Chocobo-riding holds significant importance in every Final Fantasy game featuring these iconic creatures. While Final Fantasy VII Remake didn’t emphasize this aspect much, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth has rectified it, especially with a broader world to explore. Piko is your first Chocobo, and here’s how you locate them.
If you head southeast from Kalm, you’ll eventually encounter Chocobo Bill, who manages a ranch. Finding the ranch is straightforward—continue southeast inland. However, obtaining a Chocobo is a bit convoluted. After conversing with the ranch’s inhabitants, they’ll mention that the only available Chocobo is Piko, who has fled.
You’re advised to follow the Chocobo tracks to locate Piko, which is feasible. Alternatively, you can simply wander around a bit since Piko stands out in a conspicuous spot, their yellow feathers acting as beacons. They’re so noticeable that even igniting an emergency flare wouldn’t make them less conspicuous. But if you prefer clear directions (and I assume you do), Piko is directly south of the ranch.
Subsequently, you’ll engage in a stealth section to approach Piko. While I found it relatively easy, some of my colleagues encountered difficulties. The objective is to stealthily maneuver through the undergrowth to avoid detection by the Chocobos in the area, reminiscent of mechanics in games like Assassin’s Creed.
Here’s the catch: getting spotted by a Chocobo doesn’t result in a game over. They enter alert mode and start filling an alertness bar. You simply need to return to cover before the bar fills completely, and the Chocobo will lose interest. As you approach Piko, you can distract them with a rock by aiming with L and throwing it with square just behind them, causing them to turn around. Then, swiftly approach from behind and press triangle to claim your majestic bird.
