In a financial call reported by Bloomberg, Square Enix president Takashi Kiryu told analysts that sales for all three games failed to hit expected revenue and profit, resulting in an overall hit to operating income for the business.
Square Enix announced launch sales of three million for Final Fantasy 16 after it went on sale in June 2023, but it has yet to announce a follow-up figure since. According to Bloomberg, while this initial momentum was in-line with expectations, sales have slowed.
It’s a worse story for Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. Initial momentum failed to reach Square Enix’s target, Bloomberg said. Tellingly, Square Enix has yet to announce a sales figure for the game, the second in the company’s planned trilogy of Final fantasy 7 remakes.
As for Foamstars, Square Enix has yet to announce a sales figure for this live-service, Splatoon-like game. Bloomberg reported that Square Enix admitted it had fallen short of expectations.
On the bright side, Square Enix said it’s confident Final Fantasy 16 can achieve its goal over the original 18-month sales plan. And, according to Bloomberg reporter Takashi Mochizuki, Square Enix said sales of Rebirth and Foamstars “aren’t necessarily bad.”
Square Enix said: -FF16 sales fell short of expectations. Initial momentum was in line with expectations, but the games failed to reach FY goal as its momentum slowed. No updates from sales number last announced at 3 million -FF7 Rebirth sales fell short of expectations. Initial…
This week, Square Enix announced a significant company reboot amid tumbling profits. Final Fantasy 16 and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth both launched as PlayStation 5 exclusives, but Square Enix said it will now “aggressively pursue a multiplatform strategy that includes Nintendo platforms, PlayStation, Xbox, and PCs.”
Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.
Ron Gilbert, the mind behind the Monkey Island series, has started sharing some information about his upcoming RPG adventure game and it is looking like a retro delight (thanks, Time Extension).
The as-yet-untitled project is “Best described as Classic Zelda meets Diablo meets Thimbleweed Park” according to the Terrible Toybox website — a trio that we had never imagined together, but a rather tasty-sounding combination all the same.
Helldivers 2 sold over 12 million copies in its first 12 weeks on sale, making it PlayStation’s fastest-selling game of all time, Sony has announced.
Speaking during an investor call, Sony said Arrowhead’s PlayStation 5 and PC live-service shooter exceeded its expectations, hitting the impressive sales milestone on May 5, 2024. Helldivers 2 beats out Sony Santa Monica’s God of War Ragnarok, which hit 11 million copies 75 days after launching across PlayStation 4 and PS5 in November 2022.
Helldivers 2 launched on PC and PS5 at the same time with cross-play fueling its co-op PVE action. You play a Helldiver who fights against alien robots and bugs across a number of players as part of a Galactic War, with Arrowhead pulling the strings alongside the regular release of Premium Warbonds that add new weapons and gear to the mix.
Helldivers 2, which launched priced $39.99, saw an explosion in popularity that initially caused significant server problems. As Arrowhead worked to fix these launch issues, player numbers continued to grow, with Helldivers 2 becoming one of the most-played games on Steam with a peak of 458,709 concurrents. Sony does not divulge PS5 concurrent player numbers.
Since then, Arrowhead has butted heads with Sony over the Helldivers 2 IP owner and publisher’s decision to force PC players to link their accounts to PlayStation Network in order to continue playing. Sony eventually backed down, although not before a Steam review bombing campaign that looks set to become the inspiration for a new in-game cape.
Helldivers 2’s breakout success will no-doubt encourage Sony to release more of its multiplayer-focused video games on PC and PS5 at the same time. Currently, it continues to release its single-player games on PS5 first, before eventually making their way to PC. It may also encourage Sony to consider releasing more games at a budget price, given Helldivers 2’s success at $39.99. Concord — a new PVP multiplayer FPS from Firewalk Studios coming to PS5 and PC in 2024 — may follow suit.
Arrowhead CEO Johan Pilestedt reacted to the news in a post on X / Twitter, saying: “it’s crazy to think that there are more Helldivers than there are Swedes.”
