Tag: Square Enix

  • Square Enix Closes Gacha Games: Mobile Developers Face Console Shift

    Square Enix Closes Gacha Games: Mobile Developers Face Console Shift

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tough Competition: The gacha game market in Japan is becoming overcrowded, making it harder for directors to find opportunities.

    2. Job Shifts: There are increasing job openings in console gaming, but gacha developers may lack the necessary skills for these roles.

    3. High Standards: Genshin Impact has set new quality benchmarks for gacha games, challenging competitors to improve their offerings.

    4. Global Competition: South Korean and Chinese publishers are intensifying competition in the Japanese gacha market, despite a positive outlook for global growth.

    5. Need for Adaptation: Developers must adapt to changes in the industry or risk becoming obsolete as gacha games evolve.

    Mobile gacha game makers in Japan are facing tougher competition than ever. Recently, Square Enix made headlines by closing down Final Fantasy: Brave Exvius and Dragon Quest of the Stars, showing the challenges in the industry. A post from a Japanese game developer named Suemaru reveals a bleak outlook for his future in this field.

    Fewer Chances for Gacha Directors

    Suemaru mentions that there are not many chances left for gacha game directors. Analysts suggest that this part of the gaming market might be getting too crowded. Publishers like these mobile games because they bring steady income. However, players are finding it hard to dedicate time to several games at once.

    Shifting Opportunities in Gaming

    On top of Suemaru’s worries, there are more job openings in the console gaming area. A source from the Automaton article indicates that gacha developers might not have the right skills for these roles. The industry is leaning towards creators who can utilize advanced graphics. Another challenge is that Japanese companies often look to hire younger talent.

    New Standards Set by Genshin Impact

    Genshin Impact has raised the bar for gacha games, making it hard for competitors to keep up. Unlike many earlier mobile titles, it lets players explore a 3D world that feels like an AAA game. HoYoverse also made waves by bringing games like Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail to consoles such as the PS5.

    Rising Pressure from Other Markets

    Publishers from South Korea and China are adding more competition to an already saturated Japanese gacha market. Nevertheless, the outlook for these free-to-play games may still be positive. Business Research Insights anticipates that the global market will expand from $0.53 billion in 2025 to $1.09 billion by 2034.

    Gacha games are set to continue transforming, moving away from the plain backdrops of earlier versions. Sadly, developers like Suemaru must evolve or risk being left behind in this fast-changing landscape.

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  • Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 Voice Recording Sparks Excitement

    Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 Voice Recording Sparks Excitement

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fans are anticipating news about Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3, with updates expected around the second anniversary of Ever Crisis.
    2. Voice actor Gackt’s recent social media post has sparked speculation about his involvement in either Ever Crisis or the final chapter of the Remake.
    3. Genesis, a character introduced in Crisis Core, may have a role in the upcoming games despite not being in the original Final Fantasy 7.
    4. The story for Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 is confirmed to be complete by director Naoki Hamaguchi and producer Yoshinori Kitase.
    5. A livestream on September 5th is expected to provide significant updates and clarify any uncertainties regarding the game’s development and announcements.

    Fans have been eagerly waiting for news about Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 since an interview in 2024 with director Motomu Toriyama. He shared some insights about the game’s development and suggested that more information could arrive around the second anniversary of Ever Crisis. With Square Enix planning a livestream on September 5th, an update from a voice actor has raised hopes for a possible announcement.

    Social Media Buzz

    According to Twisted Voxel, Gackt, the voice actor for Genesis in two Final Fantasy titles, recently posted on social media. He shared a photo of a studio, mentioning that it had been over 10 years since he last worked there. Some fans think that Gackt could be recording lines for the Ever Crisis gacha game. However, it’s also possible that Square Enix is preparing to include Genesis in the final chapter of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake.

    Genesis’s Background

    Genesis had a major role in the 2007 title Crisis Core: Final Fantasy 7. He also appeared in the third-person shooter Dirge of Cerberus. While he wasn’t part of the original Final Fantasy 7, the writers have added various characters to the expanded versions in the Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth.

    Production Updates

    In early 2025, director Naoki Hamaguchi and producer Yoshinori Kitase confirmed that the story for Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 is done. There have been other hints from voice actors that an announcement may come soon. Cody Christian, who voices Cloud Strife, posted and then deleted an Instagram photo of himself in a recording studio, which raised expectations among fans.

    Many followers believe that the voice work for Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 might already be finished, as these recordings typically occur later in the development phase. While Gackt could be hinting at a role in another Final Fantasy project, the livestream on September 5th is expected to clarify any uncertainties.

     

     

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  • Free Access to Top MMO for Four Days: Check Eligibility Now

    Free Access to Top MMO for Four Days: Check Eligibility Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Square Enix is offering four days of free access to Final Fantasy XIV for returning players.
    2. The game is a beloved MMORPG with an immersive story and rich world full of quests and secrets.
    3. Players must have an inactive service account linked to the paid version of the game for at least 30 days to qualify for free access.
    4. The free access offer lasts four days from the start date, so timing is important.
    5. Update 7.31, introducing a new planet, will launch around September 2, making it a great time to return to the game.

