# Square Enix and Tencent’s Lightspeed Studios Collaborate for *Final Fantasy XIV Mobile*

In an innovative partnership, Square Enix and Tencent’s subsidiary [Lightspeed Studios](https://www.lightspeed-studios.com/) have revealed their collaboration to develop *Final Fantasy XIV Mobile*, a handheld “sister” experience to one of the globe’s most cherished MMORPGs, *Final Fantasy XIV*. This forthcoming mobile title is intended as an extension of the core experience, aiming to encapsulate the immersive essence of *FFXIV* in a novel, mobile-friendly design.

## A Mobile Growth of *Final Fantasy XIV*

*Final Fantasy XIV Mobile* is much more than merely a straightforward port of the original title; it is framed as an “extension” that strives to authentically reproduce the epic narrative and intricate gameplay that have characterized *FFXIV* for over a decade. The mobile adaptation will integrate hallmark features such as Triple Triad (the card game within the game), chocobo racing, and fishing, supplying players with a comprehensive and enriched experience that goes beyond mere combat.

Naoki Yoshida, the Producer and Director of *Final Fantasy XIV*, highlighted the significance of preserving the magnificence of the original while modifying it for mobile platforms. “It has been 11 years since *FFXIV 2.0: A Realm Reborn* debuted, and this new mobile title will act as a sister to *FFXIV*, aiming to replicate the grandeur of the original’s storyline and combat system on mobile devices,” said Yoshida. He also confirmed that non-combat aspects, including the Disciples of the Land and Hand (gathering and crafting classes), will be accurately included in the mobile edition.

## Visual Fidelity and Mobile Adaptation

One of the most thrilling features of *Final Fantasy XIV Mobile* is its approach to transforming the visual elements of the core game for smartphones. Lightspeed Studios, notable for its collaboration on *PUBG Mobile*, is tackling the intricate task of reimagining the distinctive visual style of *FFXIV*’s characters, foes, and environments. The studio is also dedicated to ensuring that even the weather dynamics and daily rhythms from the original title are faithfully mirrored on mobile devices.

This attention to detail is vital for preserving the immersive adventure that *FFXIV* aficionados appreciate. The mobile version will not only prioritize graphical quality but also adapt gameplay mechanics for touchscreen devices, ensuring that the experience feels natural and user-friendly on smartphones.

## Lightspeed Studios: A Reliable Collaborator

Founded in 2020 as a Tencent subsidiary, Lightspeed Studios has rapidly ascended in the gaming sector. The studio is perhaps most recognized for its contributions to *PUBG Mobile*, one of the most successful mobile games worldwide. With numerous studios situated globally, Lightspeed’s objective is to deliver next-generation experiences to players across diverse genres and platforms. The company is also developing the anticipated AAA open-world title, *Last Sentinel*.

In a strategic move that further enhances its dedication to superior game creation, Lightspeed Studios recently welcomed Capcom veteran [Hideaki Itsuno](https://www.cgmagonline.com/news/hideaki-itsuno-lightspeed-japan-studios/) to spearhead its Japan studio. Itsuno’s expertise and guidance will likely be pivotal in ensuring that *Final Fantasy XIV Mobile* meets the high expectations established by the original game.

## A Long-Awaited Collaboration

Though the announcement of *Final Fantasy XIV Mobile* may catch some off guard, the endeavor has been in development for an extended period. Square Enix and Tencent formed a “strategic alliance” in 2018, but significant projects had yet to emerge until now. Earlier this summer, speculation around a mobile version of *FFXIV* began to circulate, and today’s announcement validates those rumors.

Notably, this is not Square Enix’s first endeavor to adapt one of its MMORPGs for mobile platforms. The Korean studio Nexon had been working for six years on a reimagining of *Final Fantasy XI* before the initiative was ultimately called off in 2021. As reported by [Gematsu](https://www.gematsu.com/2021/03/final-fantasy-xi-reboot-development-officially-cancelled), the project was shelved due to unmet expectations. However, with Lightspeed Studios’ established track record and Tencent’s backing, *Final Fantasy XIV Mobile* appears set for triumph.

## What to Anticipate from *Final Fantasy XIV Mobile*

While numerous specifics regarding *Final Fantasy XIV Mobile* remain undisclosed, we do know that the game will go through multiple playtests in China “soon,” with a global launch anticipated shortly thereafter. Considering that *FFXIV* has five extensive expansions, it will be interesting to see how the mobile version addresses the expansive content. Furthermore, it remains uncertain how the mobile adaptation will interconnect