Final Fantasy 7 Remake's Streamlined Progression: A Complete Guide to the New Difficulty Mode
Square Enix has introduced several new difficulty options to Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade, with Streamlined Progression being the most significant addition. Originally launched with the Xbox and Nintendo Switch 2 ports, this feature is now available across PlayStation and PC platforms as well. It offers both new and returning players an alternative way to experience the game, shifting the focus more towards narrative enjoyment rather than challenging gameplay.
What Exactly Is Streamlined Progression in FF7 Remake?
Streamlined Progression functions essentially as a 'god mode' for the game, making combat encounters almost trivial and virtually eliminating the risk of player death. This comprehensive difficulty setting dramatically alters core gameplay mechanics to facilitate a smoother, faster progression through the story.
Here are the primary changes you can expect when activating Streamlined Progression:
- Permanent Maximum HP and MP - Your characters maintain full health at all times, even when taking hits, and spellcasting consumes no MP resources.
- Unlimited ATB and Limit Gauges - You gain complete freedom to use any unlocked abilities whenever you choose, without waiting for gauge fills.
- Consistent 9999 Damage Output - Every attack delivers maximum damage, allowing most enemies to be defeated with a single strike.
- Accelerated Experience Gains - You receive double EXP and triple AP, speeding up character and materia development significantly.
- Instant Weapon Ability Unlocks - Weapon abilities become permanently available immediately upon meeting their unlock requirements.
- Maximum Gil Resources - You gain infinite money, enabling early acquisition of top-tier equipment and items.
- Unlimited Recovery Items - Your inventory maintains constant supplies of Potions, Hi-Potions, and other healing items.
- Maximised Materia Levels - All materia starts at its maximum level from the beginning of your playthrough.
These substantial modifications transform the gaming experience entirely. Players who have experimented with this mode report that it can reduce a typical 40-hour playthrough to approximately 10 hours when combined with skipping cutscenes. This efficiency naturally raises important questions about who this mode is designed for and whether players should consider using it.
Who Should Consider Using Streamlined Progression?
The primary audience for Streamlined Progression appears to be returning players embarking on subsequent playthroughs. If you have already mastered the combat systems and simply wish to revisit the narrative in a condensed format, activating this mode could provide an ideal solution.
Additionally, this feature serves as an excellent accessibility tool for players who struggle with complex video game controls or challenging combat mechanics. By removing the fear of failure and progression resets, it opens the game to a wider audience who might otherwise find certain sections frustrating or inaccessible.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
For first-time players, however, enabling Streamlined Progression is generally not recommended. The combat system represents a fundamental aspect of what makes Final Fantasy 7 Remake such a compelling experience. Using these simplified settings from the outset would deprive newcomers of the strategic depth and satisfaction that comes from mastering the game's battle mechanics.
Furthermore, certain Streamlined Progression settings may affect trophy acquisition, potentially locking players out of specific achievements. It is advisable to check individual trophy requirements before activating these options if completionist goals are important to you.
Customisation and Final Recommendations
The system does offer considerable flexibility, as many Streamlined Progression attributes can be toggled independently. Players who desire challenging combat but appreciate unlimited financial resources, for example, can activate only the Max Gil setting while leaving other difficulty enhancements disabled.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and gaming objectives. Players with limited time who prioritise story experience over combat challenge may find Streamlined Progression invaluable. Conversely, those who relish tactical battles and gradual character progression will likely prefer to keep these settings deactivated for a more traditional gaming experience.
As with any difficulty option, the best approach is to select settings that align with your individual playstyle and available time commitment, ensuring your journey through Midgar remains enjoyable and engaging throughout.
