Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Links

Playstation

Twitch

MONSTER

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Item: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Drama, Single Player

AvailableFeb 29, 2024

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperSquare Enix

Overview

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the new story in the Final Fantasy VII remake project, a reimagining of the iconic original game into three standalone titles by its original creators. In this game, players will enjoy various new elements as the story unfolds, culminating in the midpoint from the original Final Fantasy VII.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is widely praised for its rich narrative, character depth, and emotional resonance, successfully expanding on the original story while introducing new themes. Critics commend its blend of humor and serious topics, though some note pacing issues and moments of confusion. Despite minor flaws, it's regarded as a compelling continuation that balances nostalgia with innovation, solidifying its place as a worthy successor in the franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising its rich narrative, character development, and emotional depth. Reviewers like MeuPlayStation and LevelUp highlighted the game’s ability to deepen character relationships and address loose ends from the previous installment, creating a more engaging and immersive experience. Critics such as Gamer Escape and TheSixthAxis noted the blend of humor and serious themes, which adds layers to the storytelling. The narrative's exploration of complex themes like fate, environmentalism, and personal growth was also commended, with IGN and Inverse emphasizing its emotional resonance and cinematic quality. Overall, the game is seen as a successful continuation of the beloved franchise, with new elements that enhance the original story. However, despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the narrative. PC Gamer and GameSpot expressed concerns about pacing issues and a lack of clarity in certain parts, leading to moments of confusion for players. Oyungezer echoed this sentiment, criticizing the main plot for not taking enough risks and feeling underwhelming compared to the original. Some reviewers, such as Ragequit.gr and Eurogamer Germany, mentioned that while character-focused side stories were strong, they occasionally detracted from the main narrative, making it feel bloated or excessive. These critiques suggest that while the game excels in many areas, it is not without its flaws. The overall consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a strong narrative experience that successfully expands upon the original story while introducing new characters and themes. While there are criticisms regarding pacing and clarity, the majority of reviewers, including those from IGN, TrueGaming, and Dexerto, agree that the game is a compelling continuation that resonates with both new and long-time fans. The positive reception indicates that the developers have effectively balanced nostalgia with innovation, creating a narrative that is both engaging and emotionally impactful. As a result, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is seen as a worthy successor to its predecessor, setting the stage for future installments in the series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has garnered critical acclaim for its dynamic combat and immersive exploration, with new features like Synergy Moves and a revamped Materia system adding strategic depth. Reviewers praise its engaging mechanics and diverse side content, though some criticize uninspired open-world elements and a few artificial characters. Control issues on PC have also been noted. Overall, the game is hailed as a standout sequel that enhances both combat and character interactions, making it a must-play for fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has received widespread acclaim from critics, who praise its dynamic combat system and engaging exploration elements. Many reviewers, such as Power Unlimited and PC Gamer, highlight the refined combat mechanics, which blend real-time action with strategic menu-based elements, offering a satisfying and immersive experience. The introduction of new features like Synergy Moves and the Materia system has been particularly well-received, with critics like RPGamer and God is a Geek emphasizing how these additions enhance strategic depth and character interactions. The game also boasts a rich variety of side content, including minigames and side quests, which critics like Movies Games and Tech describe as fleshed out and catering to diverse player preferences. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the gameplay experience. Game Revolution and PCGamesN note that while the combat is engaging, the open-world filler can feel uninspired and basic, detracting from the exploration aspect. Additionally, the presence of characters like Chadley has been criticized for feeling artificial, as mentioned by Game Revolution. Issues with controls, particularly on PC, have also been raised by Eurogamer Germany and Malditos Nerds, who suggest that the game is better experienced with a controller rather than a keyboard and mouse setup. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth delivers a compelling gameplay experience that builds upon the strengths of its predecessor. While there are some criticisms regarding the open-world design and certain character elements, the majority of reviewers agree that the combat system is one of the best in the series, with innovative mechanics that promote strategic thinking and teamwork. Critics like Gaming Age and GameSpot encapsulate this sentiment, noting that the game successfully enhances exploration and character synergy, making it a worthy addition to the franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

