Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 won’t “betray” fans of the original, says series producer

Yoshinori Kitase, the producer of the Final Fantasy series, has assured fans that the upcoming third installment of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy will remain true to the essence of the original game. In a recent interview, Kitase addressed concerns regarding potential changes to the storyline, emphasizing that the development team has always kept the original narrative in mind.

“We’ve always kept the original in mind, and I don’t think it’s going to be a storyline that will betray the fans of the original game,” Kitase stated. He acknowledged the significant time that has passed since the original Final Fantasy 7 was released, noting that there are new opportunities to enhance players’ experiences in this remake. “There are these things we feel we can only do now in the remake project that can bring a new happiness, a new sort of feeling of satisfaction to the players playing this game now 27 years later,” he added.

While there is speculation about how the third part might diverge from the original story, Kitase’s comments suggest a commitment to honoring the beloved narrative. The first two parts of the remake have introduced significant changes, particularly in Rebirth, which incorporated a complex multiverse plot. This has sparked varied reactions among fans, as the team tries to balance innovation with nostalgia.

Square Enix faces the challenge of concluding the trilogy in a way that satisfies both fans of the original and newcomers. Naoki Hamaguchi, the director of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, mentioned that the team aims to create something “worthy of intense discussion” between releases, which is evident in the focus on Aerith’s fate in the previous installment. Hamaguchi reflected on the mixed reactions to this narrative choice, indicating that the team anticipated both positive and negative feedback.

Kitase reminisced about the emotional impact of the original game’s first disc, where a significant loss occurs, prompting some players to hesitate before continuing. He expressed hope that players of Rebirth would share a similar emotional journey, connecting with Cloud’s struggles and feelings of loss.

In discussing the anticipated console exclusivity of the third part, Kitase remained non-committal but expressed a desire for more players to enjoy the title. Teruki Endo, the battle director, highlighted the importance of player freedom in gameplay, suggesting that the team wants to empower players to make their own choices rather than following a predetermined path.

Endo added that evolving the series is crucial for keeping it fresh and engaging for players. He emphasized the necessity of continuous reinvention, particularly in the battle mechanics, to ensure that the Final Fantasy series remains relevant and exciting.

Reflecting on the essence of the Final Fantasy series, Kitase previously described it as a “toy box” filled with diverse elements that players can explore. This playful approach, he believes, is what makes Final Fantasy unique and enduring.