Rumors are swirling online about a potential mobile version of the popular MMORPG, FFXIV. A gaming industry leaker, Kurakasis, alleges that Tencent Games and Square Enix are collaborating on bringing the game to mobile devices.
A Checkered Mobile Past
This isn't Square Enix's first foray into mobile Final Fantasy titles. Previous attempts, however, have yielded mixed results. While Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis received a moderate reception, it didn't achieve widespread critical acclaim. Furthermore, Dissidia Final Fantasy: Opera Omnia was shut down in 2023. Therefore, adapting the complex FFXIV experience to mobile presents a significant challenge.
Unverified, Yet Not Entirely Baseless
It's crucial to emphasize that this information remains unverified. Square Enix hasn't officially commented on the matter. However, past collaborations between Square Enix and Tencent lend some credence to the rumor. In 2018, the two companies discussed potential collaborations, and in 2021, then-president Yosuke Matsuda alluded to ongoing projects with Tencent.
Kurakasis' leak provides no timeframe, leaving the project's status uncertain. A formal announcement may still be some time away.
The Mobile Adaptation Challenge
Successfully translating FFXIV's intricate mechanics to a mobile platform without compromising its depth will be a considerable undertaking. A simplified or poorly optimized mobile version could easily disappoint dedicated fans.
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