Final Fantasy has forever been the flagship franchise for Square Enix. Recently, esteemed composer Nobuo Uematsu shared insights into how the company nearly unraveled following the departure of its creator, Hironobu Sakaguchi, in 2003. Uematsu, influenced by classic RPGs like Ultima and Wizardry, discussed the creative collaboration they fostered during the series’ origin in the late ’80s.

What contributed to the remarkable success of the original Final Fantasy was Uematsu’s musical artistry, which continued to resonate through the series until Final Fantasy 12 in 2006 and later in the Final Fantasy 7 Remake installments. In a conversation with Sakaguchi, both artists reflected on their journey at Square Enix and the lasting impact of their work on the company and the gaming industry.

Square ‘Almost Collapsed’ After Hironobu Sakaguchi Left

Uematsu expressed that Sakaguchi’s leadership was a core pillar for Square. He stated, “The big boss had left the building,” describing the climate post-departure as dreadful. He recounted how the staff was uncertain about their direction or objectives, leading many key personnel to consider resigning during the year prior to Square’s merger with Enix.

Despite the upheaval, Uematsu commended Square Enix for eventually regaining stability. After leaving in 2004, Uematsu continued to collaborate with Sakaguchi on projects such as Blue Dragon, Lost Odyssey, and The Last Story. Their latest joint effort, Fantasian Neo Dimension, is set for a release in 2024 and is regarded by Uematsu as his last project.

In the midst of this, Square Enix and the Final Fantasy series continue to thrive, with ongoing development of a third installment in the Final Fantasy 7 Remake series and rumors of a remake for Final Fantasy 9.