    The video game world is always changing, giving players many fun opportunities. Right now, there’s exciting news for fans of a beloved MMO that is free for a limited time.

    Free Access for Fans

    This is fantastic for those who love the Final Fantasy series. Square Enix is giving players a chance to experience four days of free access to Eorzea. Yep, you guessed it; this is about Final Fantasy XIV.

    A Beloved Adventure

    It’s not just any game that gets this special treatment, especially since it might come to the Nintendo Switch 2. Final Fantasy XIV is one of the most loved games in the series. The story immerses you in a wild world where you take on the roles of different heroes, tackling significant quests and battling deities that can take the form of fierce warriors. The world is rich and full of secrets waiting for you to discover.

    How to Join in

    If you’re interested in playing Final Fantasy XIV for free until September 23, there are some requirements. You must have at least one service account with the paid version of the game linked to it. Additionally, your account needs to have been inactive for a minimum of 30 days. So, if you want to take advantage of this offer, keep in mind that it lasts four days from when you start it. This means if you start playing on a Tuesday, your access will end the following Friday.

    Planning Your Adventure

    Make sure to choose wisely when to take part in this offer! Also, remember that update 7.31 is set to launch around September 2, introducing a new planet to explore. This could be the ideal time to jump back into the adventure.

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  • Square Enix Reports Mixed Financial Results for Final Fantasy, Kingdom Hearts

    Square Enix Reports Mixed Financial Results for Final Fantasy, Kingdom Hearts

    Key Takeaways

    1. HD Games Profit Surge: Operating profits in the HD Games sub-segment increased by 1900% to ¥1 billion, despite a drop in net sales from ¥12.3 billion to ¥8.9 billion.

    2. Margin Improvements: Improved margins were attributed to reduced development and advertising costs, resulting in a 15.2% drop in overall net sales to ¥59.275 billion and a 16.8% decrease in operating income.

    3. Decline in Digital Entertainment Sector: The overall Digital Entertainment sector saw net sales fall to ¥32.9 billion, down from ¥43.9 billion, with operating income decreasing by 16.5% to ¥8.1 billion.

    4. Mobile and PC Games Growth: Mobile and PC browser games experienced profit growth, with operating income increasing to ¥3.3 billion, despite a decline in total unit sales to 4.01 million.

    5. Stock Performance and Future Outlook: Square Enix’s stock rose 78.74% year-to-date, with investors expecting a full-year forecast of ¥280 billion in net sales and ¥41 billion in operating income as part of the ongoing restructuring strategy.

    Square Enix Holdings Co. Ltd (TYO: 9684) shared its financial results for the last quarter on August 8, 2025, revealing a blend of higher profits but lower revenue in its video games sector. The report highlighted improvements in profits even as sales took a dip.

    HD Games Surge

    The “HD Games sub-segment,” which covers console and PC games, experienced a remarkable operating profit increase of 1900% for the first quarter of FY 2026, covering April to June 2025. This impressive growth saw profits rise from ¥0.05 billion to ¥1 billion, roughly translating to about US $6.765 million.

    The earnings report for Q1 FY2026 was released on August 8, 2025. The surge in operating profits can be mainly linked to lower development expenses and a cut in advertising costs when compared to the same timeframe in FY 2025 Q1. Nonetheless, net sales in the HD games sub-segment dropped to ¥8.9 billion from ¥12.3 billion year-over-year.

    Margin Improvements

    Officials from the company mentioned that the improved margins were a result of lighter release schedules compared to the hefty promotional efforts of previous launches, such as those for the Kingdom Hearts series. In contrast, Square Enix’s net sales fell by 15.2% to ¥59.275 billion, or about $401.3 million, while operating income decreased by 16.8% to ¥9.018 billion.

    The overall Digital Entertainment sector, which includes HD games, mobile titles, and MMOs like Final Fantasy XIV, reported net sales of ¥32.9 billion, a significant drop from ¥43.9 billion the year before. Additionally, operating income decreased by 16.5% to ¥8.1 billion. Within the MMO sector, sales plummeted to ¥9.6 billion from ¥12.5 billion, with profits falling to ¥3.6 billion ahead of the FFXIV’s Dawntrail Expansion, which began early access on June 28, 2025.

    Mobile and PC Games Shine

    On a brighter note, mobile and PC browser games enjoyed a positive trend in profits, as operating income rose to ¥3.3 billion from ¥3 billion, thanks to a variety of payment options. Total unit sales across both physical and digital mediums reached 4.01 million, down from last year’s 4.39 million.

    In spite of the challenges, Square Enix’s stock has seen a remarkable increase of 78.74% year-to-date, closing at around $74.79 per share following the release of the financial report. Investors are currently anticipating a full-year forecast of ¥280 billion in net sales and ¥41 billion in operating income.

    These results come as part of the “Square Enix Reboots and Awakens” restructuring strategy, a 36-month initiative that began last year aimed at enhancing development cycles, focusing on fewer, higher-quality games, and embracing multi-platform releases rather than limiting to PlayStation exclusivity.

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  • 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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