#comrades dlc

[lillenshivari]

Some photos of my bro, Gutsco. He was one of King Regis' Kingsglaive before the fall of Insomnia. I met him at Lestallum. I got separated from Prompto and suffered amnesia after we encountered a group of particularly strong Red Giants. Gutsco found me wandering and introduced me to Libertus. He looked out for me and always had my back as I helped the Kingsglaive restore power. When Prompto first found me in Lestallum I couldn't remember who he was, but Gutsco could tell by the way Prompto acted that we must have known each other before, and helped ensure Prompto didn't leave town again until I started getting my memories back. He stayed one of my best bros all through the Long Night after that.

[parme-san]

minecraft for the nintendo switch is deeply unserious

[peridot-tears]

That moment where Arno's in the catacombs and greets the paranoid man with a simple, "Citizen." So much sass in that one line. And it's weirdly grounding to hear him use that term? Throughout the game, you hear people calling each other that because...that was the newly-established norm. Nothing reminds me that Arno is living through this tumultuous time more than this one line when he, himself, uses this greeting like any other common person living through the Revolution.

[captainadwen]

Cor???????

[astrifer777]

GUYS GUYS GUYS

I hate to say this but it finally clicked.

WHAT CLICKED YOU ASK? NO YOU DIDNT BUT HERE WE GOOOO

Now before we start (we meaning me and my rotten brain), this sword is associated with Miquella. We know this because the symbol used in this animation:

Has the symbol associated with Miquella and his Haligtree:

And while scrolling on tumbler I read it's description for the the 30th time. And I quote

A sword made to commemorate the death of Godwyn the Golden, first of the demigods to die.

Infused with the humble prayer of a young boy; "O brother, lord brother, please die a true death."

And it made something click for me that has felt... Odd since the trailer of the DLC dropped. Something that felt wrong.

From bandai namcos elden ring page:

"And now Miquella awaits the return of his promised lord".

And I know obviously this is referring to the player... But wait a minute. Is it? We have never interacted with or met Miquella what so ever. why we he be awaiting our "return"? Why are we his "promised lord"?

Because... We aren't. We don't need to return to a place we've never been. This has bugged me SO MUCH because it feels so... weird for it to be the tarnished. It doesn't make sense even. But if he's awaiting his "Lord Brother".... who has been dead since the before the shattering. He is absolutely waiting for the return of Godwyn... I don't think it's a stretch to say Godwyn is his promised lord.

And we know how Godwyn is gonna come back, or at least miquellas plan from some random ghost:

Lord Miquella, forgive me. The sun has not been swallowed. Our prayers were lacking. Your comrade remains soulless... I will never set my eyes upon it now... Your divine Haligtree.

Soooooo yeah. I think Miquella is awaiting the return of Godwyn. What does this means?

The DLC rotted my brain and I'm probably wrong, but it's what feels right.

(Also also the shadow looks so white and black.... And the sun is much brighter in the background?? And is being eclipsed by the tree, while MIQUELLA POINTS AT IT?????)

ok done now bye bye

[katyspersonal]

In today's SoTE progress: ARRRGHHH I am SO goddamn angry!!!! Gfhghmjm But also I am thinking about Messmer and Marika a LOT now.

1) So, I was getting mentally prepared for going to battle Messmer, and decided to visit just one last piece of fort associated with his location!

^ This shield was dropped by a Black Knight Garrew that acted like a boss but was no harder than a regular enemy. He was using a Crucible aspect that gave him chameleon's shooting tongue to attack with and I hoped he'd drop it instead hfhghgj I'm gonna assume it was somewhere in the game and I just missed it for a dumb reason :pensive:

^ A valid reference in case if anyone will want to draw/write certain grim scenes in detail or something like that

2) There was also a fairly well-hidden secret that I felt proud of discovering, but it was just a stronger version of the talisman that makes arrows stronger! And not only I don't use bows, but also it didn't even give lore! Goddamn it Fromsoft reward me with INFORMATION for my explorer's interest!!

3) Okayyyy sooo :/ I was soooo ready to get my ass kicked by Messmer that I kinda dreaded it, but needed to get this over with! Alas, DLC should end sooner or later...

And at first, I did get my ass kicked, sure. But..... ...not only he switched to the second phase halfway through his health bar and not after it was fully reduced like I expected.. but also I adopted OBNOXIOUSLY fast. :/ :/ :/ It didn't take me EVEN 15 MINUTES to fully adapt to him and just get closer and closer with every try. And!! I did kill him? Like are you JOKING. Are you KIDDING me. That was IT? It took me several days and tormenting @fantomette22 for useless tries to finally defeat Rellana, I had to try many strategies and be extremely smart and inventive with her!! I thought if she was so strong, Messmer would have been even WORSE, and yet I am just sitting here like:

Dude yeah no SHIT you needed Rellana to protect you :/ Guess I was not impressed by 18 inches of Messmer the Impaler 😔😔😔

4) Okay but I DID like his voice acting a lot hfhgv I was just sitting there like "stop sounding sexy you dunce, I already decided that I'm going to dislike you!" XD /j

5) His final words were "Mother... Marika... A curse... upon thee..." and.. hell if I know whether he cursed us or her. I am assuming he cursed her since switching to calling your parent by name instead is a kind of strong sentiment. Like defying them their status over you sort of. Besides all the statues of her in Shadow Realm but one being headless. So... yes, interesting.

6) It was not patched out btw! :>

7) Okay actually when I was about to beat Messmer's ass for good I've accidentally found the summon sign for Hornsent NPC! I was not seeing it during the fight, just happened to run into it, and if Igon taught me anything is that such summons are a good idea because they progress the questline. Maybe. So, he gave a dialogue after Messmer was defeated:

"We meet again I see, comrade-in-arms. Upon his end, did you see Messmer's face? Twas sublime - a very tangle of snakes! To think he dared to call us savages. When he himself was most base of all.

To say the least, I am to you indebted. Yet unquenched remains my thirst for revenge. The death of Messmer was merely the start. Now comes the piper to collect from Marika, her offspring, and all the Erdtree's denizens... In vengeance for the flames, my blade I wield... If Miquella's redemption soothes the ache... that throbs within, demanding blessed vengeance... Then I wish not to be by him redeemed."

