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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

PlatformPlayStation 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.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth receives high praise for its rich narrative and character development, tackling themes like corporate greed and life’s complexities. Critics laud its emotional depth and engaging storytelling, successfully blending nostalgia with fresh twists. However, some narrative changes and pacing issues may disappoint fans of the original, with certain plot elements described as convoluted. Overall, it’s a compelling installment in the series, leaving critics excited for what's next, despite a few drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

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 significant praise from a majority of critics, who commend its rich narrative and character development. Many reviewers, such as GIGA and MeuPlayStation, highlight the game's exploration of themes like corporate greed, environmental issues, and the complexities of life and death. The narrative expands upon the original game, introducing new characters and plotlines that deepen the emotional resonance of the story. Critics like Digital Trends and The Sixth Axis noted the exceptional character development and the balance of serious and light-hearted moments, making the experience engaging for both newcomers and veterans alike. The game’s ability to intertwine familiar elements with fresh twists has been described as a refreshing take on a beloved classic, with many critics, including IGN France and Gamer Escape, emphasizing the emotional impact and unexpected narrative turns. However, not all feedback has been uniformly positive. Some critics, such as GameOver.gr and VGC, pointed out that certain narrative changes might not resonate with every player, leading to potential disappointment among fans of the original. The pacing of the story has also been critiqued, with reviewers like Shacknews and Game Informer noting inconsistencies and an overstuffed narrative that could detract from the overall experience. Additionally, some plot elements have been described as convoluted or confusing, particularly towards the end, as highlighted by Vgames and MGG. This complexity may alienate players who prefer a more straightforward narrative structure. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth successfully builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, offering a compelling and emotionally charged story that resonates with a wide audience. While some narrative choices and pacing issues have been flagged as potential drawbacks, the majority of reviewers, including LevelUp and Gamereactor Spain, agree that the game excels in character development and world-building. The blend of nostalgia and innovation has made Rebirth a noteworthy installment in the series, with many critics expressing excitement for the future of the trilogy.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth impresses critics with its innovative combat and engaging open-world exploration, earning praise for its strategic Synergy Abilities and character customization. While the gameplay is mostly lauded for depth and immersion, some drawbacks emerge, including awkward battle mechanics, disconnected side content, and AI issues. Despite these flaws, the consensus is clear: it’s a compelling RPG that builds on its predecessor, making it a must-play for Final Fantasy fans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

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 garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, who appreciate its innovative mechanics and engaging combat system. Many reviewers, such as IGN and GamingTrend, commend the refined combat system that combines real-time action with strategic elements, including new Synergy Abilities that enhance teamwork and character interactions. Critics like Gamer Escape and CGMagazine highlight the engaging open-world exploration, which is filled with diverse side quests and mini-games that add depth to the overall experience. The inclusion of character customization through systems like Materia and Folios, noted by Gfinity and God is a Geek, allows players to tailor their gameplay style, further enriching the RPG experience. However, some critics have pointed out notable drawbacks within the gameplay. Gamer Escape mentions that the battle system can feel awkward and complicated at times, particularly with slow ability unlocks and a potential lack of offensive options. Game Revolution criticizes the side content, suggesting that some activities feel disconnected from the main narrative, which can detract from the overall immersion. Additionally, Eurogamer Germany notes that certain tasks may come across as busywork, lacking meaningful engagement. Critics like COGconnected and GameSkinny also express concerns about AI issues and repetitive quests, indicating that while the gameplay is solid, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth delivers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, successfully building upon its predecessor while introducing new mechanics and systems that enhance depth and strategy. Reviewers such as Shacknews and Digital Trends emphasize the game's engaging combat and exploration, while others like TrueGaming and Jeuxvideo.com praise the character dynamics and strategic elements. Despite some criticisms regarding pacing and repetitive content, the majority of reviewers agree that the game excels in providing a rich and immersive RPG experience, making it a worthy addition to the Final Fantasy franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth wows with breathtaking graphics and a vibrant world, earning high praise from critics for its artistic direction and PS5 capabilities. However, technical hiccups like low-res textures and inconsistent lighting mar the experience. Overall, the stunning visuals shine bright despite some flaws, leaving critics hopeful for future updates from Square Enix.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

