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lotusmuses · 2 years

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Hey everyone!

Here's all of Scaramouche's lore + explanations/analysis for anyone who wants to understand his story more. My comments/analysis are in purple and references are in blue! Everything in white is the Husk of Opulent Dreams Artifact Set. Edit: UPDATED AFTER 3.3 INTERLUDE QUEST

This post is very long so everything is under Keep Reading! I hope you enjoy, this took multiple hours and going through and evaluating anything with relevant information to Scara and the people mentioned in his lore.

Tales of the Opulent Mansion, Awakening from a Dream, and the Soulless Body

Era of Splendor

A small golden ornament with six petals that shall never wilt. It symbolizes the transience of mortal glories.

What he saw in his dream was a phantom dancing to the music under the moonlight, Just like the young man in the distant past, who was akin to a blank sheet of paper, And like a pure yet fragile persona, Emerging once the resentment and suffering had dissipated.

The wanderer did not know that he had any faculties for dreaming, Thinking that this must have been the researchers' little trick, Or perhaps it was the infinitesimal resistance of that bygone heart.

"You once acquired the 'heart' that you always dreamed of," "But it was but a mere prop for lies and deception." "Now, you will finally obtain what belongs to you," "And this false construct of a body can at last aspire to power over this world."

"Yet, this is all but a fleeting dream of glory." "And it will all one day drift away amidst the sighs of a suffering earth..." Was it a "him" from the past who said this? Or "him" from the future? The vagrant cared not, for when he awakened, It was not he, but that ethereal future that dissipated.

This entire section can be seen as The Balladeer dreaming of either his past self telling him that his vengeance is worthless or his future self telling him this. The ending seems to allude that it was indeed his future self or, perhaps, his true self. This section also seems to be directly preluding to the 3.3 interlude chapter. The Balladeer learns of the lies created by Dottore during the Tatarasuna Incident. He gains a vision. His past was transient and he must live on.

Feather of the Opulent Mansion

A feather-shaped token that was brought forth from a secluded hall. The compassion of its creator led to it being left within that mansion along with a certain slumbering form.

The long-wandering eccentric no longer thinks about this, But when he closes his eyes, he can still see the moonlit nights over Tatarasuna and the burning furnace flames.

The kind young deputy said: "This gold ornament is a proof of identity granted by the Almighty Shogun," "But as you travel the world, please bear this in mind," "Never to reveal your identity to others."

The deputy is the yoriki Katsuragi who would introduce Kabukimono to Nagamasa and Niwa (Niwa is the ancestor of Kaedehara Kazuha's great-grandfather, Kaedehara Yoshinori, formerly Niwa Yoshinori)

“The second was a human. My family... my friend. Consumed by fear, he saw me as an abomination” (The "Divine" Will)

The upright Inspector said: "This gold ornament may be a proof of identity granted by the Almighty Shogun," "But you are neither man nor mechanism," "And so I can only deal with you in this fashion. Do not hold this against me!"

Katsuragi* is the only person to specifically tell Scara to hide this identity, it is likely that Scara saw this as his friend being ashamed of him. It also explains the ‘misconduct’ that Nagamasa used as justification for killing Katsuragi: for hiding this truth, though the other members of their group believed that Katsuragi had only good intentions — We later learn that it was a joint effort from Katsuragi and Nagamasa to hide the death of Niwa

(*the quote may have been referring to Niwa instead, i can’t tell. but katsuragi is still relevant in the explanation because the quote is about the Tatarasuna incident members)

The Inspector is Mikoshi Nagamasa (Katsuragi’s daimyo: his boss, and murderer) - Kabukimono and Nagamasa were at odds around the time Katsuragi was killed. Their previous relationship was good-natured.

The wanderer who has left yesterday in the dust no longer thinks about it, But when he covers his ears, he can still hear the wild winds that roared that year.

This seems to allude to his anemo vision as a playable character.

A pair of expectant eyes said: "This gold ornament is a proof of identity granted by the Almighty Shogun," "It must surely be able to save the people."

This is the Nameless Child from Kabukimono’s backstory

The intelligent, lovely shrine maiden said: "This gold ornament is a proof of identity granted by the Almighty Shogun," "And she will not abandon you." "As for me, I shall do my best to send for help immediately..."

This is Yae Miko

...But in the end, the golden arrow-feather were covered in dust, And all tales were incinerated in karmic flames till nothing remained.

