Final Fantasy VII Remake Series Hinted for Nintendo Switch 2 by Naoki Hamaguchi

In a recent episode of Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice video series, Naoki Hamaguchi, director of the Final Fantasy VII Remake series, provided fans with an exhilarating look at the future of this cherished RPG franchise on Nintendo’s next-gen console, the Nintendo Switch 2. The nearly five-minute long video, which showcases the upcoming port of Final Fantasy VII REMAKE INTERGRADE to the new system, has ignited speculation regarding the entire trilogy coming to Nintendo’s platform.

A New Chapter for Final Fantasy on Nintendo

The Creator’s Voice series is a component of Nintendo’s marketing push for the Switch 2, highlighting prominent developers and studios transitioning their games to the console. Previous episodes have included creators from Supergiant Games, CD PROJEKT RED, and FromSoftware. The newest installment spotlights Square Enix’s Naoki Hamaguchi and the Final Fantasy VII Remake endeavor.

In the video, Hamaguchi shares his personal bond with Nintendo, mentioning that the first gaming system he experienced as a child was from Nintendo. “Even today, I hold a special affection for Nintendo platforms,” he remarked. This sentimental connection seems to have motivated his eagerness to bring the Final Fantasy VII Remake series to the Switch 2.

Final Fantasy VII REMAKE INTERGRADE Announced

At this time, only Final Fantasy VII REMAKE INTERGRADE—the enhanced version of the initial chapter of the remake trilogy—is officially announced for the Nintendo Switch 2. This iteration includes improved graphics, better performance, and the Yuffie-centered INTERmission episode that had been exclusive to PlayStation 5 and PC.

While an official release date has yet to be shared, the confirmation of INTERGRADE for the Switch 2 marks a notable achievement, as it is the first time a significant entry in the Final Fantasy VII Remake series will be accessible on a Nintendo platform.

Clues Regarding the Full Trilogy

What has genuinely captured the interest of fans is Hamaguchi’s consistent reference to the “Final Fantasy VII Remake series” throughout the video. This wording, rather than concentrating solely on INTERGRADE, has led many to speculate that the second installment, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and the forthcoming third entry in the trilogy might also be in the works for the Switch 2.

Hamaguchi expressed his fascination with the new hardware’s capabilities, asserting that he believes the system possesses sufficient power to support the entire remake series. “This is my first chance to create something for a Nintendo system, and that’s incredibly special to me,” he added, further enhancing hopes that the complete trilogy will one day land on the platform.

What This Implies for Nintendo and Square Enix

Should the full Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy arrive on the Nintendo Switch 2, it would signify a monumental victory for both Nintendo and Square Enix. For Nintendo, it would indicate a stronger engagement from third-party developers and a more competitive hardware solution capable of handling contemporary AAA games. For Square Enix, it would provide access to a wider audience, especially among Nintendo fans who may lack access to PlayStation or PC systems.

Moreover, it would signify a symbolic homecoming of Final Fantasy VII to Nintendo. The original game was notably developed for the Sony PlayStation after Square scrapped plans to launch it on the Nintendo 64 due to hardware constraints. Bringing the remake series to a Nintendo console would be a full-circle moment, over two decades in the making.

What’s Ahead?

Although Hamaguchi’s remarks are promising, fans should manage their expectations until formal announcements are made. Currently, only Final Fantasy VII REMAKE INTERGRADE is confirmed for the Nintendo Switch 2. Nevertheless, the director’s excitement and choice of terminology imply that Square Enix might have larger plans in mind.

Final Fantasy VII REMAKE INTERGRADE is scheduled to launch on Nintendo Switch 2 at a yet-to-be-determined date. Whether Rebirth and the third installment will follow remains uncertain, but Hamaguchi’s hints have certainly rekindled enthusiasm surrounding the future of the franchise on Nintendo platforms.

Stay tuned for more updates as Nintendo and Square Enix unveil their strategies for the next generation of gaming.