Like all things in the world, development of video games has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and upcoming releases both big and small have been affected in various ways, from extended development to delayed launches. Another game that seems to be feeling the impact of remote work requirements due to worldwide lockdowns is Final Fantasy 7 Remake’s sequel.
Speaking in an interview with The Guardian, producer Yoshinori Kitase talked about the pandemic and the situation it has created, then moving on to explain that though the development of Final Fantasy 7 Remake’s sequel has been affected, he doesn’t think that will have too much of an impact in the long term.
“I am pained and saddened to see so many people around the world suffering with the virus and even losing their live,” Kitase said. “When we set the release date for the game, nobody could have predicted a global pandemic like this, and the release of the game happening during this unprecedented situation has blindsided us.
“At this current time, the team are still making the next game via remote working. Our performance will temporarily drop below 100% efficiency because of this, but I do not think there should be a big impact in the long term. I sincerely hope that Final Fantasy VII Remake can provide those who are forced to endure the stress of living under lockdown a moment of relief and enjoyment in these trying times.”
Earlier this year, not long after Final Fantasy 7 Remake’s launch, Kitase confirmed that development on the sequel had already commenced, adding not long afterward that fans shouldn’t expect very drastic changes to the original game’s story in the sequels.