In an interview with Bloomberg Financial News, Square Enix president Youichi Wada talked about his company's upcoming release schedule and the status of Final Fantasy XII. Wada did not commit to a specific date, but instead only explained that the highly anticipated newest installment of Square Enix's flagship series is unlikely to be available in Japan by spring. Last year, Square Enix had already pushed back the game's release in Japan until winter or spring 2005.

Furthermore, the Square Enix president mentioned that he wants to see sales generated outside Japan reach at least 50% of the company's total. For reference, Square Enix currently generates 30% of its total sales abroad.

For the new fiscal year 2005/2006, Square Enix plans to release roughly one title per month. Currently, the following games have already received specific release dates in Japan: Egg Monster Heroes (March 24th), Romancing SaGa: Minstrel Song (April 21st), Hanjuku Eiyuu 4: 7nin no Hanjuku Eiyuu (May 26th). In the meantime, Musashiden II: Blademaster (Samurai Legend Musashi) and Drag-on Dragoon 2: Fuuin no Kurenai, Haitoku no Kuro (Drakengard 2) are only listed for spring releases in Japan.

• Bloomberg Financial News