FF7 Director: Game releases must continue

The world of gaming is currently wrestling with a major philosophical debate: what happens to the physical experience when digital convenience reigns supreme? For some creators, this shift risks erasing a cherished piece of gaming culture entirely.

Naoki Hamaguchi, the director behind the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy, has weighed in on this discussion, arguing that the fate of physical media is more than just a business decision—it’s about preserving a unique cultural connection to the games we love. This sentiment gained new traction recently as Sony announced its intention to end the sale of new game discs from January 2028.

As a lifelong gamer and creator, Hamaguchi openly admitted his affection for physical editions. He shared that the joy he felt when fans asked him to sign their physical copies underscored how meaningful these tangible items are. “It would be a real shame for that culture to disappear,” he stated. “I want physical games to continue, both as a creator and as a game fan.”

His vision extends beyond mere ownership. Hamaguchi believes physical formats won’t vanish entirely, suggesting they could evolve into new distribution methods, perhaps existing as download codes contained within a box. For him, the ideal scenario is for physical games to remain accessible—a bridge connecting creators and fans across generations.

This push for tangible experiences ties directly into the future of the Final Fantasy legacy. Hamaguchi is actively seeking a physical release for Final Fantasy 7 Revelation, which is slated for a spring 2027 launch. This new installment marks a significant milestone, as it will debut simultaneously across multiple platforms including PC, PS5, Switch 2, and Xbox Series X/S—a groundbreaking move for the remake trilogy.

Hamaguchi finds particular satisfaction in bringing these games to diverse gaming environments. He expressed enthusiasm about the multi-platform launch of Revelation, noting how meaningful it is to bring the franchise back to platforms like Nintendo. This echoes a broader sentiment among Japanese game creators who value the history and feel of physical media.

Other heavyweights in the gaming community have echoed this call for preservation. Creators like Sohei Niikawa, the creator of Disgaea, directly addressed Sony’s decision, noting that while business sense played a role, the company may not have fully considered the value physical editions hold for dedicated fans. Similarly, figures like Hideo Kojima and Yoko Taro have also voiced their sadness over the perceived end of physical media, encouraging others to support physical releases while they can.

Ultimately, the debate surrounding physical versus digital gaming is less about technology and more about connection. As we navigate an increasingly digital landscape, Hamaguchi and his peers are championing the idea that the physical game remains a vital artifact—a tangible link to the history and community that makes gaming so compelling.