Secret Ending: Does Zack Die?

The ending does not change, and Zack still dies by the end of Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII Reunion. Read on for a full explanation of the ending, how it connects to Final Fantasy VII Remake, plus get to know who picked up Genesis after defeating him!

Is There a Secret Ending?

No Story Changes, Zack Still Dies

Testuya Nomura himself has stated that Crisis Core: Reunion will have no story-related changes. Hence, no secret endings and expansions to the story will take place, and ultimately, Zack will still die by the end of the game.

Alternative Ending in Final Fantasy VII Remake

In the Remake of Final Fantasy VII (FF7R), the ending scene shows Zack alive, which is different from the PSP version of Crisis Core where he does not survive.

However, Reunion will not reflect those changes and will simply be a mechanical and visual upgrade of the original Crisis Core, giving new players close to the original experience with slight differences. So unfortunately, Zack does not live in Crisis Core Reunion.

All Remake Changes, Differences and New Features

Crisis Core Reunion Ending Explained

Who Took Genesis at the End of Crisis Core

After defeating Genesis, he is shown to being taken away by two SOLDIERS. This sets up Genesis' cameo in the Final Fantasy VII spinoff: Dirge of Cerberus and introduces the two SOLDIERS who took Genesis to be Weiss the Immaculate and Nero the Sable.

How to Beat Genesis

Passing the Baton to Cloud

Zack shared his last moments with Cloud after being gunned down by the Shinra army, who tried to cover up the Nibelheim incident and the experiments done to them. He declares that his honor and dreams are now Cloud's.

This is where Cloud inherits his iconic weapon the Buster Sword, and goes on to continue Zack's legacy in Final Fantasy VII.

Turks' Failed Rescue Attempt

Tseng commands Cissnei to find Zack and Cloud before the Shinra army does. He tells her to help them, and that he has 88 letters for Zack once he has been rescued, sent by Aerith. Reno and Rude scan the desert from their targets, but can't find Zack and Cloud before the army does.

Ultimately, the Turks fail at their rescue attempt and Zack faces the Shinra army alone.

Crisis Core Related Guides

Beginner's Guide: Tips & Tricks

Mechanics and Combat Tips and Tricks

Materia Tips and Tricks

Equipment and Accessories Tips and Tricks

General Information