Final Fantasy 7 Revelation discs need release date downloads, frustrating physical gamers

Final Fantasy 7 Revelation director Naoki Hamaguchi said he was striving to accommodate physical game supporters. Now that the title’s April 8th release date is public and pre-orders have begun, buyers know the format. While the RPG ships on Xbox and PS5 discs, a download is mandatory before playing.

A Square Enix page highlighting pre-order options includes the disclaimer. Xbox and PlayStation console owners won’t be able to explore the planet of Gaia without an internet connection. Switch 2 users are in the same boat, since the remake trilogy's conclusion uses a Game-Key Card. Once an initial download is complete, offline play is available.

Despite Hamaguchi arranging a physical release, many fans feel disappointed. On the PS5, Remake and Rebirth were spread across two Blu-rays. Only the first disc had to stay in the drive during gameplay, while the second contained installation files. Yet, gamers lacking early access have to rely on servers on the Final Fantasy 7 Revelation release date.

How big is Revelation?

A larger file size may be why Square Enix decided against multiple Xbox Series X and PS5 discs. Rebirth was already massive at around 145 GB, but its follow-up is set in a vaster open world. It’s unclear how much space Revelation will consume on storage, although Switch 2 listings offer a clue. At 130 GB, installations on other consoles are likely more imposing.

Even with the limitations some physical games introduce, critics say the publisher is cost-cutting. They argue developers could have found a way to fit the game on a pair of Blu-rays. The compromise saves on printing, packaging, and shipping costs before PlayStation completes its digital transition in early 2028. Future Final Fantasy games look destined for disc-less distribution.

On the plus side, Final Fantasy 7 Revelation pre-orders include choices with physical bonuses. The $350 Collector’s Edition tempts fans with statues of central characters like Cloud. This configuration also bundles a Steelbook, artbook, and soundtrack CD.