As announced in the Sony earnings call, we have sold over 12M units!
It’s crazy to think that there are more Helldivers than there are Swedes 🤯
What a massive achievement from everyone involved in realizing @Helldivers2. A massive thank you to the community for your support,…
Arrowhead is expected to be planning to add more content to Helldivers 2 over the course of 2024, with vehicles and a third enemy faction expected to arrive at some point.
Wesley is the UK News Editor for IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.
Mullets aren’t just coming back into fashion, they’re everywhere at the moment, adopted largely by lads who love draft beer and The Football. And seemingly by Mullet Mad Jack, the protagonist of a single-player roguelike FPS who would shove draft beers into the skull of a billionaire robot, then shoot him in the gonads. What I’m trying to say is, Mullet Mad Jack is fashionable and no-nonsense, which makes for a great hang if you’d like to burn some aggression once in a while.
If you missed this run the first time around, you now have from 20th May 2024 until 27th May 2024 to grab the first wave featuring plenty of familiar faces. The icons as usual are priced at 10 Platinum Points and the borders and backgrounds will set you back 5 Platinum Points.
In case you somehow missed it, a second Super Mario Bros. Movie is coming to cinemas in April 2026 and it likely won’t be the only big screen outing to follow the original film’s release.
Speaking to GamesRadar+, the movie voice of Mario Chris Pratt mentioned how he could see Nintendo and its partners releasing “lots” of films based on the company’s IP over the next decade:
Hello, Wanderers, or should I say, Authorizers? Welcome back! I’m SKY, the lead designer at Hotta Studio of Perfect World Games, and I’m bursting with excitement to share some thrilling news with you. Tower of Fantasy version 4.0, Gesthos Sector, is on the horizon, slated for release on May 28.
In this upcoming update, we’re introducing an entirely new breathtaking urban-style open world, all infused with futuristic charm and technological wonders. Version 4.0 also brings with it a diverse cast of new companions, each with their own captivating stories and unique abilities.
We have also prepared a series of events. After the version is released, participating in events, you can get up to 188 draws, 1000 Dark Crystals. We look forward to your participation!
Gesthos Sector
After experiencing the adventures of the Domain 9, I believe you are already familiar with Gesthos—the supercomputer nestled within the headquarters of Hykros. Its recent descent into a state of shutdown due to a virus invasion, potentially causing a severe Omnium crisis. To find the virus that threatens the system, you will become an Authorizer, uploading your consciousness into a virtual world calculated by it—the Gesthos Network World.
Picture this: a realm meticulously crafted by Gesthos, mirroring the pre-Cataclysmic era of Aida in all its glory. Here, Omnium technology reigns supreme, orchestrating a thriving technological revolution amidst unparalleled prosperity.
A friendly tip: after the version 4.0 is released, newcomers won’t need to complete the previous chapters, you’re granted direct passage to the latest marvel—the Gesthos Sector!
And your first stop upon arrival is Aesperia.
Behold towering edifices adorned with shimmering holographic billboards, while a symphony of aircraft dances across the azure skies. Embark on an urban trip along gravity rails, bask in tranquil vacations along the sun-kissed shores of Astra…enjoy the seamless fusion of technological marvels and natural splendor. And for those with an appetite for discovery, you can also delve deeper into this world through puzzle-solving gameplay and exploration tasks.
An officer and a phantom thief
In your quest to resolve the viral threat, you’ll find yourself entangled in the complex power struggles of Aesperia’s factions. But fear not, as new friends stand ready to aid you in your endeavors.
Meet Roslyn, a fresh recruit of the Federation Police. With a blend of dedication and charm, she tirelessly pursues justice while lending a helping hand to those in need. Recently, it seems she has been demoted to a junior officer due to a failed mission.
While designing the character, our focus lies in capturing her serene yet contemplative aura. Picture her engrossed in thought, idly toying with handcuffs—a subtle allure that is sure to captivate hearts effortlessly. Her love for kitty is unmistakable, a trait reflected in her design. Roslyn wields “Calm Waters”, a weapon crafted from her grandfather’s ship anchor. With a frost/volt attribute, it’s a testament to her maritime heritage.
