Square Enix
Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade on Nintendo Switch 2: a great port for playing the RPG anywhere
The epic Midgar adventure lands on the new console with revamped graphics, additional content, and exclusive progression features.
The wait is over for Nintendo fans on January 22 with the arrival of Square Enix’s Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade. Thanks to a copy provided by the publisher, we’ve already had a chance to play it and can confirm that it’s not just another “port,” but rather the definitive edition that harnesses the power of the new hardware to deliver an experience that seemed impossible on a handheld console from the big N.
What technical and content updates does this version include?
The game comes in its Intergrade version, which means it includes the additional episode FF7R EPISODE INTERmission. In this expansion, we take control of the charismatic ninja Yuffie Kisaragi on an infiltration mission in Midgar.
In terms of performance, the title runs smoothly at 30 frames per second (FPS), maintaining a visual fidelity that is somewhat close to that of current consoles.
It is important to note that, due to the size of the game, at least in its physical version, it will use a “Game-Key Card,” which will require a significant additional download in order to play.
How does it improve the experience for new players?
For those who want to focus purely on the story or who find certain battles too challenging, Square Enix has introduced the controversial “Streamlined Progression” mode, which is an “easier” mode that allows players to activate advantages that completely change the pace of the game:
- Health (HP) and Magic (MP) always at maximum.
- Limit Break and ATB bars always full for non-stop special attacks.
- Fixed damage of 9,999 to defeat enemies in a single blow.
This mode is ideal for those returning to the game years after completing it on other platforms and wanting to relive the narrative in a smooth and uncomplicated way.
It is important to note that those who purchase the Limited Early Purchase Edition, available to those who buy the game before January 31, 2026, will receive a free digital copy of the original 1997 Final Fantasy VII. For those who purchase the physical version, the first units will include a pack of Magic: The Gathering – Final Fantasy trading cards.
Impressions of the Nintendo Switch 2 port
If you haven’t played this installment, we suggest you take a look a review of both the base game and INTERmission. Now, moving on to the experience of this version, we can assure you that we were very surprised, especially by the level of quality and stability achieved, as at times we forgot we were playing the Switch 2 version.
Visually, we can say that if you’re a visual purist, you’ll notice a slight drop in quality in the characters’ hair, but nothing else, as the game’s textures, on-screen characters, and distant drawing are very well done.
The sound is top-notch, and you can clearly hear the channel encoding, both in the docked version with a surround sound system and with headphones or the Switch 2’s own speakers.
As for battery life in portable mode, with default settings and the volume at 75%, we got just over 2 hours and 10 minutes, which is something to consider, given that this is a title that requires a significant time investment.
This version is a far cry from the PC version when played on an ROG Xbox Ally X, but considering the technical limitations of Nintendo’s handheld console, it’s actually a very well-made port that’s well worth having, both for new players and those who have already completed the game, as having this portable experience is something that is undoubtedly appreciated.
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