Final Fantasy 7 director weighs in on the 'Original vs Remake' debate

Final Fantasy 7 Remake may offer a more engaging first-time experience for newcomers compared to the original PlayStation version, according to game director Naoki Hamaguchi. Although the director of Final Fantasy 7 Remake Saga stated that the original game is still worth playing, the updated graphics and presentation style is ongoing FF7 Remake trilogy would leave a stronger first impression.

final fantasy 7 remake cloud midgar shinra
final fantasy 7 remake cloud midgar shinra

It's no secret Final Fantasy 7 is one of the most iconic JRPGs of the PlayStation era, and helped popularize the genre in the West. Between its memorable ensemble cast, unforgettable story moments, and musical pieces like “One-Winged Angel” that become synonymous with the franchise, Final Fantasy 7 carved his name into popular culture. In 2020, after years of teasers from Square Enix, Final Fantasy 7 Remake launched on PS4 as a timed exclusive. Since then, FF7 Remake and its sequels, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirthhas made its way onto various gaming platforms, with a third chapter in development.

Final Fantasy 7 Remake makes a better first impression for newcomers

While both the original Final Fantasy 7 and Final Fantasy 7 Remake are available on multiple platforms, game director Hamaguchi said the later version might be preferable for newcomers to try first. Hamaguchi stated that, while both the original Final Fantasy 7 and FF7 Remake has its merits with the fans, he said, “If you have the opportunity, I would like you to play Remake first and enjoy it as a new experience on your own.” Hamaguchi stated that the updated graphics and presentation style of Final Fantasy 7 Remake could leave a stronger first impression on newcomers, despite the fact that the game is also designed for fans of the original game.

Fina Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is coming to Nintendo Switch 2 on January 22, 2026.

Hamaguchi also reiterated that with Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade launches on Switch 2 and Xbox on January 22, the same treatments will be given to Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and the saga's untitled third chapter. FF7 Remake IntergradeThe upcoming Switch 2 and Xbox ports will include Streamlined Progression, which will offer players ways to progress through the game's main story with various gears, such as a full limit break meter, double experience points, and max material levels.

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But fans of the original Final Fantasy 7 those looking to acquire a physical copy will soon have an opportunity to add to their collections. Square Enix will release physical Switch copies of Final Fantasy 7 as part of a $40 twin pack with Final Fantasy 8 Remastered on the 9th of December.


Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade Tag Page Cover Art

System

PC-1

PlayStation-1


Released

10 June 2021

ESRB

T for teens due to blood, language, suggestive themes, use of alcohol and tobacco, violence


Source: Nintendo Life

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