'Final Fantasy VII' arrives at 'Astro Bot', the game that keeps giving

Astro Bot, the acclaimed platformer game from Team Asobi, has been praised for its ability to celebrate the rich history of PlayStation and the world of video games. However, the absence of some iconic characters, such as Cloud and Sephiroth from the Final Fantasy series, caused disappointment among fans at its initial launch. This fact led to a public outcry to include these iconic figures in the game.

Robot Fantasy

Team Asobi listened to these requests, acknowledging the disappointment of the fans. Nicolas Doucet, the game director, expressed in interviews that although the demand was clear, Square Enix was not initially interested in collaborating to include their characters. Over time, and with the recognition of the game’s success, it seems that the situation has changed.

Recently, five free levels have been added to the game, which now include Cloud and Sephiroth as unlockable bots. This move represents a triumph for fans, as they are only available after completing them, offering a more complex experience for experienced players. Cloud is hidden behind the level titled “High Inflation,” while Sephiroth requires greater skill to be unlocked, in an additional challenge that enriches the gameplay of Astro Bot.

In addition to Cloud and Sephiroth, other characters like Atsu from Ghost of Yotei and 2B from Nier Automata will also be available in these new missions. This addition not only offers emotional rewards but also promises to keep players engaged in the late game of the title. Despite the cameos, the creators have considered the possibility of giving the franchise an independent identity in future installments, moving away from relying on the inclusion of recognized characters.