Final Fantasy Creator Hironobu Sakaguchi’s Exit Caused Square Enix’s “Collapse,” According to Series Composer

The Legacy of Hironobu Sakaguchi’s Departure from Square

Historically pivotal, Hironobu Sakaguchi’s exit from Square in 2003 had profound implications not only for the Final Fantasy series but also for the company itself, which reportedly faced significant challenges in his absence. As detailed in a recent discussion on the NOBIYO To Isshoni podcast, hosted by renowned series composer Nobuo Uematsu, Sakaguchi was more than just a game creator; he was the cornerstone of the early organization.

The Early Days of Square

Reflecting on their formative years at Square, Uematsu recounted how the company resembled a gathering of university students rather than a structured corporate entity. During this time, Sakaguchi’s leadership stood out; he was viewed as the “big boss”whose vision and guidance kept the fledgling company aligned. His innate ability to lead inspired trust and respect among his peers, allowing him to shape the nascent stages of what would become a legendary gaming franchise.

The Fallout of His Departure

Uematsu shared that Sakaguchi’s departure resulted in a staggering collapse within Square’s infrastructure. The aftermath of his exit was so pronounced that Uematsu himself contemplated leaving the company. Yet, amidst this turmoil, Square Enix demonstrated resilience and eventually recovered, particularly notable during a pivotal merger with the publisher of the Dragon Quest series.

Recent Collaborations and Innovations

Despite having left the company over two decades ago, Sakaguchi re-entered the fold with his recent project, FANTASIAN: Neo Dimension. This title is a port of the popular JRPG originally launched on Apple Arcade a few years prior, showcasing that Sakaguchi’s creative influence continues to resonate within the gaming landscape.

The evolution of both Sakaguchi and Square Enix highlights the dynamic interplay between innovative leadership and corporate success. As the gaming industry progresses, the lessons learned from Sakaguchi’s tenure and subsequent departure remain invaluable to understanding the fabric of game development today.

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