Final Fantasy XVI development delayed due to COVID-19
It seems we’ll have to wait longer for the newest installment of the Final Fantasy series.
Unfortunate news has come in regarding the latest Final Fantasy game in the works. Square Enix game producer Naoki Yoshida announced that Final Fantasy XVI development is delayed due to the ongoing effects of COVID-19. Despite the setback, the team still plans for a big reveal regarding the game in 2022.
What caused the Final Fantasy XVI delay?
While fans were initially told more information would be coming later in 2021, said news has been further set back. In Yoshida’s tweet, he wrote that the COVID-19 pandemic delayed the games development “by almost half a year.” Yoshida explained that communication for the development happens more slowly without staff in office as much. This results in delays, or in some cases, cancellations, of asset deliveries from outsource partners.
However, the news isn’t entirely bad. Yoshida added that they’ve been working to solve these issues despite the game’s delay. Working on graphic resource quality, combat mechanics, cutscenes, and graphics optimization, the team continues to polish Final Fantasy XVI’s product.
When will we hear more about the game?
Even though information for 2021 is no longer in the cards, there will be more to come next year. Yoshida notes there will be a big reveal around Spring 2022, with no specific date given. With such a significant amount of time for a game’s development being delayed, it’s understandable the team wants to hold back more news. Regardless, Yoshida apologizes for the wait and thanks all Final Fantasy fans for their patience.
Final Fantasy is no stranger to delays; Final Fantasy XV began development in 2006 and wasn’t released until 2016. While it can be difficult to wait, I always remind myself game delays only result in a better product. I’d rather wait for Final Fantasy XVI to be the best rather overworking the team to put out a rushed product.
