Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles Set for September 2025 Release on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2

Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, one of the most eagerly awaited remasters of 2025, is scheduled for release on September 30 for the Nintendo Switch 2 and the classic Nintendo Switch.

Developed by Square Enix, this modern overhaul revives the tactical RPG gem that first captivated audiences on the PlayStation in 1997, bringing a beloved strategy epic to a new generation on Nintendo hardware. The original Final Fantasy Tactics stands as a cornerstone in the tactical RPG genre, acclaimed for its deep gameplay, mature storytelling, and distinct visual style.

With the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 platforms boasting a growing library of remastered classics, the arrival of The Ivalice Chronicles further cements Square Enix's commitment to honoring its legacy while embracing modern gaming standards. In a recent interview published by the official PlayStation Blog, director Kazutoyo Maehiro, who served as event planner for the 1997 release, discussed the unique development challenges faced by the team during this ambitious remaster.

Maehiro revealed that the original source code for Final Fantasy Tactics had been lost due to the data management norms of the era.

At the time, teams would routinely overwrite previous code whenever bugs were fixed or new languages added, a process Maehiro described as typical given the lack of advanced resource management tools then available. Given the absence of the original source code, the development team initially considered using software emulation to bring the game to new hardware.

However, as Maehiro confirmed, they ultimately opted for a full rebuild.

"Emulation wouldn't have given us the control or fidelity needed to refine the experience for today's players, even if our goal was to replicate the original," Maehiro explained.

After thorough analysis, the team concluded that recreating the game from the ground up was the only way to deliver a version that could uphold modern playability standards while staying true to the spirit of the original. Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles aims to faithfully recreate the strategic depth and immersive world-building that defined the original, while adding enhanced visuals, an upgraded user interface, and numerous quality-of-life improvements.

These updates are designed to appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers alike, ensuring the game is accessible and engaging for all Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 users. Set for a global launch on September 30, 2025, via the Nintendo eShop and retail release, The Ivalice Chronicles further enriches the robust lineup of RPGs available on Nintendo platforms.

With director Kazutoyo Maehiro at the helm and Square Enix's storied legacy guiding the project, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is poised to be one of the standout releases of the year for tactical RPG enthusiasts.

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