The mobile GPS-based action-RPG Kingdom Hearts Missing-Link has been officially cancelled by Square Enix, disappointing fans who were eagerly awaiting its release. The game was set to explore the realm of Scala ad Caelum with a fresh, original story centered around the ongoing battle against the Heartless, and was initially scheduled for a 2024 launch.
In an unsigned statement shared on the game's X/Twitter account, Square Enix expressed their "heartfelt apologies to everyone who have been looking forward" to Kingdom Hearts Missing-Link. The decision to cancel the project stemmed from the belief that it would be challenging to provide a service that would satisfy players over an extended period. The statement did not specify the exact nature of these challenges.
"We wish to convey our heartfelt apologies to everyone who has been looking forward to the start of service," the statement read. "Although we worked hard on developing and adjusting the game in the hope that it would be enjoyed by lots of players, we determined that it would be difficult for us to offer a service that players would find satisfactory over a long period of time, leading us to the decision to cancel development. We would like to take this opportunity to express our thanks to everyone who gave us their support and assistance with the multiple closed beta tests. We are truly sorry to have to make this announcement."
However, there is a silver lining for fans of the series. Square Enix confirmed that the "Kingdom Hearts series will continue," and they are diligently working on Kingdom Hearts 4. They encouraged fans to keep supporting the series and stay tuned for more updates.
This marks the first official update on Kingdom Hearts 4 in months, following a tiny, cryptic tease back in January. Despite the game being unveiled in September 2022 with a full cinematic trailer, Square Enix has maintained a low profile since, leaving fans yearning for more information, a tradition synonymous with the series.
Tetsuya Nomura, the director of the Kingdom Hearts series, has hinted that Kingdom Hearts 4 will finally steer the narrative towards its conclusion after 22 years and 18 games, providing a glimmer of hope and excitement for fans as they await further developments.
