Final Fantasy beloved RPG confirms surprise 2026 delisting

A popular Final Fantasy game is being delisted unexpectedly, just three years after its launch, and this further highlights that digital games aren't always here for the long haul.

The Final Fantasy series from Square Enix is, without a doubt, one of the most popular and historic RPG franchises there ever was. Ever since the series made its debut on the NES nearly 40 years ago in 1987, it has been a standard bearer of its respective genre.

For better or worse, the popularity of the Final Fantasy series has helped spawn countless sequels, spin-offs, as well as some fantastic remakes, such as 2020’s brilliant Final Fantasy VII Remake, with fans now looking forward to its trilogy completion coming in early 2027 with Final Fantasy VII Revelation.

It’s time to say goodbye to this Final Fantasy RPG

However, before Final Fantasy VII Revelation graces us with its presence next year, we’ll soon have to say goodbye to Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis, which was only released in September 2023, coming to PC and mobile devices. The servers will shut down on 6 October 2026.

“Experience both classic and new stories within the FFVII universe, presented in a retro-style look combined with modern, beautifully rendered graphics. Team up your favourite characters and customise each one with iconic gear and weapons to defeat powerful opponents in Solo or Co-op battle mode,” reads the synopsis of the game.

Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis is a free-to-play RPG with classic JRPG turn-based combat and the typical mobile gacha mechanics. While it certainly wasn't the best game in the series in recent years, it was at least a decent game to help pass some time while on your travels.

Furthermore, the Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis’ story is tied into Final Fantasy VII and Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII, adding a little more lore to the series, especially with some of its events acting as a prequel. It also featured the popular characters, Cloud, Aerith, Zack, and the villainous Sephiroth.

Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis, Square Enix

READ MORE: Steam Gains 10/10 Rated 'Captivating' Free RPG With Final Fantasy Vibes

Why is Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis shutting down?

“We regret to inform you that we will be ending service for Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis on Oct. 6, 2026, at 11:00 PM PDT,” reads an opening statement on Square Enix’s official website. “We understand that this news may be disappointing, and we sincerely apologise for the abrupt nature of this announcement.”

“Since the launch of the App Store and Google Play versions on Sep. 7, 2023, and the Steam version on Dec. 6, 2023, we have worked to provide the best possible experience for our players. After careful consideration, however, we have determined that it will be difficult to continue doing so and have made the decision to end service.”

Furthermore, the sale of the in-game premium currency, Red Crystals have also ended, and any remaining in players' accounts will be refunded. However, this refund is only eligible for Taiwan accounts.

“When processing inquiries regarding unused in-game currency (paid Red Crystals), your account information will need to be verified,” the statement explains. “Please do not delete the app or switch devices and reinstall the app until the refund process has concluded. Refunds are available only to users residing in Taiwan.”

While there will no doubt be some gamers unhappy with this closure, unfortunately, it’s the nature of live-service games, especially of the mobile variety. At first, free-to-play mobile games may make the publisher a lot of money, but as time passes, that cash flow will likely slow down, and when that happens, the writing is on the proverbial wall.

As for Final Fantasy VII Revelation, at least we can look forward to playing that next year on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch 2.

READ MORE: Final Fantasy 7 Revelation Finally Revealed With First Trailer