In the latest video from Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice series, Naoki Hamaguchi, the director of the Final Fantasy Remake series, announced that Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade will soon be available on the upcoming Switch 2 console.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is an enhanced version of the 2020 PS4 game, Final Fantasy VII Remake, which is the inaugural chapter of a planned trilogy that expands significantly on the iconic 1997 PlayStation 1 RPG, Final Fantasy VII. The Intergrade version, which has been released for PS5 and PC, features upgraded graphics and lighting compared to the PS4 version, as well as the Intermission DLC, which introduces the adventures of the spirited ninja Yuffie in Midgar.
Hamaguchi expressed enthusiasm about bringing Intergrade to the Switch 2, citing the console’s enhanced capabilities. “With the power of the Switch 2, we can now recreate Midgar with full specs,” he stated. This advancement will allow for a seamless gaming experience on Nintendo's new handheld platform.
The portability of the Switch 2 was highlighted as a key advantage, with Hamaguchi 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.” This feature not only enhances the gaming experience but also facilitates direct sharing and discussions about the game among players.
Additionally, the Switch 2 version will include GameChat, a feature that allows players to communicate with friends and share their screens in real-time. Hamaguchi expressed his excitement about the game's portability, saying, “I’m very excited to see this game playable on a portable system,” and he hopes to foster a robust 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, stating, “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 installment of the trilogy, may also make their way to the Switch 2.
The Final Fantasy series originally debuted on Nintendo consoles before transitioning to the PlayStation 1 and its CD-ROM format with Final Fantasy VII, marking the franchise's first foray into 3D gaming in 1997. With the remake series, Final Fantasy VII is set to return to Nintendo platforms, bringing a full-circle moment for the beloved franchise.
