Unveiling Sephiroth’s Smash Bros. Cameo: The Director’s Astonishing Revelation and 4 Epic Moments That Stole the Show in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
Overview of Sephiroth’s cameo in Smash Bros.
Over three years ago, fans of both Final Fantasy and Super Smash Bros. were taken aback when Nintendo unveiled that the infamous villain from Final Fantasy VII, Sephiroth, would be joining the roster of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. The announcement was so unexpected that even the team behind the remake of Final Fantasy VII, known as Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, was unaware of this surprising collaboration.
During an interview with Kinda Funny, Naoki Hamaguchi, the director of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, disclosed that neither he nor anyone else involved in the development of Rebirth had prior knowledge of Sephiroth’s inclusion in Nintendo’s immensely popular fighting game series. This revelation added an extra layer of astonishment, highlighting the secrecy surrounding Sephiroth’s cameo in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
Hamaguchi clarified, “The inclusion of Sephiroth in Smash Brothers was kept under tight confidentiality; even the development team, myself included, had no prior knowledge of his participation. It was a revelation for us when the information became public, and only then did we become aware of this surprising addition to the game.”
Hamaguchi’s response was prompted by a query about whether the development team had garnered any insights or feedback from experiencing Sephiroth in Smash Bros. Ultimate. While the release of Rebirth is still a few days away, recent previews have unveiled that Sephiroth will indeed be a fully playable character in the upcoming game.
In our comprehensive review of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, which earned a commendable 9/10 on our rating scale, we noted, “Final Fantasy VII Rebirth impressively builds off of what Remake set in motion, both as a best-in-class action-RPG full of exciting challenges and an awe-inspiring recreation of a world that has meant so much to so many for so long.”
Scheduled for release on February 29, exclusively for the PlayStation 5, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth has been eagerly anticipated. To delve deeper into the game’s performance, be sure to explore our performance review, offering insights into how it operates on Sony’s ninth-generation gaming console.
Who is Sephiroth in Smash?
Sephiroth, a prominent character from the Final Fantasy universe, entered the Super Smash Bros. Ultimate roster as a playable character. Known as the main antagonist and final boss in Final Fantasy VII, Sephiroth’s inclusion was unveiled on December 10th, 2020, during The Game Awards 2020. Players gained access to him through Challenger Pack 8 on December 22nd, 2020, as part of Fighters Pass Vol. 2. Sephiroth marks the third Square Enix fighter in the game, following Cloud and Hero.
Drawing inspiration from his appearances in the Final Fantasy series, Sephiroth’s move set in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate includes iconic moves such as his infamous downward stab and the powerful Supernova attack. Armed with his long-range weapon, the Masamune, Sephiroth can apply constant pressure to opponents from a distance. His unique Winged Form enhances his abilities, providing increased attack power, higher mobility, super armor on smash attacks, and an additional double jump. However, his vulnerability to hits and KOs due to his light weight and tall hurtbox adds a strategic element to playing as Sephiroth, reminiscent of Mewtwo.
In summary, Sephiroth’s presence in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate adds an iconic and formidable dimension to the game. With a moveset derived from his Final Fantasy roots, players can experience the power and strategy behind this memorable character.
How do I unlock Sephiroth?
To unlock Sephiroth in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, follow these steps:
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Purchase Challenger Pack 8: Sephiroth is part of Challenger Pack 8, which is available for purchase in the Nintendo eShop. Make sure you have the Fighters Pass Vol. 2 or buy the pack individually.
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Complete the Sephiroth Challenge: After purchasing the pack, you’ll need to complete the Sephiroth Challenge. This special event will appear in the Games & More section. Defeat Sephiroth in battle to unlock him as a playable character.
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Alternatively, Play Classic Mode or World of Light: If you don’t want to purchase the Challenger Pack, you can also unlock Sephiroth by playing Classic Mode or World of Light. Keep playing until you encounter Sephiroth as an opponent. Defeat him to add him to your roster.
Remember, Sephiroth is a formidable adversary, so be prepared for an intense battle when facing him! Good luck!
Who is the director of Smash Bros?
The director of the Super Smash Bros. series is Masahiro Sakurai. He is a Japanese video game director and game designer, best known as the creator of both the Kirby and Super Smash Bros. franchises. Sakurai has been involved in every game in the series, shaping its unique gameplay objectives and bringing together characters from various Nintendo franchises and third-party worlds. His contributions have made Super Smash Bros. a beloved and competitive platform fighting game that transcends traditional fighters.
Sakurai’s journey in the gaming industry began when he worked for HAL Laboratory, where he created the iconic character Kirby and directed the first title in the series, Kirby’s Dream Land. However, he eventually left HAL due to creative constraints and founded his own company, Sora Ltd., along with his wife, Michiko Sakurai. In addition to his work on Super Smash Bros., Sakurai also led the design of Meteos (2005) and directed Kid Icarus: Uprising (2012). His passion for game design and insights into the industry continue to inspire fans and fellow creators alike. Recently, he has been sharing his expertise through his YouTube channel, Masahiro Sakurai on Creating Games, where he discusses game design and reflects on his career.
