As we approach the fifth anniversary of Final Fantasy VII Remake and the upcoming first anniversary of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, the anticipation for the trilogy’s concluding chapter becomes palpable. This presents an opportune moment for the Final Fantasy VII series to reconsider its strategy concerning console exclusivity. Historically, the franchise transitioned from exclusive releases on Nintendo platforms with the original FF1 through FF6 to a significant partnership with Sony, launching FF7 as a PlayStation exclusive that reshaped the gaming landscape.
In subsequent years, while Nintendo’s handheld systems briefly offered ports of previous titles, mainline entries continued to favor the PlayStation brand until the introduction of the MMORPG FF11, which broke the exclusivity mold. Yet, recent trends indicate a troubling return to console exclusivity that warrants reevaluation.
The Landscape of Timed Exclusives
A Slide Back into PlayStation Exclusivity
Recent entries such as FF7 Remake, Rebirth, and FF16 have adopted a troubling pattern of being timed PlayStation exclusives. This strategy allows these titles to launch first on PlayStation before eventually making their way to PC platforms about a year later. This approach undoubtedly affirms the longstanding relationship between PlayStation and the Final Fantasy franchise, likely backed by ongoing exclusivity agreements with Sony. While this mitigates total exclusivity by allowing PC players to eventually access these titles, it still notably sidelines Xbox users.
The lack of availability for Xbox players in this arrangement is a clear oversight, particularly as we consider the impending release of the final installment in the FF7 Remake trilogy.
The Case for Xbox Involvement
FF7 Belongs on All Console Platforms
There are compelling arguments highlighting why the FF7 Remake trilogy should expand to include Xbox. Both the Xbox Series X and S are fully equipped to handle the technical demands of Remake and Rebirth, and the potential audience on Xbox signifies a profitable venture for Square Enix. While PlayStation loyalty has historically dominated the FF fan base, the critical success and growing excitement surrounding the trilogy signal a broadening appeal that shouldn’t be ignored.
Interestingly, even titles like Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin have embraced Xbox, underscoring the inconsistency in Square Enix’s approach to platform exclusivity.
Furthermore, financial reports from Square Enix indicate that recent Final Fantasy releases have not met internal profit expectations, suggesting a pressing need to reassess their marketing strategies. Abolishing console exclusivity could vastly improve sales outcomes. The success of the PC version of FF7 Rebirth, which achieved impressive sales figures shortly after its release, supports this idea; imagine the sales potential if part three launched across all major platforms simultaneously!
Expanding FF7’s Reach Across Consoles
The Decline of Console Exclusivity
With Part 3 of the FF7 Remake trilogy slated for release by 2027, there’s ample time for Square Enix to strategize. They could utilize this period to port Remake and Rebirth to Xbox Series X/S, allowing players on those platforms to catch up before the finale arrives. Coupled with the simultaneous release of part three on Xbox (or at least alongside the PC version), this strategy could drastically enhance overall sales and begin a much-needed shift away from a culture of console exclusivity.
The landscape of gaming is evolving, and the trend indicates a move away from exclusivity. Microsoft, for example, has begun exploring cross-platform possibilities. Although the exclusivity model isn’t entirely obsolete, its relevance is diminishing as console specifications converge. The major defining factors now include proprietary controllers and player affiliation.
Ultimately, maintaining exclusivity within the Final Fantasy series appears increasingly impractical. It risks alienating a significant segment of potential consumers, resulting in substantial revenue loss. Therefore, the best course of action would be to advocate for Final Fantasy VII Remake Part 3 on Xbox, whether in this generation or the next.
Source: Square Enix
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