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 arena, despite previous retirement plans. His new project aims to be a spiritual successor to Final Fantasy VI.

A Final Fantasy VI Successor?

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 create another game, envisioned as a successor to the beloved Final Fantasy VI. He describes this new venture as "part two of my farewell note."

Development Update

In a 2024 Famitsu interview, Sakaguchi confirmed the project's progress, estimating approximately two more years until completion. The trademark filing for "FANTASIAN DARK AGE" by Mistwalker in June 2024 fuelled speculation of a Fantasian sequel, though this remains unconfirmed. The new game will reportedly maintain the fantasy RPG style characteristic of Sakaguchi's 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 event. Sakaguchi reflected on this partnership, highlighting the full-circle experience of returning to his roots. Despite this collaboration, he maintains his focus remains on his new project, with no plans to revisit the Final Fantasy franchise or his past works. He now considers himself a "consumer rather than a creator" in relation to his past endeavors.