Zack Fair and Other Spinoff Characters to Grace Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Anticipation among fans of the Final Fantasy VII universe is ratcheting up as we approach the release of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. This next chapter in the Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy is slated to hit the market in four months. We had the opportunity to preview the game at the New York Comic Con and chat with game director Naoki Hamaguchi. One of the most exciting reveals was that Zack Fair isn't the only spinoff character set to appear in the game.

Zack's Expanded Role in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

In Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Zack Fair, Cloud's mentor and friend, is set to play a more significant role than he did in the original game. In the original Final Fantasy VII, Zack appeared only in a few flashbacks related to Cloud's backstory. However, in Rebirth, he will be a key figure.

Through him, players will understand the inner workings of the Final Fantasy VII world. "Zack will be a key figure, through him the players will have experienced the workings of the Final Fantasy VII world within Rebirth,” said Hamaguchi. The decision to release the remake of Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core in the interim between Remake and Rebirth now makes more sense. It gives players an opportunity to get acquainted with Zack and his story before his appearance in Rebirth.

Other Spinoff Characters to Appear in Rebirth

Hamaguchi revealed that besides Zack, other characters from the Final Fantasy VII spinoffs would also make appearances in Rebirth. While he refrained from giving any major spoilers, this revelation certainly piqued our curiosity.

The Final Fantasy VII universe is extensive, with numerous beloved characters appearing in spinoffs such as Dirge of Cerberus or Advent Children. Characters like Cissnei, Angeal, Genesis, Lazard, the Deepground cast, Denzel, or Kadaj are all possible candidates for appearances in Rebirth. Although some characters' living/dead status in the timeline makes an appearance unlikely, the potential for timeline manipulation means anything is possible.

Improved Graphics and Tech Advancements in Rebirth

Another notable aspect of the upcoming Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the significant tech advancements since the original game. Hamaguchi discussed the differences between the flashback to Nibelheim in the original and the remake. The addition of voice acting and improved art in Rebirth gives this sequence a more profound impact.

The richly detailed and stunning locations in Rebirth augment the game's narrative, providing an immersive experience for the player. "Both those fans who may have played before and also newcomers, there is this new discovery by playing this game since there are technological advances that allow us to put more definition and more detail and more context that may not have been possible previously, and there’s that new discovery," said Hamaguchi.

Anticipated Plot Points and Game Ending

Hamaguchi also shed some light on the anticipated plot points and game ending for Rebirth, which is the second part of the planned three-part remake. He mentioned that the decision was made early on to take the narrative up to the Forgotten City and Aerith's fate, which would place the ending of Rebirth at roughly halfway through the original Final Fantasy VII content.

This decision leaves the second half of the original game to be adapted into the third part of the trilogy. New elements, such as the fast travel with Chocobo bus stops, have also been added to Rebirth for a richer gameplay experience.

With these exciting reveals, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth promises to be a thrilling addition to the Final Fantasy VII universe. The inclusion of Zack and other spinoff characters, the improved graphics and tech advancements, and the intriguing plot points all contribute to making this game a highly anticipated release. We can't wait to see how these elements come together in the final product.