Tag: Square Enix

  • Surprising New Game Launches on Nintendo Switch 2

    Surprising New Game Launches on Nintendo Switch 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Game Announcement: Square Enix revealed Octopath Traveler 0 during the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase for the Nintendo Switch 2.

    2. Original Storyline: The game features a completely new plot where players rebuild a devastated hometown.

    3. Turn-Based Combat: Players will face formidable foes using a turn-based fighting system with a variety of character skills.

    4. Visual Design: The game retains the HD-2D aesthetics from previous series entries, blending pixel art with modern graphics and detailed environments.

    5. Release & Pre-order: Octopath Traveler 0 will launch on December 4, 2025, and is available for pre-order at $49.99 on the Square Enix website.


    The Nintendo Switch 2 keeps adding more video games to its lineup, much to the joy of gamers globally. Recently, during the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase, a new game was unexpectedly revealed.

    A Surprise from Square Enix

    It was Square Enix that took the spotlight with this announcement. Following the success of the two Octopath Traveler games, it’s now time for Octopath Traveler 0 to debut on the new console. However, there are several noteworthy changes to mention.

    A Fresh Storyline

    The narrative will be completely original, letting players dive into an engaging and unexpected plot. For instance, you will control a character who embarks on a quest to rebuild his hometown after it has been entirely devastated.

    Overcoming Challenges

    As you can guess, numerous threats will try to stop you, including formidable foes that you must overcome to progress in your journey. The new title has a turn-based fighting system, offering a vast selection of character skills. Additionally, you will navigate a fragmented world filled with twists and turns, facing various obstacles that will sometimes leave you on edge.

    When it comes to the graphics and visual design, it stays true to the previous games in the series. The HD-2D aesthetics provide a smooth combination of nostalgic pixel art and contemporary graphics. The environments are rich in detail, allowing you to appreciate a vibrant world, no matter the time or location. Plus, the lighting effects are well-executed, adding depth to the visuals.

    Release and Pre-order Details

    Octopath Traveler 0 is set to launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 on December 4, 2025, giving you ample time to dive in. If you’re still using the first Nintendo Switch, you can still enjoy it, though you might face a less enjoyable visual display because of the older console’s limitations. Lastly, this game can already be pre-ordered on the Square Enix website for $49.99.

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  • Zidane Figure Sparks Hope After Final Fantasy 9 Remake Rumors

    Zidane Figure Sparks Hope After Final Fantasy 9 Remake Rumors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Square Enix has not confirmed a remake of Final Fantasy 9, but the game is still receiving attention.
    2. A new figure of the main character, Zidane, suggests that a remake could still be in development.
    3. Leaker NateTheHate2 mentioned that the remake project might face cancellation, focusing instead on more popular Final Fantasy titles.
    4. An 18-page Famitsu magazine article features Zidane and includes interviews with the original game’s creators, hinting at ongoing interest in the franchise.
    5. Major gaming events, such as Gamescom and the Tokyo Game Show, may present opportunities for announcements regarding the potential remake.


    Square Enix’s 25th Anniversary celebration has not yet confirmed a remake of Final Fantasy 9. Nonetheless, the game is still getting attention, as Famitsu recently showcased it on its cover. A newly designed figure of the main character, Zidane, might hint that a remake could still be in the works.

    The absence of any announcement regarding the Square Enix title isn’t surprising to the leaker NateTheHate2. Just before the anniversary on July 7th, he disclosed that the project faced possible cancellation. Still, the company is focused on its more popular Final Fantasy titles.

    New Figure Revealed

    According to Twisted Voxel and shared by Genki on social media, there’s a fresh addition to the Play Arts Shin figure series. This Zidane collectible features some distinct changes from earlier versions of the character. Customers can also customize the figure with different poses, weapons, and other accessories.

    The updated Zidane also appears on the cover of Famitsu magazine. An 18-page article, complete with interviews from the original game’s creators, accompanies the artwork. The phrase “Once more, to the place of memories” ignites the hope that Square Enix hasn’t put the Final Fantasy 9 remake on hold.

    Possibility of Cancellation

    There’s a chance that the character redesign was meant to be used before the potential cancellation of the remake. A 2021 leak from Nvidia GeForce Now included it in a lengthy list of games, many of which turned out to be true. NateTheHate2 suggested that the title had been in the works before issues started to arise.

