A special PlayStation State Of Play livestream took place earlier today and revealed some new details about the upcoming Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, as well as announced the free demo for the game (which is available now).

Here’s what we learned from the livestream:

1. Gilgamesh Is A Boss, Appears In Final Fantasy VII For The First Time

Gilgamesh has been a recurring character since Final Fantasy V, and he will be in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth as a boss.

This is an interesting addition because Gilgamesh never appeared in the original Final Fantasy VII since he skipped the game for some reason despite being in Final Fantasy VI and Final Fantasy VIII.

2. SOLDIER Roche Will Return As A Boss

This SOLDIER was a boss in Final Fantasy VII Remake and it looks like he’s back for revenge in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth.

3 Story Progression Won’t Lock Out Side Quests

The live stream reveals that side quests won’t be locked out by story progression, which means that players can theoretically play side quests at any time without worrying about missing out if they want to progress through the story.

4 New Modes Of Puzzle Solving And Engaging With The Environment

Red XIII can climb up walls, Yuffie can swing across gaps, Tifa can use a grappling hook, Aerith can manipulate the lifestream, Cait Sith can pick up and throw items, Barret can shoot items to break them, and more.

5 Folio Is A New Mechanic Tied To A Collective Party Level

Increasing your Party Level will unlock new Synergy attacks in a Folio skill tree. What’s interesting is that the live streams reveals that the Folio can be reset at any time, so players are free to customize their playstyles.

6 Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Open-World Map

So, that’s Junon, Corel, Gongaga, Cosmo Canyon, Nibel and more confirmed. We also get to see Costa Del Sol, Gold Saucer and the Temple Of The Ancients in the trailer so those are confirmed as well.

7 Tifa And Aerith In Costa Del Sol

Some much-needed fan service, of course. Tifa and Aerith in beach attire? Don’t mind if we do!

Extra: “Aerith’s Fate” Is Mentioned

It feels like they’re toying with us but it might (MIGHT) be possible for players to change Aerith’s fate from the original game. Again, this might all just be empty teasing.

It’s been almost four years since Final Fantasy VII Remake when Final Fantasy VII Rebirth eventually launches exclusively for the PS5 on 29 February 2024.

In the meantime, check out our interviews with Final Fantasy VII Rebirth producer Yosuke Futami and director Naoki Hamaguchi.

Check out the new trailers below: