Facing Sephiroth in the FFVII Whirlwind Maze hands-on report
The epic saga of Final Fantasy VII is nearing its grand finale, promising a spectacular conclusion for fans eager to experience the full scope of the Remake trilogy. Set to launch on PlayStation 5 on April 8, 2027, Final Fantasy VII Revelation isn’t just a continuation—it’s a massive, hands-on journey into the heart of the game world.
At the Tokyo Game Show 2026, developers provided a thrilling preview of the PS5 title, offering players a combat-focused demonstration that immediately showcased the game’s unique mechanics. Dive into the treacherous Whirlwind Maze and test the limits of new gameplay features against formidable foes like Jenova Deathmourner.
Navigating the Eerie Landscape
The initial experience places players directly into the heart of the action. Exploring the Whirlwind Maze demands skillful parkour, requiring players to shimmy along treacherous cliff faces and vault over ledges in a breathtaking, eerie environment. As the winds howl across the cliffs and aurora-like ribbons of light illuminate the darkness, players navigate a visually stunning and atmospheric world where mysterious black-robed figures linger along the path.
Dynamic Combat with New Playable Heroes
The demonstration introduced two new playable characters, Airship pilot Cid and Vincent, who join the party to face the challenges ahead. Their combat styles are anything but ordinary, offering deep, satisfying mechanical interactions.
Vincent embodies versatility, mastering two distinct fighting methods: ranged gunplay and monster transformation. When he lands consecutive attacks, his abilities evolve dynamically, shifting from Blood Moon to Execration and finally to Retribution. Firing and executing abilities feels effortless and snappy, allowing players to master the transition between human and beast forms to maximize damage and survival.
Cid, wielding his spear, excels in airborne combat. By chaining standard attacks and utilizing specific maneuvers like Dragon Spin and Hyper Dive, Cid achieves impressive reach, sweeping away groups of enemies. Charging his spear not only launches powerful attacks but also allows him to pin opponents, empowering abilities like Skydive and Burst Spiral for tactical engagement.
The FITS System: Integrated Tactical Advantage
A core innovation of the game is the FITS (Function-Integrated Tactical Suitwear) system. This mechanic allows players to choose from four specialized uniforms—Warrior, Knight, Black Mage, and Summoner—each unlocking unique capabilities and abilities that reshape combat strategy.
During the demo, the party utilized this system brilliantly. Cloud, for instance, equipped the Summoner FITS and was able to summon powerful entities like Ifrit, Shiva, and Titan to fight alongside him. When combined with the FITS, players can unleash high-damage attacks such as Pledge Roar, a move that drains HP but delivers massive power.
Facing Jenova Death
The climax of the demonstration involved a confrontation with the formidable Jenova Death. This menacing foe, debuting in the original Final Fantasy VII, returns with a sinister redesign, showcasing powerful fire attacks and unsettling tentacles. Players must deftly dodge scorching gusts and guard against massive fireballs.
Midway through the intense battle, the tentacles deploy, shielding Jenova Death, before spewing fire like flamethrowers. The true test of skill comes when players must combine their acquired Synergy Abilities and Limit Breaks to finally bring down the colossal creature. From the unique fighting styles of Vincent and Cid to the strategic depth of the FITS System, Final Fantasy VII Revelation delivers an unforgettable experience.
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