Embracing the ship anchor’s distinctive characteristics, we’ve infused the combat dynamics with interactive intricacies. Designed for mid-range engagements, Calm Waters prioritizes agility and versatility on the battlefield. Therefore, we’ve experimented with allowing Roslyn to throw the ship anchor to generate different striking angles, using acceleration to increase the damage.
In crafting her skills, we leverage the anchor chain, using its dual-ended design to unleash a flurry of attacks. The fluid interplay between the anchor’s bulk and the short blade results in a mesmerizing ballet of chaos —a spectacle of elegance amidst the combat.
And then there’s the enigmatic figure of Ace, the elusive thief who has been the focus of Roslyn’s relentless pursuit. Have you taken note of the baseball bat she wields? Ace named it “Poppin’ Stick”, a powerful attack weapon. Despite her status as a top-tier thief, Ace harbors a genuine desire to uphold fairness and justice through her actions, a paradox that adds depth to her character. In fact, she’s gone so far as to assemble a band of like-minded individuals, forming the renowned phantom thief organization known as “Wednesday”.
But here’s where things get truly interesting. Beyond the surface-level cat-and-mouse chase lies a deepe connection between Ace and Roslyn—a relationship shrouded in secrecy and ripe with untold history.
In addition, following the launch of version 4.0, the incredibly popular simulacrum, Lan, will join the free pick SSR weapon pool!
Upload adventure anew
Upon embarking into version 4.0, you’ll gain access to an exclusive Authorizer’s Terminal—an indispensable tool that not only facilitates seamless exploration of new territories but also enhances the precision of map data. Boasting a myriad of practical features, including SMS communication, an Uber-inspired transportation app, and music playback capabilities, this device is your key to unlocking a world of convenience.
But that’s not all. By seamlessly integrating the world setting with main quests, we’ve also designed a new open-world gameplay. From repairing port tower to tracking down escaped robots and crafting stone sculptures, interactive engagements are scattered across the map, offering Authorizers a wealth of enriching experiences.
However, in this era of technology, be prepared to confront a host of challenges posed by intelligent machines. From the vigilant Patrol Droid to the formidable Formation Point Sphere α: Test Type, each presents a unique threat, demanding careful strategy and skillful navigation from players.
We have also prepared various activities. By participating in sign-ins and version-exclusive events, you can get up to 188 draws, 1000 Dark Crystals. But that’s not all—prepare to be charmed by our latest addition: the free dandelion vehicle, Fluffy. Infused with natural allure, this whimsical mode of transportation promises to elevate your adventures with its enchanting presence.
And let’s not forget the debut of the first-ever dual-seater sports car. With its sleek design, fully automatic cruise, and driving functions, this marvel of engineering promises to redefine exploration in Aesperia. From its captivating aesthetics to its unparalleled performance, it’s poised to become the ultimate choice for discerning Authorizers.
Mark your calendars, as Tower of Fantasy version 4.0 is set to launch on May 28! With an array of exhilarating features awaiting your discovery, we eagerly anticipate embarking on this thrilling new journey together. See you in the latest version!
The pending U.S. trademark filed by Microsoft’s ZeniMax Media is for a project called “IDKFA.” Longtime fans of developer id Software will recognize the string of letters as a famous cheat code for the original Doom that grants players access to all in-game weapons and keys with full ammo and armor.
To be clear, it’s possible the trademark isn’t related to a new Doom game, but there are a few reasons to hold out hope that a fresh installment may soon be announced. Microsoft has already revealed plans to hold its major games showcase on June 9, meaning we’ll learn more about upcoming Xbox games in only a few weeks.
Leaked court documents from last year also mentioned a mysterious title known as Doom: Year Zero, though details on what this project could be have yet to be revealed. The Verge’s Tom Warren has also repeatedly teased that a Doom announcement could arrive during the upcoming June showcase. Eurogamer says it has heard similar information.
