Every successful video game developer has its own set of mascot characters that represent their brand. From Mario to Sonic, these characters embody the essence of the games they are associated with. Square Enix, known for its fantasy genre games, has introduced several quirky creatures over the years that have become synonymous with the developer and its titles.
Let's delve into the world of Square Enix mascots and rank them based on their unique designs, likability, and recognizability among gamers and non-gamers alike.
7 Rabite
The Endearing Rabites: A Mana Series Staple Since 1991
- First Appearance: Final Fantasy Adventure (1991)
Rabites, small rabbit-like monsters in the Mana series, have maintained their iconic yellow and pink appearance since 1991. These lovable creatures have become the face of the Mana franchise, adorning various merchandise due to their cute and harmless demeanor. In some games like Trials of Mana, Rabites even appear as formidable foes, adding depth to their character.
6 Black Mage
The Enigmatic Black Mage of Final Fantasy Fame
- First Appearance: Final Fantasy (1987)
Standing out from the crowd, the Black Mage from Final Fantasy sported a mysterious design that resonated with fans. This character, with its distinctive hat and trench coat, became a beloved figure in the fantasy genre. Even as the Final Fantasy series evolved, the essence of the Black Mage persisted, as seen in characters like Vivi from Final Fantasy 9.
5 Cactuar
The Quirky Cactuar: A Memorable Final Fantasy Entity
- First Appearance: Final Fantasy 6 (1994)
With its unconventional design and playful nature, Cactuar has become a standout creature in the Final Fantasy universe. Known for its agility and signature attacks, Cactuar's peculiar appearance, resembling a cactus with a face, has garnered a dedicated fan following. Square Enix has embraced this unique mascot across various games and merchandise.
4 Shadow
The Enigmatic Shadows of Kingdom Hearts
- First Appearance: Kingdom Hearts (2002)
Stepping into the spotlight, Shadows from Kingdom Hearts have captivated audiences with their eerie yet endearing appearance. These creatures, with their unique design and role in the series, have become synonymous with Kingdom Hearts. Their consistent look throughout the games has solidified their status as iconic mascots in the Square Enix universe.
3 Chocobo
The Beloved Chocobos: A Final Fantasy Mainstay
- First Appearance: Final Fantasy 2 (1988)
Chocobos, the iconic golden birds, have soared to fame as pivotal mascots in the Final Fantasy series. These lovable creatures feature prominently in various games, often serving as essential modes of transportation. The enduring popularity of Chocobos is evident from their inclusion in spin-off games and the excitement they generate among fans whenever they make an appearance.
2 Slime
The Endearing Slime: A Marketing Marvel for Dragon Quest
- First Appearance: Dragon Quest (1986)
With its simplistic yet charming design, Slime has become a marketing sensation for the Dragon Quest series. These lovable blue blobs have captured the hearts of fans, leading to their widespread presence in merchandise and games. The consistent appearance of Slime across the Dragon Quest franchise has solidified its position as one of Square Enix's most iconic mascots.
1 Moogle
The Enduring Charm of Moogles in Final Fantasy
- First Appearance: Final Fantasy 3 (1990)
Moogles, magical beings from Final Fantasy, have enchanted fans since their debut in Final Fantasy 3. With their unique appearance and endearing traits, Moogles have become synonymous with the franchise. These creatures have not only captured the hearts of gamers but also transcended into popular culture through merchandise and marketing efforts. Moogles stand out as the most recognizable and cherished mascots in the Square Enix universe.