Kabukimono literally burned the house that the child died in and figuratively burned away his longing for emotional bonds

The Song of All Living Things

As far as Inazuma is concerned, this is some small object from overseas. The heart of this mechanism has been removed, and its hands no longer turn.

He was originally born to be a vessel for a "heart." But he shed tears in his dreams. His creator observed thus: He was too fragile, whether it be as a human or as a tool.

Yet his creator would not destroy him, and so allowed him to continue slumbering. In her latter works, she would also consign designs that might store such a heart to obsolescence. Not long after, that noblest and most prestigious "proof" in the world would come to have no home, And thus was sent to the great shrine at Mt. Yougou.

His sleeping form was placed in Shakkei Pavillion along with the feather that he wears.

‘A feather-shaped token that was brought forth from a secluded hall. The compassion of its creator led to it being left within that mansion along with a certain slumbering form.’ (Feather of the Opulent Mansion Description)

Deep within these rocky mountains is a sight that does not belong to this world. Many of those drawn to it do not belong to civilization. — This magnificent mansion was built by an ancient ascetic warrior in the depths of the earth using scenery borrowed from the outside world. In latter days, a deeply disheartened eccentric would be discovered within. (Shakkei Pavillion Description)

This masterless mansion has become the haunting ground of monsters from the rift. Those who can wield the eternal lightning to conquer this trial will obtain the artifacts within. — This great hall stood when Seirai Island neither had the name it has now, nor had it yet been stained with the color of thunder. The scenery within will probably never change, either. (Slumbering Court Description)

Ei began designing a “perfected” puppet, the Shogun. There was no further use for the prototype and the Lord of Electro did not want to intefere in his fate.

Ei conducted countless experiments to this effect, discarded a great many failed products, and spent an unimaginable amount of time and resources—But at last, by her dogged pursuit and warrior's spirit, she was able to create a flawless puppet. (Raiden Shogun: Character Story 2)

“The first to betray me was a god. My creator... my mother. Valuing strength above all, she saw no worth in me, and I was discarded” (Story Teaser: The "Divine" Will)

He was a transcendent being, divinely created, but he was cast aside like worthless dross. (Artifact Set: Pale Flame)

Later, the beautiful puppet awoke and began his wanderings. He observed many a heart, Good ones, upright ones, strong ones, gentle ones... The puppet, too, desired a heart.

This is when he met humans after Katsuragi brought him to Nagamasa, Niwa, and the others of the Tatarasuna group- heart in this context seems to be referring to individuals’ personalities and emotional bonds

Yet, due to an error that cannot be known, he roused himself from slumber, And began to wander the mortal realm. (Artifact Set: Pale Flame)

Later, the lovely puppet would finally obtain that "heart." It was, after all, his purpose for being, the very reason he existed. Yet, it was not what the puppet truly desired, For it did not contain any blessings, But was instead a sacrifice brimming with selfishness, hypocrisy, cunning and curses, All wrapped in an amiable husk.

He literally gained a heart: It was Niwa's heart that The Doctor put into a device after he murdered him and lied to the eccentric. This heart saved Kabukimono, yet he was disgusted at what he believed to be Niwa's wrongful acts and abandonment

“It took three betrayals for me to finally understand: The world is just an elaborate tapestry of lies. My fury will never be quelled” (Story Teaser: The "Divine" Will)

Good and evil were the song of sentient life, useless and cacophonous. But if he were to wrench this "heart" out, He would no longer be able to feel anything at all…

“Humans... they can't be trusted. And the gods fill me with pure loathing. So I said good riddance! I denounce the world and laugh in its face. My chest will never again be defiled by worldly filth. I will scrub away every last trace of human emotion. Then it will be empty, a blank slate. And ready to receive a supreme Gnosis, brimming with pure divinity” (Story Teaser: The "Divine" Will)

Before the Fatui found him, he had drifted for countless years. And in that time, this is what his experience had taught him: "I am a 'human' who surpasses all others." "Even the gods daren't meddle in my fate." "Neither mortal nor god, nor fate itself, is qualified to be my judge." "I am free to choose how I wish to spend the remainder of my days." (Artifact Set: Pale Flame)

Calabash of Awakening

A gourd that has been adorned with powdered gold and black paint. Its original color can no longer be discerned, but its main use seems to be as a performance prop.

