Square Enix’s odd relationship with Microsoft continues, with rumors that Final Fantasy XVI will finally make its way to Xbox Series systems. What makes this a bit more shocking is that these rumors claim Square Enix is choosing to release XVI on Xbox over Switch 2 right now. It’s not yet known if this is a power issue, though it will be interesting to see if they can port this to the new Nintendo console.
Gaming insider NateTheHate (via IdleSlothVGT on X) has said that the controversial sixteenth entry of this franchise is coming soon. Although the game isn’t expected to come out right away, Nate does say that we’ll see this action RPG arrive in the first half of 2025. The insider also claims that we’ll finally see Final Fantasy VII Remake on Xbox this year.
More importantly, Nate said that Final Fantasy XVI isn’t planned for Nintendo Switch 2 because Square is prioritizing FF7 Remake and Rebirth for the console. If true, this rumor is going full circle since Remake has constantly been mentioned with Nintendo’s new hardware. Being able to play that game will make a statement about this console, that’s for sure.
We might make jokes about Xbox being the third-place console manufacturer, but they have been trying to work with Square Enix more in recent years. It took a while, but they were able to get Final Fantasy XIV on Series systems, letting fans play the best MMO on their Xbox consoles. They also have native ports of the Kingdom Hearts games, something the Switch doesn’t.
Fans can say what they want about Final Fantasy XVI, but it’s one of this generation’s best-looking games. There’s a reason why this game struggles to run on Valve’s powerful Steam Deck, so it might be a bit much for the Switch 2. Only time will tell, but we’re just glad the system can seemingly handle the FF7 trilogy.
That’s what we know about the Final Fantasy XVI Xbox rumors. For more gaming news, check out how Mai Shiranui’s best outfit was modded to Street Fighter 6.