Final Fantasy Creator Can't Stop, Won't Stop; Hopes to Create FF6's Spiritual Successor

Hironobu Sakaguchi, the creator of Final Fantasy, is back in the game development scene, despite earlier plans to retire. His latest endeavor aims to create a spiritual successor to Final Fantasy VI.

A New Game Inspired by Final Fantasy VI

Following the successful launch of Fantasian Neo Dimension (initially released in 2021), Sakaguchi revealed in an interview with The Verge that he's shifting gears. While he initially intended Fantasian to be his final project, the positive experience working with his team has inspired him to embark on a new journey. This new game, he hopes, will serve as a successor to Final Fantasy VI, blending familiar elements with fresh innovations. He describes the upcoming title as "part two of my farewell note."

Development Updates

In a 2024 interview with Famitsu, Sakaguchi confirmed the project's progress, stating that script completion is a year behind him, and he anticipates being near completion within two years. The June 2024 trademark filing for "FANTASIAN DARK AGE" by Mistwalker has fueled speculation among fans about a potential sequel. While details remain scarce, Sakaguchi confirmed the new project will maintain a style consistent with his previous fantasy RPGs.

Reunion with Square Enix

The collaboration between Mistwalker and Square Enix brought FANTASIAN Neo Dimension to PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Switch in December 2024. Originally an Apple Arcade exclusive, Fantasian garnered significant critical acclaim. Sakaguchi reflected on this reunion with his former employer, describing it as a "fascinating experience," completing a full circle from his career beginnings.

Despite this collaboration, Sakaguchi remains focused on his new project and has no plans to revisit the Final Fantasy franchise or his previous works, stating that he has transitioned from creator to consumer.