Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of Square Enix® interactive entertainment products in North America, announced today that the eagerly anticipated 13th entry in the series, Final Fantasy XIII, is now available at retail outlets across the nation. Developed for both the PlayStation3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Final Fantasy XIII marks the dawning of a new era for the celebrated franchise.

Bringing the series to multiple high-definition consoles simultaneously for the first time in its history, Final Fantasy XIII combines cinematic sequences with a fast-paced, high-intensity battle system that is sure to give players an adrenaline rush with every enemy encounter. Producer Yoshinori Kitase (Final Fantasy VII, X, X-2), director Motomu Toriyama (Final Fantasy VII, X, X-2), character designer Tetsuya Nomura (Final Fantasy V, VI, VII, VIII, X) and art director Isamu Kamikokuryo (Final Fantasy X, XII) combine their creative vision to deliver the latest masterpiece in the Final Fantasy universe.

“It is with great joy and pride that we send Final Fantasy XIII into players’ hands today,” said John Yamamoto, president and chief executive officer of Square Enix, Inc. “The series has come a long way since its first release over 20 years ago, and Final Fantasy XIII is proof that our stance in reinventing the series with each installment remains strong to this day. With an innovative battle system, groundbreaking visuals and an intriguing cast of characters, Final Fantasy XIII is the ultimate RPG package, and we are thrilled that players around the world can finally experience the game firsthand.”

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