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

A New Game Inspired by Final Fantasy VI

Following the success of Fantasian Neo Dimension, initially released in 2021, Sakaguchi revealed his intention to develop a new game. While he initially planned for Fantasian to be his final project, the positive experience working with his team prompted a change of heart. He aims to create a title that serves as a "successor to Final Fantasy VI," blending classic elements with innovative approaches. This new game will be "part two of my farewell note," he stated in an interview with The Verge.

Development Update and Speculation

In a 2024 Famitsu interview, Sakaguchi confirmed the project's progress, estimating roughly two more years until completion. A June 2024 trademark filing by Mistwalker for "FANTASIAN DARK AGE" fueled fan speculation about a potential sequel. While details remain scarce, Sakaguchi confirmed the game will maintain the fantasy RPG style of his previous works.

Reunion with Square Enix

The collaboration with Square Enix for the multi-platform release of FANTASIAN Neo Dimension in December 2024 marked a significant reunion for Sakaguchi. He described the experience as "fascinating," given his history with the company. Despite this renewed partnership, Sakaguchi clarified that he has no plans to revisit the Final Fantasy franchise or his past works, expressing his current focus as a gamer rather than a creator.

Sakaguchi's journey with Square Enix spans from 1983, where he directed the first Final Fantasy and several subsequent mainline titles, to his departure in 2003 and the founding of Mistwalker. His continued creative drive promises an exciting new chapter in the world of RPGs.