Final Fantasy, a cornerstone of the gaming world, has long enjoyed a close relationship with PlayStation consoles. This exclusivity has shaped the series’ availability and reach for years. However, recent statements suggest a shift in Square Enix’s strategy, hinting at a multi-platform future for the beloved franchise.
Yoshinori Kitase, a producer at Square Enix, acknowledges the success of recent titles like Final Fantasy 7 Remake, Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, and Final Fantasy 16 on PlayStation. Despite these positive results, Kitase emphasizes the importance of broader accessibility in the modern gaming landscape. He states that limiting their games to a single platform restricts their potential audience, a factor Square Enix is increasingly recognizing. “Although we’re confident and satisfied that we’re reaching a certain level of sales,” Kitase explains, “it’s clear that, with the modernity of games, we can’t be exclusive to a single platform. I think we need to offer the game to as many players as possible.”
This declaration signals a potential departure from the traditional PlayStation exclusivity for future installments. While Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 might still be bound by existing agreements, future titles like Final Fantasy 17, and the rumored Final Fantasy 9 Remake, could likely embrace a multi-platform release strategy.
The rationale behind exclusivity deals often boils down to financial security. Square Enix receives upfront payments for these agreements, mitigating the inherent risks of AAA game development. However, this practice can hinder the franchise’s growth by limiting its audience. While aligning with established brands like PlayStation or Nintendo offers certain advantages, Square Enix appears to prioritize expanding its reach to new players.
This strategic shift suggests Square Enix is weighing the benefits of wider availability against the financial assurances of exclusivity deals. The company seems to believe that reaching a larger audience ultimately outweighs the advantages of platform exclusivity.
The decision to embrace multi-platform releases could mark a significant turning point for the Final Fantasy series. By making their games accessible to a broader player base, Square Enix aims to further solidify Final Fantasy’s position as a leading force in the gaming industry.
