A Polygon writer reflects on the return of overt "cheat" options in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, arguing that streamlined progression settings recapture the old-school thrill of classic video game cheats. The piece traces cheating's history from development tools like the 1986 Konami Code to 1990s devices such as the Game Genie, framing modern optional toggles as a natural evolution rather than a departure from that tradition. This matters because it highlights an ongoing debate about accessibility and player choice in single-player games, where such options can broaden appeal without affecting anyone else's experience.

In June, alongside the launch of Rebirth's Xbox and Nintendo Switch 2 versions, Square Enix added a free update introducing 13 optional streamlined progression toggles, including infinite money, boosted EXP and AP gain, and infinite HP and MP. The writer describes using them to revisit an old save with faster levelling and no financial constraints, reigniting enthusiasm ahead of Final Fantasy 7 Revelation, the trilogy's next instalment due next spring. The Final Fantasy community is divided: some feel the toggles undermine completionists since achievements remain enabled regardless, while others welcome them as a way to enjoy the game with less time investment or to attract newcomers.