"Kingdom Hearts Missing-Link Cancelled, Square Enix Focuses on Kingdom Hearts 4"

Square Enix has announced the cancellation of Kingdom Hearts Missing-Link, a GPS-based action-RPG designed for mobile devices. This game was set to introduce players to the realm of Scala ad Caelum, featuring an original storyline within the ongoing battle against the Heartless, and was initially planned for a 2024 release. However, in an unsigned statement shared on the game's X/Twitter account, Square Enix expressed their "heartfelt apologies to everyone who have been looking forward" to the game. The decision to cancel was made due to challenges in ensuring the game could provide a satisfying service over an extended period. The statement did not provide specific details on the nature of these challenges.

"We wish to convey our heartfelt apologies to everyone who has been looking forward to the start of service," the statement read. "Although we worked hard on developing and adjusting the game in the hope that it would be enjoyed by lots of players, we determined that it would be difficult for us to offer a service that players would find satisfactory over a long period of time, leading us to the decision to cancel development. We would like to take this opportunity to express our thanks to everyone who gave us their support and assistance with the multiple closed beta tests. We are truly sorry to have to make this announcement."

Despite this setback, Square Enix reassured fans that the "Kingdom Hearts series will continue," and confirmed they are diligently working on Kingdom Hearts 4. They encouraged fans to stay tuned for further updates on the series. This update marks the first official mention of the much-anticipated sequel in months, following a tiny, cryptic tease for Kingdom Hearts 4 back in January. Since its reveal in September 2022 with a full cinematic trailer, Square Enix has maintained a low profile, leaving fans eager for more information, which is consistent with the series' tradition of keeping fans engaged through anticipation.

Tetsuya Nomura, the director of the Kingdom Hearts series, has hinted that Kingdom Hearts 4 will mark a significant shift by steering the narrative towards its conclusion after 22 years and 18 games. This development is highly anticipated by fans who have followed the saga's intricate storyline and are eager to see how it will all come to an end.