The highly anticipated Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3, following 2020’s Final Fantasy 7 Remake and 2024’s Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, is currently under development. While a release date remains distant, potentially targeting 2028 and possibly landing on the PS6 or as a cross-gen title, Square Enix has offered intriguing glimpses into the game’s future. Director Naoki Hamaguchi recently teased a significant “twist” planned for the third installment, promising a departure from the established formula.
Hamaguchi’s focus for Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth was to create a dynamic and engaging open-world experience, avoiding the common pitfall of repetitive gameplay across vast, sprawling landscapes. He criticized the tendency of many open-world titles to recycle mechanics and offer minimal variation between regions, leaving players with little incentive to explore.
Rethinking Open-World Design
“Obviously, there’s a great battle system in Rebirth – and there’s a lot of fun to be had in fighting the various different monsters in each region – but I wanted it to feel like a breath of fresh air when you entered each different region,” Hamaguchi explained. He emphasized the importance of distinct experiences within each area, incorporating fresh mechanics and activities to keep players engaged.
Mini-Games and Fresh Air
Mini-games play a vital role in achieving this variety, offering players a welcome break from the core gameplay loop. Hamaguchi believes this approach has been successful in Rebirth, providing a “breath of fresh air” within the “open field,” as the team prefers to call it.
The Promise of a Twist
However, Hamaguchi acknowledges the need for continued evolution. He questioned whether simply replicating the Rebirth formula would be sufficient for the third game, hinting at a deliberate shift in direction. “So are we going to continue with this same balance going forward? Have we reached perfection? I think if we did just do the same thing again for the third game in the series, then it wouldn’t really be very new or exciting anymore,” he stated.
A Different Look and Feel
Hamaguchi’s comments suggest a desire to introduce a “different twist” and “rearrange things slightly” for the next installment. The goal is not simply to create “more of the same,” but to deliver a genuinely new and exciting experience for players. The specifics of this twist remain shrouded in mystery, but Hamaguchi and his team clearly have a vision for the future of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake project.
What’s Next?
While details are scarce, the promise of a “twist” in Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 has sparked considerable speculation and anticipation within the gaming community. The future of the remake project remains uncertain, but Hamaguchi’s commitment to innovation and a fresh approach suggests that players can expect a unique and compelling conclusion to the reimagining of this beloved classic.
H/T, VG 24/7.
