Square Enix Needs to Modernize Its IP, Former Exec Says
Jacob Navok, former Director of Business at Square Enix, has criticized the company for failing to adequately modernize its most popular intellectual properties to reach new generations of players. In an extended Twitter post, Navok argues that while Square Enix has demonstrated competence in the live-service space through franchises like Final Fantasy XIV and Final Fantasy XI, the company has not leveraged this expertise to bring other major IPs such as the Final Fantasy franchise itself to younger audiences effectively.
Navok suggests that Square Enix should pursue more contemporary approaches to engage younger demographics. Among his proposed strategies, he highlights the potential value of high-profile collaborations that resonate with youth culture, citing a hypothetical K-pop Demon Hunters x Final Fantasy crossover as an example of the type of creative partnership that could help the franchise appeal to new player bases.
The critique reflects broader industry discussions about how established publishers must evolve their engagement strategies to remain relevant with younger gaming audiences while leveraging existing intellectual property. Navok’s comments indicate that while Square Enix has successfully implemented live-service models in certain titles, the company may need to apply these lessons more broadly across its portfolio and explore modern cultural partnerships to capture younger players’ attention.