The Challenge of Supporting Older Hardware

One inevitable consequence of a live-service game surviving across multiple console generations is that older systems eventually become less capable. As developers continue to expand their worlds, the limitations of ageing hardware become a significant obstacle. We have already seen games like Genshin Impact phase out older platforms, and now attention has turned to Final Fantasy XIV.

Yoshi-P on PlayStation 4’s Ceiling

In a recent interview with Feed4Gamers, producer and director Naoki Yoshida (Yoshi-P) revealed that Final Fantasy XIV is reaching the technical ceiling of the PlayStation 4.

Yoshida explained that Sony enforces strict resource limits on PS4 titles. Although Square Enix previously received extended flexibility to push the hardware further, that headroom has now been exhausted.

“So I will repeat myself: I do want to provide support for platforms as long as possible,” Yoshi-P said. “However, there will eventually come a time when the hardware is at its limits in terms of its technology, and at that point in time, we would have to provide an end to the service on that hardware. But I will be sure to provide clear reasoning for that decision when I communicate it to the players.”

Continued Support — For Now

For the time being, PlayStation 4 users will still be able to enjoy Final Fantasy XIV. Yoshida stressed his commitment to supporting the system for as long as possible. Yet the reality remains that once technical barriers become insurmountable, Square Enix will be forced to sunset PS4 support.

A specific timeline was not provided, leaving players uncertain whether this change will arrive within a few patches or years down the road.

The Future of Final Fantasy XIV

While PlayStation 5 and PC players can look forward to smoother performance, graphical upgrades, and system improvements, PS4 users may soon face difficult decisions about upgrading their hardware. The eventual end of PS4 support feels inevitable — the only question now is when Square Enix will make that call, and how the loyal community will respond.