Sigh... I just can tell that the guy will have to turn on us sooner or later. Honestly, rejection of anything that could help/heal/etc the pain that demands revenge is such a... real reaction? He is a very real character. He straight up doesn't want to stop even after achieving his objective and himself, ironically, fell for the path of punishing every associate including innocent people whose only sin is being "born in this culture". He became like Marika in this regards!

Honestly, this is a very good writing moment! Second favourite after Miyazaki's jab at horrors of believing in "sacred mission" in Crusader's Insignia! (I like the character even more now for very real negative character development, but I just can TELL we'll have to kill him gfhhgg)

8) .... ah, right, I forgot this post about Messmer

Again: hatred like what? Hatred coming from Abyss Serpent? His hatred for Marika? Hatred for all divested of her grace? Hatred for himself? Is this many things? Fromsoft spare me I am too autistic to read hfggjhgjgb

9) This is actually sweet:

So, the snakes were friends all along, and I suppose the counterparts/antagonists to the "evil" serpent within him!

10) *points at this like in the meme* Hey I remember that this bit was mistranslated! XD

It actually says that he did that for his mother's sake, and not by her wish! It makes even more sense with the following sentence, as if HE really wished for no single mfer to look weird at her. No, as if he INSISTED to accept all blame and hatred. Considering he curses her in his dying breath, after all (or at least calls her name which is a bad sign from a child), there must have been such a long build-up of unhealthy relationship between them to it...

He not only wished to keep her away from all fear and hatred that follows, and fulfill her vengeful desires, but also basically said to use him like a punching bag. But if she feared the curse within him in the end, then SHE is to blame that he gave up on any and all hope to be pure, good and loved. Like.. whose fault do you guys think it IS that his self-image centered entirely on being fear and dread, as well as someone to hate? I have an impression that he did want to take the blame and excile for her sake, but also resented that she actually accepted his request to use him. Like.. maybe he didn't even realize that what he, subconsciously, wanted was for her to refuse. I might be speaking from too much personal experience, but sending such mixed signals (requesting something with expectation that the person will refuse) is a sign of bad parenting at least, abuse at most. And knowing Marika's horrid parenting skills... yeeeeah.

Again, really good writing. They are saying so much with so little, as always. Glad that Mister Miyazaki keeps the mark with his stories only being readable if you have at least one PTSD ggbhjghbb

11) I have a bad guess that they did not elaborate on what exactly Abyss Serpent is, otherwise @val-of-the-north would've already spoilered me because we love worldbuilding xd

But seeing how Marika Had a Moment about Giants' Fire all because it's capable of burning the Erdtree, the reason is probably similar. She I with Fire like Gwyn is with darkness: it can end her era, maybe end herself, so it is terrifying.

At the same time, she was trying to love her children, at least at first. She created this eye for Messmer and created a lot of Divine Blessings to ease his burdens in the past. Then there were Omen Twins that she yet named with her initials and at least Godfrey and Godwyn were seeing them, although horned creatures would be her worst nightmare. I feel like the pipeline from this to "children become kings or lords or else you'll only be worthy of sacrifices" + "unwanted bastard in Mausoleum" was a long one. She tried to love even the children that were either a walking hazard or walking PTSD, but failing to overcome fear before Messmer set her down the spiral. God, I can see all of her snapping if Messmer asked too many questions, accidentally acting hostile if he tried to be physically affectionate unable to conceal her fear fast enough... She would not be the type to try again with anyone after casting him aside in the end, but, she would take the passive position of "kids, prove me that you deserve my love because ME putting in effort won't avail anything, apparently". The guilt but one that made a quitter rather than a better person.

12) Also *points like in the meme again*

Yeah, every forge type of the dungeon in Shadow Realm has throwing weapons!!! He adapted!

__________

So yeah this post gotten EMOTIONAL ALL OF A SUDDEN when I expected it to be short. Damn, the girls didn't lie, he IS an interesting character!

[demifiendrsa]

FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH - Release Date Announce Trailer

Japanese version

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, the second game in the Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy, will launch for PlayStation 5 on February 29, 2024.

The game will be available in the following editions:

Physical – Across two game discs; includes a reversible cover, and the preorder incentive of the digital “Midgar Bangle Mk. II” armor at participating retailers

Standard Edition ($69.99)

Deluxe Edition ($99.99) – Includes Mini-soundtrack CD, artbook, and SteelBook case.

Collector’s Edition ($349.99) – Includes large, highly detailed collectible statue of Sephiroth, Deluxe Edition contents, along with digital DLC items including downloadable content “Summoning Materia,” allowing players to summon the Moogle Trio, and the “Magic Pot,” along with equipment, like the “Reclaimant Choker” accessory and the “Orchid Bracelet” armor. The Collector’s Edition will be available to pre-order in limited quantities from the Square Enix Store.

Digital – Includes the downloadable content “Moogle Trio Summoning Materia.”

Standard Edition ($69.99)

Digital Deluxe Edition ($89.99) – Includes digital Mini-soundtrack, digital artbook, and digital downloadable content items including the “Magic Pot” Summoning Materia, “Reclaimant Choker” accessory, and the “Orchid Bracelet” armor.

Digital Deluxe Edition Upgrade ($20) – Can be purchased to upgrade previously purchased Standard Edition, adding Digital Deluxe Edition contents*

Final Fantasy VII Remake and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Twin Pack ($99.99) – Offering great value during the pre-order phase, the Twin Pack includes Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, available at launch, and the full game download of Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade which will be available to play as soon as the Twin Pack is pre-ordered.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Digital Deluxe Twin Pack ($119.99) – Includes Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade full game download plus all Digital Deluxe Edition contents.

■ About

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the highly anticipated 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 party’s journey to “The Forgotten Capital” from the original Final Fantasy VII.

After escaping from the dystopian city of Midgar, Cloud and his friends set out on a journey across the planet. New adventures await in a vibrant and vast world – sprint across grassy plains on a Chocobo and explore expansive environments.

An Expansive World

As the party searches for Sephiroth, you will explore the beautiful, expansive regions of the world and open up new areas to discover. Dig deeper into the world of Final Fantasy VII with rewarding side content and mini-games, plus various unique forms of transportation to navigate the world.

An Evolved Battle System

Combine strategic thinking with thrilling action combat alongside your comrades, including newly added characters. Deepen their relationships to unleash powerful team-based combos.

Beyond the Walls of Fate

In this standalone adventure for fans and newcomers, Cloud and his comrades venture across the planet, their fates unwritten, making each step outside the dystopian city of Midgar fresh and mysterious.

