Final Fantasy Tactics Rebuilt from Scratch, Prioritizing Original Vision for modern Audiences
IRVINE, CA – july 21, 2025 - Square Enix is breathing new life into the beloved tactical RPG Final Fantasy Tactics, but unlike the extensive remake of Final fantasy VII, the team behind Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles opted for a meticulous recreation rather than a full reinvention.The project presented a unique challenge: the original master data files and source code for the 1997 PlayStation classic are no longer available, forcing developers to rebuild the game’s core components from the ground up.
Director Hiroshi Minagawa (referred to as Maehiro in original sources) explained the team began by identifying areas where the original game felt “a little clunky or less intuitive,” then focused on reconstructing those elements wiht modern improvements. These include a clearer combat timeline displaying turn order.
While a full remake, mirroring the multi-year Final Fantasy VII project, was considered, Maehiro ultimately vetoed the idea. he believes the original Final Fantasy Tactics‘ “very charming pixel style artwork, as well as the 3D isometric maps” were integral to its identity and didn’t want to lose those defining characteristics.
This commitment to the original vision extends to content choices. Despite previous iterations like Final Fantasy Tactics: War of the Lions (2007) for the PlayStation Portable adding new jobs and characters – including Balthier from Final Fantasy XII – these additions were deliberately excluded from The Ivalice Chronicles. “Our first and foremost goal here really was to recreate the original game,” Maehiro stated.
However, the team isn’t ruling out the possibility of incorporating features from War of the Lions in the future. Maehiro acknowledged fan demand and said that additional content could be explored “if the game does well.”
The success of The Ivalice Chronicles could also pave the way for further installments in the Final Fantasy Tactics universe. “If [The Ivalice chronicles] were to become a success,” Maehiro said, “I do feel that that would then lead to discussions around potentially bringing out sequels, for example, or newer tactical RPGs.”
Final Fantasy Tactics, originally released during a period when preserving game source code wasn’t standard practice, remains a critically acclaimed title known for its complex political narrative and strategic gameplay. This new release aims to reintroduce that classic experience to a modern audience while honoring the game’s original spirit.
