Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (PS5) review: Midgar is now so beautiful, we lose ourselves in it

As you embark on the journey that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth offers, there's a moment that distinctly shifts the narrative's atmosphere: Aerith pauses to take in the in-game scenery with a sense of wonder, which stood in stark contrast to the earlier parts of the game, where the flower girl, alongside other FFVII key companions such as Cloud and Tifa, navigates the cramped slums and towering corporate skyscrapers of Midgar. This densely industrial setting creates an almost suffocating feel, amplifying the sense of entrapment under Shinra's oppressive regime, the nefarious corporation intent on exploiting the planet.

The first part of the new FFVII remake trilogy, Final Fantasy VII Remake, primarily takes place within the confinements of Midgar, while the second installment, Rebirth ushers players into the open world with aplomb. After the events in Midgar, Rebirth propels players into the broader world on a mission to confront Sephiroth. There’s really no need to explain who Sephiroth is or his tragic back story by now (still, you can read more about him in our Remake review).

This pivot from the narrow corridors of Midgar to the expansive landscapes of Rebirth is a breath of fresh air in the game's storytelling dynamics, especially if you – like me – found the settings of Midgar to be claustrophobic and cramped, which you have to give credits to the developers for making it so. Rebirth is also a testament to how the new FFVII stretches its wings, embracing an open-world game design and the narrative depth and exploration freedom it offers.

Rebirth not only progresses the story but also deepens the connection between our heroes and the world they're fighting to save, highlighting the stark contrasts between the constricting grip of corporate greed and the sprawling beauty of the planet – Midgar is teetering on the brink of collapse.

Square Enix, in crafting this world, has paradoxically created a realm of stunning beauty amidst the narrative of impending doom. But it's not just the scenery that captivates, as the plethora of mini games scattered throughout the world also adds layers of engagement and diversion. From the nostalgia-laden Golden Saucer, replete with a myriad of distractions, to new additions like card battles, shooting contests, soccer-themed games, and strategic simulations, the game never fail to distract but in a good way, as it offers players the chance to slow down. These activities, alongside Chocobo racing on tracks that mimic the charm of Mario Kart, offer a peculiar blend of urgency and leisure, where the end of the world comes not with a bang but with an invitation to indulge in one last, grand adventure. This approach by Square Enix skillfully balances the gravitas of the narrative with the light-hearted escapism many seek in gaming, setting the stage for an apocalypse that’s as enthralling as it is dire.

Yet, this weighty narrative, from Cloud being haunted by the gradual decline of those around him to others who are ensnared in their own melodramatic sorrow and deep-seated trauma, seems at odds with the game's visually appealing, almost toy-like aesthetic. Characters, rendered in stunning detail and vibrant colours, engage in light-hearted antics against the backdrop of picturesque towns, sunny beaches, and dazzling casinos, somewhat diluting the intense themes of suffering and sacrifice at the heart of the story. The transition from contemplating Barret's remorse over his unwitting role in his hometown's ruin to the distractions of the Golden Saucer exemplifies this dichotomy, pulling players from moments of reflection to lighthearted diversion.

In the downtrodden slums of the Remake, the rawness and adversity of the setting were palpable, anchoring the characters' struggles in a reality that felt both harsh and immediate. Their battles against corporate adversaries in suits and their confrontations with oppressive forces underscored a narrative deeply rooted in struggle and resistance.

However, as Rebirth unfolds, its expanded world seems to dilute the narrative's potency. The presence of antagonists feels less oppressive, their menace diminished in a world where the next distraction is just around the corner. Sephiroth's appearances, filled with ominous posturing and threats, somehow lose their edge amidst the allure of mini games and the pursuit of victory in the Chocobo Cup. This shift towards a lighter, more family-friendly tone marks a departure from the original Final Fantasy VII's gritty, steampunk-inspired realism, aligning more closely with the kind of untroubled entertainment typically associated with Nintendo's offerings. It's a fascinating evolution, one that blends the lines between the urgency of the game's central conflicts and the escapism offered by its expansive, engaging world.

Perhaps what draws many of us into the world of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the desire for an immersive escape, a virtual space where we can interact with our beloved characters free from the constraints of time and narrative urgency. Chasing Sephiroth’s acolytes across Midgar becomes less arduous when the journey is punctuated by captivating diversions.

So it’s easy to share Aerith’s wide-eyed enthusiasm for everything Midgar has to offer. Yet, the game doesn't shy away from hinting at the underlying costs of such escapism. The shadow of a Shinra military base looms over a fishing village, its waters barren, its community grappling with survival. The dazzling lights of the Golden Saucer cast a stark contrast to the desolation that fuels its spectacle, a poignant reminder of the environmental toll of unchecked industrialism.

Rebirth’s narrative richness is matched by its dynamic geography and evolving gameplay mechanics, offering a kaleidoscope of environments, challenges, and storytelling depths. From combat enhancements like Synergies to one-off activities such as a delicate foraging task, the game keeps offering new surprises. Yet, amid this abundance, I’ve also yearned for the streamlined narrative and environmental poignancy of the original classic.

After completing the game and looking back, Rebirth’s sense of irony isn't lost on me. Engrossed in virtual achievements and battles, the larger, in-game environmental message becomes blurred, overshadowed by the immediate gratification of in-game victories. This disconnect underscores a broader truth about humanity and our capacity for distraction, even when faced with existential threats – global warming, for instance.

Yet, there's wisdom in embracing the moments of joy and accomplishment that games like Rebirth offer. The game’s invitation to revel in its world, despite the looming shadows, reflects a poignant commentary on our own world's challenges. It’s a reminder of the delicate balance between engagement and escapism, between confronting harsh realities and finding solace in the worlds we love to lose ourselves in.

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