Rumors are swirling that the popular MMORPG, Final Fantasy XIV (FFXIV), might be making its way to mobile devices. A gaming industry leak from the source Kurakasis suggests Tencent Games and Square Enix are collaborating on a mobile port.
A History of Mobile Final Fantasy
This wouldn't be Square Enix's first foray into mobile Final Fantasy games. Previous attempts, however, have yielded mixed results. Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis, while decent, didn't quite resonate with all fans, and Dissidia Final Fantasy: Opera Omnia ultimately shut down. Adapting the complexity of a full MMORPG like FFXIV for mobile is a significant challenge.
Unverified, But Not Entirely Out of the Blue
It's crucial to remember this is unverified; Square Enix hasn't officially commented. However, past collaborations between Square Enix and Tencent hint at the possibility. Discussions regarding joint projects were mentioned as far back as 2018, and again in 2021 by then-president Yosuke Matsuda. The rumor, therefore, isn't entirely unfounded.
Kurakasis' leak provides no timeframe, leaving the project's status uncertain. A formal announcement could still be some time away.
The Challenge of Mobile Adaptation
Successfully translating FFXIV's intricate mechanics to a mobile platform without compromising the depth players cherish will be a considerable undertaking. A simplified, clunky version could easily disappoint longtime fans.
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