Final Fantasy 7 Remake Never Had a Chance at Being One Game

May 10, 2026 - 20:08

Naoki Hamaguchi, the director of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, has explained that the original 1997 game was simply too massive to fit into a single modern release. In a recent interview, Hamaguchi stated that compressing the entire story into one game would have required cutting significant content, which would have betrayed the expectations of longtime fans.

The decision to split the project into three parts was not a late-stage marketing tactic, but a necessity born from the sheer scale of the original. Hamaguchi noted that the team wanted to expand key locations, deepen character arcs, and introduce new gameplay mechanics. Attempting to do all of that in one title would have resulted in a bloated experience or a rushed narrative.

He also addressed the common criticism that the remake trilogy dilutes the original's pacing. According to Hamaguchi, the structure allows players to spend more time in Midgar and the surrounding regions, exploring side quests and building relationships that were only hinted at in the 1997 version. The goal was to honor the source material while making each installment feel like a complete game on its own.

The final chapter is currently in development, though no release date has been announced. Hamaguchi assured fans that the team is committed to delivering a satisfying conclusion that respects the legacy of the original while embracing modern storytelling techniques.