Jamie C
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is NOT the only game with a Multi-Disc Release!
As of writing, the world has just received it’s first glance at some of the most anticipated and unexpected games coming in the coming months including Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, thanks to Summer Game Fest 2023. Full show here
However, there was one announcement that shocked the world and it wasn’t even a surprise reveal of a game fans have been begging for… but in fact was the Announcement that the sequel to 2020’s much loved JRPG; Final Fantasy VII Rebirth would be released in 2 discs!
With the advancements in Blu-ray disc storage and expectation that the missing game files would be simply downloaded via a Day One patch, it was a genuine shock and slightly amusing to see that the upcoming game, is so massive it requires 2 Blu-ray Discs.
But Multi-Discs games have existed from the beginning, so let’s take a look at some fan favourites;
Red Dead Redemption 2 – 2 Discs
Starting off strong is Rockstar Games’ magnum opus, Red Dead Redemption 2.
I remember buying the game new and being shocked to see it had 2 discs especially since we all came to expect Day One patches at this point, with some games not even starting unless you installed the Disc AND 100GB of download files.
Thankfully players who did not have the best internet connectivity were able to experience this masterpiece of storytelling where players were transported to the wild west with breath-taking visuals, a sprawling open world, and an epic tale of outlaws and redemption.
If you are still looking to delve into this world, you can buy it here.
Shadow Hearts: Covenant (PS2) – 2 Discs
Shadow Hearts: Covenant took players on a dark and enthralling journey through a twisted alternate history. With its mature storytelling, memorable characters, and unique Judgment Ring battle system, this JRPG masterpiece demanded two discs to fully realize its immersive and atmospheric world.
The first game may have only be on 1 disc, however Shadow Hearts 1 was actually a sequel to a PS1 game Koudelka and that released on FOUR DISCS. But, Shadow Hearts: Covenant is considered the best game in this series and also my personal favourite.
Final Fantasy VII (PS1) – 3 Discs
Coming full circle, is this legendary entry in the Final Fantasy series. What can be said that hasn’t already? Final Fantasy VII captivated players with its unforgettable characters, immersive world, and emotionally charged story.
Spanning three discs on the PlayStation 1, this ground-breaking RPG set the standard for cinematic storytelling and revolutionized the genre. Although the graphics are outdated by today’s standards, it’s story and gameplay still hold up and is still beloved to this day.
Shenmue 1 + 2 (Dreamcast) – 8 Discs
Shenmue 1 + 2 each release on 8 discs between them on the SEGA Dreamcast. Players were introduced to a meticulously crafted open world filled with interactive environments and a branching narrative with an unmatched influence that that is still being seen in games today.
These multi-disc games, set a new benchmark for immersive storytelling and cinematic experiences, captivating players with their attention to detail and realism.
Metal Gear Solid 1 (PS1) and The Twin Snakes (Gamecube) – 2 Discs and 2 Discs
Konami and Hideo Kojima’s Metal Gear Solid 1 and it’s Gamecube exclusive remake: The Twin Snakes, revolutionized stealth action gaming with its intricate plot, memorable characters, and ground-breaking cinematic presentation.
The game’s immersive story demanded two discs on the PlayStation 1 and GameCube respectively, setting a new standard for immersive storytelling in the medium.
Resident Evil – Code: Veronica (Dreamcast) – 2 Discs
Code: Veronica, originally released on the Dreamcast, continued the iconic survival horror franchise with its intense atmosphere, challenging puzzles, and suspenseful gameplay.
The game’s extensive content warranted two discs, providing players with hours of thrilling and terrifying experiences.
L.A. Noire (Xbox 360) – 3 Discs
Finally, another Rockstar game but we couldn’t forget L.A. Noire from this list. A game often requested by fans for a sequel, transported players to a meticulously recreated 1940s Los Angeles. With its blend of crime-solving, detective work, and moral ambiguity, the game pushed the boundaries of storytelling in an open-world setting.
Although the PS3 version only needed 1 Blu-Ray disc, the Xbox 360 version spanned three DVDs, but this just goes to showcase the depth this game had to offer.
