Today, Square Enix has revealed the release date for Final Fantasy VIII Remastered. It's quite soon. We expected the game to release before the end of 2019, but you're actually going to be able to play it next month as Final Fantasy VIII Remastered released on September 3.Like the Final Fantasy VII remaster before it, the new version of Final Fantasy VIII will have a triple speed mode, a battle assist mode (max HP and ATB), and an ability to turn off random encounters. The Steam version of the game will also come equipped with a number of other cheat codes. It's odd that these options are Steam-exclusive, but this game ought to run on a toaster, so hopefully everyone who wants to will be able to try them out. Check them out below:

• All Items: Possess all items except for a few certain items.
• All Abilities: Unlock all abilities for acquired GFs.
• GF Max Level: Max out levels for all acquired Gfs.
• Max Gil: Max out amount of Gil.
• Max Magic: Max out stock for all acquired Magic.
• All Limit Breaks: Unlock all Limit Breaks.
• All Cards: Possess max number of Cards for all except Rare Cards.

Of these, I feel like the real darling is the "Max Magic" ability. I like Final Fantasy VIII's junctioning system, but the way it forces you to draw the same magic from enemies again and again is tedious. Being able to just instantly max out your draw levels will be a huge improvement. I'm also interested in acquiring All Cards for free, but I'm afraid that I wouldn't appreciate having them if I didn't earn them. I'd also regret not having had more opportunity to tap my foot to the Triple Triad music. Whatever--having the option will be nice.

The remaster also features some nice graphical improvements. It is now compatible with a Full HD (1920 x 1080) display, and it has even implemented new character models. Rinoa always thought of Squall as a dreamboat, but now he will actually look the part.

Pre-orders are available now here. Final Fantasy VIII Remastered releases for PS4, Switch, Xbox One, and PC on September 3.