Final Fantasy 7 Remake is by no means an easy game on either normal or classic difficulty, but there are always those players that are looking for more of a challenge. For hardcore gamers that want to get more replayability out of the game, they should turn to the game's hard mode.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake does feature a hard mode, but it must first be unlocked before being accessed, and even then it is more than just a standard difficulty increase. In order to unlock Final Fantasy 7's hard mode, the player must first beat the game on any of the three base difficulties.
It should be noted that one cannot start a new game on hard mode even after unlocking it, as it is restricted to chapter select and must use a completed save file. This is good though, as the extreme difficulty spike in hard mode assumes that the player has already taken the time to beat Final Fantasy 7.
Because the feature is tied to the chapter select and previously cleared save data, the player will maintain all the things they earned during their first playthrough. This includes level, experience, gil, items, materia, and more, but that doesn't mean things will be easy. Hard mode will push players to the brink of their capabilities with its harsh restrictions and difficult enemies, forcing even seasoned players to take a different approach to challenges and think outside the box occasionally. Of course, this comes with the added benefit of increased rewards and new weapon manuscripts.
In Final Fantasy 7 Remake's hard mode, items are completely disabled both in and out of combat. This means that rather than relying on potions to heal the party, the player will be limited to heal spells and resting. Likewise, Phoenix Downs will be restricted as well, making reviving fallen party members much more difficult. Furthermore, resting only restores HP, meaning managing MP will be extremely important on a hard mode playthrough. Bosses also have new techniques and attack patterns, so players will need to study them carefully before going in for damage. All of this is to say that a much more tactical approach is required to come out on top in hard mode.
Still, the added challenge and promise of new rewards is plenty to keep players coming back to Final Fantasy 7 Remake. Playing on hard mode is a great way to level up materia and characters, and provides an entertaining challenge as well.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake is available now exclusively for PS4.
Source: PushSquare