Live action 'Final Fantasy 14' series canceled

The anticipated Final Fantasy 14 live-action TV adaptation, previously in development by Hivemind and Sony Pictures Television, has been officially canceled. Production complexities and the high ambition of the project turned out to be a bridge too far for potential partners, with even Amazon, who seemed most likely to pick up the series, passing on the opportunity. The show's aspirations to portray a live-action version of Eorzea—complete with chocobos, airships, beastmen, and the iconic character Cid—and to tell an original story within Final Fantasy 14’s universe were ultimately undone by fiscal prudence intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The show's cancellation was due to the project being considered too large and ambitious, which translated to a risky investment that studios were not willing to make, especially in the economic environment influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Final Fantasy XIV, the MMORPG upon which the canceled television show is based, has been a major player in the MMO market since its re-release as A Realm Reborn in 2013. With a strong narrative, engaging gameplay, and a regularly updated content structure through expansions such as Heavensward, Stormblood, Shadowbringers, and Endwalker, FFXIV has built a passionate and dedicated community. Its foray into live-action was highly anticipated by fans eager to see the rich world of Eorzea and its characters transition to a new medium. Despite the show's cancellation, the game continues to be a vibrant and evolving platform for both newcomers and long-time players, with ongoing support and updates from its developer, Square Enix.