    Unfortunately, major gaming events have taken place without any updates on the Square Enix project. One such event is the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase, which did show gameplay from Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles. If the Final Fantasy 9 remake is still alive, Gamescom on August 20th or the Tokyo Game Show in September may provide the next chance for an announcement.

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  • Japanese Survey Raises Concerns for Square Enix and Final Fantasy

    Japanese Survey Raises Concerns for Square Enix and Final Fantasy

    Key Takeaways

    1. The average age of gamers in Japan is 30, with notable older players for franchises like Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy, averaging 42 years old.
    2. Square Enix continues to invest in its older titles despite acknowledging sales shortfalls in 2025.
    3. Final Fantasy 16 did not attract as broad an audience as earlier games, while remakes like Final Fantasy 7 Remake appealed to nostalgic players.
    4. New gamers in Japan prefer multiplayer games on mobile platforms, with Brawl Stars being particularly popular among younger audiences.
    5. Nintendo effectively engages both younger and older gamers, with titles like Splatoon, Mario, and Pokémon appealing to diverse age groups.


    GEM Partners conducted a survey involving 180,000 gamers in Japan, shedding light on age and gender demographics. The general average age of 30 may not be striking, but there are some interesting findings. Notably, the oldest participants were fans of Square Enix games, particularly titles like Final Fantasy, which don’t seem to attract younger players.

    Age of Players

    The survey indicates that the average age for players of Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy is 42. These franchises, which started in 1986-87, naturally have a loyal, older fan base. Nevertheless, Square Enix continues to invest in these games, with both remasters and new releases on the horizon. However, the company acknowledged in 2025 that it was falling short of its sales targets.

    Recent Game Releases

    In 2023, Square Enix shared insights on Final Fantasy 16, the latest main entry in the series. A subsequent financial report revealed that this action RPG failed to capture as wide an audience as earlier titles. While games such as Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth resonated with nostalgic players, they did not significantly alter the average age of gamers surveyed in Japan.

    Additional Insights

    The GEM Partners report contains a wealth of other information worth exploring. As noted by the Kultur website, new gamers tended to favor multiplayer games on mobile platforms. The MOBA title Brawl Stars was particularly popular, with an average player age of 18.

    Nintendo’s Switch and Switch 2 titles also enjoy substantial popularity in Japan. The company is well-known for appealing to both younger and older audiences with its family-friendly games. Players of Splatoon average 27 years old, while fans of Mario and Pokémon are typically in their early 30s. These findings highlight Nintendo’s ability to engage various demographic groups.

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  • Life is Strange Collection Release Date Announced for PS5

    Life is Strange Collection Release Date Announced for PS5

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new Life is Strange Collection featuring five games is set to be released on October 2, 2025.
    2. Pre-orders for the collection are now open at a price of $59.99 on the Square Enix website.
    3. The collection includes Life is Strange, Life is Strange: Before the Storm, Life is Strange 2, Life is Strange: True Colors, and Life is Strange: Double Exposure.
    4. Only Life is Strange: True Colors and Life is Strange: Double Exposure will be available on CD; the first three titles require a download code.
    5. The collection includes all downloadable content (DLC) from the games, but Xbox and Nintendo Switch players will not have access to it.


    Fans of the Life is Strange series will be thrilled to learn that a collection featuring five games from the franchise is set to be released. Additionally, Square Enix has confirmed the release date and that pre-orders are now open.

    Exciting Developments for Fans

    This is fantastic news for the loyal fans, especially since the most recent installment, Life is Strange: Double Exposure, didn’t perform well with players, earning a score of just 4.4 on Metacritic. Consequently, the studio opted to create a new offering, aptly named the Life is Strange Collection.

    A Trend in the Gaming Industry

    It’s worth mentioning that bundling games is not a new concept in the gaming industry; many studios have previously packaged their fan-favorite titles while enhancing graphics and gameplay. However, this marks a first for the Life is Strange series.

    What’s Included in the Collection

    The collection includes Life is Strange, Life is Strange: Before the Storm, along with Life is Strange 2, Life is Strange: True Colors, and Life is Strange: Double Exposure. However, collectors may find themselves slightly disappointed.

