Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent will be managed by NetEase starting January. This operational transfer shouldn't significantly impact players, as the transition will include save data and progress migration. While reassuring for fans, this move raises questions about Square Enix's future mobile game strategy.
The news contrasts with the recent successful launch of Final Fantasy XIV's mobile version, a project facilitated by Tencent's Lightspeed Studios. This outsourcing, coupled with the NetEase partnership for Octopath Traveler, suggests a potential scaling back of Square Enix's mobile ambitions.
This shift might have been foreshadowed by the 2022 closure of Square Enix Montreal, the studio behind successful mobile titles like Hitman GO and Deus Ex GO. Although some Square Enix mobile games will continue, the strategy change is regrettable, especially considering the significant player interest in mobile ports of popular franchises, as evidenced by the enthusiastic reception of FFXIV Mobile.
While the future of Square Enix's mobile presence remains uncertain, players can explore our list of the top 25 best Android RPGs while awaiting the Octopath Traveler transition.