■ Story

For years now, the Shinra Electric Power Company has been providing the world with energy at the expense of the lifestream, the “river” whence all life flows and whither it returns.

After storming the company’s headquarters and engaging in a series of battles for the ages, Cloud and his companions leave Midgar behind and set out for the wider world. Once in the grasslands, they hop aboard chocobos and embark on a journey with an unknown destination.

Meanwhile, Zack—beaten and battered from his fight against an army of troopers—hobbles across the wastelands into Midgar with a mako-poisoned Cloud on his shoulder. Though he has managed to escape death for now, the ominous rift in the sky gives him little reason to rejoice.

That is hardly the only threat facing the world, however. The Shinra Resistance Committee, backed by Wutai’s interim government, declares war on the company; figures shrouded in black robes carry with them the corpse of Jenova, a veritable calamity from another world; and the Weapons—fierce and monstrous guardians of the planet—have recently awakened.

Amid this chaos, Sephiroth has set his plan in motion, thus ensuring myriad fates intertwine and are birthed anew.

■ Characters

Cloud Strife (voiced by Cody Christian in English, Takahiro Sakurai in Japanese)

“There’s no point in wasting our time worrying about fate if we can’t change it.”

An ex-SOLDIER: first class, Cloud came to Midgar to start a new chapter of his life as a mercenary. At the invitation of his childhood friend, Tifa, he accepts a job with Avalanche. Together, they confront Shinra, ultimately leaving Midgar behind in pursuit of Sephiroth and the truth─a quest which will lead them to defy destiny itself.

—Weapon: Sword

He fights by switching between modes specializing in mobility and offense. A single swipe of his huge sword can knock several foes off their feet at once. Some of his abilities also allow him to take the fight to the air.

Barret Wallace (voiced by John Eric Bentley in English, Masato Funaki in Japanese)

“This is the planet we’re talkin’ about! Y’all know she’s gonna pour her heart and soul into this fight!”

The leader of an independent Avalanche cell, Barret spearheads an operation to take down Shinra’s mako reactors. He pays a hefty price for this, however, when the company retaliates, and his comrades die in the crossfire. Armed with the memories of his lost friends and the newfound knowledge of Sephiroth’s plans, he departs Midgar in hope of saving the planet and safeguarding a future for his daughter Marlene.

—Weapon: Gunarm

What he lacks in speed, he makes up for in both sturdiness and strength, converting his anger toward Shinra into raw firepower. He employs a variety of ranged attacks, from rapid-fire salvos to powerful explosions, which allow him to strike foes high in the air or across the battlefield.

Tifa Lockhart (voiced by Britt Baron in English, Ayumi Ito in Japanese)

“Ever wish you could just snap your fingers and forget the worst stuff?”

Though a loyal member of Avalanche—an underground organization that opposes Shinra—Tifa nevertheless questions the group’s extremist tactics, struggling to reconcile her cause with her conscience. This internal conflict reaches a fever pitch when her group’s actions effectively lead to the fall of the Sector 7 plate. Racked with guilt, she leaves Midgar in search of a new path to tread.

—Weapon: Gloves

She strings together swift combos while utilizing a variety of martial art techniques. Her ATB fills quickly, allowing for the use of multiple abilities in rapid succession. She also boasts several skills that deal more damage to airborne or staggered foes.

Aerith Gainsborough (voiced by Briana White in English, Maaya Sakamoto in Japanese)

“Just look at it all… A living, breathing planet. Even after everything we’ve done to it, it’s still going strong.”

A flower seller who lives in the Sector 5 undercity and the last remaining descendant of the Cetra, a people known for communing with the planet. Shinra takes her prisoner in their efforts to reach the Cetra’s foretold “promised land,” but Cloud and company come to her rescue. She escapes Midgar and embarks on a journey into the outside world of which she has long dreamed.

—Weapon: Staff

Utilizing the power of magic, she casts spells from a safe distance and launches attacks that home in on her foes. She can also conjure beneficial wards and warp between them, as well as restore the party’s HP with her limit break.

Red XIII (voiced by Max Mittelman in English, Kappei Yamaguchi in Japanese)

“I may be clad in fur…but that doesn’t mean I’ll purr.”

Red XIII is a beast with a flaming tail, crimson fur, deadly claws, and the ability to speak. Cloud and company help him escape Professor Hojo’s clutches, and he decides to join them on their journey. His species is known for their long life spans, and he is no exception. As this Cosmo Canyon native is the eldest member of the party, he offers its members words of wisdom from time to time.

—Weapon: Collar

He sets upon foes with an unrelenting assault, laying into them with a beastly ferocity. Guarding against incoming attacks will feed his Vengeance gauge. Once it is full, he can unleash his inner beast, but sufficient skill is required to maximize its potential.

Yuffie Kisaragi (voiced by Suzie Yeung in English, Yumi Kakazu in Japanese)

“If I win, you get the honor of serving yours truly!”

A member of Wutai’s elite corps of ninja operatives, Yuffie infiltrates Midgar on a mission to steal the “ultimate materia” from Shinra. Her plan ends in disaster, as she fails to claim the materia and loses her partner Sonon in the struggle. Just as working alone begins to take its toll on her, however, Cloud’s group comes into the picture.

—Weapon: Throwing Star

Using her throwing star and ninja skills, she excels at both long- and close-range combat. Elemental ninjutsu allows her to exploit enemies’ weaknesses without relying on spells. She also keeps opponents on their toes with a variety of aerial attacks and tricky techniques.

Cait Sith (voiced by Paul Tinto in English, Hideo Ishikawa in Japanese)

“Alright, everyone! By popular request: a fortune or two to steer you true!”

A wisecracking, feline-shaped robot often seen poised atop his big moogle pal. One of the Gold Saucer’s most popular mascots, he is well loved for his fortune telling—a service he also offers to Cloud and friends. His adorable appearance also belies access to a surprising amount of insider intel on Shinra.

Sephiroth (voiced by Tyler Hoechlin in English, Toshiyuki Morikawa in Japanese)

“Don’t be afraid. It’s not death—it’s a homecoming.”

A former SOLDIER: 1st class of legendary renown, he is said to have died in the line of duty in Nibelheim five years ago. This is proven untrue when he appears at the Shinra Building and absconds with a research specimen known as “Jenova.” He now toys with Cloud at every opportunity, seeking to change the course of destiny and rule the planet.

