"Square Enix Cancels Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link!"

Square Enix has officially announced the cancellation of Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link, a decision that, while surprising to some, aligns with the company's history of game cancellations. The development team dedicated efforts to the mobile game since 2019, conducting multiple closed beta tests on both Android and iOS platforms. The announcement of a delay in November 2024 had already hinted at potential issues, leaving participants of the closed beta tests puzzled as the project appeared to be in advanced stages.

Why Was Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link Cancelled?

The development team cited an inability to envision a long-term satisfying experience for players as the primary reason for cancellation. Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link was intended to be a unique live-service game with GPS-based gameplay, allowing players to explore the world and combat Heartless with their keyblades. Set during an untold chapter of the Kingdom Hearts saga, the game's innovative concept sparked curiosity, especially regarding its GPS features. Despite the franchise's global popularity, the execution did not meet the team's standards, leading Square Enix to cancel the project rather than release a subpar product.

For those curious about what Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link might have been, you can still catch a glimpse of the game's potential in this teaser trailer:

But Kingdom Hearts IV Is Still Coming!

Despite the setback with Missing-Link, fans can take solace in the continued development of Kingdom Hearts IV. Revealed during the 2022 Kingdom Hearts 20th Anniversary event, the latest installment in the main series is still moving forward. Square Enix's focus has shifted entirely to this highly anticipated game, ensuring the core Kingdom Hearts narrative remains vibrant and ongoing.

That wraps up the news on the cancellation of Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link. Stay tuned for our next update on Plug In Digital’s digital version of the popular board game Abalone.