The last mainline Doom entry arrived in March 2020 with Doom Eternal, which went on to receive two expansions by March 2021. While Microsoft has recently moved to shut down Bethesda’s Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin, id Software has remained quiet when it comes to how it might continue its classic FPS franchise.
If a new Doom game is going to be revealed soon, there’s no telling what shape it will take or if it will keep the Doom: Year Zero name that leaked in 2023. Until Microsoft has more to reveal, it’s probably best to take all rumors with a grain of salt.
While we wait to see what id Software is cooking up, you can read our 9/10 Doom Eternal review, where we said “Whether you’re a new Doom fan or a veteran one, Doom Eternal is bound to delight & entertain you. It’s gloriously fun.”
Michael Cripe is a freelance contributor with IGN. He started writing in the industry in 2017 and is best known for his work at outlets such as The Pitch, The Escapist, OnlySP, and Gameranx.
Be sure to give him a follow on Twitter @MikeCripe.
Super Mario 64 players have opened a door that was previously believed to be unopenable, and they did it without cheating.
Detailed by Pannenkoek2012 on YouTube, Discord user Alexpalix1 was able to access the cabin door at the base of Cool, Cool Mountain by using a very specific string of moves and an upset mother penguin (via Tom’s Hardware). Players will likely recognize the location as the same spot where many have dropped a young penguin off of the mountain’s cliff in the Nintendo 64 classic.
The cabin set just to the side of the penguin nest is where you can find Super Mario 64’s unopenable door. It usually serves as an exit for Cool, Cool Mountain’s first stage, Slip Slidin’ Away, awarding players with a Star after they complete the slide and walk through the door. However, Mario is unable to walk back through from the outside, as this half of the door is uniquely missing a doorknob and is blocked by an invisible wall. Anyone who’s played Super Mario 64 has probably tried to walk through the door even if they don’t remember doing it, and now, after 28 years, a solution is here.
Pennenkoek2012’s video walks players through the struggles presented by the legendary door and how Alexpalix1 managed to bypass them. While players have been able to use the mother penguin to make Mario clip through the invisible wall and near the door, they’ve never been able to actually use the door itself to enter the cabin.
Alexpalix1’s new method still guides the penguin up against the cabin, while backflipping in between the blue bird and the building just as others have done before. What they change, though, is Mario’s animation just as he comes into contact with the door’s hitbox. There’s no floor on the other side of the invisible wall that blocks the entrance, and unfortunately for our plumber friend, he needs to be walking when opening a door.
Alexpalix1 tricks the game by turning Mario around just before he falls, allowing him to briefly walk in midair long enough to use the door. The player can levitate for one frame when triggering Mario’s turn-around animation, so even though Mario continues to fall through the floor, the door opens and sends Mario back inside the cabin. Voila!
Players have finally solved a mystery they were never intended to solve after nearly 30 years of work. Unfortunately, it looks like there isn’t really a good reason for anyone to try and replicate Alexpalix1’s strategy. Entering the cabin from the outside does not benefit the player in any way other than providing an alternate entrance to the bottom of the ice slide. As Pannenkoek2012 notes, the doesn’t seem to have any use as a speed-running strategy either, as it’s still quite a bit slower than simply taking the slide down from the top.
Michael Cripe is a freelance contributor with IGN. He started writing in the industry in 2017 and is best known for his work at outlets such as The Pitch, The Escapist, OnlySP, and Gameranx.
Be sure to give him a follow on Twitter @MikeCripe.
Soapbox features enable our individual writers and contributors to voice their opinions on hot topics and random stuff they’ve been chewing over. Today, Kate discusses one of Mario’s criminal — and criminally underrated — pals…
Sometimes I suspect that, in another life before this one, I was a thief. In this life, I’m a relatively boring, mostly law-abiding person – albeit one who’s occasionally tempted to ‘accidentally’ put in expensive produce as something cheaper when I’m at the self-checkout, AKA God’s little test – but when a game gives me the chance to be light-fingered, I go all in.
