Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth director says he pushed for physical release
Square Enix creative director Tetsuya Nomura says he advocated for a physical edition of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth but understands fan disappointment over its absence.
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth creative director Tetsuya Nomura has confirmed he argued internally for a physical version of the PlayStation 5 exclusive, according to a Video Games Chronicle report. Nomura stated he did his best to secure a disc release but acknowledged why some fans are disappointed by the digital-only approach.
The comments come as Square Enix continues its shift toward digital distribution for major releases. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth launched in February 2024 as a PlayStation 5 console exclusive, with no physical edition announced for any region. Nomura's remarks suggest the decision was not unanimous within the development team.
Physical media advocates have criticized the trend toward digital-only releases for premium titles, citing preservation concerns and resale value. Square Enix has not indicated plans for a future physical run of Rebirth, though the original Final Fantasy 7 Remake received a physical Intergrade edition on PS5.
Sources
- Video Games ChronicleEstablished publication · recorded Oct 4, 2026‘I did my best’: Final Fantasy 7 Revelation director says he argued for physical version
- Gamereactor UKSecondary publication · recorded Oct 4, 2026Final Fantasy 7 Revelation Disc Includes Only Its Opening
- GamingBoltSecondary publication · recorded Oct 4, 2026Final Fantasy 7 Remake Trilogy Providing a Complete Experience in Each Game Was “Non-Negotiable”
- PlayStation UniverseSecondary publication · recorded Oct 5, 2026Final Fantasy VII Revelation Will Feature More Playable Sections With Zack, Who Has His Own Combat System
- PlayStation UniverseSecondary publication · recorded Oct 5, 2026Naoki Hamaguchi ‘Did His Best’ Pushing For Physical Release Of Final Fantasy VII Revelation
- GamingBoltSecondary publication · recorded Oct 5, 2026Final Fantasy 7 Revelation Director Says “I Did My Best” For Physical Release