Decoding the Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade Yuffie DLC Ending

Alright, let’s talk about that ending. You know, the one from the Intergrade Yuffie DLC, also known as INTERmission? The one that left us all scratching our heads and frantically searching for answers? Yeah, that one. We dove headfirst into Yuffie’s ninja-fueled adventure in Midgar, had a blast, and then… BAM! An ending that’s more cryptic than a Sephiroth soliloquy. So, let’s break it all down, piece by piece, and see if we can make sense of what Square Enix is cooking up for Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.

What Exactly Happened at the End of INTERmission?

Okay, so picture this: Yuffie and Sonon, after successfully infiltrating Shinra and snagging the “Ultimate Materia” (or so they thought!), are gearing up to leave Midgar. Everything *seems* relatively okay, considering they just pulled off a major heist. But here’s where things get interesting. We see glimpses of the main crew – Cloud, Tifa, Barret, Aerith, and Red XIII – embarking on their journey beyond Midgar. But something’s different. Noticeably different.

The sky is… off. Remember those Whispers, the arbiters of fate trying to keep the timeline on track? They’re conspicuously absent. And Aerith? She’s giving us a knowing look, a hint of a bittersweet smile that suggests she knows *way* more than she’s letting on. The train sequence is visually arresting, but the implications are far deeper. This isn’t just a straightforward departure; it’s a divergence. We’re entering uncharted territory, folks. This is where the possibilities explode like a well-placed grenade.

The Absence of Whispers and its Implications

The Whispers, those ghostly figures obsessed with preserving the original FF7 timeline, were pretty much our chaperones through the first game. They showed up whenever the story started to deviate, nudging things back on course. Their absence in the Yuffie DLC’s ending is deafening. It screams that the reins are off, the script is being rewritten, and anything can happen. Forget destiny; this is a choose-your-own-adventure scenario, Final Fantasy style. Think of it like this: the Whispers were the parental controls on the FF7 story, and now someone just unplugged the console.

Consider the original game: key events were set in stone. Aerith’s fate, certain character deaths, the overall plot progression – it was all predetermined. The Whispers ensured that. But now? Now the rules are out the window. This opens up a Pandora’s Box of possibilities for Rebirth. Characters who were previously destined to meet a tragic end might just survive. The story could take completely unexpected turns. It’s exciting, terrifying, and utterly captivating all at the same time.

Aerith’s Knowing Look: What Does She Know?

That knowing look Aerith gives is perhaps the most tantalizing element of the ending. Throughout the Remake, there’s been a strong implication that Aerith is aware of events from the original timeline. She seems to possess knowledge that she shouldn’t, dropping cryptic hints and alluding to a future she’s already experienced. This has led to countless theories about her true nature and her role in the unfolding narrative.

Her look at the end of INTERmission solidifies this. It’s not just a fleeting glance; it’s a deliberate acknowledgment of the changed circumstances. She *knows* the timeline has been altered. She *knows* the stakes are higher than ever. She might even know what consequences await the party. This makes her character even more fascinating. Is she simply aware? Can she influence events? Or is she merely a passive observer, destined to watch history repeat itself, albeit in a slightly different form?

The Impact on Cloud’s Mental State and Memory

Cloud’s fragmented memories and unreliable narration were a key plot point in Final Fantasy 7 Remake. His inability to fully grasp his past and his distorted perception of reality made him a compelling, yet vulnerable protagonist. The timeline changes introduced in the Remake project exacerbate this, creating even more uncertainty about what Cloud truly remembers and what is simply a fabrication of his mind.

Consider the possibility that Cloud’s memories are not just fragmented but actively being rewritten. The absence of the Whispers might mean that his mind is no longer being guided or corrected, leading to even greater distortions in his recollection of events. This could lead to significant plot twists, unexpected character interactions, and a re-examination of Cloud’s identity. He may even be a pawn in a larger game, unaware of the forces manipulating his memories and shaping his destiny. The possibilities are endless, and frankly, a little frightening.

Connecting INTERmission to Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

The ending of INTERmission serves as a crucial bridge between Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. It establishes that the sequel will not be a simple retelling of the original game. Instead, it will be a reimagining, a branching narrative that explores alternate possibilities and challenges the established canon.

This makes Rebirth incredibly exciting, but also potentially divisive. Some fans might be disappointed if the game deviates too far from the source material. Others will embrace the opportunity for new stories, unexpected character arcs, and a fresh take on a beloved classic. Ultimately, the success of Rebirth will depend on Square Enix’s ability to balance nostalgia with innovation, staying true to the spirit of the original while forging its own unique path. It’s a high-wire act, but one that could pay off handsomely if executed well.

