FF7 Revelation Director Explains Why Remaking Classic RPGs Needs to Be in Trilogies

The Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy is no accident. Director Naoki Hamaguchi has revealed why modernizing a classic RPG demands a three-part structure, and it boils down to scale, fidelity, and player immersion. In a candid interview with CNET at Summer Game Fest, the director of FF7 Remake and its sequels laid out the philosophy that guided the project from the start.

Hamaguchi explained that the original Final Fantasy VII's scope—hundreds of locations, dozens of characters, and a sprawling narrative—cannot be faithfully remade in a single title when using today's AAA production standards. "When we started, we realized that if we tried to put everything into one game, we would have to cut too much content or sacrifice graphical quality," he said. The decision to split into three parts was driven by the desire to preserve the original's depth while expanding character arcs and world-building.

This trilogy approach also allows the development team to incorporate modern gameplay trends without overwhelming players. Hamaguchi noted that the team studied battle royale games for inspiration on how to create dynamic, player-driven moments—a nuance that fans will see in the upcoming third installment, tentatively referred to as FF7 Revelation (likely FF7 Rebirth's follow-up). "We looked at how battle royale games keep players engaged with constant decisions and spatial awareness," he added.

The conversation also touched on the Highwind airship, a key vehicle in the original game. Hamaguchi teased that the remake's version will be more than a simple travel tool: it will feature interactive elements that connect to the open-world experience of the third game. DLC plans, while not fully detailed, were hinted at as potential expansions that could bridge narrative gaps.

For Hamaguchi, the trilogy ensures that each game can stand on its own while contributing to a cohesive whole. "A single game can't capture the emotional journey of Cloud and his friends in the same way," he said. "With three games, each has its own beginning, middle, and end, yet together they form a complete story."

Industry observers see this as a model for other classic game remakes. As remasters become common, the FF7 trilogy demonstrates that splitting a beloved title into multiple releases can be both an artistic and commercial success—if done with care. The next milestone is the third game's release, expected within the next few years, which will determine whether the trilogy's payoff lives up to its ambitious promise.