Zack Fair (voiced by Caleb Piece in English, Kenichi Suzumura in Japanese)

“I dunno—hopes? Dreams, maybe? Something like that! So long as we’ve got those—and hold on tight and never let go.”

Zack may have worked with Sephiroth as a SOLDIER: 1st class, but he trained under a different operator, and it is from this man that he both learned to take pride in his work and received his iconic buster sword. After a grueling battle in which he overcomes the odds and cheats death, Zack returns to Midgar—where he hopes to see his love Aerith—with a mako-poisoned Cloud in tow.

■ System

The Evolved World of Final Fantasy VII

In this game, players can freely roam across lush grasslands and rugged wildernesses, all while enjoying a wide variety of quests and mini-games. Face off against the threats that await you by teaming up with your comrades and unleashing powerful new synergy abilities.

Combat

Action and strategy combine in thrilling combat, now made even more exciting thanks to the addition of new team-based abilities.

From flashy, action-packed fights to slower, strategic battles, this game offers ways for players of all persuasions to enjoy combat.

World

The world is divided into several regions, with each one offering different environments to explore and experience. Where you go and how you get there is up to you.

■ Combat: Basic Systems

Fighting

Press [□] to perform a normal attack. Dealing damage will also fill the ATB gauge needed to use abilities and spells.

Commands

Open the command menu with [x] to enter Tactical Mode, which slows down the passage of time. Devise your strategies in the moment or register commands as shortcuts and use them as your intuition deems fit.

Abilities

Equipping weapons and setting materia will grant access to a wide range of abilities. Using these abilities requires you to expend charges from the ATB gauge, which fills as time passes or whenever you deal damage.

Magic

Magic materia can be set in weapons and armor to enable the use of spells such as Fire and Cure. Casting spells consumes both ATB charges as well as MP.

Unique Abilities

Press [△] to activate a character’s unique ability. Some of these abilities do not require ATB, but instead take time to charge.

…And More

■ Combat: Summons

Summons

Setting summoning materia will grant access to the power of the gods. A conjured deity will follow the player’s lead and fight enemies automatically, but you can also instruct them to use special abilities. Before they depart the battlefield, summons will unleash one final attack powerful enough to wipe out any foe.

Odin

A horse-riding swordsman who brandishes an enormous blade known as Zantetsuken. He gallops toward foes and sends them flying with a single, sweeping slash.

Alexander

An enormous, armor-plated weapon that towers over even other summons. No ordinary foe could possibly withstand an assault from its entire arsenal.

■ Combat: New Systems

Synergy Abilities

Powerful attacks in which two characters team up to turn the tide of battle. More abilities will unlock as you increase the party level—a numerical expression of how closely-knit your team is—and deepen the affinity between party members. Fill the synergy gauge by using unique abilities and prepare to unleash a synchronized assault!

Cloud / Sephiroth: “Double Helix”

Sephiroth unleashes an elegant flurry of strikes, and Cloud does his best to follow suit.

Aerith / Cait Sith: “Kitty Cannonade”

Aerith imbues Cait Sith’s moogle with magical energy and unleashes a ranged attack.

Yuffie / Barret: “Ninja Carbine”

More Barret and Yuffie lean into their shared prowess and unleash a ranged attack.

…And More

■ World: Chocobos

Chocobos are the adorable feathered friends of the Final Fantasy series. In this game, once you catch a chocobo in the wild, you can call it at any time in that region, and it will offer you special assistance in traversing its home terrain. You can also customize your chocobo’s equipment to create a steed that’s suited just for you.

Chocobo

Hop aboard your chocobo to explore the world with ease. Try sprinting if you’re in a hurry to reach your next destination.

Mountain Chocobos

Using their mighty talons, these chocobos can climb up and down steep slopes that bear special markings. Even if a destination seems inaccessible by foot, you might be able to get there on chocoback.

Sky Chocobos

These chocobos can take flight from gliding ranges and soar across peaks and valleys. Take to the skies and nothing will stand in your way.

■ World: New Forms of Transportation

In addition to chocobos, this game features many ways to get from one place to another. Take your friends on a buggy ride through the wastelands or do some seaside sightseeing aboard a wheelie… Put these various vehicles to use as you explore the world!

Buggy

The buggy, which can be ridden across sandy terrain, can also drive through shallow water and travel faster than chocobos. Buckle up and take the party on a wild ride through the vast desert.

Wheelie

In the seaside resort of Costa del Sol, you can ride around on a wheelie, a two-wheeled self-balancing vehicle. Tour the town at your own pace, all while taking in the beautiful scenery of this land of eternal summer.

■ World: Minigames

Not only stories and battles, but all kinds of unique elements of fun await players.

Enjoy the numerous minigames available across the game’s world.

G-Bike

The “Spinning Slash,” which uses a large sword to reap enemies, and the super-accelerating “Nitrous Boost” are just a few of the many things you can do in this bike game. Fight off the relentless gun-shooting participants and win the battle that goes beyond just speed.

Chocobo Races

A fierce race to test your chocobo riding skills. Break the balloons that appear along the way to use various techniques. Deepen the bond with your chocobo and aim for first place.

3D Brawler

Manipulate 3D polygons and take on your opponent in a one-on-one match. Avoid your opponent’s attacks and deliver a powerful punch. If you have powerful limit moves that you can unleash by continuing to land hits, victory will surely be yours.

■ Messages from the Development Staff

Yoshinori Kitase, Producer

“Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has been set for release on February 29, 2024. This second installment of the Final Fantasy VII remake project will feature elements from the previous game, as well as greatly enhanced features such as the vast world map to explore and synergy abilities with party members. The story will unfold more dramatically than ever before, with a rapid pace of major twists and turns. We know fans are dying to see one scene in particular…

“Final Fantasy VII Rebirth can be enjoyed on its own as a standalone adventure, with the party leaving Midgar to explore the wide world beyond. But for those wishing to deepen their understanding of the story, a recap of the previous game will also be provided.

“We hope that both fans and those who have never played Final Fantasy before will enjoy this game.”

Naoki Hamaguchi, Director

“We are finally able to announce the release date to all of you! We have been working tirelessly on Final Fantasy VII Rebirth since the release of Final Fantasy VII Remake, and we can’t wait for you to experience our labor of love. In this title, Cloud and his friends, who have fled Midgar, will be setting out on an adventure across an expansive world of untold adventure in pursuit of Sephiroth.