The Ultimate Materia and Its True Purpose

Yuffie and Sonon’s primary mission in Midgar was to acquire the “Ultimate Materia,” supposedly a weapon of immense power. However, the ending casts doubt on whether the materia they actually obtained is what they thought it was. It’s possible that the “Ultimate Materia” is not a single item but rather a metaphor for something else entirely – perhaps the power to change fate itself.

This interpretation aligns with the overall themes of the Remake project: the struggle against destiny, the fight for free will, and the desire to rewrite the past. If the materia represents the ability to alter the timeline, then Yuffie’s quest takes on a much greater significance. She’s not just stealing a powerful weapon; she’s potentially acquiring the key to reshaping the future of the entire planet. That’s a heavy burden for anyone to carry, even a spunky ninja like Yuffie.

Potential Character Deaths and New Story Arcs

The altered timeline opens up the possibility of characters who died in the original game surviving, and vice versa. Aerith’s fate is, of course, the biggest question mark hanging over Rebirth. Will she meet her tragic end at the hands of Sephiroth, or will the changes to the timeline allow her to escape her predetermined destiny? The same could be said for Zack Fair, Cloud’s mentor, who was thought to be dead in the original game but was revealed to be alive (in some form) in the Remake.

Beyond character deaths, the altered timeline also creates opportunities for new story arcs and character developments. Perhaps characters who were previously relegated to minor roles will take on more significant parts in the narrative. Perhaps new alliances will be formed, and old rivalries will be forgotten. The possibilities are endless, and it’s up to Square Enix to craft a compelling and engaging story that takes full advantage of the altered circumstances. It’s like having a blank canvas and a palette full of vibrant colors – the potential for masterpiece is there, but it requires skill and vision to bring it to life.

How Will Sephiroth Factor into the Altered Timeline?

Sephiroth, the iconic villain of Final Fantasy 7, is perhaps the most enigmatic figure in the Remake project. His motives are unclear, his powers seem limitless, and his connection to the Whispers is deeply unsettling. The altered timeline raises even more questions about his role in the unfolding narrative.

Is Sephiroth simply trying to destroy the planet, as he did in the original game? Or does he have a more complex agenda? Could he be aware of the timeline changes, and is he actively trying to manipulate events to his advantage? Some theories even suggest that Sephiroth is not the villain but rather an anti-hero, attempting to prevent an even greater catastrophe. Whatever his true motives, Sephiroth’s presence looms large over the Remake project, and his actions will undoubtedly shape the destiny of the planet and its inhabitants. He’s the wild card in this whole crazy hand of cards.

What About Zack Fair? His Role After the Ending

The surprise appearance of Zack Fair at the end of Final Fantasy 7 Remake sent shockwaves through the fanbase. Presumed dead in the original game, his survival throws a massive wrench into the established narrative. The Yuffie DLC further complicates things by suggesting he exists in at least *one* altered timeline.

His role in Rebirth is anyone’s guess. Is he alive and well in the “main” timeline? Is he trapped in an alternate reality? Will he become an ally to Cloud and the others, or will he emerge as a rival or even an antagonist? The possibilities are dizzying. Zack’s presence adds another layer of intrigue to an already complex story, and his interactions with Cloud will undoubtedly be a major focus of Rebirth. Prepare for some serious emotional whiplash as we grapple with the implications of his return.

FAQ

Will Aerith Die in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth?

That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? The ending of the Yuffie DLC strongly suggests that the timeline has been altered, which *could* mean Aerith’s fate is no longer set in stone. However, Square Enix is known for its misdirection, so it’s entirely possible they’re setting us up for an even more devastating version of the original scene. Only time will tell, but prepare for anything!

What is the Significance of the Whispers Being Gone?

The absence of the Whispers signifies that the story is no longer bound by the events of the original Final Fantasy 7. They were essentially the gatekeepers of the original timeline, forcing events to unfold as they always had. Without them, anything can happen. This opens up a world of possibilities for new stories, character arcs, and plot twists.

How Much Will Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth Deviate From the Original?

That’s the big unknown! While the Remake already made some significant changes, the ending of INTERmission suggests that Rebirth will be even more divergent. Expect familiar locations and characters, but don’t be surprised if the story takes unexpected turns and challenges your expectations. Embrace the uncertainty and enjoy the ride!