News of mergers continues. Luminous Productions (developer for Forspoken) no longer operates as a separate studio starting May 1st, 2023. Previously, Luminous operated independently. They were still owned by Square Enix. However, their status as a separate studio is set to change. Here are the details.
What Comes Next
Forspoken launched on January 24, 2023, to mixed reception. It failed to earn critical praise. Subsequently, Square Enix’s current track record is spotty. Final Fantasy VII and Final Fantasy XIV provide examples of great titles. On the other hand, titles such as Stranger of Paradise are less than stellar. Square Enix failed to mention Forspoken when commenting on the merger. Instead, they painted Luminous Productions differently. The following was taken from their press statement.
SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD. has developed numerous AAA high-definition (HD) games and possesses a wealth of intellectual property (IP) and content. Luminous Productions Co., Ltd. is meanwhile equipped not only with AAA title development capabilities but also technical expertise in areas such as game engine development. Combining the two entities will further enhance the Group’s ability to develop HD games.
Forspoken receiving a sequel is doubtful. However, the developers are still committed to the health of the current game. This includes the DLC. “In Tanta We Trust” remains on track for a summer release.
Read More: Strayed Lights Release Date Announced
An Update from Luminous Productions pic.twitter.com/fbDENflRhj
— Luminous Productions (@LumiPro_EN) February 28, 2023
A Support Studio
Today, the gaming landscape is highly competitive. Furthermore, the controversy surrounding AAA game costs persists. The average consumer wants their purchase to be justified. Therefore, it comes as no surprise Luminous Productions is being reigned in. Square Enix is taking a more hands-on approach to ensure future success. Their next game is Final Fantasy XVI. A lot is riding on its success.
Luminous Productions’ ownership of their proprietary engine is also in doubt. Final Fantasy XV and Forspoken used the Luminous Engine. Currently, we only have speculation beyond the merger date. Time will tell how it develops. Have you played Forspoken?