Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent will see Square Enix transfer operations to NetEase

Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent is changing hands! NetEase will take over operations starting January 2024. The good news? Your save data and progress will transfer seamlessly.

While this ensures the game's continued availability—a welcome relief in a year marked by numerous game closures—it raises questions about Square Enix's future mobile game strategy.

This move follows the recent announcement of a mobile Final Fantasy XIV, a port made possible by Tencent subsidiary Lightspeed Studios' enthusiasm. In contrast, the Octopath Traveler transfer to NetEase suggests a potential scaling back of Square Enix's direct mobile involvement.

Signs of this shift were apparent as early as 2022 with the closure of Square Enix Montreal, the studio behind successful mobile titles like Hitman GO and Deus Ex GO. While some games will survive this strategic shift, it's disappointing that such a transition is necessary, especially given the significant player interest in Square Enix titles on mobile, as evidenced by the high demand for a mobile FFXIV.

The future of Square Enix's mobile presence remains uncertain. However, if you're looking for other great RPGs in the meantime, check out our list of the top 25 best RPGs for Android.