Final Fantasy VII: Remake Intergrade Director Reveals Secrets Behind Nintendo Switch 2 Version
Final Fantasy VII: Remake Intergrade Director Reveals Behind-the-Scenes Details of the Nintendo Switch 2 Version
Square Enix is gearing up to bring one of the most beloved RPG remakes of all time to Nintendo’s new hybrid console as Final Fantasy VII: Remake Intergrade prepares to launch on Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox Series X|S next year. Fans can look forward to experiencing the iconic reimagined journey of Cloud and company anytime, anywhere, with early hands-on impressions already generating excitement across the gaming community.
Recently, This Is Game team had the opportunity to speak directly with Naoki Hamaguchi, the game’s director, in collaboration with Bandai Namco Entertainment Asia and Square Enix Asia during the Tokyo Game Show. He shared exclusive insights into the development challenges, gameplay adjustments, and what fans can expect from this ambitious new version.
Q: Can you explain the difference between the Streamlined Progression feature and the Easy or Head Start modes?
A: Head Start increases your level, abilities, items, and equipped skills, while the new Streamlined Progression feature goes further. It allows characters to have unlimited HP/MP or even receive zero damage when attacked. This feature was designed for players who want to experiment — for example, casting spells endlessly without worrying about MP depletion.
Q: How does the Nintendo Switch 2 version’s performance compare to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S?
A: Since Switch 2 supports both TV and handheld modes, their processing capabilities differ. However, our team worked hard to ensure that even in handheld mode, players enjoy beautiful visuals and stable 30FPS performance. We showcased the game at events like gamescom and PAX West, where feedback was overwhelmingly positive. As for the Xbox Series X version, its graphics and frame rate are nearly identical to the PlayStation 5.
Q: What was the biggest challenge developing for Switch 2 compared to PlayStation 5?
A: One key improvement is faster loading times thanks to the Game Key Card. Players download the game to the system before playing, resulting in smooth performance comparable to PS5. The main challenge was memory optimization. Based on feedback, we believe the team succeeded in delivering an optimized experience for the Switch 2.
Q: How did the team preserve visual details while adapting the game for Switch 2?
A: Performance was our top priority. If we kept the same visual effects as PS5, frame rates would drop. The most challenging aspects were lighting and shadows, which we aimed to keep consistent with the original version. Post-processing effects like particles and fog density were adjusted to balance performance and visual fidelity.
Q: Do you think Switch 2’s player base will influence future projects?
A: I don’t think it will change much. We’ve already developed a PC version, and bringing the game to Switch 2 and Xbox expands our audience while challenging us creatively. Another interesting aspect is that Cloud and Sephiroth appear in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, which can introduce new players to Final Fantasy.
Q: Has the improved hardware of Switch 2 made development easier?
A: Absolutely. The new system offers more memory and storage, which eases development. The main challenge is handheld mode, as it uses less processing power than TV mode. Still, we worked hard to ensure the experience remains consistent in both modes. Another consideration is the need to download the game due to the 64GB cartridge size limitation, but this decision improves loading speed.
Q: What does bringing Final Fantasy back to a Nintendo console mean to the team?
A: I can confirm that all three parts of Final Fantasy VII Remake will launch on Switch 2. Although I cannot discuss future projects, after working on this franchise for over 20 years, I see this as a new beginning and look forward to strengthening our collaboration with Nintendo so that Final Fantasy can reach players worldwide.
Q: How does the HD Rumble feature enhance the gameplay experience?
A: HD Rumble offers a much more immersive experience. Usually, you feel controller vibrations in your hands while watching the action on a distant screen. In handheld mode, the vibrations occur directly in sync with on-screen events, increasing immersion. While TV mode is great, I recommend trying handheld mode for this reason.
Q: Will Streamlined Progression be available for PlayStation 5 and PC versions?
A: We want to include it, but the team is currently focused on developing the third installment. Our goal is to deliver a unified experience across all platforms, but priorities must be set. For now, Streamlined Progression will only be available on Switch 2 and Xbox Series X|S. However, we did add new accessibility features to PS5 after the PC release, so we hope to do the same in the future.
Q: Any message for fans in Southeast Asia?
A: With the trilogy coming to multiple platforms, some players may have already experienced the game on PC or PlayStation. For those who haven’t, I encourage you to try it on Switch 2 and Xbox. Please continue to support the trilogy, and thank you for your ongoing support.
About Final Fantasy VII: Remake Intergrade
This legendary JRPG returns, fully rebuilt for next-gen hardware with the power of Unreal Engine 4. Players will join Cloud Strife and his allies on an epic journey to stop the sinister Shinra Company from oppressing the citizens of Midgar. The new version launches on Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox Series X|S on January 22 next year.