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 garnered a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising the game's stunning visuals and artistic direction. Reviewers from outlets like IGN, But Why Tho?, and Game Informer highlighted the impressive scale and reimagined world, noting that the game effectively captures the essence of its beloved predecessor while enhancing it with vibrant environments and detailed character models. Critics such as PC Invasion and GamingBolt emphasized the engaging and immersive world design, with Gfinity and Dexerto commending the game's ability to showcase the capabilities of the PlayStation 5, offering breathtaking visuals that enhance the overall gaming experience. However, despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out technical issues that detract from the visual experience. Power Unlimited and Everyeye.it noted problems such as low-resolution textures, pop-up issues, and inconsistent lighting effects, which indicate some limitations of the Unreal Engine 4. Critics like MeuPlayStation and Vgames echoed these sentiments, mentioning that while the game has strong visual identity, it suffers from inconsistencies in quality and blurry images in performance mode. Additionally, issues like texture loading delays and motion blur were highlighted by multiple reviewers, including SpazioGames and LevelUp, suggesting that while the visuals are impressive, they are not without their flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth showcases remarkable graphics and visual design that elevate the gaming experience, despite some technical shortcomings. While many reviewers, including IGN France and Meristation, acknowledged the game as one of the most visually stunning titles on the PS5, they also pointed out areas for improvement, particularly regarding texture quality and performance inconsistencies. Ultimately, the positive feedback on the game's visuals outweighs the criticisms, with many critics expressing excitement for the potential future updates and improvements from Square Enix, indicating a strong foundation for the game’s visual presentation.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth's sound design and music are hailed as a masterpiece, enhancing gameplay and storytelling with over 400 emotional tracks. Critics praise its orchestration and the seamless blend of nostalgic and new compositions, although minor issues like sound mix inconsistencies and overpowering music were noted. Overall, the soundtrack is a standout feature, setting a new benchmark in gaming.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

99%

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 overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, with many praising the game as a masterpiece in this regard. Reviewers such as IGN Brasil and Game Informer highlighted the captivating and emotional quality of the soundtrack, which not only enhances the gaming experience but also complements the storytelling and gameplay. Critics like Cubed3 and MMORPG.com noted the sheer volume of the soundtrack, boasting over 400 tracks that evoke strong emotions and create an immersive atmosphere. The orchestration has been described as phenomenal by TheSixthAxis, while GamingTrend emphasized the diverse soundtrack that beautifully integrates new compositions with nostalgic themes from the original game. This blend of old and new has been a consistent highlight, with many critics, including GameMAG and Vgames, noting how the music enhances emotional moments and gameplay dynamics. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, a few critics pointed out some minor issues. For instance, VG247 mentioned inconsistencies in the sound mix, which could detract from the overall experience. Additionally, some reviewers like Malditos Nerds and PLAY! Zine noted that the music sometimes overpowers dialogue, potentially affecting the clarity of character interactions. While these critiques are valid, they appear to be overshadowed by the general acclaim for the soundtrack's quality and emotional depth. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth are exceptional, with many considering it a high point in gaming history. The majority of reviewers agree that the soundtrack is not only a nostalgic homage to the original game but also a significant enhancement to the new narrative and gameplay experience. Critics such as Easy Allies and God is a Geek emphasized the emotional resonance and character depth brought forth by the music and voice acting, solidifying the game's auditory experience as a standout feature. Ultimately, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is celebrated for its masterful sound design, with many critics lauding it as a benchmark for future titles in the genre.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has received rave reviews for its emotional depth and character immersion, with standout performances from Cloud, Tifa, and Aerith enhancing the game's narrative. While some localization issues and occasional awkward dialogue were noted, the overwhelming consensus is that the voice acting is a major strength, significantly enriching the storytelling experience.

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 voice acting in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, with many highlighting its exceptional quality and emotional depth. Reviewers such as Atomix and BaziCenter emphasize how the voice performances enhance character immersion and deepen connections with the game's cast. Critics like COGconnected and Vandal praise the standout performances from main characters like Cloud, Tifa, and Aerith, noting that the voice acting significantly contributes to character development and emotional storytelling. Gfinity and IGN also commend the voice cast for effectively bringing beloved characters to life, reflecting their emotions and personalities, which adds substantial depth to the narrative. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting, particularly related to localization issues. Everyeye.it and IGN Italia point out discrepancies between the Japanese and English versions, which may affect the experience for players who prefer one language over the other. Some reviewers, such as GameSpot, mention that while the performances are generally strong, certain dialogue can feel awkward, which detracts from the overall experience. Merlin'in Kazanı notes mixed reviews for the English voice acting, highlighting that while some characters shine, others may not resonate as well with players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a significant strength of the game, with the majority considering it to be top-notch. Critics like Digital Trends and VG247 underline the voice performances as key elements that enhance character engagement and emotional impact. While there are some concerns regarding localization and occasional awkward dialogue, the positive remarks far outweigh the negatives. The voice acting is celebrated for its ability to evoke emotions and create a rich, immersive experience, making it a vital component of the game's storytelling and character development.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth on PS5 impresses with fast loading times, smooth gameplay, and strong use of DualSense features, earning high praise from critics. However, technical flaws like texture loading delays, stuttering, and occasional crashes mar the experience. While the game showcases PS5’s capabilities, it still needs optimization, with many reviewers hopeful for future patches to address these issues. Overall, a solid yet flawed achievement that leaves room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

