>>543209457
>"it goes deeper now by extending and integrating that mechanic into the combat system via Synergy abilities and such"
>why bother grinding relations
It's for fun. Like the original. The various rewards that you get from sidequests are all varied. But the points given to the specific characters bond are just for fun.

https://finalfantasy.fandom.com/wiki/Affection_mechanics_(VII_Rebirth)