In an interview with Youngjump!, Tetsuya Nomura shared new insights into the creative direction of the Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy, especially Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. A major theme he discussed was the "distortions of perception" that have developed over time, worsened by the long gap since the original game's release and the introduction of several spin-off titles. Nomura, along with scenario writer Kazushige Nojima, aimed to address these fragmented memories, ensuring that longtime fans experience a cohesive narrative.
Nomura explained that over the years, players' memories of the original Final Fantasy VII have subtly changed, with some influenced by alternate scenes in spin-off titles. This has led to what he calls "recognition distortions," where fans recall the same events differently. One example from Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is a vision Cloud sees near the game's end, showcasing various realities that represent the different interpretations of FFVII in players' minds.
Regarding the game's world map, Nomura confirmed that Final Fantasy VII Rebirth brings to life a long-held vision. He praised the development team's efforts to create vast environments filled with mini-games and rewards to encourage exploration. He emphasized the importance of providing players with motivation to engage with the large world, noting that without meaningful content, the expansive map would lack purpose.
Nomura also shared a personal story about his approach to character design. In high school, a friend criticized a video game for having an unattractive protagonist, which left a lasting impression on him. This motivated him to design "cool" and visually appealing protagonists, like Cloud. However, he acknowledged that protagonists must remain relatable, which limits how experimental their designs can be. In contrast, he allows himself more creative freedom with antagonists, resulting in unique and bold designs.
Although likely known to many, Nomura also discussed the creation of Aerith and Tifa. Initially, Aerith's personality resembled Tifa's, but to avoid a stereotypical narrative, he decided to split their traits. This decision created a complementary dynamic between them, with Aerith as the bright, ethereal figure and Tifa embodying grounded strength. The character designs were influenced by the technical limitations of early polygonal animation, leading to practical choices like Aerith's tied-up hair for easier rendering.
Additionally, Nomura hinted at a possible retirement in the near future, but assured fans that he is fully committed to completing the Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy. He expressed excitement about the trilogy's evolution and its potential to surprise even veteran fans of the franchise.
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