Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth: The Underrated RPG Gem of 2024

Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth: The Underrated RPG Gem of 2024

In a year brimming with exceptional games, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth somehow found itself overshadowed, not by its shortcomings, but by the sheer competition it faced. Despite its stellar reviews and widespread acclaim, Rebirth didn’t receive the recognition it truly deserved. Yet, this second chapter in Square Enix’s ambitious remake trilogy is nothing short of an RPG masterpiece.

Let’s take a moment to give this game the love and attention it commands—because, frankly, it’s one of the best RPGs in recent memory.

A Masterpiece in Storytelling and World-Building

For fans of the original Final Fantasy 7, Rebirth is a nostalgia-filled treasure trove. It masterfully revisits iconic moments like the Gold Saucer, Barret’s emotional story in Mt. Corel, and new twists on the core narrative, including the introduction of fate as a thematic cornerstone. The storytelling is coherent, engaging, and packed with twists that keep players invested.

More than that, the biomes and locations are breathtakingly expansive. From the lush greenery of open fields to the industrial grittiness of Midgar’s outskirts, every area feels alive and meticulously crafted.

A Combat System That Elevates the Genre

The combat in Rebirth is a work of art—dynamic, strategic, and thoroughly satisfying. It blends real-time action with tactical decision-making, ensuring that battles remain thrilling and rewarding. Characters like Red XIII, with his unique mechanics and hilarious nods to his past, add charm and variety to an already robust system. Every boss battle and encounter feels meaningful, demanding skill and strategy without becoming overly punishing.

Recognition That Fell Short

Despite its incredible quality, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth somehow failed to capture the collective attention it deserved in 2024. With a 92 Metacritic score, a 99% Critics Recommend score on OpenCritic, and seven Game Awards nominations, it seemed primed to dominate discussions of the year’s best games. Instead, titles like Metaphor: ReFantazio and Astro Bot stole much of the spotlight.

While ReFantazio brought a fresh IP feel and unique stylistic choices, and Astro Bot delivered innovative gameplay, Rebirth offered something timeless: an RPG experience that hits every note, from epic storytelling to refined mechanics.

Why Rebirth Deserves More Love

1. A Legendary Foundation: Building on one of the most beloved games of all time, Rebirth doesn’t just recreate—it reimagines, adding depth and modern polish to classic moments.
2. Immersive World: Few games can match the level of detail and personality packed into Rebirth’s sprawling environments and NPCs.
3. Emotional Depth: From Cloud’s stoic struggles to Barret’s powerful story arcs, the characters are brought to life with nuance and heart.
4. Replayability: With over 100 hours of content, secrets to uncover, and engaging side quests, there’s always more to explore.

The Sales Dilemma and What Lies Ahead

Square Enix has expressed disappointment in Rebirth’s sales performance, raising concerns about its impact on the trilogy’s final installment. Was it released at the wrong time? Did it get lost in the shuffle of new IPs and blockbuster hits? Perhaps—but none of that detracts from the fact that Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is an RPG triumph.

Don’t Let This Gem Slip By

If you haven’t played Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth yet, now is the time to experience the magic for yourself. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the franchise, Rebirth offers an adventure that’s as moving as it is exhilarating. With its groundbreaking combat, stunning visuals, and unforgettable story, this game is more than just a sequel—it’s a celebration of everything that makes RPGs great.

While we eagerly await the third chapter in this epic saga, let’s not forget to appreciate what we already have. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth deserves to be remembered as one of the finest games of 2024, and it’s never too late to give it the recognition it earned. Don’t miss this masterpiece—it’s waiting to whisk you away on a journey you won’t soon forget. #ad