Final Fantasy VII Rebirth - Switch 2 Preview

Just the other week, I was lucky enough to be invited to Bandai Namco AU's offices in Sydney to go hands-on with Final Fantasy VII Rebirth on Nintendo Switch 2. I played a demo version in handheld mode and boy, let me tell you, I was pretty impressed!

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth released exclusively for the PlayStation 5 back in 2024 and then on Steam in 2025. The Nintendo Switch 2 received a port of Final Fantasy VII Remake Integrade (which I reviewed and gave a 9/10) and while this was the PS5 port, it was still a game that originally launched back on PS4 in 2020, so it didn't seem as much of a stretch. But with Rebirth, a grander, more open experience that never received a PS4 release... how was that to fare on Nintendo's new hardware?

A Capable Way to Enjoy the Trilogy

I'll say this right now: if you would like to experience the first entry and its sequel solely on Nintendo Switch 2, then you wouldn't be missing out on much. The game runs seemingly at 30 frames per second (quite like the first entry) and it was fairly stable for the majority of my playthrough.

I began my playthrough at the very start of the game and was then taken to the iconic moments of Sephiroth's backstory being retold by Cloud at the inn. I actually haven't played Rebirth yet, as I was waiting for the Nintendo Switch 2 version, so I can't compare them personally, but this upcoming Switch 2 version seems to handle itself as competently as the first entry in more controlled and confined sections.

Some Expected Compromises

Well look, you knew this section was coming. And while I can say that the sections I played ran well at a mostly consistent 30 frames per second, it did dip on occasion, more so than the first entry. The aliasing on the hair is as prominent as ever (which is a crime to Sephiroth's luxurious do) and in more open areas, I could definitely see the compromises to faraway objects.

The pop-in was also quite significant, and this wasn't even in the open area sections. This is quite similar to the first entry, but without seeing that big open space, it does provide some concern.

Final Thoughts

Despite my concerns about performance, I'm still optimistic about this port and what it means for future ports from Square Enix and other AAA games to come. This Nintendo Switch 2 version is a perfect way to play the second instalment if you only own a Nintendo Switch 2 or highly value native portability in your RPGs, like I do. Whilst cloud gaming (streaming, not the character) is improving each and every year, having a native version of a behemoth of a game packed into a Switch 2 is still something that surprises me, despite being a day-one Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 adopter. And with a demo to try out now with your save data transfering over to the full game, why not give it a try for yourself? However, it's just... poor Sephiroth's hair!

Thank you for checking out our Final Fantasy VII Rebirth Switch 2 preview, thank you to Bandai Namco AU for inviting us to try it our early and thank you to our Patreon Backers for their ongoing support:

• Andrew Caluzzi (Inca Studios / Camped Out)
• Bel Cubitt
• Bobby Jack
• Jack Caven
• Nintendo Maniacs
• RedHero