Naoki Hamaguchi confirmed that Square Enix's Creative Business Unit I is developing Kingdom Hearts IV, a project he is also overseeing. The studio is currently working on the final chapter of the Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy, with both titles in simultaneous development.
Naoki Hamaguchi stated that both Kingdom Hearts IV and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth are being developed within his studio, with him currently overseeing all related work. He will continue to drive both projects forward.
According to the current schedule, both games are planned for release in 2027. Among them, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth will conclude the Final Fantasy VII remake trilogy. Naoki Hamaguchi has previously stated that he hopes to move on to another role-playing game after completing this trilogy.
Discussing the company's future plans, Naoki Hamaguchi relayed statements from Square Enix President Yoshinori Kitase, noting that 2027 will be a pivotal year for turning things around. Kingdom Hearts IV and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth are seen as key titles for this phase.
Naoki Hamaguchi also addressed the possibility of a Final Fantasy VII live-action or animated adaptation. He mentioned that the team has been discussing such adaptations and continues to seek suitable ways to bring the Final Fantasy series to a wider audience, leaving the door open for potential adaptations.
Final Fantasy VII previously received an animated film adaptation, Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children. Currently, Creative Business Unit I's main focus remains on advancing the development of Kingdom Hearts IV and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, with both titles scheduled for release in 2027.