Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster Nintendo Switch review

A pair of timeless classics make their arrival to the hottest home console on the market today. With new content and high definition graphics, old and new fans alike are poised to enjoy their arrival to a new generation. Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster is available now for the one and only Nintendo Switch.

Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster Details

Platform: Nintendo Switch
Reviewed on: Nintendo Switch
Developer: Square Enix
Publisher: Square Enix
Genre: Role-playing game
Modes: Single player
ESRB Rating: T (Teen)

Standing the test of time

At this point the original games that make up Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster collection are nearly 2 decades old. Originally releasing on the PlayStation 2, they still hold up surprisingly well though. In an age where so many titles from the late 90’s and early 00’s show their growing pains so egregiously, somehow Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster manages to retain so much of its charm and appeal.

Even if certain aspects such as its combat mechanics or capacity for audio lip-syncing have long since been surpassed, Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster’s engaging story and lovable characters still hold strong. Its roots may be made bare, but it still serves as an important moment in the timeline of this monumental franchise.

For the most part I was simply very happy to be back in a familiar story with mechanics that still feel familiar after all these years. Sure, I have my share of nitpicks with the way things have aged. I’m really not a fan of the Sphere Grid that one must utilize for new attributes and upgrades. It’s cumbersome, unnecessarily complicated, and frankly hard to even make out in its poorly lit grey monotone.

Nonetheless I still can’t help but smile each time I dive back into this world. The Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster collection features games that were just so innovative for the series, and would ultimate shape the direction it would take in years to come.

The best place to play

The Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster collection has seen multiple platforms already prior to making its way to Nintendo Switch. Nevertheless, in my opinion there is no better place to play it right now. The game runs incredibly smoothly and it looks almost immaculate when you factor in its age.

Last but not least, you simply can’t beat the ability to play both at home on the big screen as well as on the go with Switch’s always fantastic portable functionality. And with easily over 100+ hours of game time in this package, you’ll definitely be wanting to keep the adventure going wherever you are.

What’s new

If you haven’t played either of these titles since their original release, you’re in for a treat. The Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster collection definitely does not fall into the category or a lazy port. Significant upgrades ensure these games are a refreshing new take for returning fans. At the same time, these laudable upgrades also render Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster more appealing for newcomers as well.

For starters, every aspect of these games benefit from enhanced HD graphics. Everything from character models to environments to cutscenes gets an HD facelift that frankly makes them look stunning in comparison to the original. The high level of quality in its HD facelift makes Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster an absolute pleasure to visit—whether for a bit of nostalgia or for the very first time.

The Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster collection also features additional content from across all international releases of the original. This means extra options, optional bosses, and even new minigames. All this content really packs in the value in a collection that already exceeds over 100 hours of quality gameplay.

Finally, the Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster collection also includes a full reworking of the audio and soundtrack for both games. You’ll be able to choose between this newer version and the classic original audio. The best part however is that you don’t need to commit one way or the other. Players can switch freely between both versions of game audio.

Prepare for space and bandwidth

One feature of this release that may not sit well with all Nintendo Switch owners is the nature of the collection itself. In North America, it’s important to note that both games in the Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster collection are not on the physical cartridge. In fact, the entire second game is download-only.

For many this may not be an issue, but for others it could be quite disappointing. Aside from simply wanting to know that both titles are preserved on the cartridge forever, players must also consider capacity and bandwidth issues.

Firstly, the game takes up nearly 30 GB of install space. That’s enough to put a tight squeeze on a growing library considering the potential for limited space on player’s SD cards.  Make sure you plan accordingly.

Second, this means that players must access a large chunk or the collection via download. Again, not an issue for some—but those with a bandwidth limit or poor internet connections may feel the pain a little bit. So be sure to take these factors into account when purchasing a physical copy of Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster.

Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster is a collection or timeless classics that play best today on Nintendo Switch

I’ve played Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster on other consoles, but never have I enjoyed it so much as on the Nintendo Switch. Not only does it look great and run smoothly, but the option to take this epic tale with me wherever I go simply tops all. I love this story and these characters, and I can’t wait to continue through the vast scope of gameplay available.

The one caveat to bear in mind with this release however is its treatment of the cartridge itself. The second game is not actually on the cartridge, and rather must be downloaded directly to the console. Make sure your SD card has space to keep the entire collection right at your fingertips.

+ Two timeless classics in the Final Fantasy franchise
+ Gorgeous HD upgrades across all aspects
+ New and classic audio tracks

– Second game is downloadable-only, not actually on the cartridge
– A few signs of age, such as a convoluted and hard to view Sphere Grid

OVERALL ASSESSMENT OF FINAL FANTASY X/X-2 HD REMASTER

Gameplay: 4/5
Graphics: 4/5
Sound: 4.5/5
Lasting Appeal/Replayability: 4.5/5

Overall Rating 4.3/5 (85%)

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