Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent is shifting operations to NetEase in January 2024. This change, however, shouldn't significantly impact players, as the transition will include the transfer of save data and progress. While fans can breathe a sigh of relief, this move raises questions about Square Enix's future mobile game strategy.
This news follows the recent announcement of a mobile version of Final Fantasy XIV, a project facilitated by Tencent's subsidiary, Lightspeed Studios. The outsourcing of Octopath Traveler to NetEase, coupled with the FFXIV mobile partnership, suggests a potential retreat from direct mobile game development by Square Enix.
Signs of Square Enix scaling back mobile ambitions were evident as early as 2022 with the closure of Square Enix Montreal, the studio behind successful mobile titles like Hitman GO and Deus Ex GO. Although some existing mobile games will continue, this strategic shift is still disappointing, especially given the significant player interest in mobile ports of popular Square Enix franchises, as demonstrated by the enthusiasm surrounding the FFXIV mobile release.
While concerns are understandable, players awaiting the Octopath Traveler transition can explore our list of the top 25 best Android RPGs in the meantime.