Square Enix is set to adopt a strategy of launching more of its games simultaneously on Xbox in the future. In a recent discussion, Naoki Yoshida, the renowned producer of the Final Fantasy series, shared that the Japanese gaming company plans to embrace a multi-platform release approach for upcoming titles. Historically, Square Enix has focused on releasing its recent games solely for the PlayStation 5; however, their most significant titles have not met expectations.
Square Enix Expands Xbox Releases
Yoshida, often referred to as Yoshi-P, made these remarks during an interview with 4Gamer following the Tokyo Game Show, coinciding with the upcoming launch of Fantasian Neo Dimension. Originally, the game debuted as Fantasian on Apple devices through Apple Arcade in 2021. The title, developed by Mistwalker and published by Square Enix, will make its way to PC, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PlayStation platforms on December 5.
“Of course, we want you to play the game on other platforms as well,” Yoshida stated regarding the simultaneous release on PC and consoles. “This time, the Xbox Series X|S version will be released at the same time. In the future, Square Enix will release more and more titles simultaneously across each platform, and this is a close-to-the-first installment, so I hope Xbox users will enjoy it as well,” he continued.
These statements follow Yoshida’s previous comments about his desire to see Final Fantasy XVI become available on Xbox consoles. The action-RPG launched exclusively on the PS5 in 2023 and is scheduled for a PC release in September 2024. However, a version for Xbox has not yet been officially confirmed by Square Enix.
“We did announce the PC version of the game, so we do want to consider releasing it on Xbox,” Yoshida mentioned in an interview last month. “But regarding the specifics, such as when it would be available, we are not in a position to share any details.”
Earlier this year, Square Enix faced its most significant quarterly decline in 13 years, attributed to the underperformance of several high-profile games. Sales for Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Final Fantasy XVI, and Foamstars—which were all exclusive to PlayStation—failed to meet the company’s anticipated revenue and profit targets.
Consequently, the publisher has announced a shift in its strategy, moving away from PlayStation exclusivity to ensure that its major titles will be launched simultaneously across all platforms, including PC, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
