Hiromichi Tanaka Bids Farewell To Square Enix

By Jonathan Leack

Square Enix has been in a rut lately, and now one of its veteran team members is leaving the pack.

At this year's VanaFest, an event in Japan held annually for Final Fantasy XI fans, Producer Hiromichi Tanaka announced that he's resigning from Square Enix. But it wasn't to leave for greener pastures. Nope, he revealed that he's been battling with health issues and would like to concentrate on his well-being before making a return to the industry.

Tanaka has been employed at Square Enix, formerly known as Square, since 1983. During that time he has worked on some of the best classic RPGs ranging from the early Final Fantasy titles to Secret of Mana and even Xenogears—a personal favorite of mine.

In his stead, Akihiko Matsui will now command the troops for both Final Fantasy XI and Final Fantasy XIV's development teams. Tanaka had a lot of good things to say about Matsui, so hopefully he's up to the difficult task of not only maintaining an aging MMO, but saving one of the worst MMO launches from extinction.

Jonathan Leack
Jonathan Leack

Although Jonathan Leack began covering the gaming industry in 2009, his earliest roots date back to 2004 when he wrote his first of many reviews to come. Equipped with a B.S. in Computer Information Systems and several information technology certifications, he provides a unique perspective that is technological and business conscious. Having acquired the role of Executive Editor in 2016, his mission is to make GameRevolution a gaming site that thoughtfully considers the consumer perspective, and has a knowledgeable presence of PC gaming, console, hardware, and eSports coverage.

Share article

Upcoming Releases

Homeworld 3

Tactical, beautiful, and wholly unique, the GOTY-winning sci-fi RTS returns with Homeworld 3. Assume control and battle through fleet combat in dazzling, fully 3D space while the award-winning story unfolds on a galactic scale.

Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II

The sequel to the award winning Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, Senua returns in a brutal journey of survival through the myth and torment of Viking Iceland. Intent on saving those who have fallen victim to the horrors of tyranny, Senua faces a battle of overcoming the darkness within and without.

Everwild

Inspired by the beauty of the natural world around us, Everwild is a brand-new game in development from Rare where unique and unforgettable experiences await in a natural and magical world. Play as an Eternal as you explore and build bonds with the world around you.

Reviews

Related