In an exciting announcement for gamers, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is set to make its debut on the Xbox Series X|S on January 22nd. This news has sparked a flurry of reactions from fans and industry observers alike, particularly regarding the implications of a multi-platform release strategy.
Initial reactions have been mixed. One user remarked, "This should come as no surprise," suggesting that a trilogy bundle could be on the horizon for all platforms when the third installment launches. This sentiment aligns with the broader expectation that Square Enix may abandon exclusive deals moving forward.
However, some community members expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of this multi-platform strategy. A commenter highlighted that historically, only a few Final Fantasy titles, such as the Final Fantasy XIII trilogy and Final Fantasy XV, were released on Xbox at launch, questioning whether Xbox is the right platform for players genuinely interested in these remakes.
Discussions within the community also touched on the potential sales outcomes of this move. One user noted that despite the transition to a multi-platform release, overall sales may still not meet Square Enix's expectations, reflecting a broader trend of diminishing popularity for the series compared to its heyday.
Another user argued that while more platforms could lead to increased sales, they might not significantly impact the brand's appeal. Many believe that Square Enix needs to acknowledge the changing dynamics of the gaming market and adjust its sales expectations accordingly.
Technical concerns were also raised, particularly regarding the optimization of Final Fantasy VII Remake for multiple platforms. Some gamers worry that aiming for lower-powered systems, such as the Switch 2, may compromise performance on higher-end consoles like the PS5.
Despite these challenges, many fans are optimistic about a day-one launch across all formats. They believe that this approach could mitigate excuses for underwhelming sales, compelling Square Enix to face the reality of their brand's appeal.
Looking ahead, there is curiosity about how Square Enix will market their Final Fantasy titles without the significant backing of Sony. With the upcoming releases, including the highly anticipated Final Fantasy VII Rebirth and the third part of the remake trilogy, fans are eager to see how these games will perform across various platforms.
While the community remains divided on the implications of this multi-platform strategy, one thing is clear: the release of Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade on Xbox Series X|S is a significant step for Square Enix as they navigate the evolving landscape of gaming.
