Nobuo Uematsu, the iconic composer whose name has become synonymous with Final Fantasy and Square Enix, recently indicated that he may not compose the entire score for a video game again.
At 64 years old and having faced unspecified health issues, Uematsu has shared that he lacks the “physical and mental strength” for such demanding projects as composing full game soundtracks, which typically require intense dedication over two to three years.
Despite this, Uematsu remains involved with the Final Fantasy franchise by contributing main themes for the games – a series he has stood by since the first entry in 1987.
In a recent discussion with Zeit Online (as covered by VGC), Uematsu expressed a desire to focus on other projects, including compositions like Merregnon and Uematsu Nobuo conTIKI, his band. This shift signifies a notable change in Uematsu’s career, which has been defined by his significant contributions to video game music, particularly through his work on the Final Fantasy series.
Uematsu’s most recent work includes the main themes for Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth, with his last complete game soundtrack being for the Apple Arcade exclusive RPG Fantasian in 2021.
The throwback RPG, developed by Hironobu Sakaguchi, Uematsu’s long-time creative partner, was suggested by Sakaguchi to potentially be Uematsu’s final full game soundtrack due to health concerns.
Despite stepping back from composing full soundtracks, Uematsu’s influence remains unparalleled. His compositions have gone on to become some of the most celebrated pieces in video game history, including memorable tracks like Final Fantasy 7‘s “One-Winged Angel” and Final Fantasy 8‘s “Liberi Fatali”. Uematsu’s work has defined the Final Fantasy experience, leaving a lasting auditory impact on audiences and the music of video games as a whole.
As Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth launches, garnering critical acclaim, Uematsu’s contributions are celebrated by fans and critics alike.
While the full score of Rebirth includes work by various composers, Uematsu’s themes remain a central element of the game’s emotional and narrative depth.
With the next game in the Final Fantasy 7 remake trilogy not coming out until possibly 2027, perhaps for the PlayStation 5, fans are hoping Uematsu good health so he can be there when the franchise’s best-selling entry, which he helped birth in 1997, finally comes full circle.
