Final Fantasy VII Revelation: Director Reveals Why the New Job System is Limited
Director Naoki Hamaguchi explains why Final Fantasy VII Revelation features a limited job system, citing the immense complexity of modern AAA game development.
The upcoming conclusion to the Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy, titled Final Fantasy VII Revelation, is set to introduce a unique gameplay mechanic: the FITS (Function Integrated Tactical Suitwear) system. While fans of the series are excited about the return of a classic job-based structure, director Naoki Hamaguchi has revealed that the development team faced significant constraints, leading to a much more limited selection of jobs than in previous titles.
The Reality of Modern AAA Development
In a recent interview during the Final Fantasy XIV Fan Festival in Berlin, Hamaguchi addressed the disparity between current production standards and those of the 90s. While older titles like Final Fantasy V could boast over 20 distinct jobs, FF7 Revelation will feature only four FITS per character. According to Hamaguchi, the modern standard for AAA titles makes the inclusion of dozens of job classes an 'irrealistic' endeavor. Unlike the 16-bit era, where changing a job meant swapping a simple sprite, modern implementation requires bespoke character models, unique animations, and intricate combat balancing for every single class.
Strategic Depth Over Quantity
Despite the reduction in the sheer number of jobs, the development team argues that this focus on quality ensures each FITS feels distinct and impactful. The system is designed to provide players with deep strategic layers without compromising the individual identity of characters like Cloud and Tifa. While players will not be able to swap jobs in the heat of battle, the variety offered by the four available FITS per character—spread across a cast of eight playable heroes—is expected to significantly expand tactical options during encounters.
Future Expectations
Naoki Hamaguchi emphasized that creating such complex systems in a high-fidelity environment is a task of immense difficulty, noting that only live-service titles like Final Fantasy XIV have the continuous update cycles necessary to support a vast, ever-expanding roster of jobs. Final Fantasy VII Revelation is currently scheduled for release in the spring of 2027, with support planned for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC.