Amenoma, Futsu, Isshin, Hyakume, Senju. These were, once upon a time, the five branches of the Raiden Gokaden, But today, only Amenoma still maintains its line of succession. While the Isshin line can just barely be said to have extant descendants. In the eyes of the people, this is just the natural result of the ravages of time. They never once suspected that such sudden falls from grace might have some hidden mystery behind them.

These were the 5 bladesmithing arts of Inazuma. All of which were associated with the Yashiro commission. The Isshin Art included the Niwa Clan, Kaedehara Clan, and the Akame school. 100 years ago Scara destroyed all but 2 of the Arts as an act of revenge against the ‘bladesmith’ (ie. revenge against Niwa). Scara only stopped after he met Kaedehara Yoshinori and learned that Yoshinori was originally from the Niwa clan before adoption. The remaining members of the Akame school fled to Snezhnaya before ultimately dying there. Yoshinori stopped the Isshin Art to protect his family in case Scara came back and the only remaining member of the Isshin Art is Kaedehara Kazuha. The Amenoma Art is the current Inazuma blacksmithy.

The wanderer would never admit to this. He would never admit that he had done this as an act of revenge against the bladesmith. Nor would he ever mention the truth, That he had abandoned his schemes halfway because they had suddenly become dull. He would only say, in that tone of voice he had learned from a certain researcher: "It was all just a little experiment into human nature."

The researcher mentioned is Il Dottore who brought Kabukimono into the Fatui (through a well organized devious plan)

In Inazuma's traditional theater, there is a certain character known as "Kunikuzushi." Such characters are often schemers and usurpers of nations. At the end of his wanderings, he chose this name as an act of his own will. And as for the name he had once used, even he no longer remembered it.

The Kabukimono revealed this as his name when he met Kaedehara Yoshinori. The character known as Kunikuzushi is based on the character of the same name and role in real-life Kabuki theatre.

It is a norm in Inazuma's traditional theater to join the names of a play's three acts together to form the play's name. For example, "Sumirezome," "Sangetsu," and "Kogetsukan" come together, Thus forming the play "Sumirezome Sangetsu Kogetsukan." Perhaps a day will come when this body's adventures, its experiences, Will become tales to be passed along by mortals, distant memories that flow through the ley lines. But for now, his third act is still ongoing.

This is based on the real life Kabuki theater in Japan. The first form focuses on samurai and historical events. The second form focuses on domesticity such as family and commonfolk. The third form focuses on dance to convey emotion.

Often the actors in Kabuki need to know how to act as one personality to a completely opposite personality as the first one shown was only a fake.

Emotions are also expressed through the colors of the costumes, a key element in kabuki. Gaudy and strong colors can convey foolish or joyful emotions, whereas severe or muted colors convey seriousness and focus.

Kabuki involves the concept of jo-ha-kyū (序破急), a pacing convention in theater stating that the action of a play should start slow, speed up, and end quickly. Nearly every full-length play occupies five acts. The first corresponds to jo, an auspicious and slow opening which introduces the audience to the characters and the plot. The next three acts correspond to ha, where events speed up, culminating almost always in a great moment of drama or tragedy in the third act, and possibly a battle in the second or fourth acts. The final act, corresponding to kyū, is almost always short, providing a quick and satisfying conclusion.

Kabuki is known to sacrifice drama and even the plot to highlight an actor's talents. It was not uncommon in kabuki to insert or remove individual scenes from a day's schedule in order to cater to an individual actor—either scenes he was famed for, or that featured him, would be inserted into a program without regard to plot continuity.

Skeletal Kasa

A hat that once shielded a wanderer from sun and rain. It eventually became a convenient tool with which faces might be hidden and expressions obscured.

"Where are you going, wanderer?" The roving youth was stopped by a child's shout. That was a child of a Tatarasuna crafts-person, and while he was ill, his eyes were still clear. The youth told the child that he was bound for Inazuma City. "But it's raining really hard right now. They say that the people who left haven't returned!" The youth opened and closed his mouth a few times... But at last could only give the child a small smile. The next time he set foot upon that island, that child was nowhere to be found.

The Nameless Child from the Kabukimono’s backstory again.

I'm going to assume that he went to Inazuma City because Konda Village is right outside of the city and that's where lavender melons were:

"They say that Konda Village once planted Lavender Melons and that they were famed for their secret "Konda Dye" art, by which they produced truly lovely fabric."

The Lavender Melon is mentioned in Volume 6 of Someone's Diary. According to the author, lavender melons tastes astringent and eating the skin turned his teeth and tongue purple.

