Informasi penting
Square Enix has officially announced the "SQUARE ENIX GAME CONTEST 2026," a competition featuring a total prize pool of 1 billion yen. Executive Officer Yosuke Saito explained that the initiative aims to discover and support new talent, drawing inspiration from the company's 1982 contest that helped launch the careers of industry figures like Yuji Horii and Koichi Nakamura.
The contest seeks games that prioritize unique concepts, such as those seen in titles like "Astro-noka" or "Voice of Cards," rather than traditional blockbuster RPGs. Saito emphasized that developers should focus on creating games that are engaging to watch, as the first round of judging will be based on gameplay videos to assess their appeal for streaming audiences.
To ensure the selection process reflects current player preferences, Square Enix will include general game fans as judges alongside company staff. Furthermore, the company will provide feedback to finalists, aiming to assist developers in refining their work. AI tools are permitted for development, provided they adhere to established guidelines.
Applications open on December 15, 2026, and close on March 15, 2027. Winners will receive comprehensive support, including potential publishing, marketing, and cross-media opportunities like novelizations or merchandise, leveraging Square Enix's unique position as both a game developer and publisher.
