Square Enix predominantly creates games aimed at the Everyone or Teen audience in North America. Titles like Kingdom Hearts and Final Fantasy exemplify this trend. However, despite this focus, Square Enix has delved into the realm of M-rated games, featuring a variety of genres and themes.
Unlike publishers such as Activision, renowned for the lucrative Call of Duty franchise, Square Enix has both developed and published several M-rated games over the years, especially since the PS1 era. These games have become some of the company's most iconic titles. Let's take a closer look at some of Square Enix's notable ventures into the M-rated category.
6 Forspoken
Highest Metacritic Score: 64
Forspoken presents an Isekai adventure where a disadvantaged young girl, Frey, is transported to a fantasy realm. Equipped with a magical bracer, she masters the art of magic while demonstrating impressive agility, reminiscent of Spider-Man's acrobatics. The game's open-world setting and diverse magical abilities contribute to its engaging gameplay.
Players can unlock new skill trees after defeating regional bosses, offering a reminiscent experience of the Mega Man series. Despite some mixed reception, primarily related to the protagonist's divisive nature, Forspoken delivers compelling gameplay experiences, albeit with familiar elements.
5 The Last Remnant
Highest Metacritic Score: 70
The Last Remnant, an RPG from Square Enix's early HD era, initially faced criticism due to its high difficulty and technical issues. However, a remastered version addressed several issues, leading to improved reviews. The game follows the journey of Rush, entangled in a war while searching for a friend. Its unique approach to character progression and tactical battle system provided a rewarding experience for dedicated players.
4 Stranger Of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin
Highest Metacritic Score: 72
Stranger of Paradise: Final Fantasy Origin represents a collaboration between Square Enix and Koei Tecmo, offering a unique take on the Soulslike genre within the Final Fantasy universe. With accessible gameplay and a darker narrative, the game introduces engaging combat mechanics and diverse class options, encouraging exploration and skill progression.
3 NieR: Automata
Highest Metacritic Score: 89
NieR: Automata emerged as an unexpected success, building upon the lukewarm reception of the previous NieR installment. The collaboration with PlatinumGames resulted in exhilarating combat mechanics and captivating open-world environments, offering a complex and rewarding gameplay experience.
2 Final Fantasy 16
Highest Metacritic Score: 87
Final Fantasy 16 marks Square Enix's first M-rated game in North America, offering a dark and mature narrative intertwined with compelling action gameplay. With a richly detailed world and intense combat system, the game delivers a captivating experience, featuring colossal Summon boss battles and a compelling storyline.
1 Parasite Eve
Highest Metacritic Score: 81
Parasite Eve stands as one of Square Enix's earliest M-rated games, blending elements of Resident Evil with RPG mechanics. The game unfolds a gripping narrative following Aya, a detective drawn into a paranormal investigation during Christmas in New York City. Real-time battles and weapon customization contribute to its unique horror RPG experience, making it a timeless classic for enthusiasts of the genre.