    Only the last two titles will be distributed on CD, while the first three require a download code to access. Additionally, it’s notable that all downloadable content (DLC) will be included, similar to what is offered in Life is Strange: Double Exposure, which features alternative outfits for Max Caulfield and a side quest involving a lost cat.

    Availability and Pricing

    The collection is set to hit stores for PS5 on October 2, 2025, but fans can pre-order it for $59.99 through the Square Enix website. Unfortunately, Xbox players and those who own a Nintendo Switch will not have the chance to enjoy this collection.

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  • Square Enix Developing Dragon Quest VII Remake for 2026 Release

    Square Enix Developing Dragon Quest VII Remake for 2026 Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Square Enix is developing a complete remake of Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past, with a release expected in 2026.
    2. The remake will feature significant gameplay and structural changes, moving beyond just HD enhancements.
    3. Bloomberg Journalist Jason Schreier has hinted at the authenticity of the remake project, indicating Square Enix’s intent to remake more Dragon Quest games.
    4. The Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake achieved over 2 million sales within a month, highlighting the franchise’s strong performance in the market.
    5. The anticipated launch of the Dragon Quest VII Remake may fall between the releases of Dragon Quest I and II HD-2D Remake in October 2025 and Dragon Quest XII: Flames of Fate.


    Square Enix is revisiting its cherished Dragon Quest series, with reports indicating that the company is in the process of creating a complete remake of Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past. The release for this remake is anticipated in 2026. This information comes from MP1st, which claims to have accessed “internal documents” outlining Square Enix’s future endeavors.

    New Direction for Dragon Quest

    This new project represents a more ambitious approach than the company’s current trend of Dragon Quest HD-2D Remakes. The Dragon Quest I and II HD-2D Remakes are set to launch on October 30, 2025, but Dragon Quest VII is said to be a total “remake” rather than just an “HD remake” or a remaster.

    The report suggests that the game will explore more profound gameplay and structural modifications, rather than merely enhancing the resolution and refining textures.

    Confirmation from Sources

    Adding weight to these claims, Bloomberg Journalist Jason Schreier has subtly indicated the project’s authenticity. On ResetEra, Schreier stated, “I think it’s safe to say that Square wants to remake as many DQ games as possible for modern platforms. I didn’t say there’s no remake!”

    Square Enix is on a mission to revive the Dragon Quest franchise. The company achieved remarkable success with the Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake, which sold over 2 million copies within a month of its release in November 2024.

    Sales Success in Japan

    Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake quickly became the top-selling game in Japan just a week after its launch, with a total of 821,770 units sold on the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch combined.

    Originally released on the PlayStation in Japan in August 2000, Dragon Quest VII became a massive hit, selling 4.06 million copies. Creator Yuji Horii explained that the shift from cartridges to CD-ROM provided much more space to develop a DQ title with an expansive scope.

    Horii remarked, “We went overboard and made too much game.” To illustrate, the documentation for Dragon Quest VII on the PS1 was so extensive that producer Noriyoshi Fujimoto commented it was “from this wall to the other.”

    Anticipated Release Window

    There is speculation that the Dragon Quest VII Remake could launch sometime between the release of Dragon Quest I and II HD-2D Remake in October 2025 and the arrival of Dragon Quest XII: Flames of Fate, which was first announced in May 2021.

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  • Final Fantasy 17 Combat System Overhaul After Expedition 33 Success

    Final Fantasy 17 Combat System Overhaul After Expedition 33 Success

    Key Takeaways

    1. Naoki Yoshida, producer of Final Fantasy 16, suggests that the battle system debate goes beyond just turn-based versus action mechanics, impacting overall game design and player experience.

    2. There is uncertainty about whether future Final Fantasy games will lean towards turn-based or action-oriented gameplay, with no clear direction for Final Fantasy 17 yet.

    3. Square Enix acknowledged that Final Fantasy 16 and Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth did not meet expectations, with mixed reactions to the focus on action-based combat.

    4. Final Fantasy 7 Remake attempts to balance turn-based elements with real-time combat, while Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 explores innovative turn-based mechanics.

    5. The future of Final Fantasy remains uncertain as Square Enix aims to innovate rather than simply follow trends or revert to older gameplay styles.