Despite not being flowers at all, Lavender Melons are often used in the making of "Flower" paints, one of the two types of paint traditionally used in Inazuma.

Another interesting thing is that the fruit was likely based on the Japanese fruit Akebia which children like to gather and is also made into medicines and teas.

"Some people recollect in idyllic terms how they foraged for it in the hills as children."

“The third was one exactly like me. A hope for the future... a fledgling barely out of the nest. Powerless before his mortality, he broke his promise to me”

"Where are you going, Inazuman? This boat is not for you!" The wandering young man was halted at the harbor by a boatman. But before the youth could draw his blade, a man in his company stopped him. The man told the mariner that the outlander youth was with him. "Ah, so he's your guest, sir? My apologies for my presumption." The man gave the youth a coat to keep the cold out, but the youth shook his head. He had no need of such things — he only wished to know what interesting things he might find on this long journey.

Il Dottore brought Kabukimono to Snezhnaya; Kabukimono joined the Fatui and became Scaramouche "The Balladeer".

"Since these mask-wearing people are so fun to be around..." "I think I'll become one of them.”

"Lord Harbinger. Where are you headed?" The youth, hating chatty humans the most, gave his subordinate a backhand slap. But he also loved watching expressions of terror and helplessness play across human faces, And it was perhaps precisely because of this imbecilic underling's expressiveness that he had kept them around. He told the groveling, quailing figure that they were headed east, for Mondstadt. "I understand! I'll get your bodyguards ready right now!" He had no need of guards, of course, but he was lazier still to barter words with cretins. Donning his wanderer's hat, he headed eastward alone.

This takes place immediately before the Unreconciled Stars event.

"Child, where are you going?" Returning home, the youth was stopped at the roadside by an old woman. He told her that he was going west. "To Yashiori Island, then? What business are you on?" She had said this thoughtlessly, knowing only that things had not been peaceful of late. The youth thanked her for her concern with earnest smile and told her that he was bound for an appointed meeting. As the boat gradually approached the shore, a lady in foreign garb could be seen standing by the shoreline, And she threw a small crystal sphere at the youth from afar. Catching it with ease, he lifted it up to the dying, bloodied sun.

Takes place during Inazuma Archon Quest. The Lady in foreign garb is La Signora entering Inazuma. The crystal sphere is unknown, possibly a delusion from the factory.

Sources:

Artifact Set: Husk of Opulent Dreams

Artifact Set: Pale Flame

Domain, Shakkei Pavillion

Raiden Shogun’s Voice Over: About Kunikuzushi

Raiden Shogun Character Story 2

Yae Miko Character Story 5

Story Teaser: The “Divine” Will

Interactable, Rather Aged Notes

Event, Unreconciled Stars

Event, Labyrinth Warriors

Event, Hues of the Violet Garden

World Quest, Equivalent Exchange

Archon Quest, Chapter II, Act III, Part 9: Wishes

Story Quest, Acer Palmatum Chapter

Weapon, Kagotsurube Isshin

Weapon, Katsuragikiri Nagamasa

Archon Quest, Interlude Chapter, Act III, Inversion of Genesis

#genshin impact #genshin scara #genshin scaramouche #genshin impact scaramouche #gi scaramouche #scaramouche #gi kunikuzushi #genshin impact kunikuzushi #kunikuzushi #raiden ei #gi raiden shogun #raiden shogun #genshin raiden #yae miko #genshin yae miko #scaramouche x reader #kunikuzushi x reader #genshin x reader

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satoshi-mochida · 1 year

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Final Fantasy VII Rebirth launches February 29, 2024

Gematsu Source

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth will launch for PlayStation 5 on February 29, 2024, Square Enix announced.

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.

Here is a set of message from the game’s development staff on the release date announcement:

■ 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.”

■ PlayStation Blog Interview

PlayStation Blog interviewed the following development staff:

Can you explain what we’re seeing of the combat system here? Has it remained untouched since Final Fantasy VII Remake or have you altered anything for Final Fantasy VII Rebirth?

Hamaguchi: “I want to highlight the new synergy moves most from the battle system. This new mechanic allows the player to use synergy commands and abilities freely at any time by using up a gauge charge in a similar manner to Limit Breaks. So through the battles, players will feel the relationships and bonds that have developed between the characters even more so than in the previous game. We’ve also added skill trees as a new element of character growth. You can unlock synergy abilities through the skill trees, too. Many new Materia with new abilities not seen in the first game are available as well, so players will have even more options to customize and build character loadouts to their own taste.”

