Restructuring for Higher Quality Titles
Takashi Kiryu, the CEO of Square Enix, has made a significant announcement regarding the future direction of the company. In an effort to enhance the quality of their games, Kiryu has stated that Square Enix will be restructuring to focus on producing fewer titles. This strategic move is aimed at ensuring that each game released meets a higher standard of quality. The information about this change in strategy comes from a financial briefing where Kiryu expressed the need for the company to streamline its lineup. For more insights on game development strategies, see our article on ongoing struggles in the game development sector.
Square Enix’s Recent History
Square Enix has experienced a tumultuous period in the gaming industry over the past decade. The company has adopted a “throw everything at the wall” approach, which has led to a mix of both successes and failures. Notable titles that have faced challenges include Final Fantasy 15, which had a protracted development cycle, and Forspoken, which received attention for its writing. Additionally, Marvel’s Avengers was met with criticism across various aspects of the game.
One of the more surprising moves by Square Enix was the sale of IO Interactive, the studio behind the acclaimed Hitman 2 and Hitman 3. These games went on to achieve great success, which raised questions about the decision to sell the studio. Other notable missteps from Square Enix include the releases of Balan Wonderworld, Babylon’s Fall, and The Quiet Man, which were not well-received by players and critics alike.
Despite these setbacks, Square Enix has also seen victories, such as the continuous praise for Final Fantasy 14 and the success of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake, which lived up to its high expectations despite some criticisms regarding sidequests and pacing.
Mid-Budget Games: Square Enix’s Strength
Amidst the fluctuating success of their high-profile releases, Square Enix has found a strong foothold in the realm of mid-budget games. These titles, which often boast lower production costs, have proven to be both interesting and successful, filling a niche that resonates with a dedicated audience.
Some of the standout mid-budget games from Square Enix include the surprise hit PowerWash Simulator, and the HD 2D remakes of classic Super Nintendo games. The company has also been praised for its strategy games, such as Tactics Ogre Reborn, Triangle Strategy, and The DioField Chronicle. These games have been well-received for their depth and innovation, showcasing Square Enix’s ability to deliver quality experiences without the need for blockbuster budgets.
In 2021, Square Enix released visually appealing remasters of the classic Final Fantasy games on PC, which were met with positive feedback from fans. The company’s strategy games, released in close succession, were a treat for enthusiasts but also highlighted the challenges of marketing multiple titles within a short timeframe.
The success of these mid-budget games suggests that there is a significant market for titles that may not have the widespread appeal of AAA games but still offer engaging and memorable experiences. Square Enix’s ability to capitalize on this market segment has been a notable strength, providing a diverse portfolio that caters to various gamer preferences.
The CEO’s Contradictory Statements
Focus on Quality
On one hand, Kiryu has expressed a desire to “slim down” the company’s lineup to focus on higher quality titles.
Development Proficiency and Diversity
However, he has also spoken about increasing development proficiency and diversifying the title portfolio, which suggests a broader range of games.
Kiryu’s comments about strengthening the company’s internal development capabilities indicate a push towards creating new titles that are developed to a high level of quality. Yet, this seems at odds with his other statement about focusing on fewer, carefully selected titles. The CEO’s vision includes taking on new challenges and adding to the diversity of Square Enix’s portfolio, while also enhancing the skill sets of their developers.
This dual focus on quality and diversity could have a significant impact on the future of Square Enix’s game portfolio. The company’s strategy appears to be balancing the production of major titles with the exploration of new, innovative gaming experiences. Kiryu’s final comment on the subject pointed out the market’s polarization between blockbuster and indie titles, and his belief that Square Enix has developed many games that fall in between these categories. He has stated a goal to make clearer distinctions in their lineup going forward.
Author’s Perspective on Square Enix’s Current Position
The author of the article offers a perspective on Square Enix’s current standing in the gaming industry, emphasizing the significance of mid-budget games. Despite CEO Takashi Kiryu’s comments on the need for restructuring and focusing on fewer titles, the author argues that the “middle” ground, where Square Enix has been producing mid-budget games, is where the company has been doing its most consistent and commendable work.
Games like Trials of Mana and Visions of Mana are highlighted as examples of Square Enix’s ability to deliver games that may not achieve blockbuster sales but are nonetheless charming and fulfill the desires of the company’s most ardent fans. These titles, which do not aim to please the broadest possible audience, are seen as vital to the company’s portfolio, offering a modernized take on the “PS2 RPG” style that many gamers crave.
The author acknowledges Kiryu’s correct assessment that Square Enix needs to improve its marketing strategies. However, the hope is for a future where Square Enix continues to invest in games like Harvestella, rather than solely focusing on titles that attempt to appeal to the widest audience possible. The CEO’s remarks on the market’s polarization and the need for clearer distinctions in their game lineup are recognized, but the author suggests that the excitement in gaming comes from not putting all resources into every release, but rather from taking calculated risks with a diverse range of titles.