“While the main storyline is bigger and more ambitious than the previous game’s narrative, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth also embraces the concept of ‘free exploration,’ with compelling stories, fun mini-games, powerful monsters and so much more to find throughout the world map. We hope you will explore this world in great detail, as nearly 100 hours of adventure awaits.

“We hope you will take this new Final Fantasy game experience in your own hands to enjoy.”

Tetsuya Nomura, Creative Director

“This is the second title of a trilogy, and covers between the start of the journey outside Midgar to the midpoint of the original Final Fantasy VII. If Final Fantasy VII Remake was an introduction to the world and a preparation for this journey, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth serves as an illustration of the incidents that started the journey, an exploration of the people tied to it, and the journey itself, heading toward its climax. Many elements were carefully selected for this title and because this is a series, we have the unique opportunity to review and incorporate feedback from the previous title, such as by increasing the number of characters. I am sure that the bar for the next work will be raised even higher now that we have included so many spectacular elements in this work, but even so, the entire team continues to work diligently and without compromise on its development.

“There is also the looming question of what fate awaits. Whether you have experienced the original title or will embark on this adventure with fresh eyes, we hope you will face the ending of this work on your own terms.”

[averagemrfox]

Saying this with the preface that I haven’t beaten the dlc yet and don’t know all of miquella’s dlc dialog and don’t want spoilers in the tags or comments please.

But one common criticism of the dlc I’ve seen is why Radahn? Why not Godwyn? Everything in the base game showed that Miquella and Godwyn had a stronger relationship… but. I think that’s the point? Radahn was Plan B. Thanks to Ranni.

I think Miquella was always going to charm one of his siblings into being his consort but Godwyn was the first and easiest choice. The lore suggests they’re close. And then the Night of Black Knives happened and Godwyn was killed. Only not completely. Just his soul was:

Cursemark of Death: Cursemark carved into the discarded flesh of Ranni the Witch. Also known as the half-wheel wound of the centipede. This cursemark was carved at the moment of Death of the first demigod, and should have taken the shape of a circle. However, two demigods perished at the same time, breaking the cursemark into two half-wheels. Ranni was the first of the demigods whose flesh perished, while the Prince of Death perished in soul alone

As long as Godwyn remained dead in soul alone Miquella couldn’t enact his plan to make Godwyn his consort:

Dialog from a ghost in Castle Sol: "Lord Miquella, forgive me. The sun has not been swallowed. Our prayers were lacking. Your comrade remains soulless... I will never set my eyes upon it now... Your divine Haligtree."

Dialog from a ghost in Castle Sol 2: “...Ohh great sun! Frigid sun of Sol! Surrender yourself to the eclipse! Grant life to the soulless bones!”

Golden Epitaph: A sword made to commemorate the death of Godwyn the Golden, first of the demigods to die. Infused with the humble prayer of a young boy; "O brother, lord brother, please die a true death."

The Castle Sol stuff does imply a lot more of a direct connection to Miquella alone and not the demigods or the Lands Between as a whole, except references to the eclipse can also be found from items drops from the mausoleum knights:

Eclipse Crest Heater Shield: "The sun in eclipse is said to be the symbol of the Wandering Mausoleum where the soulless demigods slumber."

Cause you know. “Our home bathed in rays of gold.” The sun. An eclipse blocks out the light of the sun. The rays of light of the Golden Order - the thing that confined the Rune of Death and makes the demigods immortal. It’s probably why we find a Wandering Mausoleum outside of Castle Sol. Just a further attempt at protecting what was left of Godwyn but his body was already corrupted by Death

So now Miquella’s plan is ruined, the Elden Ring is shattered, all the demigods are now vulnerable to death and making moves to claim their own piece of the shattered Elden Ring. Miquella uses Mohg (Mohgwyn Dynasty) and picks the next best brother to Godwyn, Radahn, who always idolized Godfrey anyway and was a skilled commander. Also possibly the only option left out of all the siblings? Wouldn’t be shocked if the reason Malenia fought him was to weaken him for the purpose of Miquella’s plan. Malenia after all was out of the running for all of this because of her curse, but was still totally devoted to Miquella. Whether by choice or by his influence idk.

Anyway TL:DR since this is an unorganized mess:

Miquella wanted to use Godwyn as his consort, Ranni enacted her plan and Godwyn was killed only in soul not body, Miquella was forced to used Radahn and Mohg as a plan b since Godwyn was unable to achieve a true death

[cenorii]

About Chris, Jill and Piers

I'd like to talk about the importance of Piers to Chris and his story (no talk of ships here, just lore) Some say that Jill's sacrifice is downplayed against Piers' sacrifice, being upset that there isn't a special tag or day for people to remember Jill's downfall in DLC re5. And because of that, they hate Piers, who had nothing to do with it at all. I'd like to share my thoughts on Jill and Piers without disparaging either of them, they are both very important.

I love Jill, I respect her sacrifice, however she is alive now, unlike Piers. She went through a long rehab to return to normality after re5, you can never minimize what she had to give up in exchange for peace. And she is an important part of Chris's life, as is Piers. Neither Jill nor Piers should be written off when we talk about the important people who influenced Chris. Dropping Piers from Chris' story = dropping a part of his character. Piers influenced him just as much as Wesker, if not more, because his sacrifice happened at the most vulnerable time in Chris' life… right after the amnesia.

In the re6 timeline, Chris had already been through a lot of things that had become traumatic for him. He's gone through witnessing the deaths of comrades in Spencer's mansion, he's learned the horrors of sinister corporations, seen loved ones suffer, survived Jill's temporary "dead", then the death of the squad in re6 and a whole long period of amnesia. We saw how in re6 he frantically clung to everyone trying to keep everyone from dying, how Piers tried to call him to reason so Chris would stop being driven by emotion, and how Chris ended up losing everyone in despair.

You can see that he suffers from the horror of losing people, it's his greatest fear. And Piers died exactly afterward, which affected Chris even more. And going into Piers' sacrifice in more detail, I'd like to compare it to Jill's situation, without downplaying either of them, of course. But obviously their sacrifices have different levels of drama and depth.

