Square Enix's Wada: Lower Demand Precedes 'Second Stage Of Growth'

Square Enix president Yoichi Wada says that any level-off in games demand is simply a foundation for a "second stage of growth" to come. "Until now, the history of the game industry has mainly been about broadening horizons, meaning developing territory and increasing customer base," said Wada, in a joint interview with Eidos CEO Phil Rogers released on Square Enix's official site. "I think some people say it's leveled off because they believe this growth has almost reached its limit. However, we believe this is in fact the foundation for the second stage of growth, and that it proves that games have become established worldwide as another genre of entertainment." Wada also said Square Enix's recent $117 million acquisition of Eidos is intended to put the company "at the vanguard" of this new growth phase. Said Eidos' Rogers: "We aim to contribute by producing games that meet our own high standards in terms of quality, but also hold the best opportunity to maximize profitability on the creative and financial investments made." "I look forward to all of the wonderful things we are going to achieve together."