Square Enix changed the world of RPGs forever when it launched the first Final Fantasy title in 1987, which was released for the original Nintendo Entertainment System. The franchise has come a long way since then. Over the years, Final Fantasy has expanded to include 16 main titles and countless spin-off games. Now, Square Enix has revealed a brand new addition to the franchise, and the most surprising thing is that a new Final Fantasy game will be released this year.
Ahead of this year's Toy Fair, Square Enix and KessCo have unveiled a brand new Final Fantasy board game inspired by Final Fantasy I-VI Pixel Remasters. Final Fantasy: The Board Game marks the beginning of a new line of board games, and the first edition covers Final Fantasy I through III, adapting them into a simplified and easy-to-play format. Best of all, the game is coming out this year, scheduled for Q3 2026.
Square Enix and KessCo's new collaboration goes far beyond this first release, and details about future projects could be revealed during Toy Fair. If KessCo follows the Pixel Remaster path, it's safe to assume that after Final Fantasy I, II, and III, the next games will be Final Fantasy IV, V, and the beloved Final Fantasy VI.
It remains to be seen whether this line will expand beyond the Pixel Remaster era, including the beloved Final Fantasy VII. Technically, they could continue to adapt more games in the same format, which could result in a release with Final Fantasy VII, VIII, and IX. This project is also interesting from a publishing perspective, as Square Enix has previously published its board games independently, so it remains to be seen whether they will make new games in this format themselves in the future or if KessCo will take over.
The collaboration will also bring new additions, including collectible RPG dice inspired by the Pixel Remaster format, which will also debut in Q3 of this year. The dice will be designed for play as well as collectibles, and each set comes with a figurine that sits atop the dice box.
"Lately, we've seen how powerful Final Fantasy can be in the world of social gaming, bringing together longtime fans and new players," said Alex Kessler, CEO of KessCo.
"We're excited to partner with Square Enix and continue through our faithful adaptation that pays homage to what fans love most about the Pixel Remaster era, while bringing fun, accessible, and collectible additions to the tabletop community," he added.
Bonus video:
