Game publisher Square Enix is embarking on an ambitious `reboot` of its operations, a process expected to unfold over the next three years, commencing in 2025. This strategic overhaul implies a challenging period for some of its existing titles, as not all will make it through this transformation. Specifically, two prominent mobile games derived from Square Enix`s flagship franchises are slated for discontinuation in Japan by the end of October.
The impending cessation of services for Final Fantasy: Brave Exvius and Dragon Quest of the Stars was officially announced via Square Enix`s social media platforms. Both games initially launched in 2015. It`s noteworthy that Final Fantasy: Brave Exvius was already shut down outside of Japan last year, with Dragon Quest of the Stars concluding its international service in 2021. Now, Japanese players will see these titles delisted from app stores on October 31, and in-app purchases have already been suspended for both.
Interestingly, before their final curtain call, both mobile games will mark significant anniversaries. Dragon Quest of the Stars is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary on October 15, followed by Final Fantasy: Brave Exvius on October 22, just days before their permanent removal.
This pattern of evaluating and sometimes discontinuing older titles is not new for Square Enix. According to Yoji Fujito, director of the venerable Final Fantasy XI, there were discussions last year about shutting down the 23-year-old massively multiplayer online game. However, Final Fantasy XI was ultimately spared due to its robust and active player base. Fans of Outriders were not as fortunate; developer People Can Fly reportedly had plans for Outriders 2, but the project was overruled and subsequently canceled by its publisher, Square Enix. This decision reportedly led to layoffs at People Can Fly, with Outriders 2 being one of two projects axed in the wake of these departures.
Despite these closures and cancellations, Square Enix continues to invest in new game development. Among its upcoming releases is The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales, a brand-new HD-2D action-RPG. This promising title is scheduled to launch on the upcoming Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S, and PC platforms in 2026, signaling the company`s forward-looking strategy alongside its ongoing restructuring efforts.