Deepening Bonds: How to Unlock Barret's Gold Saucer Date in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Since its initial launch in 1997, Final Fantasy VII has left an indelible mark on the video gaming landscape. Fast forward to today, and its reimagined version, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, manages to maintain the essence while introducing modern mechanics and narrative twists. One iconic moment that has been revisited is the Gold Saucer date scene, allowing players to deepen their relationships with party members. This article offers a walkthrough on how to enhance your relationship with Barret in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, emphasizing important choices and exchanges that can foster a deeper connection with him.

Chapter 1: Understanding the Gold Saucer Date Scene

The Gold Saucer date scene in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, unlike the original, is less focused on a romantic rivalry and more on celebrating the friendships and bonds formed with your party members. Though Tifa and Aerith offer romantic options, you can also experience unique connections with other characters, such as Barret. These moments are pivotal in showing the depth of friendships and character development, particularly between Barret and Cloud.

Chapter 2: Maximizing Affinity with Barret

To ensure Barret accompanies you on the date, you need to maximize his affinity by Chapter 12 when you rest at the Haunted Hotel in Ghost Square. Here's how to boost Barret's relationship meter:

Side Quests

Completing side quests involving Barret is crucial. You’ll recognize these quests because Barret will appear in the associated cutscenes. Pay attention to the Quest menu, as it will show character icons to help you identify relevant quests. Make sure to complete all of Barret's side quests before the Haunted Hotel scene.

Conversations

Choosing the right dialogue options during conversations boosts Barret's affinity. He appreciates responses that support his fight against Shinra and recognize his leadership. Whenever the party splits, engage in conversations and select options that match Barret's values and motivations.

Events

Taking actions that directly benefit Barret during various events can also enhance your bond. These opportunities are often straightforward, such as choosing to help Barret in specific situations.

Synergy Skills and Abilities

These can be unlocked in both Cloud and Barret's Folio menus. Use each Synergy Skill and Ability at least once in combat for an affinity boost. Some notable skills include:

• Synergy Skill: Iron Defense
• Synergy Skill: Mad Dash
• Synergy Ability: Partners in Pain
• Synergy Ability: Unified Focus

Chapter 3: Key Dialogue and Side Quests

• Chapter 2
• Conversation: Rusty Arrow bar in Kalm
• Barret: Not gonna have a drop until Seventh Heaven is back up and running
• Cloud: The first one's on me. / First one will taste good.
• Chapter 2 Side Quest: Life in Peril
• Speak to the mayor of Kalm near the water tank in the center of town to get dispatched to fix the mako pipes.
• Chapter 4
• Conversation: Under Junon inn
• Barret: What do you think Yuffie wants with us?
• Cloud: Your autograph. / To join Avalanche.

Chapter 4 Side Quest: Words Won't Do

After the scene with Yuffie, talk with Rhonda near the entrance to Under Junon for an escort mission.

Chapter 6 Bonus: Costa del Sol Beach Battle

Assist Barret and Aerith during the Shinra forces invasion for an affinity boost.

Other key moments include:

• Chapter 7: Minecart ride - Choose adventurous for Barret.
• Chapter 9: "Missing Mr. Birdie" and "Pursuit of Perfection" side quests.
• Chapter 11: Nibelheim in conversation - Choose supportive responses.
• Chapter 12: Various side quests like "Lament of the Damned" and "Escape from Endless Writer's Block".
• Chapter 4: The Date Event at Gold Saucer

To ensure Barret shows up on your Gold Saucer date, focus on completing his side quests and maximizing his affinity level via key interactions. Check the "smiley face" color above each companion using the L1 button to gauge their affinity levels with Cloud. Once you've successfully achieved the highest affinity with Barret, he will appear for the Gold Saucer date.

Event Square: Opera

During this event, Barret plays the role of the Dragon King Varvados. The scene concludes with a performance that boosts the relationship with all characters.

Skywheel

Barret accompanies Cloud on the Skywheel, sharing stories and advice that further deepen their friendship.

Chapter 5: Wrapping Up

The Gold Saucer date is a unique way to explore various facets of character relationships in Final Fantasy VII Rebirth. By focusing on specific side quests, conversations, and in-game events, you can ensure that Barret joins Cloud for a memorable and insightful experience. Following these steps not only enhances your gameplay but also enriches the narratives and relationships within the game.

In summary, if you're an experienced player of the original Final Fantasy VII or just starting your journey with the series, dedicating time to fostering relationships with characters such as Barret can enhance your gaming adventure significantly. Embrace these moments to build bonds that stand the test of time and add depth to your epic journey.