Image credit: Sqaure Enix
Director Naoki Hamaguchi has confirmed that players will be able to select the higher difficulty during their first playthrough, changing the structure used in Final Fantasy VII Remake and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, where Hard Mode became available after completing the story. Final Fantasy VII Revelation will launch with Hard Mode unlocked.
Speaking to Hardcore Gamer during TGS 2026, Hamaguchi explained that the decision reflects Revelation’s revised game design and broader selection of post-game activities. The third part will therefore avoid depending on another Hard Mode playthrough to provide its end-game challenges, while still offering an option for players who want demanding battles from the beginning. Other reports corroborate Hamaguchi’s announcement.
Why Hard Mode will be available immediately with Final Fantasy VII Revelation
Therefore, players who want to tackle challenging battles and high-difficulty gameplay right from the beginning can enjoy that experience from their very first playthrough. Hamaguchi said, “[…] Hard Mode does indeed exist in REVELATION, however, it won’t function in the exact same way as it did in REMAKE and REBIRTH. Hard Mode will return, but its rules and place within the progression system have been reconsidered. In REVELATION, we’ve reimagined the high-difficulty experience to align with the new game design. Hard Mode is selectable from the very start of this game. The change separates the initial difficulty choice from the game’s post-story progression. Players can begin on Hard Mode, while additional content will remain available after the main narrative has been completed.