SQUARE ENIX HLDGS U/ADR - SQNNY STOCK NEWS

The Board of Directors of SQUARE ENIX HOLDINGS announced a proposed leadership change, appointing Takashi Kiryu as the new President and Representative Director. This change aims to enhance the management team in response to the rapidly evolving entertainment industry and to leverage technological innovations for improved customer experience. The transition is pending approval at the upcoming Annual Shareholders' Meeting scheduled for June 2023. Furthermore, a similar change will occur in a consolidated subsidiary, with Kiryu taking over the leadership role there as well.

SQUARE ENIX has launched THEATRHYTHM FINAL BAR LINE for Nintendo Switch and PS4. The game features 385 tracks from the FINAL FANTASY series, three gameplay modes, local and online multiplayer options, and over 100 characters. Players can also opt for two additional editions: Digital Deluxe (442 tracks) and Premium Digital Deluxe (502 tracks), which include songs from other popular titles. A free demo with 30 songs is available for download. The game adds more tracks through DLC packs, enhancing the musical experience for fans.

Square Enix Holdings reported consolidated results for the nine-month period ended December 31, 2022. Key figures include net sales of 255,616 million yen, a -6.6% year-over-year decline. Operating income dropped -17.6% to 41,315 million yen. Ordinary income decreased -6.7% to 50,805 million yen, while profit attributable to owners increased 16.4% to 46,397 million yen, resulting in an EPS of 387.71 yen. Sales in the HD Game and MMO sub-segments decreased due to fewer new title launches, while amusement showed growth. The publishing segment faced higher costs despite solid sales.

Square Enix has launched its highly anticipated title Forspoken globally on PS5 and PC through various platforms including STEAM and Epic Games Store. This action-RPG features players using magic-enhanced parkour and spells to save the mystical land of Athia. A free playable demo is also available on PC, allowing players to experience combat mechanics. The game stars Frey Holland, voiced by Ella Balinska, and offers a cinematic experience with a star-studded cast. Future DLC titled Forspoken: In Tanta We Trust is scheduled for release later this year, with early access for pre-orders.

SQUARE ENIX announced the launch of CRISIS CORE™ –FINAL FANTASY® VII– REUNION, a remaster available on multiple platforms including PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC. This remaster brings a complete HD overhaul of graphics, a re-arranged soundtrack, and a revamped combat system, enhancing the gameplay experience. The story follows Zack Fair seven years before FINAL FANTASY VII, revealing the dark truths of Shinra's experiments. Additionally, a Zack Fair action figure is available exclusively at the Square Enix Store.

SQUARE ENIX announced the launch of Tactics Ogre: Reborn™, a reimagined tactical RPG for PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and PC via STEAM. This edition features updated high-definition graphics, a redesigned battle system, and fully-voiced cutscenes in English and Japanese. Players navigate a rich storyline with complex decisions in a post-civil war Valeria. The game is available in both digital and physical editions, with a Digital Premium Edition that includes the original soundtrack.

Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd. reported consolidated results for the six months ending September 30, 2022. Net sales were ¥163,392 million, down 3.3% year-over-year. Operating income decreased by 10.6% to ¥26,044 million. However, ordinary income rose significantly by 43.4% to ¥45,133 million, and profit attributable to owners increased by 71.7% to ¥39,473 million. Basic EPS improved to ¥329.91 from ¥192.48. The report highlights mixed performance across segments: declines in Digital Entertainment due to lower new title earnings, while MMO and Amusement segments saw growth.

SQUARE ENIX has launched HARVESTELLA, a life simulation RPG available on Nintendo Switch and STEAM. Players can download a free demo and carry over their save data. Set in a vibrant world impacted by four giant crystals, players face the 'Quietus' season, which threatens crops and exploration. The game features diverse gameplay mechanics, including farming and dungeon adventuring. HARVESTELLA is rated Teen and available both digitally and in physical format for Switch. For more details, visit the official website.

SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD. has announced 'SYMBIOGENESIS', its inaugural digital collectible art project tailored for Web3 enthusiasts. The launch was revealed at Web3 Conclave during the India Game Developers Conference. The project will feature a collection of characters that players can collect as digital art, integrating storytelling and community engagement through interactive missions. Sales for these collectibles and a free browser service are expected to commence in spring 2023, with support for the Ethereum chain and Google Chrome browser.