The gaming world is abuzz with anticipation as Summer Game Fest kicks off, bringing with it a flurry of announcements and updates for upcoming titles. Among the most eagerly awaited revelations is any news concerning the final chapter in the beloved Final Fantasy 7 remake series. Fans and industry insiders alike are keen to learn more about the conclusion of this epic saga, especially its official title, which remains shrouded in mystery.
Square Enix has confirmed that the third installment is well underway, with game director Naoki Hamaguchi revealing in May that he has already completed over 40 full playthroughs. Hamaguchi also expressed the team's desire to maintain a consistent release rhythm, ensuring a seamless transition from "Remake" to "Rebirth" and into the concluding part. This commitment suggests that players might not face an extended wait for the grand finale.
With the recent availability of "Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth" on Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox Series X starting June 3, the current Summer Game Fest period presents an ideal opportunity for Square Enix to unveil a trailer for the third game. Historically, Final Fantasy titles have often been PlayStation exclusives, but Hamaguchi's announcement last September of a multiplatform launch for the final chapter opens up possibilities for its reveal across various major gaming showcases this week.
The central question on everyone's mind revolves around the game's official name. The editorial team at Polygon has put forward several educated guesses, all adhering to the "RE" prefix established by its predecessors. These suggestions range from the whimsical to the deeply thematic, each offering a unique perspective on what the ultimate title might signify for the conclusion of the story.
One intriguing suggestion, "Final Fantasy 7 Rescendo," comes from Mike McWhertor, who hopes Square Enix might opt for an invented word. Drawing parallels to the musical term "crescendo," which denotes an increasing intensity, "Rescendo" could symbolically represent the climactic build-up of the trilogy's conclusion. Given Square Enix's history of creative and sometimes unconventional titles such as "Bravely Default" and "Forspoken," a unique, made-up word remains a distinct, albeit slim, possibility.
Another strong contender is "Final Fantasy 7 Recompense." This term, often used in legal contexts, signifies restitution for loss, aligning perfectly with the overarching narrative of Final Fantasy 7, which explores themes of loss and the struggle against existential threats. While it begins with "RE," its three-syllable structure differs from the two-syllable rhythm of "Remake" and "Rebirth," a minor stylistic discrepancy that could influence the final choice.
A popular choice among fans and critics alike is "Final Fantasy 7 Reunion." This title resonates deeply with the game's plot and broader themes, perfectly complementing the existing naming convention. However, the recent release of "Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7 Reunion" in 2022 raises questions about potential title reuse within the same franchise. Despite this, the significant audience for the remake trilogy might justify revisiting such a fitting and impactful title.
The title "Final Fantasy 7 Revival" also garners significant attention. This option directly addresses one of the most persistent mysteries of the remake series: the potential return of beloved characters like Aerith and Zack. While it might seem too direct, the enduring ambiguity surrounding their fates could make "Revival" an aptly thematic, if somewhat obvious, choice that hints at profound narrative developments.
Finally, "Final Fantasy 7 Return" is a powerful candidate. Narratively, "return to the planet" is a significant concept in the Final Fantasy 7 universe, reflecting themes of mortality and the planet's core. This part of the story emphasizes characters confronting their own existence and literally delving into the planet's depths. Furthermore, "Return" subtly alludes to the possible comeback of Aerith and Zack without being overly explicit. The title also has a strong cinematic precedent, echoing iconic trilogy conclusions such as "Return of the Jedi" and "Return of the King."
The anticipation for the final title of the Final Fantasy 7 remake trilogy continues to build, with each proposed name offering compelling reasons for its selection. Whether Square Enix opts for a familiar theme, a unique invention, or a title that subtly hints at major plot points, the gaming community eagerly awaits the official reveal, poised for the culmination of this epic adventure. The choice of title will undoubtedly carry significant weight, encapsulating the essence and emotional depth of the series' concluding chapter.