Takashi Kiryu, the president and official director of Square Enix, has penned a letter for the upcoming year detailing the plans for the Final Fantasy writer in 2024 and reflecting on the past year. While the focus remains on metaverse VR/AR initiatives and the exploration of “AI” machine learning tools, Kiryu acknowledges a continued emphasis on blockchain technologies despite receiving less attention compared to Yosuke Matsuda’s letter from 2023.
Describing 2023 as a period marked by geopolitical uncertainties and significant inflation due in part to monetary policy adjustments made by central banks grappling with the aftermath of the pandemic, Kiryu touches upon the challenges faced by businesses, individuals, regions, and nations. He highlights the transitional phase post-pandemic, emphasizing the ongoing risk of Covid-19 as reported by the World Health Organization.
Kiryu underscores the increasing popularity of new technologies such as VR, AR, and conceptual machine learning tools in game development, noting their rapid adoption in various domains. He mentions the rise of “extended reality” beyond gaming, citing examples like the architecture industry embracing XR technologies for data conversion aided by commercial drones.
The integration of cutting-edge VR/AR technologies into new forms of content creation is a focal point for Square Enix, aligning with their commitment to leveraging AI and innovative systems for enhanced productivity and refined marketing strategies. Kiryu’s vision includes utilizing modern technology to drive novel content experiences for consumers, echoing industry trends towards AI-driven content creation tools.
Square Enix’s strategic priorities for 2024 encompass AI advancements, blockchain entertainment/Web 3.0 initiatives, and innovative developments in cloud computing. Kiryu emphasizes the company’s redefined mission and goals, signaling organizational restructuring to support these strategic thrusts.
In response to evolving market dynamics, Square Enix is proactively exploring diversified revenue streams and enhancing operational efficiency through optimized asset allocation and knowledge sharing. The company aims to accelerate the digital transformation of game sales and publishing while fostering collaboration among global teams to expand market reach and strengthen intellectual property portfolios.
Looking ahead to 2024, Square Enix anticipates exciting releases such as the first Mana project in 15 years and the potential launch of Final Fantasy 16 on PC, hinting at a dynamic year ahead for fans and enthusiasts alike.
