Kingdom Hearts IV Development Progresses Amid Cancellation of Missing Link Mobile Game; Square Enix’s 3-Year Reboot Strategy Emphasizes Quality, Multiplatform Releases

Update on Kingdom Hearts IV and the Cancellation of Missing Link

Although fans have anxiously awaited news about Kingdom Hearts IV, Square Enix has reassured them that development is ongoing. However, the latest update is bittersweet, as it comes with disappointing news regarding another title in the franchise.

Cancellation of Kingdom Hearts Missing Link

In a recent announcement, Square Enix has officially canceled Kingdom Hearts Missing Link. The company cited challenges in delivering a long-term service that would meet player expectations as a primary reason for this decision. While this cancellation is a setback for fans looking for mobile gaming options, Square Enix confirmed that work on Kingdom Hearts IV remains a priority.

Strategic Reboot Plans at Square Enix

The discontinuation of Missing Link is part of a broader three-year strategic plan aimed at revamping Square Enix’s game development process. Details of this initiative, revealed in a recent fiscal year report, highlight a commitment to more consistent major title releases and enhanced collaboration between their development teams. Key objectives include:

Establishing a dedicated R&D division focused on AI development tools
Enhancing cross-platform capabilities to increase game profitability
Consolidating all titles under centralized studio management
Minimizing outsourcing to retain creative control
Canceling several less viable projects

As these changes take effect, Square Enix anticipates a significant decline in net sales. However, they expect stable operating income for the fiscal year concluding in March 2026, indicating that major game releases may be limited during this transition period.

Future Titles and Release Expectations

Given the current trajectory, it is unlikely that Kingdom Hearts IV will debut before March 31, 2026. Nevertheless, Square Enix has a few other projects in the works for avid gamers to look forward to. Upcoming releases include:

Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remakes, scheduled for this year
Final Fantasy VII Remake for Nintendo Switch 2, although it may not feature a 60 FPS mode despite hints
A collaboration with TBS TV to create a new game based on original IP

For fans hoping for more news on Kingdom Hearts IV, the wait continues, but Square Enix remains focused on delivering quality experiences in the future.

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