Square Enix Cancels the Release of Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link to Focus on a “Quantity to Quality” Roadmap

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Initially, Kingdom Hearts fans were content with the knowledge that a fresh side story, Missing-Link, was approaching, despite understanding that the fourth main installment was not imminent. Yet, it appears we’ll have to wait for Kingdom Hearts IV instead, as Square Enix has officially terminated the development of Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link. The team is now redirecting their efforts from a “quantity” focused plan to a new strategy prioritizing quality for future projects.

Square Enix Cancels the Release of Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link to Focus on a “Quantity to Quality” Roadmap

According to the official Kingdom Hearts website update, it’s regrettably confirmed that the development of Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link has been scrapped by its creators. In their announcement, they expressed:

An important announcement regarding KINGDOM HEARTS Missing-Link.

— Official KINGDOM HEARTS Missing-Link (@KHMLink_NA) May 14, 2025

Despite our best efforts to create an enjoyable game and continually refine it, we realized it might be challenging for us to maintain a service that players could appreciate consistently. As a result, we’ve made the tough choice to halt the game’s development.

Without a doubt, we, the fans, including myself, were genuinely thrilled for Missing-Link. The sudden cancellation is like watching a highly anticipated project disappear in a cloud of smoke. Initially planned for both Android and iOS devices, the game underwent several closed beta tests starting from 2022, but faced delays and has now been officially cancelled. Even with platform restrictions and obstacles, many of us remained curious and hopeful about the team’s work in progress.

It’s good news, as developers have confirmed they are fully engaged in creating Kingdom Hearts IV. This new installment promises fresh adventures for Sora, Donald, and Goofy within a novel storyline. This move seems consistent with Square Enix’s updated development strategy—prioritizing quality over quantity and maintaining a steady release schedule. Their efforts will primarily be invested in titles that can become beloved by fans for a long time.

Although it’s unfortunate that Missing-Link didn’t align with our long-term plan, I, together with many others, are prepared to accept this decision if it ensures future titles like Kingdom Hearts IV get the necessary development time, refinement, and focus. For now, we can only grieve over the potential of a fascinating expansion for the Kingdom Hearts universe, and eagerly anticipate the mainline release and other Square Enix projects that are forthcoming.

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2025-05-14 23:44