Octopath Travelers: New Mobile Game Announced for NetEase

Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent's operations are shifting to NetEase, effective January 2024. This transition will include seamless transfer of player save data and progress, ensuring a smooth experience for fans. However, this move raises questions about Square Enix's future commitment to the mobile gaming market.

While many recent game releases have faced closures, this popular mobile spin-off will continue. The decision to partner with NetEase contrasts with Square Enix's recent collaboration with Tencent's Lightspeed Studios for the mobile port of Final Fantasy XIV. This outsourcing of Octopath Traveler, alongside the FFXIV mobile partnership, highlights a potential strategic shift away from direct mobile game development for Square Enix.

Square Enix's reduced mobile ambitions were perhaps foreshadowed in 2022 with the closure of Square Enix Montreal, the studio behind successful titles like Hitman GO and Deus Ex GO. Although the survival of Octopath Traveler is positive news, the outsourcing is still noteworthy, especially considering the significant player interest in Square Enix titles on mobile platforms, as evidenced by the enthusiastic reception to the FFXIV mobile announcement.

The company's mobile strategy remains unclear. In the meantime, players can explore our list of the top 25 best Android RPGs while awaiting the operational transfer.