At the start of 2026, Xbox players are entitled to a big surprise: a free demo of Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is available, even for those who do not have a subscription Xbox Game Pass. “The critically acclaimed Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is currently available for free as a demo on Xbox, without a Game Pass subscription.” An operation that comes at just the right time to test this revisited cult title, while its full release on the Microsoft console is scheduled for January 22.
The first complete chapter is accessible in this trial version, allowing players to play as Cloud in his first hours of mission. And it’s not just a preview: progress can be retained for the full game, if purchased. “If you play the demo, you can actually keep your save file for the full version (with some restrictions), so your time spent on the demo won’t be wasted, and you can pick up where you left off.”
A faithful remake, reimagined for new players
Originally released on PlayStation, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade is an enriched version of the 2020 remake. It notably includes a new episode centered on Yuffieemblematic character of the FF7 universe. With graphical improvements substantial and a redesigned combat system, the game offers an ambitious reinterpretation of the cult RPG from 1997.
The developers have focused on Unreal Engine 4 to enhance the settings and make the action more fluid. The result won over the critics: 89 on Metacriticand a rave reception from the fans. For those who are still hesitant, the demo is the perfect opportunity to form an opinion before purchasing.
A strong link with the independent success Clair Obscur
The FF7 remake doesn’t just speak to nostalgic fans. It is also aimed at a new generation of players, particularly those who enjoyed Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, crowned GOTY. “The FF7 Remake is highly recommended for fans of the classic game, as well as fans of the GOTY-awarded hit indie Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, heavily influenced by FF7’s hybrid turn-based combat system.”
These two titles share the same ambition: to offer an immersive gaming experience, both strategic and visually stunning. The success of Clair Obscur helped to highlight the virtues of hybrid combatbetween real-time action and tactical RPG.
A limited availability window for this exclusive demo
The offer is generous, but limited in time. According to the latest information, there is no guarantee that the demo will remain available after the January 22, 2026official launch date of the full game on Xbox. “FF7 Remake Intergrade is currently available for pre-order on Xbox, and a free demo is playable now.”
It is therefore advisable not to delay too much. Because even if no official withdrawal date has been announced, the history of practices suggests that this opportunity could disappear as soon as the game is released. An event not to be missed for all fans of Japanese adventure.