Motomu Toriyama, co-director of Final Fantasy VII Remake, recently discussed the consequences of the Whispers of Fate which take place during Chapter 18, the game’s most controversial part of the revamped story.
Final Fantasy VII is one of the most beloved JRPGs of all time. Unlike previous core entries in the popular series, Square Enix took its time to deliver what became Final Fantasy VII Remake, the first part of a full-fledged modern interpretation of the iconic 1997 original, with updated graphics, action-oriented combat, and revisions to the story that left some fans polarized.
The second part, entitled Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, has many fans debating over what could be on the horizon.
In an interview with the official Square Enix blog, Toriyama concluded by stating: “As it says at the end of the game ‘The Unknown Journey Will Continue’, and Cloud and his friends will be on that journey for a while yet. From here on in the Whispers cannot act to maintain the destined timeline, so fans can look forward to seeing what kind of future awaits the team.”
Toriyama’s reference to the “destined timeline” refers to the canonical storyline of the original Final Fantasy VII, something that most fans had expected would not be changed with Final Fantasy VII Remake. Therefore, the part two narrative that is going to take place in Rebirth will inevitably differ from the original as well.
However, although the Whispers will not be able to maintain what once was, Toriyama did not rule out their ongoing existence. Things can still go either way. No matter the case, Final Fantasy VII Remake shook everything up, especially with its ending, which made the entire game feel as if it was some sort of parallel reality.
Fortunately, other remakes as part of the Compilation of Final Fantasy VII, like the new CRISIS CORE, will not be getting such teases and only receiving the proper technical facelift they deserve to be enjoyed by modern audiences.
Final Fantasy VII Remake and Intergrade, the enhanced version with intermission DLC, is available on PlayStation 5 and PC.