Recent reports from Niko Partners, a video game market research firm, suggest a mobile Final Fantasy XIV game is in development by Tencent and Square Enix for the Chinese market. This follows earlier, unconfirmed reports of the collaboration. Let's delve into the details of this potential joint venture.
Niko Partners' latest report lists 15 games approved by China's National Press and Publication Administration (NPPA). Among them, a mobile version of Final Fantasy XIV, reportedly developed by Tencent, stands out. Other notable titles on the list include a mobile and PC version of Rainbow Six, two Marvel games (Marvel Snap and Marvel Rivals), and a mobile Dynasty Warriors 8 game.
While rumors of a Tencent-developed FFXIV mobile game circulated last month, neither Square Enix nor Tencent has officially confirmed this project.
According to Niko Partners analyst Daniel Ahmad's August 3rd X (formerly Twitter) post, the mobile FFXIV title is anticipated to be a standalone MMORPG, distinct from the PC version. However, Ahmad emphasizes that this information is based largely on industry speculation and lacks official confirmation.
Given Tencent's significant presence in the mobile gaming market, this partnership aligns with Square Enix's stated strategy of expanding its flagship titles, including Final Fantasy, to multiple platforms. Square Enix announced this multiplatform approach earlier in May, emphasizing an aggressive pursuit of broader reach.