24%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

74%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth on the PlayStation 5 has garnered a largely positive reception from critics. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Game Informer, praised the game for showcasing the capabilities of the PS5, highlighting fast loading times and smooth gameplay. Critics like Easy Allies noted impressive technical performance, particularly in Performance Mode, which runs at a stable 60 FPS. Additionally, several reviewers, including Gamereactor Spain and Gamersky, reported flawless performance with minimal bugs, contributing to an overall solid experience. The game’s utilization of the DualSense controller features was also commended by MMORPG.com, enhancing immersion and gameplay. Despite the overall positive sentiment, several reviewers pointed out notable technical issues that detracted from the experience. Critics like Everyeye.it and Power Unlimited highlighted texture loading delays and stuttering, which were significant enough to affect immersion. Others, such as IGN France and Vandal, mentioned graphical fidelity issues, including clipping and low-resolution textures, particularly in Performance Mode. Additionally, some reviews, like those from TheSixthAxis and MeuPlayStation, reported crashes and bugs that disrupted gameplay, indicating that the game may not be fully optimized despite its impressive features. In summary, while the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth on PS5 offers a generally solid and enjoyable experience, there are significant technical shortcomings that need addressing. Reviewers like Atomix and Cubed3 recognized the game’s high production value and stability, but many also echoed concerns about graphical issues and performance inconsistencies. Overall, the game is viewed as a commendable achievement on the PS5, with room for improvement, particularly regarding its technical performance and visual fidelity. Critics remain optimistic about future patches that could enhance the experience further.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has strong replay value praised for its rich content, engaging side quests, and party customization, bolstered by features like New Game Plus. However, critics warn of potential repetitiveness and overwhelming side content that could disrupt narrative flow, presenting a mixed experience between extensive exploration and possible fatigue for players seeking a streamlined journey.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment among critics regarding the replay value of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is largely positive, with many praising the game for its extensive content and engaging gameplay mechanics. Reviewers like Eurogamer Germany and VGC highlight the vast array of side quests, mini-games, and activities that encourage exploration and provide players with numerous opportunities for replay. Digital Spy notes that the game’s engaging side quests and party customization contribute significantly to its replay value, while Easy Allies emphasizes the inclusion of a New Game Plus feature and hard mode, which incentivizes players to return for additional challenges. Critics such as MeuPlayStation and GIGA also commend the variety of side content that enriches the narrative and offers a customizable experience, further enhancing replayability. However, not all feedback is entirely positive, as several critics express concerns over the potential repetitiveness and lack of cohesion in the open-world design. PC Invasion and Shacknews mention that while the game offers a wide canvas for exploration, some elements can feel tedious or repetitive, which may detract from the overall replay value. IGN Benelux and Game Informer point out that certain side activities may be perceived as simple or frustrating, impacting players' willingness to engage with them repeatedly. Additionally, some critics, like Guardian and The Games Machine, note that the sheer volume of side quests and mini-games can feel overwhelming and may disrupt the main narrative flow, further complicating the replay experience. In summary, while the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth's replay value, acknowledging its rich content and engaging gameplay, there are notable concerns regarding repetitiveness and narrative cohesion. Critics like Malditos Nerds and Atomix reinforce the idea that the game offers significant replay value through exploration and diverse activities, but others caution that the overwhelming amount of content could lead to a diluted experience. Ultimately, the game presents a mixed bag of opportunities for replay, appealing to those who enjoy extensive content while potentially alienating players who prefer a more streamlined experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is overwhelmingly positive, with a significant number of critics praising its ambitious storytelling, character development, and gameplay mechanics. Many reviewers, including Twinfinite and IGN France, highlighted the game as a "phenomenal" and "solid" sequel that excels in delivering an engaging RPG experience. Critics like VG247 and GameSpot emphasized the emotional resonance and rich gameplay that deepens character connections, while outlets such as Noisy Pixel and Dot Esports hailed it as a "masterpiece" and "breathtaking brilliance." The game’s visual design and soundtrack also received commendation, with many reviewers noting that it successfully captures the essence of the original while introducing new elements, making it a must-play for both fans and newcomers. Despite the praise, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings, particularly in the areas of open-world design and technical performance. IGN France and Everyeye.it mentioned issues with the open-world mechanics, which detracted from the overall experience. Additionally, some reviews, including those from The Guardian and IGN Italia, criticized the game for losing narrative focus due to an abundance of side content or pacing issues in the latter parts. Critics like Power Unlimited and IGN Benelux also noted that while the game is highly enjoyable, it may not introduce significant changes or improvements compared to its predecessor, which could make it feel slightly less impactful. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a highly successful sequel that builds upon the strengths of the original and its predecessor. Reviewers such as LevelUp and Wccftech emphasized its status as one of the best games of the year, while BaziCenter and Worth Playing noted its improvements in combat and storytelling. The game is widely regarded as a love letter to the original, with many reviewers expressing excitement for the trilogy's conclusion. Despite some technical and design flaws, the majority of critics agree that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a captivating and enriching experience that should not be missed.

TL;DR

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is lauded as a phenomenal sequel, praised for its ambitious storytelling, character depth, and gameplay. Critics call it a must-play masterpiece, though some note flaws in open-world design and pacing issues. While it builds on its predecessor’s strengths, a few argue it lacks significant innovations. Overall, it’s a captivating experience that fans and newcomers shouldn't miss.

MONSTER

Reviews

243 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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100

Noisy Pixel

Jan 22, 2025

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