Square Enix shifts focus, less Final Fantasy dependency

Square Enix, known for its iconic Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest franchises, is looking to diversify its game portfolio. Despite selling several IPs like Tomb Raider and Deus Ex to Embracer Group, the company, led by President Takashi Kiryu, intends to move away from its heavy reliance on its flagship series. The shift in focus was inspired by the success of titles such as PowerWash Simulator, which offered a different gameplay style and catered to a broader audience.

A recent financial briefing revealed Square Enix's desire to strengthen internal development capabilities. This strategic move is aimed at creating a broader range of games that could match the diversity of players' interests. While Square Enix sold significant properties last year, this new direction suggests a focus on both expanding and refining their game development processes to include more varied and potentially casual gaming experiences.

Finally, touching on Final Fantasy news, Naoki Yoshida, producer of FF 14 and 16, has expressed that a younger team might take over for the next installment in the Final Fantasy series, suggesting a fresh approach for future projects.

Yes, Square Enix is actively seeking to diversify its gaming portfolio to include different genres and styles, reducing reliance on their traditional RPG franchises like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest.

As additional context, Square Enix is a Japanese video game developer and publisher, famous for creating some of the most revered RPGs in the history of video gaming with longstanding series such as Final Fantasy, which debuted in 1987, and Dragon Quest, initially releasing in 1986. The company's recent approach to selling off studios and IPs to Embracer Group in May 2022 was a strategic pivot to focus on its core franchises, creating a strong foothold in the RPG market. Their decision to diversify is an indication of the dynamic strategies employed by video game companies to stay relevant and cater to evolving player preferences.