Square Enix Producer Yosuke Saito Teases Nier and Dragon Quest Surprises for 2026 Anniversaries

Square Enix‘s Yosuke Saito has confirmed that both Nier: Automata and Dragon Quest fans can expect “just a little something” in 2026, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of Dragon Quest and the ninth anniversary of Nier: Automata.

Yosuke Saito, producer for both the Nier and Dragon Quest series at Square Enix, has officially teased upcoming projects or events for 2026. Speaking in an interview with 4Gamer, translated by Gematsu, Saito directly acknowledged milestone anniversaries for both franchises, stating, “Next year marks the 40th anniversary of Dragon Quest! I’d be extremely happy if everyone could join in on a grand celebration.” He continued, “And for Nier: Automata’s ninth anniversary, we’re also preparing ‘just a little something…’ so please don’t get too excited with anticipation! With that, I wish you all a happy New Year.”

Anniversary Milestones and Community Expectations

2026 will mark two significant anniversaries for Square Enix, with Dragon Quest reaching its 40th anniversary and Nier: Automata celebrating its ninth year since release. Saito’s announcement, though reserved, directly signals at least minor commemorative content or activities for fans of both series. His warning, “please don’t get too excited with anticipation,” frames these projects as treats rather than major releases, but the confirmation is clear and direct.

• Dragon Quest debuted in 1986, making 2026 its 40th anniversary.
• Nier: Automata launched in February 2017; its ninth anniversary arrives in February 2026.
• Producer Yosuke Saito indicated anniversary plans during his end-of-year remarks to 4Gamer, corroborated by Gematsu’s translation.

Both franchises are flagship properties in Square Enix’s portfolio. The Dragon Quest series is often credited as a foundational JRPG franchise, while Nier: Automata remains a global hit with more than 7 million copies sold as of 2023. The explicit mention of anniversaries solidifies speculation about future content or events tied to these IPs.

Saito and Yoko Taro Clarify Design Policy Amid Mistranslation Rumours

Earlier in 2025, Saito and Nier director Yoko Taro publicly denied reports that Nier: Automata character designs had been altered to appease Western markets. Following a mistranslation incident in Japanese-to-English subtitling, Yoko Taro said unequivocally, “I’ve never heard of such a thing happening.” This reassurance comes during a period of heightened scrutiny over localisations and content adjustments in global game releases. Saito’s remarks further bolster Square Enix’s official position regarding creative intent and international releases.

• Saito and Taro denied all claims of Western influence on Nier: Automata character design.
• Yoko Taro’s full statement: “I’ve never heard of such a thing happening.”
• Reports of censorship arose due to errors in Japanese-to-English translation, not company policy.

This clarification follows ongoing debate within gaming communities regarding authenticity in localisation and regional content alterations. Saito’s proactive response intends to preserve confidence among global fans ahead of the upcoming anniversaries.

Key 2026 Dates:

• February 2026: Nier: Automata’s ninth anniversary
• Throughout 2026: Dragon Quest 40th anniversary
• Upcoming Content: Both series will receive “just a little something,” confirmed by Saito

In summary, Square Enix producer Yosuke Saito has directly confirmed commemorative content or events for both Nier: Automata and Dragon Quest in 2026, while also clarifying the company’s commitment to original character designs. Both franchises remain cornerstone properties as they reach their next milestone anniversaries next year.