Conquer Final Fantasy VII Remake's Hard Mode with expert strategies. Learn MP management, Materia setups, and combat tactics to overcome tougher enemies and challenges.
Walkthrough
- 1Load your clear save file and select Chapter 17.
- 2After exiting Aerith's room and defeating the Unknown Entities, speak to Chadley.
- 3Access the Shinra Combat Simulator via the path to the right.
- 4Complete the available Battle Challenges, especially those exclusive to Hard difficulty, to gain significant EXP and AP bonuses. This will help you reach Level 50 and master Materia before starting Hard Mode.
Tips
- MP Management: Use MP Absorption Materia linked to offensive spells. Aerith's Soul Drain absorbs MP from staggered enemies. Breakable boxes may contain Mako Shards for MP regeneration.
- Healing: Prayer Materia heals the party but costs 2 ATB. Chakra heals based on damage taken but is generally less effective.
- Materia Setup: Equip two MP Up Materia on at least two characters to double max MP. Two maxed Magic Up Materias boost Magic by 50%. Equip two maxed Luck Up Materias on Tifa to maximize her critical hit rate.
- Chapter 17 Challenges: These challenges offer double EXP and triple AP, making them ideal for preparation.
- Aerith vs. SOLDIER Trainees Setup Example:
- Weapon: Mythril Rod
- Armor: Chain Bangle
- Accessory: Fury Ring
- Materia: Fire, Lightning, Subversion, ATB Boost, MP Up, MP Up, Magic Up, Magic Up, First Strike
- Abilities: L1+Square (Breach), L1+Triangle (Arcane Ward), L1+Circle (Firaga), L1+X (Thundara)
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