Square Enix has announced plans for an updated version of Final Fantasy VII on Steam, replacing the one that came out in 2013. Good news for those who have the old version: you’ll get the new one at no extra cost, and will retain access to the 2013 version, too.
Unfortunately, there’s no information yet about what the new version will change, or when it’s coming out. All we know at this point is that it’s a significant enough update to warrant a separate Steam app (rather than simply patching the existing version), and that save data won’t be compatible between the two versions.
When the new version releases, the old one will be renamed Final Fantasy VII – 2013 Edition and will no longer be available for purchase. However, existing owners will keep the 2013 Edition in their Steam library, as well as getting the new version for free. The 2013 version is the same one that is also available on most other platforms (Switch, PS4, Xbox, Android, iOS), so it’ll be interesting to see if those versions get updated as well.
This update might also explain the notable absence of Final Fantasy VII from a recent Final Fantasy drop on GOG.com. A few days ago, the preservation-focused retailer added Final Fantasy III (3D Remake), Final Fantasy VI (3D Remake), Final Fantasy VIII Remastered, and Final Fantasy IX to its GOG Preservation Program, guaranteeing compatibility on modern hardware, tech support, and DRM-free access to purchased games. Those four are all based on their Steam versions, so it’d make sense to wait for the new version.
Here’s the full announcement from Square Enix:
To our FINAL FANTASY VII community,
We will be releasing a new version of FINAL FANTASY VII on Steam.
Following the launch of this new version, the current version will be renamed FINAL FANTASY VII – 2013 Edition.
Please review the below information to understand how this update will affect existing owners:
Availability of Versions
- When the new version launches, FINAL FANTASY VII – 2013 Edition will no longer be available for purchase on the Steam Store.
- Existing owners will continue to have access to FINAL FANTASY VII – 2013 Edition in their library.
- The new version will be listed on the Steam Store as FINAL FANTASY VII.
Access for Existing Owners
- All players who already own the 2013 Edition are eligible to access the new version at no additional cost.
- Both versions will remain accessible in the owner’s Steam Library once the new version is released.
Save Data Information
- Save data will not be compatible between the two versions.
- 2013 Edition saves will only work with the 2013 Edition.
- New version saves will only work with the new version.
Thank you for your continued support of FINAL FANTASY VII.