    Fans who wish for Final Fantasy to go back to its classic turn-based gameplay should lower their hopes for the time being. Naoki Yoshida, who is the producer of Final Fantasy 16 and the director of Final Fantasy 14, talked about the future of the series’ battle mechanics at Anime Expo 2025. This discussion was spurred by Sandfall Interactive’s game, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.

    The Battle System Debate

    Yoshida provided a thoughtful take on the ongoing discussion about action versus turn-based combat. He explained to Anime News Network:

    “When we talk about turn-based versus action, it often limits the conversation to just the battle mechanics. It doesn’t really consider what kind of experience the creators want to give to the players. For instance, the level of graphical quality we aim to deliver or the story we wish to present has a direct impact on how we design the game’s systems. This encompasses the battle mechanics, overall game design, and the feel of the gameplay.”

    He went on to express some uncertainty, stating, “It’s not a straightforward answer whether the future will lean entirely towards turn-based or if it’ll shift more towards action-oriented gameplay.”

    Looking Ahead

    Yoshida mentioned that the direction for Final Fantasy 17 hasn’t been established yet, noting that he might not be part of its development:

    “I might not be working on Final Fantasy 17, so we don’t want to restrict or limit whoever will take charge of future titles like 16 or 18. We aim to give them freedom to explore their own vision.”

    In a rare move, publisher Square Enix admitted that Final Fantasy 16 and Final Fantasy 7: Rebirth “did not meet expectations.” Final Fantasy 16, released in 2023, heavily focused on action-based combat, drawing influence from series like Game of Thrones, Attack on Titan, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Godzilla. While some players appreciated the ambitious Eikon battles and combat system, others missed the traditional turn-based gameplay.

    A Different Approach

    On the other hand, Final Fantasy 7 Remake tries to find a balance between its turn-based roots and a real-time combat system.

    At the same time, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 took a fresh approach on turn-based mechanics, featuring elements like parrying and dodging. Square Enix has recognized the success of Expedition 33. Yet, Yoshida’s comments indicate that the company is careful about simply chasing trends or going back to older styles just because of Sandfall Interactive’s achievements.

    For now, the future of Final Fantasy remains uncertain. It’s unclear whether Final Fantasy 17 will adopt turn-based gameplay or stick to action-based systems. Creative minds at Square Enix will probably strive to forge a new direction, as has been the trend throughout the years.

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  • Final Fantasy 9 Remake Cancellation Rumors Amid 25th Anniversary

    Final Fantasy 9 Remake Cancellation Rumors Amid 25th Anniversary

    Key Takeaways

    1. July 7 marks the 25th Anniversary of Final Fantasy 9, originally released in 2000 on PS1.
    2. Square Enix is celebrating the milestone with videos, artwork, and merchandise, but a remake announcement is uncertain.
    3. Insider NateTheHate suggests the remake is still in development but may be facing challenges or possible cancellation.
    4. Final Fantasy 9 is available on PCs and modern consoles, but fans desire a comprehensive remake similar to Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth.
    5. Speculation about a remake has been ongoing since a 2021 Nvidia GeForce Now leak, but no official confirmation has been made by Square Enix.


    July 7 marks the 25th Anniversary of Final Fantasy 9, which first launched on the PS1 in 2000. This title is often hailed as the top game in the RPG series, and Square Enix has been acknowledging this milestone with various videos, artwork, and merchandise. Many fans were hoping for an announcement regarding a Final Fantasy 9 remake. However, well-known insider NateTheHate has cast doubt on that possibility.

    Disappointing News from NateTheHate

    NateTheHate provided this upsetting news on the ResetEra forums. He mentioned that “As of last check it remains in development, to my knowledge; but I need to a do a fresh check & see what a more current status is- as I did hear a month or so ago that it was in trouble & possibly cancelled.” While he didn’t completely rule out the idea of an announcement, it seems that plans for the remake might currently be paused.

    Existing Ports and Expectations

    Final Fantasy 9 is already accessible on PCs and various modern consoles, such as PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo. Despite some glitches, players can enjoy how the series returned to its fantasy roots. Nevertheless, some fans were looking forward to a comprehensive remake similar to Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. This well-received title incorporated open-world features while enhancing graphics and gameplay systems.

