Square Enix has announced today that the iOS version of Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles has abruptly come to a halt. The reasoning is peculiar: they cite an unresolvable bug linked to recent modifications in the In-App Purchase model.
Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles is no longer available on iPhone
According to The Verge, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles has been removed from the App Store as part of its official iOS discontinuation.
Here are the specifics from Square Enix’s statement:
As of January 24, 2025, we have received reports from customers who are unable to access the extra content they paid for in the iOS version of FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES. This problem also affects the complete paid version of the game, which allows access to all dungeons.
The issue stems from alterations in the in-app purchase structure. Further investigation has shown that we cannot fully rectify the bug and apply the new changes, making it unlikely that we can restore service for this game. Therefore, we must regretfully announce the cessation of support for the iOS version of FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES.
Players who made In-App Purchases for the game since January are eligible for a refund, which Square Enix instructs users to request from Apple Support.
This issue is limited to the iPhone version of Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles, as the game remains accessible on other platforms.
DMN’s Perspective
This unexpected closure is peculiar, and the reasoning is even stranger.
It remains unclear what specific In-App Purchase “model” changes are referenced. It’s possible that an update to one of Apple’s App Store APIs triggered this new bug that exclusively affects this title.
The assertion that the bug is insurmountable is intriguing. It might simply be that the cost to implement a fix exceeds the value of the game itself.
Have you encountered similar In-App Purchase glitches in any other games lately? Share your experiences in the comments.