Final Fantasy VII Revelation, launching April 8, 2027 on PlayStation 5, marks the epic final chapter in the remake trilogy following Final Fantasy VII Remake and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth.
At Tokyo Game Show 2026, we had our first chance to play a hands-on demo of the PS5 title, featuring a combat-focused portion of the main story. In this demo, we explored the Whirlwind Maze and got the chance to test out combat with newly added playable characters Vincent and Cid, the new FITS System, and battle against Jenova Deathmourner.
Exploring the Whirlwind Maze where black-robed figures linger
Airship pilot Cid joins Cloud and the rest of the party at the beginning of the demo. With a group totaling eight members, you set off for the Whirlwind Maze where Sephiroth awaits.
The terrain requires shimmying along cliff faces and vaulting over ledges with parkour traversal. An eerie atmosphere hangs over the field. Winds howl across the cliffs. Aurora-like ribbons of light illuminate the darkness. Black-robed figures linger along the path.
Vincent: Fighting in two styles as human and beast
In this game, Vincent and Cid join the party as playable characters, and both were available at the beginning of this hands-on session.
Vincent fights using two distinct powers: gunplay and monster transformation. The versatile fighter unleashes ranged gunfire and fights up close in monster form.
Landing consecutive standard firearm attacks causes Vincent’s unique abilities to evolve from Blood Moon to Execration and then Retribution, increasing in power relative to the hit count. There is no need to manually aim; simply firing with the Square button and executing abilities with the Triangle button makes battle feel satisfyingly effortless and snappy.
Holding the R1 button transforms Vincent into a powerful monster. Moving swiftly on all fours like a beast, he can slash enemies with sharp claws. Holding the Triangle button while in monster form allows him to stagger enemies faster.
Monster form is unlimited, but as time passes the Chaos level rises, reducing Vincent’s maximum HP. Switching between human and beast forms while reacting to enemy types make him a unique and versatile addition to the party.
Cid: Dancing swiftly through the air with spear in hand
As a spear wielder, Cid excels at airborne combat. Chaining standard attacks with the Square button and pressing the Square button again at the exact moment he becomes cloaked in a blue aura leads into derivative attacks like Dragon Spin, Hyper Dive, and Ground Pound. His long spear offers impressive reach, perfect for sweeping away groups of enemies.
Pressing the Triangle button fires Target Spear, which can be charged by holding the button to launch up to five spears. Pinning enemies with spears empowers Cid’s abilities like Skydive and Burst Spiral, creating engaging tactical options.
Unlocking unique abilities with the new FITS System
The game introduces the FITS (Function-Integrated Tactical Suitwear), a new mechanic where choosing from four specialized FITS — Warrior, Knight, Black Mage, and Summoner — each unlocks different capabilities and abilities based on the equipped uniform.
In this hands-on demo, Cloud started with the Summoner FITS equipped. Selecting FITS from the command menu during combat summons Ifrit, Shiva, Titan, and other powerful beings to fight alongside Cloud for a limited duration.
Selecting FITS again while a summon is active unleashes the high-damage attack Pledge Roar. Using Pledge Roar drains HP, so this massive power comes with risk.
Battling Jenova Death through flames and tentacles
Tough foes like Dragon Riders and Gigas await deep inside the Whirlwind Maze. Sephiroth himself appears toward the end of the demo, leading into a fight against Jenova Death. Debuting in the original Final Fantasy VII, the creature returns here with a sinister redesign featuring an unsettling spiky body.
Jenova Death rains down wide-area Fire attacks, including fireballs and scorching gusts. Dodge or guard these attacks or risk severe damage to the party.
Midway through the battle, Jenova Death’s tentacles sprout and shield the main body from damage until you destroy each one. As the battle continues the tentacles begin spewing fire like flamethrowers. In our session, combining Synergy Abilities and Limit Breaks finally brings down the colossal Jenova Death.
From the distinct fighting styles of Vincent and Cid to the new FITS System and intense boss encounters, this hands-on session offered a great look at what makes this third entry unique. Finish the adventure when Final Fantasy VII Revelation launches on PS5 April 8, 2027.