    The Ongoing Speculation

    Speculations about a potential Final Fantasy 9 remake trace back to a 2021 leak from Nvidia GeForce Now. Many of the Square Enix titles listed in that leak have materialized, with Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles being the most recent example. Sadly, the company has yet to officially confirm a remake of the 9th installment in the franchise.

    It seems to be just a matter of time before fans witness Final Fantasy 9 come back in some shape or form. Like numerous publishers, Square Enix has found success in remaking and remastering classic games. Still, players might have to be a bit more patient than they had hoped for.

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  • Gamers Claim Front Mission 3 Remake Uses AI for Odd Visuals

    Gamers Claim Front Mission 3 Remake Uses AI for Odd Visuals

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Front Mission 3 remake utilizes generative AI, creating images that significantly differ from the original 1999 version.
    2. Some changes in the remake include new elements not present in the original, such as altered vehicles and character designs.
    3. While AI upscaling is generally accepted, generative AI can drastically change a game’s visual style if not used carefully.
    4. Fans express concern about the developers not limiting AI to enhancing original assets, questioning the artistic integrity of the remake.
    5. The use of AI in gaming is a contentious topic, leading platforms like Steam to label games with AI-generated content.


    Many game creators, graphics processing units (GPUs), and gaming consoles use AI upscaling to enhance the visuals of older games. However, the Front Mission 3 remake seems to push the boundaries by utilizing generative AI. Instead of simply improving resolution, players are encountering images that are hard to recognize. RPG Site compared the remake on Nintendo Switch to the original PlayStation version from 1999 and found some astonishing differences.

    A Classic Reimagined

    Front Mission 3, developed by what is now Square Enix, is often considered the top game in the tactical RPG franchise. When players are not engaged in battles with mecha-like wanzers, they can explore the “Network.” This feature resembles an internet browser that adds depth to the game’s narratives and characters. RPG Site discovered many drastically altered images within this part of the game.

    Unexpected Changes

    Some of the most surprising alterations in the Front Mission 3 remake include aspects that were not present in the original version. A city scene that used to show a pixelated wanzer crash now features a strangely shaped helicopter and police tape. In another instance, the team opted to transform an orange wanzer into a red one with an unusual design. These modifications appear to go past mere upscaling, indicating that generative AI has produced new elements.

    While many reviewers are not against AI upscaling, generative AI, if used carelessly, can completely alter the visual style of a game. This advancing technology learns by analyzing vast amounts of data, including images. Over time, it gathers enough information to create new visuals based on requests. Fans are now questioning why MegaPixel Studio didn’t restrict the machine learning in the Front Mission 3 remake to merely enhancing the original 1999 assets.

    Ongoing Debate

    The integration of AI in gaming has sparked a heated discussion that is unlikely to settle down soon. Steam has started to label games that feature AI-generated content, with Everybody’s Golf Hot Shots being the most recent example. In cases like Front Mission 3, gamers claim that the developers have mishandled the original artistic intent.

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  • Square Enix Hints at Final Fantasy 16 Switch 2 Port Possibility

    Square Enix Hints at Final Fantasy 16 Switch 2 Port Possibility

    Key Takeaways

    1. Possible Nintendo Release: Square Enix hinted at a potential release of Final Fantasy 16 for the Switch 2 during a livestream, with comments from producer Naoki Yoshida and creative director Kazutoyo Maehiro.

    2. Caution Advised: Gamers should be cautious not to assume an official confirmation regarding the Nintendo version since the statements were not definitive.

    3. Upcoming Titles: Additional Final Fantasy games, including Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, are expected to be released on the Switch 2, along with Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles on September 30th.

    4. Performance Concerns: There are worries about the performance of Final Fantasy 16 on the Switch 2, as it is demanding on hardware and has faced issues on other platforms like PC and Steam Deck.

    5. Market Interest: Square Enix may not struggle to attract players on the Switch, given the popularity of previous titles on Nintendo systems, unlike the initial reception of Final Fantasy 16 on Xbox.


    After the recent launch of Final Fantasy 16 on Xbox consoles, there are growing signs that it might also be released for the Switch 2. During a livestream for Final Fantasy 14, an important figure from Square Enix hinted at a possible Nintendo version. As one ResetEra user translated, producer Naoki Yoshida remarked that the only platform missing a version of Final Fantasy 16 was Nintendo. Creative Director Kazutoyo Maehiro then added, “Will do his best.”

