Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth offers an open world experience that sets it apart from its predecessor, Remake. However, the game bears a strong resemblance to its precursor during the linear segments.
Players navigate through areas, engaging in battles and solving puzzles. Resting at a bench near vending machines serves as a hint that a boss fight is imminent, marking the end of a segment in the game.
Boss battles are a frequent occurrence in Rebirth, punctuating one-hour play sessions with memorable encounters. The game’s spectacle is derived from flashy kaiju battles and encounters with diverse wildlife.
Influenced by open-world Final Fantasy games and Sucker Punch’s samurai sandbox, Rebirth presents a world teeming with both beauty and danger. The game unfolds like a TV series or a Marvel movie, with each play session being fairly self-contained, characterized by progression, character development, and a significant boss battle.
Despite making slow progress, players find each hour of gameplay fulfilling and rewarding. However, when venturing into the open-world segments, the sense of progress may not be as pronounced.
For players who prefer a segmented experience, Rebirth presents a well-structured linear mode that caters to their preferences. The game ensures that the boss battles serve as a reminder of who’s in charge, providing a satisfying and impactful aspect to the overall experience.