Square Enix is navigating a shifting landscape for physical game releases, and fans of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth have a specific reason to pay attention. Director Naoki Hamaguchi confirmed that the studio is actively working to secure a physical edition of the game, even as the industry moves toward digital distribution. This matters to collectors and players who value tangible media, especially given the uncertainty surrounding future console disc support.
Director Hamaguchi seeks tangible format despite Sony disc phase-out
The discussion took place during an interview with GamesRadar at the Final Fantasy 14 Fan Festival in Berlin. Hamaguchi, who directs the upcoming Final Fantasy VII Revelation, addressed the status of physical media for the franchise. He emphasized his personal desire to preserve the culture of physical ownership, noting that he finds it lovely when fans ask for autographs at community events.
Hamaguchi stated that the team is still having internal discussions about the exact SKU product lineup for the next installment. He could not provide definitive details on whether the physical version will use discs, key cards, or codes in a box. The studio is currently working to make arrangements for some kind of physical edition, but the specific format remains unconfirmed.
These efforts come against a backdrop of changing hardware policies. Sony has announced that it will stop making discs for new PlayStation games starting in January 2028. Rockstar Games recently confirmed that Grand Theft Auto 6 will launch as a code in a box with no disc version. Hamaguchi noted that while the general trend shifts away from physical media, he believes it would be a shame to lose that culture entirely.
Square Enix is currently balancing internal planning with external platform regulations. The director remains committed to exploring physical options despite the industry-wide move toward digital. The final decision on the product lineup and format is still pending internal review.
Source: VideoGameChronicles