TL;DR: Final Fantasy VII Rebirth dazzles with its stunning graphics and immersive world, earning praise from critics for its breathtaking aesthetics and rich environments on PS5. However, it faces technical issues like low-res textures and inconsistent lighting, leading to mixed reviews on performance. Overall, despite its flaws, the game is celebrated for revitalizing its beloved story with captivating visuals, marking it as a standout title despite some limitations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth have received widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the stunning visuals and immersive world. Reviewers like IGN and But Why Tho? highlighted the breathtaking aesthetics, detailed environments, and vibrant character designs that contribute to a rich gaming experience. The open-world design has been described as visually distinct and immersive, showcasing the game's artistic direction and attention to detail. Critics from outlets such as Gfinity and Digital Spy emphasized the impressive scale of the environments and the emotional depth conveyed through the graphics, making it one of the standout titles on the PlayStation 5. The overall consensus is that the game successfully revitalizes the beloved story with an engaging visual presentation that captivates players. However, despite the praise, several critics pointed out notable technical issues that detract from the overall experience. Power Unlimited and MeuPlayStation mentioned problems such as low-resolution textures, pop-in issues, and inconsistent lighting effects that can break immersion. Everyeye.it and LevelUp echoed similar sentiments, noting that while the visual design is impressive, it does not represent a significant leap from the previous installment and suffers from limitations inherent to Unreal Engine 4. Critics like Vgames and COGconnected also highlighted the blurry image in performance mode and texture loading delays, indicating that the game, while visually appealing, is not without its flaws. In conclusion, the overall sentiment among critics is largely positive, with a majority praising the graphics and visual design of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. While some technical shortcomings were noted, the game is celebrated for its artistic beauty and engaging environments that evoke nostalgia while offering a fresh experience. Reviewers like IGN Benelux and God is a Geek encapsulated the general consensus by describing the game as one of the most visually impressive titles available on the market, showcasing Square Enix's commitment to delivering a high-quality product. Despite the technical issues, the visual design remains a highlight, contributing to the game's success and appeal among fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth’s sound design and music are hailed as a masterpiece, with over 400 emotionally rich tracks by acclaimed composers enhancing gameplay and storytelling. Critics praise the uplifting soundtrack for its immersive quality and innovative arrangements, although some note minor flaws like misplaced tracks and audio mixing issues. Overall, it’s regarded as one of the best soundtracks in gaming history, greatly elevating the player experience and solidifying the game’s standout status in the series.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who frequently describe the soundtrack as a masterpiece. Many reviewers, including those from Digital Spy and GamingTrend, praise the uplifting music that enhances exploration and battles, creating an immersive experience. The soundtrack, featuring over 400 tracks, is noted for its emotional depth and variety, with critics like But Why Tho? and Malditos Nerds highlighting the exceptional compositions by renowned composers Masashi Hamauzu, Mitsuto Suzuki, and Nobuo Uematsu. The music not only revitalizes classic themes but also introduces new arrangements that resonate with players, as noted by Vgames and PC Gamer. The overall sound design, including top-tier voice acting, further enhances the storytelling and emotional weight of the game, with IGN and Cubed3 emphasizing the quality of voice performances that bring characters to life. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the sound design. For instance, PLAY! Zine mentions that while the music features high-quality compositions, some tracks feel out of place or hastily composed, occasionally overshadowing dialogue. Similarly, PlayStation LifeStyle notes issues with overlapping audio in crowded areas, which can distract from the gameplay experience. Critics like VG247 and Malditos Nerds also mention inconsistencies in the sound mix, suggesting that while the music is impressive, its integration with dialogue and sound effects could be improved. These criticisms indicate that while the soundtrack is generally celebrated, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth significantly elevate the gaming experience, with many considering it one of the best soundtracks in gaming history. The emotional resonance and variety of the music are frequently highlighted, with critics such as GameSpot and Easy Allies praising its ability to enhance major scenes and boss fights. The combination of nostalgic tracks and innovative new compositions creates a rich auditory landscape that complements the game's narrative and gameplay. While some minor issues exist, they do not overshadow the overall sentiment that the sound design and music are a defining feature of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, solidifying its place as a standout title in the series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Critics overwhelmingly praise the voice acting in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth for its quality and emotional depth, enhancing character immersion and storytelling. Standout performances from main and minor characters enrich the gameplay experience. However, some note discrepancies between Japanese and English versions, occasional awkward dialogue, and varying quality in performances. Overall, it’s a strong asset that successfully brings characters to life, despite minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The consensus among critics regarding the voice acting in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is overwhelmingly positive. Reviewers such as Atomix and BaziCenter highlight the top-notch quality of the voice performances, emphasizing how they enhance character immersion and emotional connections. Critics like COGconnected and Digital Trends praise the magical quality of the voice acting, noting standout performances from both main characters like Cloud and Tifa, as well as minor characters. The depth added to emotional storytelling is a recurring theme, with many reviewers asserting that the voice acting significantly contributes to character development and engagement, as seen in the remarks from GamersRD and Gfinity. The overall sentiment is that the voice acting not only meets but often exceeds expectations, further enriching the gameplay experience. Despite the strong praise, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks. Everyeye.it and IGN Italia mention discrepancies between the Japanese and English versions, which could affect the experience for players who are sensitive to localization issues. While many reviews celebrate the voice acting, GameSpot notes that some dialogue can feel awkward, suggesting that not all performances hit the mark. Additionally, some critics like TrueGaming express that the quality of voice acting ranges from average to good, indicating that there are moments that may not resonate as strongly as others. These criticisms, while not pervasive, highlight that there are areas where the voice acting could have been improved. Overall, the critical consensus is that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth features an impressive array of voice performances that significantly enhance the game's narrative and character dynamics. Most reviewers, including VGC and VG247, agree that the voice acting contributes profoundly to character development and emotional impact, making the characters more relatable and engaging. While there are minor criticisms regarding localization and occasional awkward dialogue, the majority of critics affirm that the voice acting is a strong point in the game, with many standout performances that successfully bring beloved characters to life.