On Chris' side, it was understandable that he wouldn't have had time to save Jill, he looked down in despair, realizing the loss or even denying what he saw. But in Piers' situation, everything was right in his hands. He asked Piers not to give up hope, assured him that all was not yet lost, wanted to save him AND MAY have done so. But Piers took the opportunity to send Chris alone in the escape pod, realizing that in his state of infection it was already over, nobly sacrificing himself to save not only Chris, but the entire world from HAOS. This is dramatically deeper because Chris, unlike Jill's situation, actually had the opportunity to save him, and will now spend a long time hating himself for what he couldn't. Could he have saved Jill? No, Wesker had him by the throat. Could he have saved Piers? He could have if he'd put him in the escape pod with him. And it's that fact that makes all the difference. There may be a way to restore Piers to human form, but if Piers hadn't chosen to stay, he would have died along with Chris when they were attacked from underwater by an unkillable HAOS. But thanks to his nobility, he stayed and finished off HAOS, saving both Chris sitting in the pod and everyone else. His death was foregone and inevitable, and it dashed any hopes Chris had of handing over his captaincy to him.

The realization that Chris could have influenced what happened, could have prevented the terrible events, must be weighing heavily on him. He hates his helplessness, his indiscretion. And once again he faces his main fear - the fear of loss.

Jill is by his side now, knows about Piers from him, and realizes what a difficult memory it is. None of his loved ones should be forgotten or left out of the story because they shaped Chris's personality, making him who he is now.

[minaamc]

About the relationship between Jin and Xiaoyu…

Since i read an article by @purpura-xiao, i get the motivation to write an article, too, because I also had noticed something:

As I remember, there was an article where someone wrote that Jin and Xiaoyu don't interact much and how could they fall in love or something. For more information, please read the articles of @purpura-xiao . She explained well the relationship between Jin and Xiaoyu 🥰❤️ So I want to include some other information and why I think Jin and Xiaoyu will have more romantic moments in the dlc(including kissing scene):

I noticed in Naruto for example that it took many years for Naruto and Hinata to come together. They shared a kiss in the movie: Naruto the Last.

But why years later and not earlier? First, before we answer the question, let's analyze it first:

The thing is that Naruto and his friends had to fight enemies and they were also in a war. And Naruto was in character development and fighting to become the Hokage. It took years to get to where he is now and be the strongest man to protect everyone.

Also final fantasies Cloud and Tifa shared their first kiss years later

Naruto and Hinata shared their first kiss years later

Jin and Xiaoyu...years later they shared their feelings…

But WHY all these years later?

Because of the development of men. First fight your weakness, train to be strong, find the right path and save the world, be the strongest and then: WHEN THE WORLD IS SAFE NOW, TAKE YOUR WIFE AND GO THE SAME PATH WITH HER.

But what does this have to do with Jin and Xiaoyu?

Well, Jin and Xiaoyu went to the same school, became friends, and after Heichachi's betrayal to Jin, "losing" his mother to Ogre (SPOILER TEKKEN 8 JUN IS ALIVE), and dealing with the devil gene, Jin has gone down the wrong path by starting the war and hurting his comrades, especially Xiaoyu. All because he wanted to get rid of the devil gene and end the Mishima bloodline. Then he realized that this was the wrong way, so he finally found the right way with the help of his comrades, especially Xiaoyu and his mother. In the end, instead of killing his father, he spared his life after defeating him. In the happy ending, we see Jin and Xiaoyu riding bikes in the USA. Jin always had feelings for Xiaoyu, but for her safety, he kept his distance to protect her. Xiaoyu is one of the most precious people in his life.✨🌸

Conclusion

These men love their women, but before they could go any further, they first want to find themselves, develop their character, become strong and make the world a safe place before they can live happily ever after with their love of their life and make babies. 👶 😁

[parme-san]

holy shit wait now it makes perfect sense why everything in the spongebob powerwash simulator dlc is covered in mud

[newwillinium]

Elden Ring Musings: Rykard, Ranni, Radahn; the Children of Sentiment

So Pat has just finished streaming Shadows of the Erdtree, Woolie and Reggie are actively going through it, and I finally gone through my Vaati backlog.

And I have some thoughts, thoughts that should not touch on anything in the DLC at all, but just some idle musings regarding the children of Radagon and Renalla and what ties them all together.

The value of Love and Sentiment. Inherited from both of their parents.

I want to kind of start this with some backstory as a bit of a refresher.

-][-

Long ago before the arrival of the Erd Tree, before the Shattering and the Coming of the Greater Will, there existed many peoples spread out across what would become known as the Lands Between. One group in particular is important to this tale, The Astrologers.

Sword of Night and Flame: Astrologers, who preceded the sorcerers, established themselves in mountaintops that nearly touched the sky, and considered the Fire Giants their neighbors.

One such Astrologer was the young girl, Rennala, who had forever explored and followed the stars until finding the majesty of the Full Moon.

The young astrologer gazed at the night sky as she walked. She had always chased the stars every step of her journey. Then she met the full moon — and, in time, the astrologer became a queen.

This girl, Rennala, on her travels would be accompanied by Trolls. Descendants of the Fire Giants whom the Astrologers called Neighbors, these Trolls were bound by Oath to the girl who would be Queen. And yet, these Trolls, looked down upon by so many and enslaved by the Golden Order, were treated as true oathsman and knights of the House of Caria.

Carian Phalanx and Troll Knight Sword: They were the comrades of the young Rennala, bound by oath. Called into service when the Queen invoked an oath they swore, the trolls are treated as true knights of Caria, and fight arm in arm with their human comrades.

In time she went to the Acadamy of Reya Lucaria and enraptured them with the might of the Full Moon, becoming their Eternal Queen and establishing the House of Caria as Royal.

She, her Glintstone Knights, The Knights of Caria, and the Academy would serve as the truest rivals to Queen Marika and her Golden Order.

Twice they warred, and twice neither side could gain victory, and so the Champion of Queen Marika, the Red Haired Radagon, cleansed himself in Celestial Dew (I mention this because of something important later) and declared his love for the Queen of Caria, and so they wed.

Celestial Dew: Once upon a time, the stars of the night sky guided fate, and this is a recollection of those times.

In long standing tradition, Rennala would grant her new betroathed a Sword (which he would later keep and reforge into a symbol of the Golden Order).

Together they had three children. Rykard, Radahn, and Ranni. The Praetor, The Lion-Warrior, and the Carian Princess turned Empyrean.

We honestly don't know much about the childhoods of the trio, but we do know a couple of things.

