Heads up: This article contains major spoilers for Final Fantasy VII.
Recently, the iconic JRPG, Final Fantasy VII, which originally debuted on the PS1, saw an intriguing update for its Nintendo Switch version. This update has lifted a previous restriction that blocked screen capture during specific cutscenes.
Switch users typically have the ability to utilize the capture button on their controllers, allowing them to snap screenshots or record a brief 30-second clip to share across social media or save to a mobile device. However, it’s worth noting that some Switch games, such as Xenoblade Chronicles 2, entirely lack video capture functionality. Meanwhile, titles like Persona 5 Royal restrict both screenshots and video recording during key moments within their narratives.
Final Fantasy VII has always fallen into this latter category, imposing a restriction during one of the game’s most iconic moments—a scene so renowned it almost doesn’t qualify as a spoiler:
The moment in question is the tragic demise of Aerith, the beloved flower seller. Sephiroth’s brutal act marks the end of Disc 1, setting a somber tone as Cloud and his friends continue their journey into Disc 2 without her presence.
Previously, players were unable to capture any of the cutscenes surrounding Aerith’s death or the dramatic conclusion of the first disc. However, with the release of version 1.03, this restriction is lifted, allowing fans to document and share these pivotal scenes.
This change wasn’t exclusive to the Switch; similar restrictions on other platforms have also been removed. It’s speculated that the update could be related to the release of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth earlier this year, although details remain unclear.
