Square Enix to merge with developer Luminous Productions this spring

In Tanta We Trust

Square Enix Holdings has announced that it is merging with developer Luminous Productions — the studio behind spellbound adventure Forspoken. The two companies will forge together on May 1, 2023.

“The merger is part of [Square Enix] efforts to further bolster the competitive prowess of the Group’s development studios, a goal set forth under its current medium-term business strategy,” said Square Enix Holdings in a brief statement. “Square Enix Co. Ltd has developed numerous AAA high-definition games and possesses a wealth of intellectual property (and content. Luminous Productions Co., Ltd. is meanwhile equipped not only with AAA title development capabilities but also technical expertise in areas such as game engine development. Combining the two entities will further enhance the Group’s ability to develop HD games.”

It should be noted that Luminous Productions actually occupies the same office building as Square Enix, and thus the merger arguably consists of little more than moving a couple of chairs and a photocopier upstairs.

“Beginning on May 1, our talented team will join Square Enix to deliver new, innovative gaming experiences to players across the globe,” said Luminous Productions of the merger. “When we established Luminous Productions in 2018, our vision was to make AAA games that fused technology and artistry to deliver completely new play experiences. Having the chance to do just that has been a dream come true. We appreciate you taking this journey with us and look forward to continuing to create new entertainment and experiences as a part of the Square Enix family.”

Luminous Productions remains focused on the Forspoken franchise for the time being, and is continuing to develop DLC expansion In Tanta We Trust, which is currently scheduled to launch this coming summer. In addition, an update containing a multitude of balance tweaks and bug fixes is expected presently.

Chris Moyse

Senior Editor – Chris has been playing video games since the 1980s and writing about them since the 1880s. Graduated from Galaxy High with honors. Twitter: @ChrisxMoyse