Square Enix to Conclude Symbiogenesis Web3 Venture in July
Square Enix has announced plans to wrap up its Web3 venture, Symbiogenesis, in July 2025, discontinuing its services. Despite the platform’s pedigree in iconic role-playing games like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest, Symbiogenesis was anticipated as a blockbuster but ultimately fell short.
Launched at the peak of NFT market fatigue in 2023, the project failed to meet players’ low expectations. It was designed as a game where players could buy NFT-based characters and explore a multi-chapter fantasy. However, the growing fatigue in the NFT market led to disappointment among players tired of other projects.
Initially promising excitement with its 10,000 NFT characters, the game’s reception was surprisingly lackluster, especially for a renowned publisher like Square Enix. Players criticized the platform for lacking financial incentives and depth in gameplay. While it had features allowing trading characters and items, the return on investment was minimal.
Players described gameplay as a treasure hunt across the Floating Island setting, earning points and unlocking story content. Compared to other mobile games by Square Enix, it was seen as an experiment rather than a solid release. Only three players would be selected for the final mission, with others merely observing, indicating it was not a play-to-earn game.
Despite initial plans for six chapters, players are frustrated that the game will cease after its conclusion on July 31, 2025, despite prior announcements of new content. This sudden halt led to disappointment as developers unexpectedly modified aspects of the game and expanded the NFT offerings.
The struggle to maintain stable Web3 gaming projects is evident, with many gamers hesitant to engage with NFT-based offerings. Square Enix’s attempted changes, like expanding in-game NFT purchases, ultimately undermined player trust. Although Symbiogenesis had its limitations and won’t deliver the promised returns, it reflects a trend in the industry as developers increasingly shy away from similar initiatives. Nevertheless, Square Enix remains an influential player in Web3, having released various projects and partnered with studios and networks like Elixir and HyperPlay, showing their ongoing involvement in the gaming landscape.
Comments (0)