In a surprising turn of events, industry insiders are buzzing with speculation that Microsoft is currently engaged in talks to bring the critically acclaimed Final Fantasy 7 Remake to Xbox consoles. This revelation comes just months after a prominent leaker dismissed the possibility of such a move, adding an unexpected twist to the gaming landscape.
The Final Fantasy 7 Remake, initially released as a timed PlayStation 4 exclusive in April 2020, has been a major success for Square Enix. The journey continued with the launch of Final Fantasy 7 Remake Integrade on the PlayStation 5 in June 2021, followed by a PC release six months later. Despite the expiration of the exclusivity deal with Sony, Square Enix has remained tight-lipped about the prospect of an Xbox port, leaving fans wondering about the game’s fate on Microsoft’s gaming platform.
According to industry insider Jez Corden from Windows Central, there is tentative evidence suggesting ongoing discussions between Microsoft and Square Enix regarding the possibility of bringing Final Fantasy 7 Remake to Xbox Series X/S. Corden’s revelation aligns with recent comments made by Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, who hinted at engaging with Square Enix during visits to Tokyo to explore potential collaborations.
However, Corden remains cautious about the immediacy of any official announcement, indicating that a reveal in the near future is unlikely. The timing, he suggests, could overshadow the impending launch of FF7 Rebirth, the second instalment in the planned remake trilogy set to debut on February 29. FF7 Rebirth, like its predecessor, will be a timed exclusive for PlayStation, emphasizing the delicate balance in timing and marketing strategies.
Corden commented on the situation during The Xbox Two Podcast, saying, “Maybe Sony and Square Enix both wouldn’t want to take the shine off [FF7] Rebirth right now by announcing FF7 Remake for Xbox, but I do think it’ll happen.” This sentiment is indicative of the industry’s anticipation, where fans on Xbox are holding their breath for the potential inclusion of the beloved Final Fantasy title on their gaming platform.
While the possibility of Final Fantasy 7 Remake making its way to Xbox remains uncertain, Square Enix seems keen on expanding its presence on Microsoft’s consoles. In the summer of 2023, the gaming giant expressed its intention to bring more games to Xbox, following the announcement that Final Fantasy 14 is set to grace Microsoft’s current-generation consoles. This leaves room for speculation on whether Final Fantasy 7 Remake will be part of this anticipated expansion or if other titles, like the recently de-exclusive FF16, could also find a new home on Xbox.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Xbox enthusiasts won’t be left empty-handed. The impending Final Fantasy 14 Xbox Series X/S open beta, scheduled for around February 21, promises an exciting experience for fans eagerly awaiting a taste of the renowned franchise on their preferred gaming platform.
As the gaming community eagerly awaits further developments, the potential arrival of Final Fantasy 7 Remake on Xbox remains a tantalizing prospect, adding another layer of excitement to the dynamic and ever-evolving world of console gaming. Only time will tell whether this iconic title will find its way into the hands of Xbox gamers, opening up new horizons for the Final Fantasy universe on Microsoft’s gaming consoles.
