Square Enix appears to have something in the works to mark NieR: Automata’s ninth anniversary, but fans hoping for a major reveal may want to temper their excitement. In a recent end-of-year interview, producer Yosuke Saito acknowledged that the team is preparing a small anniversary initiative. However, he was careful to stress that it is “just a little something,” going out of his way to ask fans not to read too much into it or expect a large-scale announcement.
Saito’s comments suggested that whatever is planned is more of a modest nod to the occasion rather than a headline-grabbing update, before he wrapped up by wishing fans a happy New Year. And for NieR: Automata‘s ninth anniversary, we’re also preparing ‘just a little something…’ so please don’t get too excited with anticipation! With that, I wish you all a happy New Year,” he said, according to Nintendo Life.
Originally released in 2017, NieR: Automata is approaching its ninth year on the market; a notable milestone for an action RPG that continues to enjoy an active and passionate fanbase. The game’s enduring popularity, critical acclaim, and cultural impact likely explain why Square Enix felt the need to manage expectations early, as even a small tease can quickly spark speculation about sequels, remasters, or major new content.
Square Enix has other big celebrations planned for 2025
Beyond NieR: Automata, Square Enix is gearing up for an even bigger celebration next year. The Dragon Quest series will reach its 40th anniversary in 2025, and Saito expressed excitement about fans joining in on what he called a “grand celebration” of the classic RPG franchise.
Director Kazutoyo Maehiro also teased something new related to Final Fantasy. He mentioned that the team’s next project will feature “content with a different approach” and promised a new gaming experience. Maehiro worked on Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles, which came out in September 2024, and LOGOS: The World of Final Fantasy XVI in December 2024. Much like how streaming platforms listen to user feedback, Square Enix is currently running a survey where fans can share their thoughts about the Final Fantasy series.
The company seems interested in gathering feedback from players. For Switch 2 owners, a demo for Final Fantasy VII Intergrade Remake is now available on the eShop. The full game launches next month, while Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined is scheduled for February 2026.
NieR recently received a backwards compatibility update, making it easier for fans to revisit the game on newer systems. While fan interactions with creators usually stay positive, some celebrity encounters have sparked online debates recently, showing how important it is for companies to manage fan expectations carefully.
Published: Dec 28, 2025 02:45 pm