A recent report from the video game market research firm Niko Partners has sparked excitement among gamers with news of a potential mobile version of Square Enix's renowned MMO, Final Fantasy XIV. The report highlights a list of 15 video games approved by China's National Press and Publication Administration (NPPA) for import and domestic release, with the mobile adaptation of Final Fantasy XIV being developed by Tencent standing out among them. Other notable titles on the list include a mobile and PC version of Rainbow Six, two games based on Marvel IP - Marvel Snap and Marvel Rivals, and a mobile game inspired by Dynasty Warriors 8.
Rumors about Tencent's involvement in creating a mobile version of Final Fantasy XIV surfaced last month, yet neither Tencent nor Square Enix have officially confirmed these developments. According to Daniel Ahmad from Niko Partners, the mobile game is expected to be a standalone MMORPG, distinct from its PC counterpart. However, Ahmad emphasized that this information stems from "mostly industry chatter" and lacks official confirmation.
Tencent, a major force in the mobile gaming industry, appears to be collaborating with Square Enix as part of the latter's strategy to expand its flagship titles across multiple platforms. In May, Square Enix announced its intention to "aggressively pursue a multiplatform strategy" for games like Final Fantasy, signaling a significant shift in their approach to game development and distribution.