In a recent development that could reshape the release strategy for one of gaming’s most iconic franchises, Final Fantasy 16 director Hiroshi Takai has suggested that future installments in the series might launch simultaneously on PC and console platforms.
This revelation comes as Final Fantasy 16 prepares for its PC debut on September 17, 2024, more than a year after its initial PlayStation 5 release. In an interview with, Takai shared his thoughts on the possibility of day-one PC releases for upcoming Final Fantasy titles.
“I think it’s possible – probably even likely,” Takai stated, though he was quick to add that this was his personal opinion and that each project team would ultimately decide its own release policy.
The discussion arises amidst a broader conversation about Square Enix’s approach to multiplatform releases. While Final Fantasy 16’s PC port has taken considerable time, Takai believes the extended development period was necessary for optimization.
“Naturally, we wanted to get the PC version into players’ hands as quickly as we possibly could,” Takai explained. “Looking at the results, I think the time we’ve put into optimizing the game for PC was time well spent.”
Square Enix’s mixed track record with recent PC ports may influence this cautious approach. While players well-received Final Fantasy 15’s PC version, ports of Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade and Forspoken encountered initial challenges. Takai acknowledged that the company “always listens to player feedback and bears it in mind.”
The potential shift towards day-one PC releases aligns with Square Enix’s stated strategy of pursuing a more aggressive multiplatform approach, as outlined in recent financial briefings. The company has expressed a desire to move from “quantity to quality” in its game releases. However, we will see how Square Enix implements this potential strategy for future Final Fantasy titles.
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