Expectations for the Final Fantasy VII Remake to land on Xbox platforms have been dashed.
Sony has successfully negotiated with Square Enix, ensuring that the iconic Final Fantasy VII remains exclusive to PlayStation consoles. This partnership reflects the historical significance the original game holds for the PlayStation brand.
Joined Strategy for Final Fantasy VII Remake Exclusivity Between Square Enix and Sony
According to Christian Svensson, Sony Interactive Entertainment’s vice president, both companies were keen on the idea of exclusivity as they embarked on the journey of the Final Fantasy VII remake series.
In an interview with The Washington Post, Svensson explained that Sony aimed to reignite the series’ significance in the contemporary gaming scene. This partnership harks back to the original PlayStation era when Sony heavily relied on third-party support—a mindset that continues to influence their current strategies.
As Sony plans no new titles from its existing major franchises until after April 2025, games like the Final Fantasy VII Rebirth are expected to compensate for that interim.
On Square Enix’s side, producer Yoshinori Kitase emphasized that a single-platform focus was crucial. It allowed the developers to craft a seamless world and intricate game design without the concerns of cross-platform development.
The Rebirth installment promises an expansive world, bustling with activities and rich with varied characters. Now, attention turns to the trilogy’s finale, with hopes pinned on a release by 2028—though it’s uncertain whether it will debut on the PS5 or the next-gen PlayStation.
FAQs About Final Fantasy VII Trilogy PlayStation Exclusivity
Why won’t the Final Fantasy VII remake series be available on Xbox?
Sony and Square Enix agreed on PlayStation exclusivity to honor the game’s legacy within the PlayStation ecosystem and to allow developers to create a more seamless experience by focusing on a single platform.
When can we expect the next installment, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, to release?
There’s no precise release date yet, but it’s suggested that with Sony’s release schedule, it would be a key title before April 2025.
Are there benefits to having the Final Fantasy VII remake series exclusive to PlayStation?
Yes, according to Square Enix, focusing on a single platform allows for a more seamless world and ambitious game design that might have been compromised with multi-platform development.
Will the entire trilogy be exclusive to PlayStation 5?
The exclusivity extends to PlayStation consoles, which may include the PS5 and potentially future generations, depending on the timing of the releases.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Sony and Square Enix to ensure the Final Fantasy VII remake series remains a PlayStation exclusive is a strategic choice for both companies. It honors the series’ heritage on PlayStation platforms and empowers developers to push the boundaries of game design and world-building without the constraints of multi-platform development. The exclusivity decision may disappoint Xbox owners, but for PlayStation fans, it solidifies the console’s reputation for hosting epic, narrative-driven gaming experiences. As we look forward to the upcoming Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and the conclusion of the trilogy, it’s evident that the legacy of Final Fantasy VII continues to play a pivotal role in the identity of PlayStation.