New Titles Are the Likely Priority
In an interview at Lucca Comics & Games Festival, Yoshinori Kitase said Square Enix is more likely to invest in new games going forward. The producer of the Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy, who also directed the original Final Fantasy VII, explained that remakes can still make sense when the team has a deep personal connection to an earlier project and wants to present it to new audiences.
Ahead of Final Fantasy VII Revelation's release, he framed the remake model as a way for new players to discover a classic while respecting the version known by longtime fans. He said such projects are possible, but they should not be treated as the main path for the company.
Characters Define the Franchise
When asked what makes Final Fantasy distinctive, Kitase pointed to character development as the most important element. He said the way protagonists and supporting figures grow throughout a story is central to the franchise's appeal.
He also highlighted the series' blend of cultural influences. The producer noted that the franchise originally drew from European aesthetics before increasingly incorporating Japanese comics, anime, and other local creative traditions, creating a look and feel he believes is unique within the genre.
Screen Adaptations Remain Possible
Kitase also addressed interest in adapting the franchise into other media. He said the expanded scope of the Final Fantasy VII remake gave the story more room to explore. While he did not announce a specific film or television project, he said a future game or TV series inspired by the world could be possible.
Praise for Clair Obscure
The conversation also touched on Clair Obscure: Expedition 33, a recent role-playing game widely recognized for its Final Fantasy-inspired design. Kitase said he has spoken with the creators and is pleased that the title drew inspiration from the franchise. He framed cross-pollination among developers as a positive cycle, noting that creators can be shaped by films, games, and other artistic influences.
Star Wars Homages Confirmed
Asked about Star Wars influences, Kitase said he admired the films so much that he was careful not to imitate them directly. He confirmed, however, that two specific ideas influenced his work. In Final Fantasy VI, he used the character names Biggs and Wedge as an homage to the franchise. In Final Fantasy X, he said the concept behind Blitzball was shaped by the idea of a sport-like competition within a fantasy setting, an approach connected to the pod race concept in Star Wars Episode 1.
Final Fantasy VII Remains His Favorite
Despite working on multiple major titles, Kitase said Final Fantasy VII is the project he feels most attached to. He attributed that connection to more than 30 years of involvement with the same characters and storyline, from the original release through the remake era.
No Immediate Remake Plans, but Final Fantasy VI Stays a Fan Favorite
When asked if he would choose another classic for a large-scale remake, Kitase said he does not have a specific title in mind right now. He expressed satisfaction with the Final Fantasy VII remake project and said he would prefer to focus on new games for the time being. At the same time, he acknowledged that both fans and people inside the company have frequently asked about a Final Fantasy VI remake, leaving the door slightly open.
A More Battle-Focused Future May Be Next
Looking ahead, Kitase said he is interested in exploring game types that appeal to newer players, including titles that emphasize combat action over narrative. He said he would like to experiment with a more battle-focused format while retaining the storytelling elements that define Final Fantasy.
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