Radahn held in him a worship of the tales and stories he heard of Godfrey, the first Elden Lord, and took great pride in the Red Hair of his father. Ranni found a favored mentor, who existed outside the bounds of the Academy or the Golden Order, and was accompanied by a companion Blaidd, a shadow sent forth by the Two Fingers to guard the Empyrean Princess, and an old family vassal Iiji the Troll.

Of these companions, Blaidd was looked upon kindly by the Queen and was adopted as a step-brother to her three children. Otherwise Radagon had brought with him a Great Red Wolf.

One day, Rennala would lead Ranni and Ranni alone to greet the Full Moon as she once did. This is where Ranni found The Dark Moon.

Then one day Godfrey was banished from the Golden Order, and Radagon made the decision to abandon his family to become Queen Marika's Lord Husband and Second Elden Lord. Though before he left, he left his beloved Rennala a gift, a great Amber Egg containing the Great Rune of the Unborn, and left the family dog with her.

He kept his marriage-sword, and reforged it to show his new dedication to the Golden Order, and in a show of graciousness Queen Marika adopted the three children of Radagon as her own step-children.

Rykard would become her Lord Inquisitor, Praetor, and punisher of her enemies. Radahn would earn the title of "Starscourge" for his rapacious victories over the Star-Beasts, and learned Gravity magic at the feet of a Alabaster Lord, and Ranni would come to know her fate.

Rennala was shattered by Radagon's betrayel, and when the Academy turned against her, reclused herself within the Great Library clutching the last sentimental gift of her husband.

This is where the timeline gets. . kind of murky.

Rykard stations himself at Mt Gelmir, rediscovers old Death Hexes and creates Magma Sorceries, learning of ancient lore and forgotten gods. He meets a Dancer, a commoner and possible prostitute, and marries her out of love.

Radahn finishes his tutelage under the foot of his Alabastor Lord teacher in Sellia.

Collapsing Stars: A gravitational technique mastered by the young Radahn. "I thank you for your tutelage, for now I can challenge the stars." Remembrance of the Starscourge: "The Red Lion General wielded gravitational powers which he learned in Sellia during his younger days." All so he would never have to abandon his beloved but scrawny steed. Starscourge Talisman: The mightiest hero of the demigods confronted the falling stars alone—and thus did he crush them, his conquest sealing the very fate of the stars.

Here is where he earned his title, as the Stars rained down, his mastery of Gravitational magic allowed him to crush them all, and arrest the movement of the Stars.

-][-

The Shattering

I'm going to be speeding up a bit here.

Ranni, bitter and hateful at her fate as a Empyrean, conspires to remove herself from the contention and does so through the partial theft of the Great Rune of Death.

Using the Rune she creates the Black Knives, disperses them to Assassins, who proceed to carry out the Murder and Assassination of the Demi-God Godwyn, just as Ranni kills herself.

Godwyn's body lives on. Ranni's spirit lives on, and the Stars are halted, and the Fingers are blind.

Astrologer's Robes: Robe fashioned from supple cloth. Worn by those who look to the cosmos above. They read fate in the stars, and are said to be heirs of the glintstone sorcerers. But alas, the night sky no longer cradles fate. Varre:"The words of the Two Fingers cannot be trusted. Truly, naught but rambling, senile delusions. I believe, that when the Elden Ring was shattered, the Two Fingers were corrupted, their guidance; skewed. Even worse, the Fingers harbor no love for our kind. That's the part that irks the most." Finger Reader Enia: "… But here we are… The Fingers, dormant, severing our link to the Greater Will. The realm, and all life, in ruins. Impossible events transpire, beyond the ken of the Fingers. Who is to say that the cardinal sin must be cardinal forever? Go on. Finish the job. Take the course you deem most worthy." Finger-slayer Blade: "The hidden treasure of the Eternal City of Nokron; a blade said to have been born of a corpse. This blood-drenched fetish is proof of the high treason committed by the Eternal City and symbolizes its downfall. Cannot be wielded by those without a fate, but is said to be able to harm the Greater Will and its vassals. "

I am going somewhere with this, just you wait I swear.

So Ranni fashions for herself a new body, a doll, made in the image of her Mentor the Snow Witch, and keeps a watchful and protective eye on her shattered mother.

Rykard, and Radahn, siege Leyndell only to be pushed back by the Fell King Morgott/Margitt, Radahn ultimately meeting a cursed fate at the hands of Melania, Blade of Miquella, and Rykard and his forces fighting a apocalyptic battle with the Armies of the Golden Order that shattered the landscape, before ultimately ending with their armies destroyed.

Gelmir Manor, still proudly displaying pictures of the Praetor Rykard and General Radahn.

Rykard trusted by his little sister, to be her backup plan should her plan fail.

And Radahn, who held back the Stars and Fate itself, so that his Sister would have a chance to break free of the fate forced upon her.

-][-

So this is a rather important part I feel that gets kind of overlooked in the base game.

Rykard, Ranni, and Radahn are siblings.

"General Radahn, Praetor Rykard, Lunar Princess Ranni. Willful traitors all!"

It's evident in the game itself that the siblings held fondness for one another, and most importantly trusted one another.

They may not be kind, but they are each and every one of them sentimental to a fault.

Tonic of Forgetfullness: A gift bestowed by Rykard, sworn to blasphemy, to Lady Tanith, who unfortunately had no use for it. "My Lord, there could be no greater distress than to forget you." Blasphemous Claw: On the night of the dire plot, Ranni rewarded Praetor Rykard with these traces. Should the coming trespass one day transpire, they would serve as a last-resort foil, allowing Rykard to challenge Maliketh the Black Blade, the black beast of Destined Death.

When Radahn halted the Stars, he blinded the Two-Fingers from the reach of the Greater Will, he freed her from her fate and in doing so freed the Shadows from falling into madness.

Which is why, I think, everything falls apart after the Radahn Festival.

When the Stars begin moving again, Ranni once more has a fate and can wield the Finger-Slayer Blade.

But she no longer has the body of an Empyrean. Her Fate is that of the Stars.

She abandons her vassals and followers, to walk that "Dark Path alone", in order to try and keep them safe from what she has to do to ultimately free herself and all the lands of the influences of the Outer Gods.

Radahn, I think, played a major role in that.

