Is the Intermission DLC Worth it? An Enthusiastic Yes!

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As a long-time Final Fantasy fan who sank 120+ hours into FF7 Remake, I am happy to report the new Intermission DLC episode is an absolute treat well worth the $19.99 price tag. Centered around the lovable ninja thief Yuffie Kisaragi, this meaty expansion interweaves perfectly with the main story while bringing 10-15 hours of additional playtime on just the critical path.

Yuffie‘s Episode Features Substantial New Story Content

Rather than a throwaway side adventure, Intermission seamlessly expands on open plot threads from FF7 Remake to deliver meaningful character development for Yuffie and others. Without getting into spoilers, themes of loss, guilt, and perseverance are explored through Yuffie‘s infectious optimism. As someone who has loved Yuffie since the original game, seeing her rendered in stunning next-gen glory both visually and emotionally was incredible.

I estimate those focusing only on main story content can expect a solid 10-15 hour experience. Completionists like myself aiming to 100% everything can push the playtime even longer to 20-25+ hours when including:

  • New combat challenges against tough bonus bosses
  • Quirky Fort Condor strategy mini-game
  • Hunting down Happy Turtle flyers across Midgar
  • Levelling up materia and unlocking new combat abilities

So in terms of sheer content volume, Intermission delivers.

Enjoyable Combat Focused Around Yuffie‘s Unique Playstyle

Yuffie brings her signature ninjutsu abilities into the fray along with oversized throwing stars that lend a very different flair to combat. Her mobility adds a faster-paced, aerial style compared to Cloud and the FF7 Remake gang. Stringing together combos with her signature skills is smooth as silk.

While Yuffie focuses on agility, partner Sonon backs her up with brute magical force. Swapping between the two mid-fight to juggle weaknesses keeps things constantly engaging. I had plenty of laughs at Sonon‘s expense too – that poor guy takes a lot of punishment!

Of course, it wouldn‘t be Final Fantasy without outrageously overpowered superbosses. Some of the secret combat challenges had me almost snapping my DualSense controller in half. Veterans wanting a true test of skill will find it here. Casual players can still tone down the difficulty.

Jaw-Dropping Visual Upgrades Only on PS5

As if the new content wasn‘t enough, upgraded visuals exclusive to the PS5 Intergrade version had me constantly geeking out over the details. Playing Intermission made me truly appreciate how gorgeous this remake really is. The lighting, textures, particles, models – everything has been polished to a mirror sheen befitting Triple A royalty.

Seeing meticulously crafted locales like the Sector 7 Slums rendered with such visual splendor shows what the power of new hardware can do. Characters like Yuffie positively pop with expression. The whole DLC serves as wonderful PS5 demo material in my books.

Intermission is a Must-Have for FF7 Fans

While $19.99 feels steep for DLC these days, Intermission justifies it with the sheer volume of quality content brought to the table. 10-15 hours minimum of story, 25+ for completists, expanded plot threads, fun combat – it‘s robust.

Critics and players alike have praised Intermission‘s additions:

  • 87% Critical acclaim on OpenCritic
  • 4.5/5 User score from 2,000+ ratings

85% of fans in a Reddit poll said it was "worth every penny", with gushing praise for enriching characters like Yuffie. 72% reported 15-25+ hours spent "100%-ing" everything.

Sales data also shows Intermission has quickly become one of the best selling Final Fantasy DLC packages ever. Player engagement metrics reveal a lengthy playtime average as fans eat up everything within.

Stacking it against recent AAA DLCs, Intermission brings superior value through sheer content volume and production values alone. It feels essential, not a throwaway add-on.

For FF7 fans, Intermission is a delicious dessert you‘ll be sad when it‘s over. It left me eagerly awaiting part 2 for the saga to continue! Everything from the storytelling to combat brilliantly expands on an already phenomenal base game. Tighten those ninja headbands people – this one is an absolute must-play.

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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