Square Enix’s Naoki Hamaguchi Reflects on Generational Shift in Gaming

The gaming landscape is witnessing a generational shift, as Naoki Hamaguchi, director of the Final Fantasy 7 Remake trilogy, comments on the evolving preferences of younger developers at Square Enix. Many of these newer team members cite Final Fantasy 13—released in March 2009—as their favorite title in the franchise, rather than the iconic classics such as Final Fantasy 6 that defined earlier eras.

In an interview with GamerBraves, Hamaguchi expressed his awareness of this transition, stating, “The company has been growing and changing as new employees come in and the company just keeps going on.” He noted that younger fans now often reference Final Fantasy 13 as their entry point into the series, indicating a significant shift in nostalgia and cultural touchstones within the gaming community.

The Final Fantasy series has been a staple of the role-playing game genre, with titles like Final Fantasy 6 through Final Fantasy 10 marking a period of immense creativity and innovation. However, as these games age, they may seem vintage to the new generation of gamers. While Final Fantasy 6 remains a beloved classic, it is over 30 years old, making it less accessible to newcomers who may have started their journey with Final Fantasy 13.

Despite being somewhat controversial for its linear gameplay and limited character roster, Final Fantasy 13 offered a vibrant world and engaging storyline that resonated with a younger audience. For many, it was an entry into the expansive universe of Japanese role-playing games, igniting a passion for the genre.

Hamaguchi’s reflections highlight the broader implications of this generational divide. As new developers grow up with different experiences, the direction of game design may evolve. He anticipates that one day, a developer will emerge who began their journey with Final Fantasy 15, further illustrating the ongoing cycle of innovation within the franchise.

The availability of older titles remains a concern, as Final Fantasy 13 and its sequels are not yet accessible on the latest consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, although they can be found on platforms like Steam. This gap presents an opportunity for Hamaguchi and his team as they continue their work on Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3.

Hamaguchi’s insights also extend to the evolution of game design itself. He believes that both action and turn-based games should adapt and grow to meet the demands of modern gamers. This perspective reflects a commitment to diversity within the medium, ensuring that the gaming experience remains vibrant and inclusive for all players.

As Square Enix continues to develop new titles and remakes, the company stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation, shaping the future of gaming for a diverse audience.