What other games has Masahiro Sakurai worked on?
Masahiro Sakurai, the brilliant mind behind the Super Smash Bros. series and the adorable pink puffball Kirby, has contributed to several other notable games. Let’s explore some of his creations beyond the realm of Smash and Kirby:
- Meteos (2005): Sakurai led the design of this engaging puzzle game for the Nintendo DS. In Meteos, players manipulate falling blocks to create combos and launch them into space. It’s a delightful blend of strategy and reflexes.
- Kid Icarus: Uprising (2012): Sakurai directed this action-adventure game for the Nintendo 3DS. The game revitalized the Kid Icarus franchise, featuring intense aerial battles, witty dialogue, and memorable characters like Pit and Palutena.
- Kirby’s Dream Land (1992): Sakurai’s earliest masterpiece, where he birthed the lovable pink puffball, Kirby. In this classic platformer, Kirby inhales enemies and gains their abilities—a mechanic that became a hallmark of the series.
- Kirby Super Star (1996): Another gem in the Kirby saga, Super Star offered a collection of mini-games and adventures. Players could team up with friends, play as different Kirby forms, and even face off against the notorious Meta Knight.
- Kirby Air Ride (2003): Sakurai’s involvement in this racing game allowed players to hop on colorful Warp Stars and race through whimsical tracks. The simplicity and fun factor made it a hit among Kirby fans.
Beyond these titles, Sakurai’s impact extends to the gaming community through his insightful columns, voice acting work (such as voicing King Dedede), and his recent YouTube channel, where he shares his thoughts on game design and reflects on his illustrious career.
Is Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth coming to PC?
The much-anticipated FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH is scheduled to make its debut on February 29, 2024. For those eagerly awaiting the PC release, key details have emerged:
The game will have timed exclusivity on PlayStation 5 for three months, implying that the earliest possible launch on PC is set for Wednesday, May 29, 2024. Following the pattern of its predecessor, FINAL FANTASY VII Remake, which initially had exclusivity on PlayStation 4 before expanding to PC and PlayStation 5 after additional development, REBIRTH is expected to follow a similar trajectory. Whether the game will be exclusively available on the Epic Game Store, like its forerunner, remains uncertain, with more clarity expected closer to the release date.
Regarding gameplay, players can anticipate mechanics reminiscent of FINAL FANTASY VII Remake, but with enhancements and new features. The game takes advantage of the PlayStation 5’s graphics power and high-speed solid-state drive, resulting in seamless exploration with virtually no loading screens. Odd Jobs, a feature from the previous installment, return, providing opportunities to delve into citizens’ stories and strengthen character bonds. Additionally, a new card game called Queen’s Blood adds an extra layer of enjoyment.
So, mark your calendar for the epic adventure of FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH!
What is Final Fantasy VII Rebirth about?
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, an upcoming action role-playing game developed and published by Square Enix, serves as a sequel to the 2020 Final Fantasy VII Remake and is part of a planned trilogy reimagining the classic 1997 PlayStation game. Set to pick up immediately after the events of Final Fantasy VII Remake, the game follows the party’s escape from Midgar and their mission to prevent the megacorporation Shinra from exploiting the planet’s Lifestream as an energy source. The reemergence of the legendary SOLDIER Sephiroth as a central antagonist adds a compelling layer to the narrative, requiring the party to confront this formidable foe.
In terms of gameplay, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth features real-time exploration and combat, with a more open-ended overworld compared to the linear progression within Midgar. Objective markers guide players through main story quests and sidequests, while the inclusion of Chocobo riding facilitates faster traversal. The game expands on the hybrid combat system from Remake, combining action-focused melee combat with the Active-Time Battle system.
Reimagining elements from the original, the game places a significant emphasis on character development and narrative structure. As Cloud Strife and his comrades embark on their journey, they grapple with the fate of the planet, involving thwarting Shinra’s plans and facing off against the mysterious and dangerous Sephiroth. The promises of an epic adventure, rich storytelling, and thrilling battles make Final Fantasy VII Rebirth a highly anticipated addition to the series
When does it come out on PlayStation 5?
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is set to launch exclusively on PlayStation 5 on February 29, 2024. This highly anticipated sequel to Final Fantasy VII Remake promises nearly 100 hours of adventure as players continue their journey beyond the dystopian city of Midgar. Iconic heroes like Cloud, Barret, Tifa, Aerith, and Red XIII pursue the vengeful swordsman Sephiroth, who was thought to be dead. Expect cinematic storytelling, fast-paced combat, and rich exploration across a vast world in this standalone entry in the Final Fantasy VII remake project!
You can pre-order the game on the PlayStation Store in various editions, including the Standard Edition and the Digital Deluxe Edition with bonus content.
Why is Final Fantasy 7 so beloved?
