During the development of Final Fantasy 9, the team at Square made a remarkable decision to relocate to Hawaii, a move described by legendary composer Nobuo Uematsu as showcasing “a kind of recklessness.” In an interview with Famitsu, translated by GamesRadar+, Uematsu noted that this daring choice was made without a solid plan, highlighting the creative culture of the late 1990s when Square was riding high on a wave of successful titles.
Between 1997 and 2000, Square released a series of critically acclaimed games, including Final Fantasy 7, Parasite Eve, and Final Fantasy Tactics. Uematsu believes that the company’s success during this period contributed to a carefree approach to finances. “I wonder why [the team moved to Hawaii],” he reflected, attributing the decision, at least in part, to the desires of Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi.
Relocating the entire development team to Hawaii for a year wasn’t the only extravagant expenditure. Uematsu shared that team members, including artist Hideo Minaba, indulged in personalized license plates while living on the island. Minaba’s plate read “FF9378,” with the “378” cleverly referencing his name in Japanese. Uematsu also mentioned his own license plate, “FF9,” but expressed envy towards a fellow animator’s more creative plate, “ani-m8r.”
The convenience of having cars in Hawaii was essential for the team. Uematsu explained that public transportation was lacking, prompting everyone to purchase vehicles. This atmosphere of generosity and camaraderie extended even to new hires, suggesting that Square was willing to invest in talent during a time when the gaming industry was experiencing significant growth.
Uematsu, who admitted he cannot listen to his own compositions due to feeling “too embarrassed,” expressed satisfaction with the medieval direction of Final Fantasy 9. His reflections provide a glimpse into a vibrant and more lucrative period in the gaming industry, contrasting sharply with the current landscape, where many professionals face challenges in compensation and job security.
This narrative not only highlights the creative spirit that defined Final Fantasy 9 but also serves as a reminder of the bold decisions made by companies during their peak years. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the stories from its golden eras remain a source of inspiration for current and future creators.
