Square Enix CEO Yoichi Wada has delivered his verdict on the differing messages that the three platform holders are sending out about their consoles, while rebuffing accusations that the company relies too heavily on established franchises.
Speaking to CNet Japan (translated by Kotaku), Wada suggested that only Microsoft is putting the message out to consumers that its next-gen console, Xbox 360, is a games machine. He said that consumers are viewing the Wii as a plaything, while Sony is leaving the public confused as to whether its PS3 is a media-hub or a games console.
The Wii is the antithesis of the Xbox 360. It's strictly for hardcore gamers. The attachment rate for the Xbox 360 is much higher than for the Wii. People who buy the 360 really like games," he said. "I think the current trend is that most people aren't buying the Wii as a game machine, but as a toy... It seems that Sony isn't sure what it wants to do. Is it making high-end electronics or a game console for gamers? I want them to clearly define their console.
Wada also went on to note that Square Enix has more aces up its sleeve than just new iterations and remakes of its RGP franchises Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest.
It's not that we are not investing in new franchises. It's necessary to do new games, franchises and remakes. With remakes, we're trying to expand the outlook of that world. If you look at our profits, franchises are 60 percent of our business, while new IPs are 40 percent.
There's a misconception that we rely only on Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest, while these titles only make half of our business. It's just that people keep asking for new installments."
