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The major trend with Square Enix Switch 2 releases as of late tend to involve better performance and appearance of existing games, and Crisis Core: FFVII Reunion is no exception. However, I will say this one feels a little more valuable in the same way the FFX | X-2 release did, compared to Star Ocean: The Second Story R. Things like frame rate make a bigger difference here, and it’s a help. Though, yet again, I do wish the company offered Upgrade Packs for updates instead of asking folks to buy the game again.
As a quick refresher, Crisis Core: FFVII Reunion is a prequel to the larger Final Fantasy VII story much like Before Crisis. (I’m never going to not acknowledge that game.) We follow Zack Fair as he becomes a SOLDIER First Class and takes missions alongside currently-a-hero Sephiroth and other major players Angeal and Genesis. By going through the story, we get a better idea of what people inside Shinra go through. Everything leads up to the notorious Nibelheim incident.
So the most noticeable thing about Crisis Core: FFVII Reunion is the appearance. Whether you go with Graphics or Performance (both are possible), it runs at 1440p. This is a marked improvement from the 720p on the original Switch. The character models and textures definitely benefit from it, and it’s a notable improvement.
This isn’t to say the improved frame rate doesn’t help. Going with the Graphics Crisis Core FFVII Reunion Switch 2 option locks things at 30fps, which matches the original Switch frame rate. But if you pick Performance, it will be at 60fps now. It’s very noticeable and very stable. This means it’s also on par with other console versions, which helps make it a more viable option if someone is picking between, say, PS5 or Switch 2. Pair that with better loading, and it’s really moving well.
I’m also never going to be mad about greater accessibility when it comes to games. Given Crisis Core: FFVII originally appeared as a PSP exclusive in something of a walled garden, seeing it everywhere possible is always a boon. (Especially since the FFVII Ever Crisis retelling will also disappear soon.) Never again. This is widely available.
Likewise, it’s handy with the FFVII remake trilogy making its home on the Switch 2. Especially given the increased importance of Zack in that expanded storyline. Giving Switch 2 owners who missed the 2022 Switch release a chance to choose which option they want is handy.
So yes, the Switch 2 version of Crisis Core: FFVII Reunion doesn’t feel as unnecessary as some other releases for the platform. It’s completing the FFVII compendium. The improved resolution and frame rate feel noticeable. It’s running better. If someone doesn’t already own it, it’s one of the easier recommendations to make.
Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion is on the Switch, Switch 2, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and PC. The original game appeared on the PSP, and the storyline showed up in FFVII Ever Crisis.