That Starscourge Radahn holds Ranni's fate in stasis. But once he's out of the way, it will spring back into motion. So now, we stand against the demigod once known as the strongest of them all.

Note: The Radahn Festival happens usually when Ranni is slumbering, due to the limitations of her doll body, and Blaidd and Iiji consider the Radahn festival to be the best way of accessing Nokron to grab the Finger-Slayer Blade that Ranni requires to save herself.

-][-

So I. . .ultimately don't have too much of a point to my musings.

Other then that, I think that the "R" Family is ruled by their Senitments and Sentimentality towards those they care for like Family.

And that Radahn might not have been Ranni's enemy as is so often suggested by those who interpete the lore, but perhaps yet another ally who had been lost to madness and decay.

Those are just my musings at least. What do the rest of y'all think?

[cyborg-squid]

i love the moment in the DLC, when the enchantment gets broken, and Leda immediately goes "I am still 100% loyal to Miquella, unlike all of the comrades we were travelling with before, who now must be killed for not being loyal enough and only being it because of the enchantment."

"It's important for us to work together and trust each other" says knight who does not trust anyone. Girl could not wait to get started on some pure undiluted religious zealotry

Ansbach was right, "kindly" Miquella is super scary.

[linda-ravstar]

A conversation between Miquella the Kind and Needle Knight Leda. Pre-DLC, canon-ish timeline. Only dialogue.

“Kindly Miquella… Have you come to deliver judgment?”

“I am, Lady Leda.”

“I am at your mercy.”

“Do you regret your actions?”

“… I don’t know. I was sure they were guilty. That they meant you harm. I know it’s not a knightly behavior, but I did my duty by thwarting their treason.”

“But you were wrong.”

“They said so. But guilty men will never confess their sins.”

“They were innocent. I know it so. Do you think me a liar?”

“No. Never. And if you speak true... Then… Then I am beyond remorseful, my lord. And I will accept any punishment you see fit. I know this cannot be forgiven.”

“Why were you so sure?”

“They… they doubted you. They were not sure about your goals, about your guidance.”

“That did not mean they were guilty of treason. That just made them human. I doubt myself on a daily basis. You know this.”

“Those doubts could lead to harm. I couldn’t bear it. I couldn’t stop seeing your blood on their hands. I know you cannot abide by this. I was… I was wrong.”

“You were, and noble and innocent comrades are now dead because of that.”

“I am guilty. I accept your justly retribution, Kindly Miquella.”

“You will live, Lady Leda. Your death is no use to anyone.”

“But…”

“But I cannot leave you like you are. This cannot happen again. Forgive me, and hear my intentions: Those touched by my light will not be a danger to me or to you, Lady Leda. You will serve me by standing by those who are united for my cause.”

“Have… have you charmed me, my lord?”

“I have... Forgive me. You will not be hurt, I assure you. And those who would stand beside you will be protected. Your doubts have served you in the past, Lady Leda. Have kept you alive in this broken world. But they are dangerous and terrible. Those who would seek me, who will guided by my hand… will be allies to you. Hopefully, you will find solace in their companionship.”

“I trust you, Kindly Miquella. My life is yours. I know that in the world you will create… useless bloodshed like mine will not exist anymore. And when that world comes into existence people like me will not be necessary anymore.”

“People are not tools to be used by necessity. They deserve to live without any reason. And everyone denied that is a terrible crime. My hope is that during this path you come to realize this and find joy and warm in the world.”

“Sometimes I don’t understand your mercy, Kind Miquella”

“There will be a time for punishment, Lady Leda. Yours… and mine own. No hand is clean, and no one will remain so. Justice will be met, but not today.”

“May your ascension clean us all, my lord. May your world be gentler than this one.”

“And may your prayers land true, Lady Leda. I promise you this: I will do whatever it takes, no matter the price or the burden, to be worthy of your sins. May… may that hope be enough. May the suffering that will come be enough. ... Let it be enough.”

[drmobiusvanch]

shadows of the erdtree spoiler meta

I think fundamentally Shadow of the Erdtree-as one could guess from it focusing on Miquella-is about love. Specifically, the Remembrance bosses.

Miquella is a truly altruistic person. He really wants to help the downtrodden, to atone for the Golden Order's wrongs, and is deeply empathetic-on a societal scale. On a personal scale, he does love Radahn and very possibly Malenia as well, but he uses people, violates their wills to make them do what he wants, and cares absolutely nothing for Radahn's consent or what happens to people after he's done with them.

Miquella, IMO, is set up very pointedly as a foil to Messmer in his relationships. Messmer doesn't have as much focus as Miquella, but what we do know appears to put him in direct opposition. He's a sadistic, bigoted war criminal-admittedly, doing the war crimes as a literal order to do his mother's dirty work so it wouldn't be associated with her-who also genuinely mourns the loss of his comrades in arms who turned on him and cared for Radahn and Gaius as friends to the point that it's mentioned Radahn saw him as an elder brother. His relationship with Rellana is also something of a foil to Miquella/Radahn-while Miquella forced Radahn into the relationship, Rellana was the one who chose to join Messmer even though there was no gain in it and her blades and the description puts them on a paired, equal level as opposed to Miquella riding a zombified Radahn.

But again-while these themes of relationships and love are key, doomed relationships are an ongoing motif. Obviously, there's the Mohg->Miquella->Radahn doomed triangle, where someone with the ability to compel love never really knew what it was, but loved as best as he could the man who treated him with kindness-but there's also Rellana knowing that Messmer is a terrible person and doomed to eternal suffering and choosing to throw away her birthright to follow him even knowing that she can never give him succor, Midra forcing himself to continue living in absolute agony solely because it's the last thing that the woman he loved asked of him, even Onze and Labirith, two minor bosses who give on defeat the spirit ashes of the people who loved them-in Onze's case, the apprentice who refused to leave him in solitary confinement even when Onze ordered him to; in Labirith's, the fellow warrior whose loss drove her into despair.

Very fitting for a DLC where Miquella is the main character.

[ryunumber]

I have seen a past request for Arthur Morgan with no ryu number so I think this will end up the same.

Jack Swift, comrade of Red Harlow (protagonist of Red Dead Revolver (2004, PS2), first game of the Red Dead series, although mostly disconnected from the following games...)

Jack Swift does not have* a Ryu Number.

(bonus below)

Though he is a DLC skin in Red Dead Redemption, so if you make the same marginal calls as you do for Arthur Morgan...