Introduction FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE is more than just a visual upgrade—it’s a refined, expanded version of the beloved reimagining of the original FFVII. With enhanced graphics, faster load times, and the exclusive INTERmission DLC featuring Yuffie Kisaragi, players are treated to a deeper dive into Midgar’s lore and gameplay systems. Whether you’re new to the remake or returning for the PS5 experience, this guide offers a comprehensive walkthrough of how to master every aspect of INTERGRADE—from combat mechanics and materia builds to mini-games and post-game challenges.

  1. Getting Started: Save Transfers and Performance Settings Before diving into INTERGRADE, ensure your save data from the PS4 version is properly transferred to the PS5. This allows you to retain progress and access the INTERmission DLC. The transfer process is manual and requires uploading from the PS4 version first.

Once in-game, choose between “Performance Mode” (60 FPS) and “Graphics Mode” (4K resolution). For smoother combat and exploration, Performance Mode is recommended. You can switch modes anytime from the settings menu.

Tips:

  • Upload PS4 save manually before downloading on PS5
  • Use Performance Mode for smoother gameplay
  • INTERmission is accessible from the main menu
  1. Combat Fundamentals and ATB Strategy Combat in INTERGRADE blends real-time action with tactical pauses. Each character builds ATB (Active Time Battle) gauges through basic attacks, which are then used for abilities, spells, and items. Managing ATB efficiently is key to success.

Yuffie’s combat style in INTERmission is unique—she can fight both at range and close quarters. Her synergy with Sonon allows for coordinated attacks and combo abilities. Use synergy mode to stagger enemies faster and unleash powerful finishers.

Combat Tips:

  • Build ATB with basic attacks
  • Use synergy mode for combo damage
  • Pause tactically to plan abilities
  1. Materia Management and Loadout Optimization Materia customization is central to character builds. Equip magic, support, command, and independent materia to enhance your party’s capabilities. In INTERmission, Yuffie gains access to exclusive materia like Ninja Cannonball and Skill Master.

Pair materia strategically—Magnify with Healing for group heals, or Elemental with Fire for bonus damage. Don’t forget to level up your materia through combat to unlock stronger effects and passive bonuses.

Materia Tips:

  • Pair support materia for synergy
  • Level up materia through battles
  • Use exclusive materia in INTERmission
  1. Weapon Upgrades and SP Allocation Each weapon has a unique skill tree. Use SP (Skill Points) to unlock stat boosts, new abilities, and passive traits. Yuffie’s weapons include the Boomerang and Steel Reaper, each offering different playstyles and strengths.

Focus on upgrading core stats like ATB speed, magic power, and defense. Unlock weapon abilities by using them in combat, then master them to retain the skill across all weapons. This allows flexibility in switching gear without losing key abilities.

Upgrade Tips:

  • Spend SP on ATB and magic boosts
  • Master weapon abilities for flexibility
  • Choose weapons based on combat needs
  1. Boss Battles and Stagger Mechanics Boss fights in INTERGRADE are cinematic and challenging. Use Assess materia to learn weaknesses and stagger conditions. Staggering enemies increases damage output and opens them to combo attacks.

In INTERmission, bosses like Ramuh and Weiss require precise timing and synergy. Use Sonon’s abilities to build stagger faster and unleash coordinated attacks. Don’t forget to use Limit Breaks when staggered for maximum damage.

Boss Tips:

  • Use Assess to learn weaknesses
  • Build stagger with synergy attacks
  • Save Limit Breaks for stagger windows
  1. Fort Condor Mini-Game Strategy Fort Condor is a strategic board game introduced in INTERmission. Players deploy units to destroy enemy bases while defending their own. Each unit has strengths and weaknesses—melee beats ranged, ranged beats defense, etc.

Upgrade boards and units using Condor Coins. Choose boards with balanced ATB generation and unit capacity. Use spells like Blizzard and Fire to control the battlefield and counter enemy pushes.

Fort Condor Tips:

  • Match unit types for advantage
  • Upgrade boards for better ATB
  • Use spells to control lanes
  1. Exploration and Collectibles Midgar is packed with hidden items, materia, and lore. Use the map to track chests, flyers, and side quests. In INTERmission, collect Happy Turtle flyers scattered across Sector 7 for rewards and gear.

Use Yuffie’s traversal abilities to reach high ledges and hidden areas. Revel in environmental storytelling and interact with NPCs for side missions and flavor dialogue. Exploration rewards include rare materia and gear upgrades.

Exploration Tips:

  • Use map markers for collectibles
  • Collect Happy Turtle flyers for gear
  • Talk to NPCs for side quests
  1. Shinra Combat Simulator and Post-Game Challenges After completing the main story and INTERmission, unlock the Shinra Combat Simulator. This arena offers high-level challenges including fights against Weiss and Pride and Joy Mk. 0.5.

Prepare with maxed-out materia, upgraded gear, and optimized loadouts. These fights test your mastery of combat mechanics and reward rare items and trophies. Use synergy and Limit Breaks strategically to overcome these trials.

Post-Game Tips:

  • Max out materia before entering
  • Use synergy and Limit Breaks wisely
  • Equip gear with high defense and ATB boosts
  1. Hard Mode Preparation and Strategy Hard Mode disables item use and increases enemy difficulty. Only fully leveled materia and strategic planning will get you through. Focus on healing spells, barrier materia, and MP conservation.

Use benches and Mako reactors to restore HP/MP. Equip gear that boosts MP regeneration and reduces spell costs. In Hard Mode, every decision matters—from spell timing to positioning.

Hard Mode Tips:

  • No items—rely on healing spells
  • Conserve MP and use benches
  • Equip MP-boosting gear and materia
  1. Trophy Hunting and 100% Completion INTERGRADE includes new trophies for INTERmission. Achievements like “Condor Queen” and “Corrupter of the Immaculate” require mastery of mini-games and combat simulators.

Track progress using the in-game menu and external guides. Complete all side quests, collect all materia, and defeat every optional boss to unlock platinum status. Trophy hunting adds replay value and showcases your mastery.

Trophy Tips:

  • Complete Fort Condor on Hard
  • Defeat Weiss in Combat Simulator
  • Collect all flyers and materia

Conclusion FINAL FANTASY VII REMAKE INTERGRADE is a masterclass in modern RPG design, blending cinematic storytelling with deep combat and exploration. From optimizing materia to conquering Hard Mode, this guide offers everything you need to become a true SOLDIER. Whether you're battling Shinra or collecting Happy Turtle flyers, the journey through Midgar is unforgettable—and now, you’re ready to master it.