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 previous retirement plans. His latest ambition? A spiritual successor to Final Fantasy VI.

A New Chapter After Fantasian

Following the success of Fantasian Neo Dimension, initially released in 2021, Sakaguchi revealed in an interview with The Verge that he's shifting gears. While Fantasian was intended as his final project, the positive experience working with his team has inspired him to embark on a new adventure. This new game, he hopes, will serve as a fitting tribute to Final Fantasy VI. He describes the upcoming project as "part two of my farewell note."

Development Update and Speculation

In a 2024 Famitsu interview, Sakaguchi confirmed the project's progress, estimating around two years until completion. The June 2024 trademark filing for "FANTASIAN DARK AGE" by Mistwalker has fueled fan speculation of a potential Fantasian sequel, though this remains unconfirmed. The new game will reportedly maintain the fantasy RPG style of his previous works. No official title or detailed information has been released.

Reunion with Square Enix

The recent collaboration with Square Enix for the multi-platform release of FANTASIAN Neo Dimension (December 2024) marked a significant event for Sakaguchi. He reflected on the experience, noting the full-circle moment of returning to his roots. Despite this successful partnership, Sakaguchi clarified he has no plans to revisit the Final Fantasy franchise or his past works, stating he's transitioned from creator to consumer.

The gaming world eagerly awaits further details on Sakaguchi's new project, a game promising a fresh take on classic RPG elements.