Balan Wonderworld Director Yuji Naka Has Departed From Square Enix

As reported previously, Sonic co-creator Yuji Naka had previously joined up with Square Enix to direct the 3D platformer Balan Wonderworld – which launched to somewhat mixed reviews. Well, it looks like the game might just be Yuji Naka’s last gaming project after all.

The prominent developer recently revealed on Twitter that he has parted ways with Square Enix since the end of April 2021. In view of his increasing age, Yuji Naka also shared that he may officially retire – although he did not share more specifics beyond this:

“To clarify with the press and users: I retired from SQUARE ENIX at the end of April 2021. I can’t talk about the reason now, but I hope I can talk about it when the time comes. As for future activities, I’m 55 years old, so I may retire. The photo is taken by Sega Hard Historia.”

Regardless of the gaming community’s views toward Balan Wonderworld, we wish Yuji Naka the best as he moves on from the project and Square Enix. We’ll report back if we hear more about his endeavors in the future.