In a recent update on Microsoft’s official website, indications suggest that Square-Enix’s upcoming RPG, Visions of Mana, could potentially be part of the Xbox Game Pass line up upon its release. Square-Enix initially unveiled the latest entry in the Mana franchise during the 2023 Game Awards, marking the return of the series with an entirely new main-series installment after almost two decades. While not as widely recognized as Square-Enix’s flagship series like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest, the Mana franchise boasts a history spanning over 30 years, originating as “Seiken Densetsu” in Japan.
The Mana series has traversed multiple platforms since its debut, with early games on the Game Boy and SNES. Despite intermittent periods without new releases, Square-Enix has recently revitalized the franchise through remakes of classic titles, such as Secret of Mana and Trials of Mana. Now, the anticipation builds for the imminent release of Visions of Mana.
According to a report by VGC, vigilant Xbox enthusiasts have uncovered changes to Visions of Mana’s Xbox Store page, hinting at a potential inclusion in the Game Pass library. The listing for the game on Microsoft’s digital marketplace now intriguingly designates it as “coming soon to Game Pass.” It’s worth noting that neither Microsoft nor Square-Enix has formally confirmed the game’s availability on Game Pass, and the release date for Visions of Mana in 2024 remains unconfirmed.
Visions of Mana’s potential inclusion in Xbox Game Pass aligns with what appears to be a substantial year for Square-Enix, featuring the release of several high-profile RPGs. February is set to witness the highly anticipated launch of Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, the second chapter of the ongoing Final Fantasy 7 Remake series. Additionally, Final Fantasy 14 is poised to receive a major expansion, Dawntrail, in 2024, promising new jobs and a fresh narrative for the popular MMORPG. SaGa: Emerald Beyond, another entry in Square-Enix’s less mainstream franchises, is also on the horizon.
While official confirmation of Visions of Mana’s Game Pass debut is pending, Microsoft’s subscription service has already demonstrated a robust line up for the start of 2024. January has seen the success of titles like Palworld, Resident Evil 2, and Assassin’s Creed: Valhalla. Moreover, the first half of the year is set to bring multiple Day 1 launches to Game Pass, including Persona 3 Reload and Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, providing subscribers with an exciting array of gaming options.
As Game Pass continues to expand its offerings, the potential addition of Visions of Mana could further enhance the service’s appeal, offering subscribers the chance to experience Square-Enix’s latest RPG masterpiece from day one. As of now, gaming enthusiasts eagerly await official announcements from both Microsoft and Square-Enix regarding the much-anticipated collaboration on Xbox Game Pass.