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth receives mixed reviews for technical performance. The PS5 version impresses with fast loading and smooth combat but has issues like texture loading, crashes, and bugs, leading to a less immersive experience. In contrast, the PC version is praised for solid optimization and high frame rates, though it still faces some stuttering and crashes. Overall, both versions have strengths and weaknesses, but improvements are needed for optimal performance.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has garnered a mixed reception across different gaming platforms. On the PS5, many critics praised the game for its impressive technical achievements, highlighting features like fast loading times, smooth combat, and the effective use of the DualSense controller's capabilities. For instance, CGMagazine noted the game’s ability to showcase the PS5's strengths, while GameOver.gr emphasized the options for Quality and Performance Modes that ensure a fluid gameplay experience. Critics like Hobby Consolas and ComicBook also mentioned the generally good performance, with minor issues not significantly detracting from the overall enjoyment. However, the PS5 version is not without its drawbacks. Critics have pointed out glaring technical shortcomings, including texture loading problems, crashes, and frame pacing issues, particularly in Quality Mode. Power Unlimited expressed disappointment with the day-one patch failing to resolve major issues, while MeuPlayStation and TheSixthAxis noted bugs and long loading times that impacted immersion. Additionally, despite some positive remarks, several critics like Everyeye.it and Vandal highlighted graphical issues that could detract from the experience, suggesting that the game still has room for improvement. Turning to the PC version, the consensus is more favorable, with many reviewers noting solid performance and impressive optimization. Critics like Hobby Consolas and God is a Geek praised the PC port for maintaining high frame rates and graphical fidelity, while Areajugones pointed out outstanding performance across various configurations. However, some issues persist, such as shader compilation stutter, crashes, and optimization problems in certain areas, as noted by COGconnected and IGN Adria. Overall, while the PS5 version faces notable technical challenges, the PC version appears to deliver a more polished experience, although both platforms have their respective flaws. The overall sentiment reflects a game that has the potential to shine but requires further updates and optimizations to fully realize that potential across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is receiving positive reviews for its high replay value, packed with side quests, mini-games, and a relationship system that encourages multiple playthroughs. Critics praise its rich world and extensive content, boasting over 100 hours for completionists. However, some note issues like repetitive open-world content and simplistic side activities that might hinder full engagement. Overall, despite its flaws, the game offers a deep and immersive experience appealing to both casual players and completionists.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has garnered a largely positive reception regarding its replay value, with many critics highlighting the extensive content available for players. Reviewers from outlets like GamingBolt and Impulsegamer emphasize the game's wealth of side quests, mini-games, and optional activities, which significantly enhance the overall experience. The inclusion of a relationship system, as noted by IGN Brasil, adds depth to player interactions, encouraging multiple playthroughs to explore different outcomes. Critics such as Games.cz and Vgames praise the rich world and the variety of engaging side missions that promote exploration, while others like Digital Spy and Atomix mention the lengthy main story and the abundance of post-game content, which collectively contribute to a replay value that appeals to both casual players and completionists. However, not all feedback is overwhelmingly positive, as several critics point out potential drawbacks that may affect the game's replay value. PC Invasion and Shacknews note that the open-world content can feel repetitive, and the lack of a cohesive narrative structure might detract from the overall experience. The Guardian and IGN Benelux mention that while the game offers diverse side content, some activities can be perceived as simple, boring, or even frustrating, which may discourage players from fully engaging with the game. Additionally, some critics, like Ragequit.gr and VG247, highlight the reliance on fetch quests and the repetitive nature of certain tasks, suggesting that these elements could deter players from pursuing 100% completion. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth offers significant replay value, bolstered by a plethora of side quests and engaging activities. While there are concerns regarding repetitiveness and the quality of some side content, the game still manages to provide a rich and immersive experience that encourages exploration and experimentation. Critics like Malditos Nerds and Worth Playing underscore the game's extensive content, with playtimes exceeding 100 hours for completionists, indicating that despite its flaws, the game remains a compelling choice for players seeking depth and variety in their gaming experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising its engaging storytelling, character development, and gameplay mechanics. Reviewers like Dot Esports describe it as a "masterpiece" and a "must-play game," while Gaming Age emphasizes its status as a "fantastic follow-up" that expands the world of Final Fantasy VII. Critics also laud the game for its impressive visuals and open-world design, with Vandal calling it "the best and most ambitious remake ever" and Digital Spy highlighting its "massive" and immersive experience. The combat system, world-building, and emotional depth are frequently mentioned as standout features, making it a highly enjoyable RPG experience for both newcomers and long-time fans. However, despite the many accolades, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. PC Gamer criticized the game for pacing issues and a lack of meaningful story progression, while Guardian noted that the narrative focus suffers due to an abundance of side content. Technical issues, particularly with the PC version, were also highlighted by COGconnected and Digital Chumps, indicating that while the game is well-optimized, it still has room for improvement. Some reviewers, like Oyungezer, expressed disappointment with narrative expectations, suggesting that certain elements fell short of what fans might have anticipated. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a worthy successor that successfully continues the legacy of its predecessor while introducing new elements. Most reviewers, including IGN Brasil and Gaming Nexus, recommend it highly, recognizing it as a significant achievement in modern RPG design. While there are some criticisms regarding pacing, technical performance, and narrative focus, the game is celebrated for its emotional storytelling and engaging gameplay, solidifying its position as a must-play title in the franchise. The majority of critics agree that the positives far outweigh the negatives, making it a highly recommended experience for both fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is hailed as a "masterpiece" with engaging storytelling, character depth, and ambitious open-world design. Critics praise its visuals and gameplay, calling it a fantastic follow-up to the original. However, some highlight pacing issues, narrative shortcomings, and technical glitches in the PC version. Despite these criticisms, the game is recommended as a must-play for both fans and newcomers, affirming its place in RPG excellence.

