Square Enix Hints at Xbox Port for Final Fantasy 16 but No Release Date Yet

Square Enix has given an update on the possibility of releasing Final Fantasy 16 on Xbox, expressing interest in bringing the game to Microsoft's console but not committing to a release date.

In an interview with Video Games, Naoki 'Yoshi-P' Yoshida, producer of both Final Fantasy 14 and 16, gave a strong indication that Final Fantasy 16 will eventually arrive on Xbox, encouraging fans to remain hopeful.

"We've announced the PC version, and in terms of Xbox, we definitely want to bring it to the platform," Yoshida said. "However, we can’t provide specifics on when it will be available. That said, it's not like there’s no chance at all, and we do want to make it happen. So fans should keep hoping."

Final Fantasy 16 launched exclusively for PS5 in June 2023, with the PC version following recently. IGN's review gave the game a 9/10, praising its fast-paced, action-oriented combat, even though it marks a shift from traditional Final Fantasy gameplay. The review highlighted the game's story, characters, and the innovative Active Time Lore feature, calling it one of the best in the series.

In a somewhat surprising turn, Square Enix recently voiced disappointment with the commercial performance of both Final Fantasy 16 and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. According to a financial results briefing from May, released in September, Square Enix President Takashi Kiryu stated: "In our HD Games segment, while we released major titles like Final Fantasy 16 and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, profits unfortunately did not meet expectations."

The company has already started a significant restructuring of its business to address these concerns. This new plan focuses on releasing games across multiple platforms, including PC, Xbox, and potentially the next Nintendo console. Alongside these changes, Square Enix has also canceled several projects and is working to refine its game development pipeline.

In January, Yoshida mentioned that the time may have come for the next generation to take the reins for future installments, including Final Fantasy 17. Notably, Square Enix recently brought titles like Trials of Mana, Legend of Mana, and the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster series to Xbox for the first time.