The co-director of Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Naoki Hamaguchi, has spoken out about the newly announced “Streamlined Progression” feature, a gameplay adjustment that has stirred up plenty of discussion within the Final Fantasy community. While some players have expressed concern that this update could make the game too easy, Hamaguchi insists that it’s designed with accessibility and player freedom in mind — not to diminish the challenge.
Originally released in 2020, Final Fantasy 7 Remake revitalized the beloved classic with a modern combat system and cinematic storytelling. Following its expanded Intergrade version in 2021, the title is set to arrive on Xbox Series X/S and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 in January 2026. Alongside the launch, the game will introduce the Streamlined Progression system — a suite of optional features that allow players to customize their experience through cheat-like mechanics.
The new system includes options such as infinite HP and MP, a permanently full Limit and ATB gauge, and attacks that always deal maximum (9999) damage. Each of these can be toggled on or off independently, giving players full control over how they wish to approach battles. While some fans worry that these features could trivialize combat, Hamaguchi argues they’re more about convenience and accessibility.
In an interview with Automaton, Hamaguchi admitted that the idea was “controversial from the start,” but explained the reasoning behind it:
“We wanted players who might be new to the franchise — or simply don’t have time to grind — to still experience the story and the world we’ve built without feeling overwhelmed.”
He also shared that, as someone who plays many modern games himself, he understands the feeling of wanting to explore more titles without getting stuck on repetitive sections. “Sometimes I wish I could use debug functions in other games,” Hamaguchi joked. This personal frustration inspired the development of Streamlined Progression, allowing players to experience more of the game on their own terms.
Importantly, Hamaguchi clarified that this isn’t a feature being carelessly implemented across the board. Because Final Fantasy 7 Remake has been available for several years, he and the team at Square Enix felt comfortable adding this system now — well after its original release. Launching it in a brand-new game, he admitted, could lead to issues like early spoilers or diminished excitement for challenging boss encounters.
For returning fans who want to replay Final Fantasy 7 Remake without repeating the grind, or who just want to relive the story before Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, the Streamlined Progression system offers a flexible way to do so. And for purists? Nothing changes — every toggle is optional, meaning the traditional combat experience remains intact.
With Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth continuing the trilogy and a final installment still to come, Square Enix seems focused on ensuring every player can experience Cloud’s journey at their own pace. Whether you’re a newcomer to the series or a long-time veteran, the new Streamlined Progression system makes sure the path through Midgar is yours to define.
