Square Enix reveals loss of Final Fantasy Tactics source code

The loss of source code has led Square Enix to recreate a beloved classic from the ground up.

Square Enix Confirms Loss of Final Fantasy Tactics Source Code

In a recent interview with the PlayStation Blog, Kazutoyo Maehiro, director of Final Fantasy Tactics, revealed that Square Enix lost access to the original PlayStation 1 game’s source code. This loss forced the team to rebuild the upcoming remake, The Ivalice Chronicles, entirely from scratch. Maehiro explained that in the 90s, developers often overwrote game data rather than preserving it. While considering the option of emulating the original game for the remake, Square Enix determined that starting anew was necessary to implement modern refinements while respecting the original game’s essence. The Ivalice Chronicles will feature both a Classic mode, preserving the original experience, and an Enhanced mode, offering new narrative and gameplay improvements. The remake is set to release on September 30 for PS5 and PS4.

The admission by Square Enix highlights a significant challenge that many developers faced during the early days of gaming—preserving source code. The loss of such vital data is stark, reflecting a time when practices around data management were far less rigorous. This situation also sheds light on the lengths to which developers will go to revive classics, offering insights into the balance between nostalgia and modern gaming standards. By rebuilding from the ground up, Square Enix not only safeguards Final Fantasy Tactics' legacy but also opens avenues for new players to experience this genre-defining title in a fresh light.

Highlights

As the release date approaches, anticipation builds for this reimagined classic.