While many games are currently being delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Final Fantasy 7 Remake is moving forward. Square Enix likely had retail copies printed and already shipping by the time it realized a retail launch would be an incredible struggle. For its part, Square Enix is trying to get physical copies of Final Fantasy 7 Remake to fans, even going so far as allowing Australian and European stores to sell the game early. However, Square Enix has now confirmed digital copies will receive no such consideration.
Square Enix just recently updated its Frequently Asked Questions section regarding Final Fantasy 7 Remake. One listed question asks, "Some people have received their boxed copy," ... "why can't we play the digital version now?" Square Enix offers a multi-faceted reply, confirming that Final Fantasy 7 Remake's digital launch remains April 10 and won't be changing.
First, Square Enix makes clear that "the bulk of our shipments to retailers around the globe are still scheduled to arrive in stores for our April 10 street date." The bigger point for Square Enix is apparently a logistical one. Changing the digital release date would apparently lead to "logistical issues that could disrupt the digital launch for everyone." That answer's ambiguity likely isn't going to be enough for those hoping for an early digital launch.
The problem for Final Fantasy fans is that, due to physical copies of the game already being played, there's already a lot of spoiler discussion and leaked gameplay online. It's triggering both a Fear of Missing Out response as well as fear of having the game spoiled prior to it even being delivered.
While frustrations may be justified to a degree, the situation does demand empathy. The COVID-19 pandemic has rearranged expectations. Several regions have shut down stores that sell physical games entirely. Getting Final Fantasy 7 Remake out as retailers can manage is a meaningful effort.
The vast majority of gamers buying Final Fantasy 7 Remake will be acquiring it on April 10. As exciting as the prospect of getting it early might be, especially given the stressful state of things, it'd be worse for a lot of involved parties. As things stand, April 10 will still be a somewhat normal launch, with almost all buyers playing through the game at the same time. It might just require those waiting to dodge a lot of spoilers for a week, including from Square Enix's own Final Fantasy 7 Remake launch trailer.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake releases April 10 on PS4.