UPDATE: In a significant turnaround, Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth is experiencing a surge in sales on both PS5 and PC, according to director Naoki Hamaguchi. Speaking to Automaton, Hamaguchi emphasized that the game is “doing very well” after earlier reports indicated it was underperforming.
This news comes after a 2024 Square Enix financial report revealed disappointing sales figures for both Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth and Final Fantasy 16. However, Hamaguchi reassured fans that development on the upcoming third installment of the Remake trilogy is progressing smoothly. “A lot of the content is already playable, and the game’s direction and form are firmly set in place,” he stated, highlighting a unified team effort focused on refining the game.
The excitement builds as fans await the third game’s release, projected for 2025. Hamaguchi’s comments provide hope, especially after the games previously struggled due to delayed PC ports—FF16 launched on PC in September 2024, 15 months after its PS5 debut, while Rebirth hit PC in January 2025, just under a year post-launch.
Square Enix is now adopting a new strategy to enhance its appeal to PC gamers, marking a shift from its previous exclusivity model. The company aims to launch future titles, including the next installment, simultaneously on both platforms. This aggressive approach is a response to changing consumer expectations and market dynamics, as fans increasingly demand simultaneous releases.
Hamaguchi’s remarks come at a critical time, as both Final Fantasy 16 and 7: Rebirth faced scrutiny for their sales performance, prompting discussions about the future direction of the franchise. With the gaming landscape evolving, the anticipation for the next chapter in the Final Fantasy saga continues to grow.
As development continues on the third installment, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for more updates. Hamaguchi assures that the creative team is dedicated to delivering a high-quality experience that meets the expectations of the community. For now, the focus remains on refining gameplay and enhancing the overall experience, setting the stage for what could be a landmark release in the franchise’s history.
In a market where players are increasingly discerning, Square Enix’s new direction could redefine how the iconic series engages with its audience. With the anticipated release window approaching, the excitement surrounding Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth and its sequels is palpable, and fans are eager to see what the future holds.
