Astrobot Devs Address Final Fantasy Cameo Absence Concerns
Astro Bot, the 3D platformer exclusive to the PS5, is a delightful homage to PlayStation's rich history. With 173 cameos from iconic PlayStation franchises, it’s a treasure trove for fans. However, one notable absence has left fans puzzled: the lack of any characters from the legendary Final Fantasy series. Despite the long-standing association between PlayStation and Square Enix's JRPGs, characters like Cloud and Sephiroth are missing from Astro Bot's latest adventure.
Why No Final Fantasy in Astro Bot?
The absence of Final Fantasy characters raises questions. Neither Sony nor Square Enix has commented on this, and the game's lead developer, Nicolas Doucet, has also remained tight-lipped. Doucet mentioned that the team hoped to include Cloud but couldn't for unspecified reasons. He emphasized respect for each publisher's choices, hinting that Square Enix might have decided against it.
Exclusive Partnerships and Changing Strategies
Historically, Final Fantasy has enjoyed exclusivity with PlayStation. Final Fantasy 7 Remake launched exclusively on PS4 and later on PS5, with a delayed PC release. Similarly, Final Fantasy 16 has been a PS5 exclusive, with a PC version arriving later. Despite this close relationship, the absence of Final Fantasy in Astro Bot is surprising.
Interestingly, Square Enix is shifting its strategy. Naoki Yoshida, producer of Final Fantasy 16, indicated a move towards more Xbox releases. This comes after a significant drop in profits for Square Enix in 2024, prompting a new multiplatform approach to revitalize the company.
Astro Bot's New Adventures
Astro Bot continues to expand with its DLC, offering five new online speedrun levels and ten new bots to save. Players can look forward to encountering Eve from Stellar Blade and a Helldiver from Helldivers 2. The game's developers are already considering a sequel, hinting at more exciting adventures ahead.
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Astro Bot remains a celebration of PlayStation's legacy, despite the absence of Final Fantasy. As Square Enix explores new platforms, the gaming landscape continues to evolve. Stay updated on game news and explore designs like emotes, sub badges, and overlays by joining Streamers Visuals. Dive into the world of gaming and express yourself with unique visuals!
