In the most recent video from Nintendo’s Creator’s Voice series, Naoki Hamaguchi, director of the Final Fantasy Remake series, announced that Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is set to launch on the Switch 2.
Intergrade is the upgraded PS5 version of the 2020 PS4 title Final Fantasy VII Remake, which is the first chapter in the remake trilogy and richly expands upon the legendary 1997 PS1 RPG Final Fantasy VII. The PS5 edition of Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade features enhancements to graphics and lighting, as well as the Intermission DLC, which focuses on the adventurous ninja Yuffie’s arrival in Midgar.
Currently, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is available on PS5 and PC. However, Hamaguchi highlighted that the Switch 2’s advancements over its predecessor make it feasible to port the game to Nintendo’s handheld device. “With the power of the Switch 2, we can now recreate Midgar with full specs,” he remarked.
“Playing this game on the Switch 2 in handheld mode means you can enjoy it on the train during your commute,” Hamaguchi continued, noting that this portability will facilitate easier discussions and sharing of experiences about the game.
The Switch 2 version will also introduce GameChat, allowing players to communicate with friends while playing and share screens in real-time. “I’m very excited for this game’s availability on a portable system,” Hamaguchi expressed, sharing his hope for a robust partnership between Nintendo and the Final Fantasy series.
While Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is the only confirmed title for Switch 2 at this time, Hamaguchi concluded, “I hope players are looking forward to the Final Fantasy VII Remake series on Switch 2,” hinting that Rebirth and the concluding entry in the trilogy may also be released for the Switch 2 down the line.
It’s noteworthy that the Final Fantasy series originally debuted on Nintendo consoles before transitioning to the PlayStation 1 and its CD-ROM format for Final Fantasy VII, the series’ first 3D installment, in 1997. With this remake, it appears that FFVII will finally make its way back to Nintendo hardware.
Verity Townsend is a freelance writer based in Japan, who has previously served as editor, contributor, and translator for the game news site Automaton West. She has also written on Japanese culture and cinema for various publications.