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Final Fantasy XVI fell short of Square Enix's high-end expectations

Square Enix suggested PlayStation 5 supply issues impacted the title's performance.

Chris Kerr, News Editor

August 7, 2023

1 Min Read
Key artwork for Final Fantasy XVI featuring protagonist Clive

Final Fantasy XVI failed to meet the high-end of Square Enix's sales expectations, according to company president Takashi Kiryu.

As highlighted by Bloomberg, Kiryiu provided that assessment during a recent post-earnings call.

He claimed slow adoption of the PlayStation 5 limited the game's performance, with Sony struggling to meet consumer demand due to supply issues during the console's first years on shelves.

Sony recently announced the PlayStation 5 has crossed 40 million sales worldwide, with Sony Interactive Entertainment president and CEO Jim Ryan adding the company will now be able to meet "pent up demand" for hardware.

Square Enix said it has plans to drive sales now consoles are more readily available.

Square Enix laments slow PlayStation 5 rollout after promising more Xbox support

Kiryu's remarks come just a few days after Square committed to increasing support for Xbox platforms in the future.

At the end of July, the company announced it would be bringing its long-running MMO, Final Fantasy XIV, to Xbox Series X | S further down the line.

In practice, Kiryu explained that means bringing Square Enix titles to Xbox platforms "whenever possible."

Xbox boss Phil Spencer said the partnership represented a "seminal moment" in the company's relationship with Square Enix that will see them work together "more closely" moving forward.

About the Author

Chris Kerr

News Editor, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.

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