Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Hype
*Final Fantasy VII Rebirth* is being hailed as setting a new standard for JRPG remasters, modernizing gameplay while keeping the original's narrative depth [https://www.cbr.com/greatest-jrpg-of-the-2020s-best-remake-ff7-rebirth/]. Tetsuya Nomura says he's still asked to design characters like Sephiroth for other projects [https://automaton-media.com/en/news/final-fantasy-creative-director-tetsuya-nomura-keeps-getting-asked-to-design-a-character-like-sephiroth-when-working-on-other-games-and-projects/]. He also revealed his favorite Final Fantasy Magic cards [https://www.polygon.com/mtg-final-fantasy-tetsuya-nomura-sephiroth-cards/].
*Final Fantasy VII Rebirth* expands the original's story, turning a modest arc into a 50-hour epic. The game gives players more freedom compared to *Remake*, letting them explore sprawling regions. Initial playtime to complete the main story and a good portion of side content is around 82 hours. Tetsuya Nomura worked with Wizards of the Coast for 3-4 years on the *Magic: The Gathering—FINAL FANTASY* collaboration, reviewing hundreds of pieces of artwork. He focused on balancing the artist's unique style with what fans expect from the characters. Nomura also noted the differences between creating art for video games versus card games, highlighting how card game art conveys everything in a single piece. Nomura also discussed how he is still asked to create characters similar to Sephiroth for other projects. He notes that Sephiroth appeals to both old and new fans. Nomura directed *Final Fantasy VII Remake* and served as creative director and character designer for *Rebirth*.
