The Final Fantasy series, a cornerstone in the gaming industry, is undergoing a significant shift in its release strategy. According to Hiroshi Takai, the director of Final Fantasy 16, future titles in the series may debut on PC alongside console versions, a departure from the long-standing tradition of platform exclusivity. This potential change aligns with Square Enix‘s recent push towards a more aggressive multiplatform strategy to boost revenue.
Future Final Fantasy Titles Likely to Launch Simultaneously on PC and Consoles
According to GamesRadar, Takai expressed his belief that it is “possible – probably even likely” that future Final Fantasy games could see simultaneous PC and console releases. However, he clarified that this was his personal opinion and that the final decision rests with the team responsible for each project.
This statement follows Square Enix’s recent financial challenges, including recording its lowest revenue in 13 years. The company’s struggles have prompted a shift in strategy, with a focus on expanding its audience by releasing games across multiple platforms from the start. This approach aims to enhance accessibility and increase sales potential, moving away from the PlayStation exclusivity that has characterized the series for years.
The move is evident with the upcoming PC release of Final Fantasy 16 on September 17, which will include all DLCs and a demo available on Steam. Takai emphasized that the delay in the PC port was due to the extensive optimization required, stating that the time spent was “time well spent” to ensure a quality experience for PC gamers.
