Final Fantasy series producer Naoki 'Yoshi-P' Yoshida and Final Fantasy VII Remake lead Naoki Hamaguchi have addressed the possibility of remaking other entries in the franchise, suggesting such projects could be significantly larger than the ongoing Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy. Speaking at a Final Fantasy Fan Fest in Berlin, the developers explained that the scale of games like Final Fantasy VI, VIII, and IX would likely necessitate multiple installments for a remake.
Yoshida noted that remaking a game as expansive as Final Fantasy VI, for instance, would "probably end up having to release them in four or maybe even five installments." This approach mirrors the strategy taken with the Final Fantasy VII Remake project, which is currently a trilogy.
Hamaguchi expressed gratitude for the team's dedication to the Final Fantasy VII Remake series, acknowledging that such long-term commitment is uncommon in the industry. He emphasized that remaking other titles is not a simple undertaking, stating, "I can't just sit here and go, 'Yeah, yeah, I'll remake [FF6],' because it's not quite that easy." Hamaguchi also clarified past speculation, stating he is not currently working on a Final Fantasy VI remake, despite rumors that often arise after he discusses the game.
A Glimpse at Final Fantasy 17?
During the same panel, a playful exchange between Yoshida and Hamaguchi hinted at future directorial possibilities. Yoshida mentioned that players have expressed a desire for Hamaguchi to direct Final Fantasy 17. When Hamaguchi began to respond, Yoshida humorously interjected, "No, no, don't!" This moment suggests that Hamaguchi's future projects, after the conclusion of the Final Fantasy VII Remake saga, might indeed involve the next mainline installment in the Final Fantasy series. The exchange has planted seeds of speculation among fans about Hamaguchi's potential involvement with Final Fantasy 17.