Square Enix Cancels Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link

Square Enix has officially announced the cancellation of Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link, their anticipated mobile game. While the news might come as a shock to some, for many fans, it's not entirely unexpected given Square Enix's history of game cancellations. Development on Missing-Link began in 2019, and the project even underwent multiple closed beta tests on both Android and iOS platforms. However, a delay announced in November 2024 on X left participants of the closed beta test feeling uneasy about the game's future.

Why Was Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link Cancelled?

The development team cited their inability to envision a sustainable path forward that would meet the long-term expectations of players. Missing-Link was designed to be a live-service experience, but it appears the team struggled to realize this vision effectively. The game was intended as a unique, GPS-based spinoff, allowing players to explore the world and engage in battles against Heartless using their keyblades, set within a forgotten chapter of the Kingdom Hearts saga. Despite the global popularity of the franchise, the innovative GPS feature didn't pan out as hoped. Square Enix decided it was better to cancel the project rather than release a substandard product, choosing instead to redirect their efforts.

If you're curious about what Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link was supposed to offer, you can check out the teaser trailer below:

But Kingdom Hearts IV Is Still Coming!

Despite the cancellation of Missing-Link, fans have reason to stay excited. Square Enix is now fully focused on Kingdom Hearts IV. Announced back in 2022 during the Kingdom Hearts 20th Anniversary event, development on the main series installment is progressing well. While the news of Missing-Link's cancellation might be disappointing, the continued development of Kingdom Hearts IV offers a silver lining for the franchise's dedicated followers.

That wraps up the latest on the cancellation of Kingdom Hearts: Missing-Link. Stay tuned for more updates, and don't miss our upcoming news on Plug In Digital's digital version of the popular board game Abalone.