Square Enix has officially announced the cancellation of Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link, a mobile game that had been in development since 2019. This news, while surprising to some, may not have been unexpected for those familiar with Square Enix's history of game cancellations. The team conducted multiple closed beta tests on Android and iOS, and as recently as November 2024, they shared updates on social media about the game's delay. Participants in these tests were understandably taken aback, given the project's advanced stage of development.
The development team cited an inability to find a viable path forward that would meet long-term player expectations. Originally conceived as a live-service game, Missing-Link aimed to integrate GPS technology, allowing players to explore the world and combat Heartless using their keyblades. Set during an untold chapter of the Kingdom Hearts saga, the game's unique concept piqued interest, but ultimately, the execution fell short of expectations. Rather than release a subpar product, Square Enix decided to cancel the project and redirect their efforts.
If you're curious about what Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link was supposed to offer, you can still check out the teaser trailer below:
Despite the cancellation, fans of the series have something to look forward to: Kingdom Hearts IV. First revealed at the Kingdom Hearts 20th Anniversary event in 2022, development on this mainline entry continues. Square Enix has provided small updates, assuring fans that the core series remains a priority. If the cancellation of Missing-Link has left you disappointed, the ongoing development of Kingdom Hearts IV should offer some consolation.
That wraps up our coverage on the cancellation of Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link. Stay tuned for more gaming news, including updates on Plug In Digital's digital version of the popular board game Abalone.