Viewers got a glimpse of Red XIII in combat as part of the new trailer. Players are now able to control him directly, what can they expect in terms of his abilities that makes him distinct (and a great party member) in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth‘s battles?

Hamaguchi: “The development team challenged themselves to give Red XIII a new play style that felt different from the other characters. Red XIII doesn’t just have an ATB gauge but also uses his own unique ‘revenge gauge’ mechanic. His revenge gauge charges when he guards against enemy attacks, and he can spend that charge to use various abilities once the gauge is filled. We’ve designed Red XIII as a new type of character that requires the player to strike a balance between offensive strategy using the ATB gauge and defensive strategy using the revenge gauge.”

We have seen Red XIII and Cait Sith shown as playable characters and the footage released also shows another character who looks like Vincent, so will he be playable as well? Will the party expand further too?

Nomura: “The original party members are all present in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. In the previous title, Final Fantasy VII Remake, Red XIII became an accompanying member in the second half of the game, but he will become an official, playable party member starting from Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. Similarly, there are characters who are accompanying members in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, that will become official party members in the next title.”

And viewers caught a glimpse of Alexander and Odin! Can we expect more returning summons from Final Fantasy VII for Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and will any summons from Remake return?

Hamaguchi: “There will be many other summons in the game, in addition to those that have already been revealed in our previous videos, with some also returning from Final Fantasy VII Remake. In fact, the lineup of summons has actually been fleshed out over and above the previous game, with new, extended side content based on a summon who did not feature in the original Final Fantasy VII and even more besides.”

Sneaking into the original Junon saw players partake in another unique minigame. We saw the parade and many other mini-games in the newly revealed trailer, so will the same mini-game from the original Final Fantasy VII still be playable?

Hamaguchi: “Yes, the same mini-game will be playable, but we’ve greatly increased its scope compared to what was in the original Final Fantasy VII. In the original, Cloud sneaks into one of the units participating in the parade and joins in on the performance, but in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, he becomes the leader of that unit and can customize the composition of the soldiers participating in the parade. The chosen unit composition will alter the performance and, it goes without saying, that this also affects how the mini-game is played. The parade to celebrate the inauguration of Rufus as the new president of Shinra is the climax of the first half of the original game, so the development team was really enthused about making all the details for it. It’s one of the moments I hope players enjoy the most.”

And speaking of mini-games, we got a fun glimpse of Gold Saucer and its own mini-games. How do the Final Fantasy VII Rebirth versions of these differ from the original’s?

Hamaguchi: “I think there are a lot of fans who point to the number and variety of mini games as one of the draws of the original Final Fantasy VII, but for Final Fantasy VII Rebirth we have gone all-out and created a huge number of mini games on a scale that surpasses even the original! Many of these mini games can be experienced in the main story, but we also have lots of unique games and challenges that appear as part of the side stories you can find as you explore the world map. There might well be players who get so caught up in all the fun mini games that they find they aren’t making progress in the main story…”

Gold Saucer is another iconic locale that players will be eager to visit. How have you approached redesigning this amusement park?

Hamaguchi: “Players will first visit the Gold Saucer in the middle section of the game but are then free to come back to it at any time they like. In order to create that motivation to make them want to come back, we designed the park to provide a changing and ever more wonderful experience with each visit, so new mini games are added, and harder difficulty modes are unlocked as the main story progresses, giving you even more to do there. It is not just the mini games either, and the parts of the Gold Saucer seen in the main story have also been fully remade and upgraded too, so you can expect great things from it.”

The trailer also shows moments of the party exploring lush exterior open areas. How do those larger areas work within the context of gameplay and story?

Hamaguchi: “Once the team leaves Midgar, Cloud and the team’s major objective Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is to follow and track down Sephiroth across the expansive world they find themselves in. We’ve put a lot of emphasis on exploration-focused game design with this title as we wanted to create that feeling of going on a journey while traveling around the world in pursuit of evidence of Sephiroth’s movements.”

Now you’re several years into remaking iconic locations of Final Fantasy VII and with Final Fantasy VII Remake being so successful, do you feel less pressure to match fan expectations when reimagining beloved areas and moments?

