Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth takes players on a journey through an expansive reimagining of the beloved 1997 PlayStation classic, offering a gameplay experience that can easily surpass 100 hours.
Adventurers keen on exploring its rich environments and detailed storylines will be grateful for the latest patch, released on December 13, which introduces a fast-forward option for cutscenes, allowing a quicker way to navigate the narrative.
Fast-Forward Feature Details
This new feature, part of update version 1.060, lets players expedite cinematic moments at speeds of either 1.5 or 2 times the standard pacing.
Instead of skipping over scenes entirely, players can still engage with the story while experiencing a faster progression.
The intention behind this addition is to elevate the overall gameplay experience, as noted in the patch notes.
Community Reactions
Naoki Hamaguchi, the game’s director, demonstrated the fast-forward feature on social media, generating a mix of reactions.
Some fans expressed confusion as to why anyone would want to rush through what they deem a masterpiece, highlighting the value of taking the time to savor the artwork and narrative intricacies.
However, watching the dialogue at these increased speeds can sometimes make it challenging to grasp the story, as it may sound distorted, akin to fast-forwarding through a VHS tape.
This technique might work for quickly digesting lengthy audio content, but it risks overshadowing the delicate storytelling typical of a role-playing game.
Benefits for Players
Many contemporary titles have sought to accommodate player impatience in various ways.
Some games mute characters until the next line surfaces, while others, such as The Witcher 3, keep the voice acting intact while fast-forwarding animations to maintain immersion.
Despite any caveats, the introduction of a fast-forward option in FFVII: Rebirth is a step forward, especially for those tackling side quests or diving into a new game plus mode.
Players aiming for the Platinum Trophy—requiring two playthroughs—will find the 2X speed option particularly beneficial.
Furthermore, fans can look forward to FFVII: Rebirth launching on PC on January 23, 2025, expanding accessibility for even more players.
Source: Kotaku