MONSTER

Reviews

290 reviews found

100

Inverse

PlayStation 5

Feb 22, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is highly praised for its rich narrative, engaging gameplay, and vibrant world design. It is considered a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a memorable experience with fantastic characters.

Read full review

100

App Trigger

PlayStation 5

Feb 22, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is highly praised for its refreshing twist on the classic story, impressive gameplay, and stunning graphics, receiving a perfect score of 10/10.

Read full review

100

GAMINGbible

PlayStation 5

Feb 22, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is praised for its evolved story, beautiful open-world, emotional characters, and bundle of emotions, with minimal flaws.

Read full review

100

Atomix

PlayStation 5

Feb 22, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is hailed as a masterpiece, combining an epic story, refined gameplay, and stunning visuals, making it a strong contender for Game of the Year.

Read full review

100

Vandal

PlayStation 5

Feb 22, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is hailed as the best and most ambitious remake ever, successfully blending nostalgia with innovation. It delivers an emotional and engaging experience that surpasses expectations.

100

CGMagazine

Jan 22, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a thoughtful and breathtaking reimagining of a beloved classic, capturing its essence while introducing new elements that make it essential for both veterans and newcomers.

Read full review

100

Dot Esports

PlayStation 5

Feb 22, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A masterpiece, a work of art, bonafide breathtaking brilliance. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is a must-play game.

Read full review

100

Noisy Pixel

Jan 22, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details