Squaresoft

Squaresoft was a Japanese video game development company, founded in 1983 as Square Co., Ltd. The company was renowned for its innovative and critically acclaimed role-playing games (RPGs), particularly the Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest series. Final Fantasy, launched in 1987, became a flagship franchise, known for its compelling narratives, memorable characters, and evolving gameplay mechanics. Dragon Quest, developed by Enix but often published by Square in international markets, also achieved massive popularity in Japan.

Beyond its RPG successes, Squaresoft ventured into other genres and platforms. They developed titles for various consoles, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, PlayStation, and PlayStation 2. The company was also known for its high production values, featuring impressive graphics, orchestral soundtracks, and cinematic cutscenes, which were groundbreaking for their time.

In 2003, Squaresoft merged with its rival Enix Corporation to form Square Enix. This merger brought together two of Japan's most prominent RPG developers, consolidating their intellectual properties and development resources. The legacy of Squaresoft continues within Square Enix, with many of its iconic franchises remaining at the forefront of the gaming industry. The company's contributions significantly shaped the RPG genre and influenced game development worldwide.