Square Enix
Square Enix business and news from across the web.
Latest coverage
MMOs are better if classes are imbalanced—you just need to do it on purpose
This article argues that intentional class imbalance can improve the player experience in MMOs, fostering unique contributions and community interaction. While perfect balance aims for efficiency, it can lead to homogenization, making individual roles feel less special. The author suggests that embracing intentional imbalances, as seen in older MMOs, can create more engaging and memorable gameplay experiences.
For its 24th anniversary, Final Fantasy 11 is getting a free trial upgrade that lets you play it for as long as you like
Square Enix is significantly expanding the free trial for its 24-year-old MMORPG, Final Fantasy XI. The updated trial will remove the 14-day time limit, allowing players to experience the base game indefinitely, though with a level cap of 75 and other restrictions on trading and communication. This move aims to make the long-running title more accessible amidst the current live service landscape.
Final Fantasy 11 takes cues from FF14 as Square Enix plans a dramatic free trial expansion
Square Enix is expanding the free trial for Final Fantasy XI, drawing inspiration from Final Fantasy XIV's successful model. The upcoming changes will remove the current two-week playtime limit and raise the level cap from 50 to 75, though some restrictions like auction house access and party invites will remain. Director Yoji Fujito stated these changes are being discussed for implementation before the game's 25th anniversary in May 2027.
I’m waiting days between attempts to catch one fish in Final Fantasy 14 before it disappears for months, so don’t let anyone tell you raids are the ‘hardcore’ challenge
This article argues that the fishing challenges in Final Fantasy 14, particularly the rare fish with strict spawn windows, represent a 'hardcore' endgame activity comparable to raids. The author details the frustration of waiting for specific environmental conditions and limited time slots to catch elusive fish like the Purse of Riches, highlighting the dedication required for achievement hunting in the MMO.
Business and Finance
Square Enix reported a 34.9% surge in operating income for its fiscal year 2026, despite a decline in net sales. The company's financial performance indicates strong profitability in its operations.
Best games you won’t believe are turning 25 in 2026
Several iconic video games released around the turn of the millennium are celebrating significant anniversaries, with many turning 25 in 2026. Titles like Gran Turismo 3, Devil May Cry, Halo: Combat Evolved, Metal Gear Solid 2, Super Smash Bros. Melee, Final Fantasy X, Silent Hill 2, Ico, Conker's Bad Fur Day, and Grand Theft Auto 3 are highlighted for their lasting impact and influence on the industry.
Best games you won’t believe are turning 25 in 2026
Several iconic video games released around the turn of the millennium are celebrating significant anniversaries, with many turning 25 in 2026. Titles like Gran Turismo 3, Devil May Cry, Halo: Combat Evolved, Metal Gear Solid 2, Super Smash Bros. Melee, Final Fantasy X, Silent Hill 2, Ico, Conker's Bad Fur Day, and Grand Theft Auto 3 are highlighted for their lasting impact and influence on the industry.
New FFXIV Free Login Campaign Runs Until June 2026
Square Enix has relaunched the Final Fantasy XIV Free Login Campaign, allowing inactive players to return to the MMORPG for 96 hours of free playtime. This offer is available until June 14, 2026, for players whose subscriptions have lapsed and who haven't played in at least 30 days. The campaign is currently running on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC, with a Nintendo Switch version planned for August 2026.
New FFXIV Free Login Campaign Runs Until June 2026
Square Enix has relaunched the Final Fantasy XIV Free Login Campaign, allowing inactive players to return to the MMORPG for 96 hours of free playtime. This offer is available until June 14, 2026, for players whose subscriptions have lapsed and who haven't played in at least 30 days. The campaign is currently running on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and PC, with a Nintendo Switch version planned for August 2026.
Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth director won't confirm or deny fan theories because that would ruin the fun
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth director Naoki Hamaguchi stated he will not confirm or deny fan theories about the Remake trilogy's narrative to preserve the enjoyment of discovery. The trilogy, including Final Fantasy VII Remake and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, takes significant liberties with the original game's story, introducing elements like diverging timelines.
The 10 best RPGs for beginners looking to try out the genre for the first time
This guide highlights ten approachable role-playing games perfect for newcomers to the genre. It features titles like Yakuza 0, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Persona 5 Royal, and Dragon Quest 11 S, detailing their gameplay, story, and why they serve as excellent entry points. The article also explains the 'RPG Vibes' used to categorize the games and the methodology behind the ranking.
Final Fantasy XI Is Expanding Its Free Trial
Square Enix has significantly expanded the free trial for its pioneering MMORPG, Final Fantasy XI. The new trial removes the time limit and raises the level cap to 75, allowing players to explore the base game's world indefinitely. The announcement was made during a livestream celebrating the game's 24th anniversary.
Quartet Review – The Four is Strong With This One
Quartet is a superb JRPG that successfully blends classic Final Fantasy influences with modern elements inspired by Octopath Traveler. The game features impressive pixel graphics, a standout soundtrack, and engaging battle mechanics that emphasize strategy over grinding. It is recommended for both long-time JRPG fans and newcomers to the genre.
Solo Survival Guide: 8 Games No Discord Ping (2026) | TAG
This guide identifies eight games ideal for long-term solo play in 2026, focusing on replayability, offline functionality, and lack of notifications. The selected titles include Slay the Spire 2, Balatro, Hades II, Stardew Valley, Terraria, Elden Ring, Outer Wilds, and Final Fantasy XIV, with recommendations for hardware like the Steam Deck and PC.
Final Fantasy Remake director: We are aware we need to grow the Final Fantasy brand
Naoki Hamaguchi, director of Final Fantasy VII Remake, stated his awareness of the need to expand the Final Fantasy brand for the next generation. He also expressed eagerness to explore new and unique experiences beyond the current project, while reaffirming his commitment to delivering engaging games as head of a Square Enix studio.
Final Fantasy 14 is promising big changes with Evercold, but I hope it's not a surface-level attempt
The upcoming Final Fantasy 14 expansion, Evercold, promises significant changes including a new combat system and revised gearing to address perceived stagnation. While these updates are welcomed, the author expresses cautious optimism, hoping they lead to more substantial overhauls and a more dynamic world rather than just surface-level improvements.
Square Enix will continue its multiplatform plans “especially” on Nintendo Switch 2
Square Enix CEO Takashi Kiryu stated the company will continue its multiplatform strategy, with a particular focus on the Nintendo Switch 2. Square Enix has been a strong supporter of the platform since its launch and intends to further invest in it.
Square Enix FY26 operating income surges 34.9% despite net sales decline
Square Enix reported a significant surge in operating income for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026, driven by strong sales of HD Games like Final Fantasy Tactics – The Ivalice Chronicles and Dragon Quest 7 Reimagined, despite a decline in net sales. The company is focusing on quality over quantity and strengthening its development structure as part of its ongoing three-year plan.
Square Enix Wants To Further Promote Its Multi-Platform Strategy, Especially On Switch 2
Square Enix CEO Takashi Kiryu stated the company intends to further promote its multi-platform strategy, with a particular focus on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The company has already supported the platform with titles like Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake and Final Fantasy Remake Intergrade, and plans to release Final Fantasy XIV Online and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth on the system.
First Dissidia Duellum Final Fantasy Crossover Involves Record Keeper
Square Enix's mobile game Dissidia Duellum Final Fantasy will receive its first crossover event with Final Fantasy Record Keeper on May 19, 2026. This event will introduce new abilities themed around Final Fantasy Record Keeper and offer in-game rewards like tickets, icons, and wallpapers, though no new characters will be added to Dissidia Duellum Final Fantasy during this period. The crossover will be available on Android and iOS devices.