    Caution is Advised

    It’s important for gamers not to jump to conclusions about this statement, since it’s not an official confirmation. However, it seems unusual for anyone at Square Enix to bring up Nintendo if there weren’t any plans for a port in the works.

    More Titles Coming Soon

    Fans are already aware that additional Final Fantasy games will be arriving on the Switch 2. In May, it was revealed that Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade would be released for the handheld system. Furthermore, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, along with an undisclosed third installment in the trilogy, are also likely to be ported. For those who still need more games on their Switch 2, Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles is scheduled to launch on September 30th.

    Performance Worries

    Some skeptics are concerned about how well the demanding Final Fantasy 16 will operate on the Switch 2. Players on PC can confirm that it puts significant stress on GPUs, resulting in uneven frame rates. Additionally, many consider the game nearly unplayable on the Steam Deck. Naoki Hamaguchi, the director of Final Fantasy 7 Remake, previously praised the Switch 2’s specifications, stating that the extra power made the port feasible. Nevertheless, getting Final Fantasy 16 to run smoothly on handheld devices may need more work.

    Market Interest

    One challenge that Square Enix might not face with Final Fantasy releases on Switch is drawing in customers. Previous titles attracted large player bases on Nintendo systems, including the original Switch. Conversely, Final Fantasy 16 had a tough time capturing the interest of Xbox gamers at first, although sales eventually started to pick up.

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  • Final Fantasy 16 Xbox Sales Decline After Game Pass Omission

    Final Fantasy 16 Xbox Sales Decline After Game Pass Omission

    Key Takeaways

    1. Final Fantasy 16 is now available on Xbox, but its launch was not heavily promoted, leading to low traction on Xbox Series X|S.
    2. The game ranks between the 350th and 400th spots for most-played games on Xbox, despite the Standard and Complete Editions performing better in sales.
    3. Community theories suggest the late Xbox release, competition from PC sales, and absence from Xbox Game Pass may contribute to its underwhelming performance.
    4. Final Fantasy 16 also struggled on PS5, with sales declining after an initial strong start, raising questions about JRPG success on Xbox.
    5. Microsoft is shifting focus towards multi-platform publishing and new handheld Windows devices, which may result in fewer Xbox-exclusive releases in the future.


    At a recent event, Microsoft revealed that the Xbox version of Final Fantasy 16 is now available. Square Enix has been making its games accessible on various platforms, but the RPG’s launch on Xbox was not heavily promoted. Two years after its release on PS5, the game is struggling to gain traction on Xbox Series X|S. In fact, it is ranking unexpectedly low on Microsoft’s lists for most-played and top-paid games.

    Game Rankings and Performance

    The situation is fluid, with data that changes regularly. Currently, Final Fantasy 16’s Xbox port sits between the 350th and 400th spots for most-played games. However, the news is a bit brighter in terms of sales; the Standard Edition is within the top 50, and the Complete Edition is in the top 30. Still, many gamers believe that the game’s performance is underwhelming for a title from a well-known company like Square Enix.

    Community Theories

    On the ResetEra forums, critics have been sharing their thoughts on why Final Fantasy 16 is struggling to attract a big audience on Xbox. One reason could be that it was a late release for a game that has been available for PS5 players since 2023 and for PC players since 2024. Many Xbox users also play on PCs due to Play Anywhere, which means some may have already bought the RPG on Steam or the Epic Games Store. Another notable point is that the absence of Final Fantasy 16 from Xbox Game Pass might be affecting player numbers.

    Broader Context

    To be fair to Microsoft, Final Fantasy 16 didn’t perform as expected on PS5 either. The publisher acknowledged that sales declined after a strong start, especially when compared to other titles from Square Enix. Other Final Fantasy games, despite being more popular on Nintendo and PlayStation, have drawn in more players on Xbox. The idea that JRPGs can’t succeed on Xbox is now being questioned. While players are divided on its subgenres, the popular game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 clearly incorporates JRPG elements.

    Microsoft is now focusing more on publishing across multiple platforms and on new handheld Windows devices. This shift may lead to fewer Xbox Series X|S-exclusive releases in the near future.

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