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Legendary Game Composer of Final Fantasy, Nobuo Uematsu, Announces Retirement

Although Fantasian: Neo Dimension is set to release on December 5, the official account made a significant announcement today from composer Nobuo Uematsu. In a video shared on Twitter, Uematsu disclosed that the upcoming console and PC port of Fantasian will be his final project as a video game music composer.



“This is my final project as a composer of video game music,” Uematsu stated.

Uematsu is a renowned Japanese composer celebrated for his contributions to video game music, particularly within the Final Fantasy series.


He joined Square in 1985, quickly establishing himself as the primary composer for the franchise, thus helping to define the musical essence of one of gaming's most beloved series.


His work combines orchestral, rock, and electronic elements, often stirring deep emotions that enhance the narrative experience (think of the Black Mages). Uematsu’s talent for crafting memorable and immersive soundscapes has cemented his legacy in both gaming and music.


Among his most notable compositions are One-Winged Angel from Final Fantasy VII, a complex choral piece that accompanies the climactic battle against Sephiroth, and To Zanarkand from Final Fantasy X, a poignant piano theme that reflects the party’s journey.

In addition to his work on Final Fantasy, Uematsu has composed music for other projects, such as Lost Odyssey and Blue Dragon. After leaving Square in 2004, he founded his own production company, Dog Ear Records, where he worked on titles like The Last Story and Lord of Vermillion.


In a February 2024 interview with the German publication Zeit Online, Uematsu expressed doubts about composing an entire game again but mentioned he was still involved in creating themes for Final Fantasy. He recently composed the main themes for Final Fantasy VII Remake and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth.


Today’s announcement suggests he may continue to contribute to projects in a more limited capacity moving forward.

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