In the latest installment of Nintendo's Creator's Voice series, Naoki Hamaguchi, the director of the Final Fantasy Remake series, announced that Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is set to be released on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is the enhanced PS5 version of the 2020 PS4 game, Final Fantasy VII Remake, which marks the first installment in a trilogy that significantly expands on the original 1997 PS1 RPG, Final Fantasy VII. Intergrade boasts improved graphics and lighting over the PS4 version, along with the Intermission DLC that focuses on the adventures of the energetic ninja Yuffie in Midgar.
Currently, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is accessible on PS5 and PC. However, thanks to the enhanced capabilities of the Switch 2, Hamaguchi stated that it will now be feasible to bring the game to Nintendo's portable platform. "With the power of the Switch 2, we can now recreate Midgar with full specs," he explained.
Hamaguchi also highlighted the convenience of playing the game in handheld mode on the Switch 2, noting, "Being able to play this game on the Switch 2 in handheld mode means you can play it on the train while commuting to work." He emphasized that the portability would facilitate easier sharing and discussion of the game and players' progress with others.The Switch 2 version will feature GameChat, allowing players to communicate with friends during gameplay and share their screens in real-time. "I’m very excited to see this game playable on a portable system," Hamaguchi expressed, adding, "I have high hopes that we can build a strong partnership between Nintendo and the Final Fantasy brand."
While only Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade has been confirmed for the Switch 2 so far, Hamaguchi hinted at future releases, saying, "I hope players are looking forward to the Final Fantasy VII Remake series on Switch 2." This suggests that subsequent entries, such as Rebirth and the final chapter of the trilogy, may also make their way to the Switch 2.
The Final Fantasy series initially debuted on Nintendo consoles before transitioning to the PlayStation 1 and its CD-ROM format with Final Fantasy VII, the first 3D entry, in 1997. With the remake, fans will finally see FFVII available on Nintendo hardware once again.
