Final Fantasy Creator's Encore: Sakaguchi Announces New Project
In a surprising turn of events, Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi has retracted his plans for retirement following the release of "Fantasian."
Sakaguchi, who left Square Enix in 2003 to establish Mistwalker, previously expressed his intention to step down after "Fantasian" in 2021. However, he now reveals that he's "got one more left in the tank."
In an interview with The Verge, Sakaguchi explains that while "Fantasian" was intended as his final project, the release of its director's cut on Steam prompted a reevaluation. He describes the game's completion as "a farewell note," but adds that the development process was so fulfilling that he "found it hard to part ways" with his team.
"It's generally going to follow a similar style to my previous works," Sakaguchi says of his new project. "It'll be something that can be a successor to Final Fantasy VI in a good way—our goal is to create something old but new at the same time. It'll be part two of my farewell note."
The mention of Final Fantasy VI, often hailed as the series' golden age, is sure to pique the interest of longtime fans. Sakaguchi's desire to create a spiritual successor to this classic suggests an ambitious and nostalgic endeavor.
Despite his initial retirement plans, Sakaguchi's announcement proves that the creative fire still burns bright. As he embarks on this final chapter of his career, fans can eagerly anticipate his latest masterpiece.