like.

In battle, the frog-loving Qu has the unique ability to use ‘Blu Mag’ - abilities that they learn by eating foes. If an enemy’s health point is low enough, they can fork them up and potentially earn a new ability in the process!

Considering the twisted and bizarre monsters in FINAL FANTASY IX, it’s enough to turn your stomach but fortunately, Quina’s is cast-iron. Their Blue Magic is varied and powerful, encompassing everything from massively damaging strikes to valuable healing magic.

Jack Garland - STRANGER OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN

You could make an argument that the perennial Jack of all trades already has Blue Mage tendencies, thanks to his inherent ability to catch and store enemy attacks and use them himself.

But the second DLC expansion, WANDERER OF THE RIFT, makes it official. Jack Garland can officially adopt the Blue Mage job.

This more action-focused take on the role lets Jack learn enemy abilities and use them himself, even charging them up for extra potency. It’s a very powerful job that opens up all kinds of new options in battle and a perfect fit for STRANGER OF PARADISE FINAL FANTASY ORIGIN’s high-octane action.

Strago Magus - FINAL FANTASY VI Pixel Remaster

FINAL FANTASY VI is set in a world without magic. Well, mostly.

A very few descendants of the fable Magi still remain, hidden away from the rest of the world and unlike regular humans, they have an innate ability to use natural magic. Strago is one of these gifted few - and has devoted himself to the study of monsters and blue magic.

Don’t mistake him for a dusty old academic though - Strago’s excitable and enthusiastic, with a real thirst for adventure. He’s a quick study too - he simply has to see an enemy use a compatible skill to use it himself.

He may be advanced in years, but his powerful Lore, wealth of knowledge and bottomless love for this granddaughter Relm (also a formidable ally herself) make him a Blue Mage to be respected.

Even if he doesn’t act like it sometimes.

You - FINAL FANTASY XIV Online

So, who’s the greatest Blue Mage of all time? The candidates on this list could all stake a legitimate claim, but who could be better than you?

Or maybe you. Or even YOU. Definitely not you though (oh wait, that’s a mirror).

Blue Mage is a limited job in FINAL FANTASY XIV Online that lets your Warrior of Light harness the powers of wild creatures. Whenever you defeat certain foes, you have a chance of learning specific abilities they used in the battle.

The sheer range and quantity of spells you can acquire make it one of the most flexible jobs in the game. Want to become a devastating damage dealer? The Blue Mage job lets you do that. Prefer to tank it up with big buffs to make you burlier? There are monster abilities that do just the job. There’s a lot of freedom to experiment and build your own playstyle.

There are loads of skills to learn, and new ones are added regularly, so it’s a job you may find yourself coming back to time and time again. Perhaps the name ‘Blue Mage’ is wrong because it elicits nothing but joy.

Those were just a few of the Blue Mages we love, but what about you? We’re sure you have suggestions of your own, so let us know your picks on social media:

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Celebrate Halloween with these eerily adorable FINAL FANTASY cards

Charm your friends with these Halloween messages, featuring Cloud, Zack, chocobos and more!
By Duncan Heaney

Halloween is upon us, and we’re all in to celebrate the scary season!

To mark this most frightening of festivals, we’ve put together these adorably eerie Halloween cards, inspired by THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE!

From classic FINAL FANTASY monsters to some First Class SOLDIER operatives, your friends will sure to delight in these malevolent messages. Let’s just hope they don’t embrace their inner Tonberry and hold a grudge…

To download high resolution versions of these cards, simply click the link between each image.

THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE Halloween Card

THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE Halloween Card

THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE Halloween Card

THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE Halloween Card

Enjoy the cards, and be sure to follow us on social media:

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