For over 25 years, Square Enix, formerly SquareSoft, has played a pivotal role in shaping my creative landscape. Since my initial foray into video games with the Atari 2600 in the mid-eighties, Square’s influence has been profound, particularly with the advent of the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1985. Founded in 1983 by Masashi Miyamoto, Square became an independent entity in 1987, embarking on a journey that would redefine the gaming industry.

While Square has delved into various games, it is best known for the monumental success of the Final Fantasy Series. The naming of Final Fantasy, according to the head composer Nobuo Uematsu, signified a pivotal moment for the company—Hironobu Sakaguchi, the head developer, would have quit the game industry if the series hadn’t sold well. Square, initially lacking confidence in the genre, greenlit Final Fantasy based on the success of Dragon Quest. The series, heavily influenced by Dungeons and Dragons, introduced western elements and diverse character classes, setting it apart in the Japanese RPG landscape.

The success of Final Fantasy not only rescued Square from potential bankruptcy but also paved the way for groundbreaking ventures. It led to the founding of Square Pictures and the production of the innovative CG movie, “Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within.” Despite financial challenges, the movie showcased the craftsmanship of Square’s employees, pushing the boundaries of animated character realism at the time.

Square’s innovation extends beyond Final Fantasy, influencing titles across genres and companies. Their releases often introduce novel systems for gaining skills and abilities, offering a unique gaming experience. The partnership with Nintendo in 1996 produced iconic titles like Chrono Trigger and Secret of Mana, solidifying Square’s reputation as a trailblazer.

The pivotal moment came in 1997 with the release of Final Fantasy VII, a game that marked the series’ transition to true 3D and embraced cinematic storytelling. Full-motion computer-animated cutscenes and expansive worlds across multiple discs set a new standard, captivating players globally. Square’s decision to embrace the disc-based PlayStation over Nintendo’s cartridge-based system showcased their commitment to innovation.

Personally, Square has been a source of inspiration, sparking my creative side and keeping me engaged through various ventures. Beyond Final Fantasy, collaborations with Nintendo and Disney gave rise to Kingdom Hearts, and my exploration extended to Final Fantasy XI and XIV: A Realm Reborn. Square’s ability to challenge itself with innovative ideas, from the early Final Fantasy titles to the recent Final Fantasy XV, demonstrates a commitment to evolving and pushing boundaries.

One of Square’s unsung heroes is Nobuo Uematsu, whose musical compositions breathe life into their games. In an era of 8-bit beeps, Uematsu’s music stood out, conveying emotions that immersed players in the narrative. Each note felt like a foundational block, integral to the game’s soul.

For 30 years, Square has been a constant force of evolution and growth, delivering diverse gaming experiences with memorable characters and captivating stories. From Cecil the Dark Knight’s redemption in Final Fantasy IV to Noctis’ struggle with destiny in Final Fantasy XV, Square has consistently transcended the boundaries of mere gameplay. Their games have spoken to us, leading us in a dance with stories that leave an indelible mark.

For these years of inspiration, entertainment, and connection, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Square Enix. Here’s to another 30 years of pushing the boundaries and crafting immersive worlds that continue to captivate and inspire.