Chocobo Racing in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth explained

Chocobo Racing in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is one of the exciting mini-games that offers a refreshing break from the main storyline. In this vibrant world, your feathered companions, the Chocobos, serve not only as a means of transportation but also as competitors in thrilling races where you can earn Gold Saucer Points and Gil, alongside the prestige of being the top Chocobo Jockey.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about unlocking Chocobo Racing in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, including how to select your Chocobo, the gear to equip, and the different types of balloons you will encounter during races.

How to Unlock Chocobo Racing in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

To unlock Chocobo Racing, players must complete Chapter 7, titled “All that Glitters.” After finishing this chapter and gaining access to the desert area of Corel, you can return to the Gold Saucer to participate in Chocobo Racing.

How to Start Chocobo Racing in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Once unlocked, head to the Gold Saucer and speak with the staff member behind the counter in Chocobo Square to initiate the races. Here, you can select the rank of the race you wish to participate in, choosing from various available tracks for that specific rank. Remember, entering any race will require a Gil fee. After confirming your track, your next step will be to pick your Chocobo.

Choosing a Chocobo to Race in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

Each Chocobo you collect from different regions possesses unique racing abilities, making your choice critical to your success on the track. Chocobos feature various traits that influence their performance:

• Speed: Determines how fast your Chocobo can go.
• Acceleration: Affects the speed at which your Chocobo can reach its top speed.
• Weight: Heavier Chocobos are more resistant to bumps but may fly shorter distances.
• Cornering: Enhances the Chocobo’s ability to navigate turns smoothly.
• Intelligence: Influences the effectiveness of the Chocobo’s special ability.
• Strength: Helps prevent the Chocobo from sliding around the track.

When selecting a Chocobo, you’ll notice their individual stats displayed on the screen, including their unique abilities and racing history.

Chocobo Racing Gear Explained in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

The gear you equip on your Chocobo before a race significantly impacts its performance. Throughout your journey, you can collect Golden Plumes by repairing Chocobo Stops, which can be exchanged for gear at any Chocobo Ranch. While some gear may appear cosmetic, each piece has specific effects on your Chocobo’s racing stats.

After selecting your Chocobo, you can equip any gear you have collected. Each gear item will modify your Chocobo’s stats, which are displayed on the screen, so it’s vital to choose wisely based on your racing strategy.

All Chocobo Racing Balloon Types Explained in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

During races, you’ll encounter several types of balloons that can provide various boosts to your Chocobo:

Dash Balloons (Yellow)

These balloons charge your Dash gauge, located on the left side of your screen. Once filled, you can press R1 to give your Chocobo a quick speed boost. However, be mindful that if your gauge is full and you hit another Dash Balloon, it won’t have any effect.

Speed Balloons (Blue)

Collecting these balloons increases your Chocobo’s overall speed, independent of any Dash boosts. The maximum speed is ten, but be cautious—colliding with other Chocobos or obstacles will reduce your speed instantly.

Ability Balloons (Red)

Red Ability Balloons charge your Chocobo’s unique ability. Each Chocobo has a special ability that can be activated once the Ability meter is fully charged. To activate it, simply press L1 once charged.

Tips for Winning a Chocobo Race in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth

To enhance your chances of victory, consider these strategies:

• Drift to Gain Speed: Use L and R1 to drift around corners. A successful drift will generate flames at your Chocobo’s feet, providing a speed boost when you finish the drift.
• Learn the Course: Familiarize yourself with each track’s layout on your first lap, noting advantageous areas and obstacles to avoid.
• Collect Gear: Fix Chocobo Stops to gather Golden Plumes and purchase gear which will enhance your racing capabilities.
• Avoid Collisions: Other Chocobos can hinder your progress, so try to steer clear of them to maintain your speed.
• Practice on Rank III: This is the first rank you can access and offers a cost-effective way to improve your racing skills.
• Stick to the Inside Lane: When overtaking, aim for the inside lane to keep a streamlined path and avoid unnecessary speed loss.
• Boost Start: When the countdown reaches two, press and hold X for a potential speed boost at the start of the race.
• Utilize Balloons Effectively: Don’t hesitate to use the boosts and abilities from the balloons as soon as they’re charged; more can be collected during the race.

Enjoy your time racing Chocobos in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, and make the most out of every race!