Final Fantasy 7 Revelation Will Include Option to Let Players Automatically Level Up Their Characters, but Not Everyone Is Happy About It

Final Fantasy 7 Revelation, the latest installment in the beloved franchise, will offer players the option to automatically level up their characters, according to director Naoki Hamaguchi. This feature aims to allow players to enjoy the story without the need to grind through battles or side quests. However, the announcement has sparked controversy within the gaming community.

Many critics argue that adding this feature makes the game overly "hand-holdy" and raises concerns about the development of patience and perseverance in young gamers. Veteran game artist TheCartelDel expressed his disapproval on X/Twitter, stating that games should teach perseverance, not eliminate it. Another user cautioned that providing such options may make the game less challenging for players.

Hamaguchi defended the decision, noting that the game contains a vast amount of side content, and some players may find themselves underleveled when attempting the main story. The option to automatically level up characters was introduced to ensure that all players can experience the story without unnecessary frustration.

Despite the heated debate, Hamaguchi acknowledged that the game offers various ways to navigate its expansive open world, such as using the Highwind, Chocobo, or walking on foot. The development team is working to strike a balance between providing guidance for those who struggle with exploration and allowing others to discover things on their own. The final verdict on the automatic level-up feature remains uncertain, with opinions divided on whether it's a positive development or an overcorrection in game design.