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

Square Enix has announced the cancellation of Kingdom Hearts Missing-Link, the anticipated GPS-based action-RPG for mobile devices. This game was set to explore the enchanting realm of Scala ad Caelum with a fresh, original storyline centered around the ongoing battle against the Heartless. Initially planned for a 2024 release, fans eagerly awaited its arrival.

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 Kingdom Hearts Missing-Link. The company cited challenges in ensuring long-term player satisfaction as the reason for the cancellation, though specifics were not disclosed. "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," the statement read.

Square Enix extended their gratitude to those who participated in the multiple closed beta tests and apologized for the disappointing news. However, the statement ended on a hopeful note, reaffirming that "the Kingdom Hearts series will continue." They confirmed ongoing development of Kingdom Hearts 4, encouraging fans to "continue to support the series as you keep an eye out for further updates."

This mention of Kingdom Hearts 4 marks the first official update in months, following a tiny, cryptic tease back in January. Despite its reveal in September 2022 with a full cinematic trailer, Square Enix has maintained a low profile on the project, leaving fans yearning for more information. Series director Tetsuya Nomura has hinted that Kingdom Hearts 4 will begin to steer the saga towards its conclusion after 22 years and 18 games, sparking excitement and anticipation among the fanbase.