Hamaguchi: “As Final Fantasy VII Rebirth will take players to various locations across the whole world, we needed to re-create the massive Final Fantasy VII world map that would also incorporate places such as towns and dungeons within itself. To do this, we dug deeply into the feeling of each different region and reflected that in the graphics, creating areas that look and feel quite diverse. On top of that, we designed chocobos unique to each region that have their own abilities (e.g. mountain chocobos that can climb sheer cliffs and sky chocobos that can fly etc.), so players will need to utilize their chocobos to fully explore each area. I hope players have a lot of fun with this aspect of the exploration!”

Final Fantasy VII Remake offered new interpretations of classic locations and moments, as well as entirely new ones that enriched the game. Is there a similar balance for Final Fantasy VII Rebirth?

Kitase: “As with the previous game, we have strived for the right balance between old and new scenes in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, but we also tried to take on more new challenges than we did in Final Fantasy VII Remake with some of the new scenes. I am confident these new scenes will be wildly enjoyable for fans and newcomers alike.”

What is the function of the world map in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth?

Hamaguchi: “The world map is vast and expansive, so not all of the locations on it will be used in the main story alone. In fact, volume wise, the amount of side content in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is nearly double that of the main quest content. Players who want to enjoy Final Fantasy VII setting on an even deeper level can explore all the corners of the world, discovering many different and exciting experiences such as new stories, battles, and mini-games to play. It will also be possible to return to any of the regions in the world even after the main quest moves on from that area, so you don’t have to worry about leaving things behind or unfinished.”

Given this is a direct continuation Final Fantasy VII Remake, can players port over their save file and their character builds to continue their journey into Final Fantasy VII VII Rebirth?

Hamaguchi: “We have announced that the Final Fantasy VII remake project will be a trilogy and that each entry will be a standalone game in its own right. Because of this, each game’s balancing is done independently and a player’s levels and abilities will not carry over from one game to the next. However, we have created some special bonuses for fans who played the previous game, allowing them to start with a little something extra.”

What can you tell us about the soundtrack and music Final Fantasy VII VII Rebirth?

Kawamori: “The world Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is much larger Final Fantasy VII Remake. Because of this, the team has created a variety of new music to go alongside that. We’ve also expanded the variety of musical genres this time around, so I think there will be plenty to enjoy. Of course, we also have many re-arrangements of classic tracks from the original Final Fantasy VII, too, so I hope fans will enjoy comparing both iterations of the same song to see what has changed. For example, the music in the newly released trailer is a re-arrangement of Final Fantasy VII main theme as a battle music track and gives you a taste of the direction the team has decided to take in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth.”

What was the concept behind the new trailer?

Nomura: “Every trailer has a specific purpose. Since this is the second installment in the Final Fantasy VII remake project, there are people who have played the previous game or enthusiastic fans who follow the built-in mysteries, but for newcomers or those who are or simply interested in the Final Fantasy VII series, we wanted to include a full overview of what kind of experience they will have with this remake project. So, there is less of a mysterious pretense to the story this time, but you can look forward to the next trailer.”

There was a scene with Cloud and Sephiroth fighting together, but will the player get to control Sephiroth in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth?

Nomura: “If you played the original Final Fantasy VII, I’m sure you can guess which scene I’m talking about. You will be able to control Sephiroth in the same scene in this title as you did in the original.”

The Gold Saucer appears in the newly released trailer, but will players be able to enjoy the much-anticipated date scene on the Ferris wheel too?

Nomura: “Naturally, this is one of the major highlights of Gold Saucer, so it is included in the game. Please look forward to how it will appear in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, with its high-resolution visuals.”

Final Fantasy VII Remake showed the story up until the escape from Midgar, but what point does Final Fantasy VII Rebirth take us up to?

Nomura: “We have mentioned this a few times before, but the order in which you can explore the locations is not the same as the original Final Fantasy VII, and there are some shifts in the order. For example, Wutai, one of the major locations, is not part of the route in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and will be visited in the next one. Although there are some changes in the order of the locations, the locations depicted in this title extend up to ‘The Forgotten Capital,’ where the greatest fate of Final Fantasy VII awaits you.”

And here are the latest details:

(Screenshots will be added to this post later today.)

■ 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)

“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)

“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)

“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)

“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)

“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)

“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)

“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)

“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)

“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.

Watch a new trailer below. View a new set of screenshots at the gallery.

Release Date Trailer

English

youtube

Japanese

youtube

#Final Fantasy VII Rebirth #Final Fantasy VII Remake #Final Fantasy VII #Final Fantasy #Square Enix #Gematsu #Long post #Youtube

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