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Square Enix has revealed it will have a Final Fantasy XIV Online-themed parade float at this year’s Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.
While specific details of the float are a secret, for now, Square Enix promises that the float – which is being organised in partnership with the Sydney Gaymers group – will be "unique and exciting" when it makes its debut at the parade on March 2nd, 2019.
Themed around "Realms United", it’ll be the first time a video game-themed float has joined the parade.
"To see it makes me very happy indeed, both as the person in charge of FFXIV and also as just another player of the game," said Final Fantasy XIV Online producer and director Naoki Yoshida (thanks, GameSpot). "FFXIV is another world that continues to grow and expand online. In that world people become adventurers, known as the Warriors of Light, and can continue to be free."
"It means so much to receive direct support, validation, and acknowledgement from such a force in the industry," added Sydney Gaymers organizer, Peak Distapan. "Not only that, to be supported by a game where so much of our community and values are represented.
"The Final Fantasy XIV Online community does not discriminate and respects everyone’s freedom and their individual values equally. For many LGBTQI+ people, online communities provide a space for the journey and exploration of personal identities. They allow us to connect, and celebrate, and they reinforce that we are not alone."
Final Fantasy XIV Online’s next expansion, Shadowbringers, will release on July 2nd, 2019.
While we’re on the subject of Final Fantasy, Final Fantasy XV director, Hajime Tabata, left Square Enix at the end of last year and established the new studio, JP Games. As yet it’s unclear what kind of projects the studio will pursue, despite claims he would reveal what he’s planning in a January 2019 launch.
"I started up my own company called ‘JP Games, Inc,’ Tabata said via a statement. "Right now, we are preparing for a target January 2019 launch. And to everyone who has assisted me until today–I kindly ask for your ongoing support."
