It may seem like a long time ago that Final Fantasy VII Remake was released, but it arrived as recently as April 2020. Much has transpired since then. We thoroughly enjoyed the game, awarding it our top prize for best game of 2020. While awaiting the second installment (which Square Enix unfortunately did not announce during the recent E3 presentation, making a 2021 release seem unlikely), we now have a PS5 upgrade and an “in-between adventure” starring the energetic ninja Yuffie.
The PS5 upgrade of FF VII Remake is available free of charge to those who own the original game on PS4—however, this offer does not extend to those who purchased the disc version and now possess a PS5 Digital Edition; they will need to repurchase the game. As previously announced, the Final Fantasy VII Remake version offered through PS Plus several months ago will not be eligible for this free PS5 upgrade either. Depending on whether you opt for the version with or without the Yuffie DLC, the cost ranges from 600-800 kronor, a significant investment. Players with a version eligible for a free upgrade to INTERgrade (as this PS5 edition is known) can purchase the Yuffie adventure separately for approximately 200 kronor. The upgrade path may seem complex, but users will quickly determine their eligibility. If you already own the game on PS4, the news is positive. However, owning “only” the PS Plus version essentially necessitates a new purchase.
Save files can be transferred from the PS4 version to the PS5 version, though the process involves more steps than simply downloading files from the PS Plus cloud. First, you must install at least the base version of FF VII Remake on PS4 and upload the save files (or the latest one) to a Square Enix tool. Then, download and match the same file through the PS5 version of the game. The reason the PS5 version cannot automatically patch the save file from the Playstation cloud remains unclear. However, aside from the potential time required to re-download the old version, the process functions smoothly, and all trophies are sequentially unlocked on PS5.
So, how does Final Fantasy VII Remake INTERgrade perform on PS5? The answer is, predictably, significantly better. While the game was already visually impressive on PS4 (Pro), the PS5 version introduces enhanced details, improved and more natural lighting, a smoother frame rate, and dramatically reduced loading times (down to two seconds from the previous 25). Midgar’s towering structures appear sharper, and the overall gaming experience feels more immersive. The overall difference may not be overwhelmingly significant, so those who have experienced the game on PS4 Pro may not feel compelled to replay it on PS5, though it offers a very enjoyable experience while awaiting the next part. However, those who have not yet played it and own a PS5 should seize this opportunity to experience it now.
The Yuffie DLC (formally named INTERmission) presents an engaging mini-adventure featuring the spirited and confident ninja Yuffie, who is tasked with a mission in Midgar related to Wutai and the game’s overarching narrative. She is accompanied on her journey by the composed Sonon, and together they overcome challenges, reminiscent of the adventures in part one. Yuffie is swift and agile, utilizing both hand-to-hand combat and her signature enormous shuriken. The adventure is relatively brief, lasting approximately three to four hours if focusing primarily on the main story. Therefore, it is advisable to complete all side missions to extend the gameplay experience.
Overall, the PS5 upgrade of Final Fantasy VII Remake (INTERgrade) is a worthwhile enhancement to an already essential game. Players who own the base game can certainly justify spending 200 kr for additional content with Yuffie, even though this reunion is somewhat expensive and rather short. The rating is based primarily on our experience with the DLC INTERmission; it is genuinely enjoyable and worth playing, though perhaps not an absolute necessity.
We hope that part 2 is released soon, to maintain momentum in the captivating world of Final Fantasy VII, one of the best JRPGs ever created.
