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 launch on the upcoming Switch 2. This news marks a significant return for the Final Fantasy series to Nintendo platforms, as the franchise originated on Nintendo consoles before transitioning to the PlayStation with Final Fantasy VII in 1997.
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is an enhanced version of the 2020 PS4 release, Final Fantasy VII Remake, which is the first installment in a trilogy remaking the iconic 1997 PS1 RPG. Intergrade, available on PS5 and PC, boasts upgraded graphics and lighting compared to its PS4 counterpart, and includes the Intermission DLC, which focuses on the adventures of the spirited ninja Yuffie in Midgar.
Hamaguchi highlighted that the technological advancements of the Switch 2 will allow the game to be fully realized on Nintendo's next handheld. "With the power of the Switch 2, we can now recreate Midgar with full specs," he explained. This capability will enable players to enjoy the game in handheld mode, such as during commutes, enhancing its accessibility and allowing for easy sharing of gameplay and progress with others.
Additionally, the Switch 2 version of Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade will feature GameChat, a new system that lets players communicate with friends and share their screens in real time. Hamaguchi expressed his enthusiasm for the game's portability, stating, "I’m very excited to see this game playable on a portable system," and expressed optimism about fostering 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's comments suggest that future installments, including Rebirth and the concluding chapter of the trilogy, may also make their way to the Switch 2. This development promises to bring the beloved Final Fantasy VII saga back to its roots on Nintendo hardware, offering fans new ways to experience this classic series.
