Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Nintendo Switch 2 Preview

I recently once again had the pleasure of visiting the Bandai Namco offices to check out a preview build of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth for the Switch 2. If Final Fantasy VII Rebirth was an ambitious project, then this is an ambitious port to match. The port of Final Fantasy VII Remake was widely celebrated, but Rebirth is a bigger game in every way imaginable.

The preview build available allowed us to check out two sections from the beginning of the game. The first is the famous Nibelheim flashback, which focuses more on narrative and combat. The second is the gang figuring out their next move as they arrive in the town of Kalm. This is a more exploratory section that lets players try some of Rebirth’s mini games, talk to locals, learn about some of the upgrade systems and chat to your current party members.

For those curious, I reviewed Rebirth back in February 2024 and referred to it as “The definitive way to experience Final Fantasy VII”. My thoughts remain unchanged. Rebirth is a consistent delight. It features strong writing and character work, astonishing voice acting, and looks beautiful. Gameplay-wise the open world design really works, there are minigames galore (and none forced on you) and the fantastic combat from Remake is intact with some tweaks to make it an even smoother experience.

The Switch 2 port is impressive. Seriously impressive. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a whole lot of game and the fact that they managed to port it at all is a grand feat of design. The fact that it still looks beautiful and runs relatively smoothly makes it all the more of a marvel.

For tech-heads, this is probably not the best way to play the game. The frame rate runs at 30fps and does suffer some dips but is mostly a smooth experience. Graphically it seems to be pushing the Switch 2 to its limit, and some textures are noticeably a little rougher than their PS5 counterparts. But for those who do not have a PS5, this is an eminently playable alternative.

Not-so-Final-Thoughts

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth will not be for series newcomers, it is steeped in lore from both the original game and Remake. However, it is an excellent game that absolutely should be experienced, and the upcoming Switch 2 port looks to be bringing it to a new audience admirably.