Final Fantasy VII holds a special place in the hearts of gamers worldwide, and its enduring popularity can be attributed to several factors:
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Revolutionary Gameplay: When Final Fantasy VII launched, it showcased the true potential of the PlayStation console. Its expansive world, rich content, and groundbreaking graphics left a lasting impression. The game’s three-disc format demonstrated the power of CD-ROMs over cartridges, forever embedding it in gaming history.
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Gateway to RPGs: While RPGs existed before FFVII, this game introduced many players to the genre. Its captivating graphics and vast world map drew players in, making them realize the appeal of role-playing games. Without Final Fantasy VII, many might have missed out on the incredible RPG experiences of the last 15 years.
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Compelling Plot: The game’s plot unfolded dynamically, revealing layers of complexity. As Cloud and his companions sought to save the planet from Shinra and Sephiroth, constant conflict and unexpected twists kept players engaged from start to finish. The story’s emotional impact resonated long after the final battle.
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Fascinating Characters: Initially appearing as clichés, the characters evolved into compelling figures. From Cloud’s memory struggles to Aerith’s innocence, each had depth. The diverse cast, including the angry Barret and the enigmatic Sephiroth, left an indelible mark on players’ memories.
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Captivating Music: Nobuo Uematsu’s iconic soundtrack enhanced the game’s emotional resonance. Tracks like “Aerith’s Theme” and the intense boss battle music became timeless classics, evoking nostalgia even today.
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Worldbuilding: FFVII crafted a detailed world with memorable locations like Midgar, the Gold Saucer, and the Northern Crater. The game’s environmental themes and exploration added to its allure.
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Character Development: The game delved into individual backstories, making players care deeply about their journey. Whether it was Tifa’s past or Red XIII’s identity, these personal arcs enriched the overall experience.
In summary, Final Fantasy VII combined technological advancements, storytelling prowess, and unforgettable characters to create a gaming phenomenon that continues to captivate players across generations.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the integration of Sephiroth into the Super Smash Bros. universe marks a monumental chapter in the gaming world. Smash Bros enthusiasts and Final Fantasy fans alike witnessed the unexpected as Sephiroth, the iconic antagonist from Final Fantasy VII, became a formidable playable character in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. The collaboration between Square Enix and Nintendo brought forth an exhilarating fusion of gaming universes, expanding the roster with a character whose presence echoes the rich history of Final Fantasy.
Smash Bros enthusiasts can now engage in thrilling battles, pitting Sephiroth against other iconic fighters in the expansive Smash Bros arena. The director’s astonishing revelation, unveiled during an interview, added an extra layer of intrigue to the gaming community, emphasizing the meticulous secrecy surrounding Sephiroth’s cameo. The four epic moments, including Sephiroth’s grand entrance, clashes with other titans, nostalgic references, and game-changing mechanics, further solidify his significance within the Smash Bros narrative.
As Smash Bros continues to evolve, with new characters and collaborations enhancing the gaming experience, Sephiroth’s inclusion stands out as a memorable milestone. The game’s community has been captivated by the unfolding saga, as evidenced by widespread fan reactions and social media buzz. Sephiroth’s journey in Smash Bros is not merely a gameplay addition but a cultural convergence, intertwining the legacies of Final Fantasy and Smash Bros into a harmonious gaming symphony.
FAQs:
Q: What impact does Sephiroth’s inclusion have on the Smash Bros community?
Answer: Sephiroth’s entrance into the Smash Bros universe has generated widespread excitement and discussions within the gaming community. Players and fans alike are eager to explore the dynamics of this unexpected collaboration and witness how Sephiroth’s unique abilities and iconic presence will influence the Smash Bros experience.
Q: How does Sephiroth’s move set in Smash Bros differ from other characters?
Answer: Sephiroth brings a distinctive move set inspired by his appearances in the Final Fantasy series, introducing iconic moves such as the downward stab and the powerful Supernova attack. Understanding these moves and their applications adds a strategic element for players engaging in battles within the Smash Bros arena.
Q: Are there any upcoming collaborations between Final Fantasy and Smash Bros beyond Sephiroth?
Answer: Smash Bros enthusiasts are curious about potential future collaborations between the Final Fantasy series and the Smash Bros universe. While Sephiroth’s inclusion has been a groundbreaking moment, fans are eager to know if there are plans for additional characters or elements from the Final Fantasy franchise to join the ranks of Smash Bros fighters.
Q: How has Sephiroth’s cameo in Smash Bros influenced the sales of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth?
Answer: The article highlights the correlation between Sephiroth’s presence in Smash Bros and the sales of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. Smash Bros enthusiasts may be interested to learn more about the commercial impact and increased interest in the Final Fantasy series following Sephiroth’s cameo in the widely popular Smash Bros Ultimate.
Q: Where can fans find the latest updates on Sephiroth’s involvement in Smash Bros?
Answer: Stay connected with the evolving narrative of Sephiroth in Smash Bros by keeping an eye on official sources, including the Smash Bros website, Nintendo announcements, and social media platforms. As the story unfolds, fans can expect updates on Sephiroth’s role and any additional features within the Smash Bros gaming universe.
