Final Fantasy VII (7): Rebirth - PS5

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a 2024 action role-playing game developed and published by Square Enix. Serving as the second installment in a planned trilogy remaking the 1997 classic, it continues the journey of Cloud Strife and his allies. The game was released on February 29, 2024, for PlayStation 5, with a Windows version following on January 23, 2025.

Picking up immediately after the events of Final Fantasy VII Remake, players control Cloud Strife, a former SOLDIER turned mercenary, and his companions from the eco-terrorist group AVALANCHE. Their mission is to thwart the megacorporation Shinra from exploiting the Planet's life essence, known as Mako, and to confront the enigmatic antagonist, Sephiroth, who harbors world-altering ambitions.

Rebirth expands upon its predecessor by offering a more open-world experience, allowing players to explore vast environments filled with diverse landscapes, hidden secrets, and dynamic side quests. The game seamlessly blends real-time action combat with strategic role-playing elements. Players can switch between characters during battles, utilizing unique abilities and synergistic attacks to overcome formidable foes.

The narrative delves deeper into character backstories, enriching the storyline with emotional depth and complex relationships. New playable characters, such as Yuffie Kisaragi and Cait Sith, join the roster, each bringing distinct playstyles and personal quests that intertwine with the main plot.

Visually, the game leverages the power of the PlayStation 5 to deliver stunning graphics, detailed character models, and immersive environments. The musical score, composed by Masashi Hamauzu and Mitsuto Suzuki, enhances the experience with a blend of reimagined tracks from the original game and new compositions that resonate with the evolving narrative.

Upon release, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth received universal acclaim from critics and players alike. Praise centered on its expansive world design, engaging combat system, and the depth of its storytelling. The game was highlighted as one of the standout titles of 2024, showcasing Square Enix's dedication to revitalizing a beloved classic for both new and returning audiences.