Key Takeaways
1. Naoki Hamaguchi emphasizes that the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy’s conclusion will not be hindered by developing for lower-end systems.
2. Hamaguchi views PC gaming as the top-tier environment for visual quality, leading to better graphics compared to the PS5 version at launch.
3. He describes the PS5 and PS5 Pro as “mid-range platforms,” indicating limitations in texture sizes and polygon counts on these consoles.
4. Square Enix’s focus on PC gaming is driven by increased sales on platforms like Steam and the Epic Games Store, reflecting a shift in their release strategy.
5. Future releases, including Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3, may be available simultaneously on multiple platforms, potentially disappointing some fans who favor PlayStation exclusives.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake director Naoki Hamaguchi recently talked to Automaton about worries surrounding a new strategy for multiple platforms. He emphasized that the conclusion of the trilogy won’t be affected by developing for lower-end systems. That said, PlayStation fans may be surprised by the studio’s focus on PC gaming.
PC Gaming as a Priority
Hamaguchi sees PCs as the “top-tier gaming environment” where games can deliver the finest visual quality. He pointed out that many gamers noticed Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth on computers looked better than the PS5 version at launch. This was a deliberate choice, as the developers designed assets for the most powerful CPUs and GPUs available.
Console Limitations
In his discussion, the Square Enix veteran described the PS5 and PS5 Pro as “mid-range platforms.” The texture sizes and polygon counts might be quite lower on these consoles. The upcoming Switch 2 and Steam Deck present more challenges, yet even on Sony’s leading hardware, details are scaled down to a degree.
Square Enix’s focus on PC gaming isn’t solely due to technical constraints. Hamaguchi mentioned that the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy benefitted from sales increases on Steam and the Epic Games Store. Given the larger possible player base, he thinks it makes sense to cater to these gamers.
Changing Strategies
For Hamaguchi, PC ports are no longer just a means to grow audiences long after a game’s release. This is a shift from how the publisher used to handle releases. When the first part of the trilogy launched in 2020, it was a PlayStation exclusive for the PS4. The upgraded Remake Integrade appeared on PS5 and PC in 2021.
Rebirth had a shorter exclusivity period before it became available on PC. As Square Enix’s partnership with PlayStation has changed, there are rumors that Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 will be released simultaneously on all platforms. This strategy might be advantageous for the company, though some fans might feel a bit let down, considering that Final Fantasy games have historically brought in the most revenue on Sony systems.
Even if PC is the best platform for showcasing Part 3, Hamaguchi has tasked teams with ensuring that each port meets expectations. It’s hoped that PS5 owners won’t experience the frame rate drops or blurry graphics that were seen with the previous game. Thanks to PSSR upscaling, visuals have improved in the enhanced version for the PS5 Pro.
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