Square Enix Cancels Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link

Square Enix has officially announced the cancellation of Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link, a mobile game that had been in development since 2019. The news, while surprising to some, was not entirely unexpected given Square Enix's history of game cancellations. The team conducted multiple closed beta tests on Android and iOS and even shared updates on X in November 2024 about the game's delay. Participants of the closed beta tests were particularly taken aback as the project appeared to be well into its development phase.

Why Was Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link Cancelled?

The development team cited that despite their efforts, they couldn't envision a future for the game that would meet player expectations over the long term. Missing-Link was intended to be a unique live-service experience with GPS-based gameplay, allowing players to explore the world and combat Heartless using keyblades. This spinoff was set in a previously untold chapter of the Kingdom Hearts universe, generating significant interest in its innovative GPS features.

However, the concept did not translate well in practice. Recognizing this, Square Enix decided to cancel the project rather than release a substandard product, choosing instead to redirect their efforts.

For those curious about what Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link was meant to be, you can still view the teaser trailer below:

Kingdom Hearts IV Is Still in Development

While Missing-Link has been cancelled, fans can take solace in the fact that Kingdom Hearts IV remains a priority for Square Enix. Announced at the Kingdom Hearts 20th Anniversary event in 2022, the game's development is progressing. After a period of silence, the team recently provided a small update, reassuring fans that the main series is still very much alive.

That wraps up the news on the cancellation of Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link. Stay tuned for our next article on Plug In Digital's digital version of the popular board game Abalone.