Square Enix has initiated legal proceedings against BlackJack Studio, a Chinese developer previously partnered with to create a new entry in the Front Mission series. The dispute centers around alleged asset reuse from the canceled title, Front Mission 2089: Borderscape, in BlackJack Studio’s strategy RPG, Mecharashi.

The Front Mission franchise, spanning 30 years and 15 titles, debuted in Japan in 1995 for the Super Famicom.  Despite its extensive history, a limited number of titles have been localized for audiences outside Japan.  In 2022, Square Enix announced Front Mission 2089: Borderscape, a collaborative project with BlackJack Studio. However, the game was unexpectedly canceled months later, much to the disappointment of fans.

According to Square Enix (via Polygon), Mecharashi, released in October 2024, was "developed using materials created pursuant" to their Front Mission licensing agreement.  The lawsuit claims BlackJack Studio infringed on Square Enix's copyright by reusing assets, including mechanics and visuals, originally designed for Front Mission 2089: Borderscape. Square Enix is seeking $150,000 per infringement and demanding the removal of all infringing content.

Square Enix’s legal filing reportedly includes 11 pages of screenshots highlighting the alleged similarities between the Front Mission 2089: Borderscape trailer and Mecharashi.  While Square Enix attempted to have Mecharashi removed from digital storefronts, the game is currently available on platforms like Steam.

Following the cancellation of Front Mission 2089: Borderscape, BlackJack Studio announced Mecharashi as a "mecha-themed tactical turn-based game" with combat reminiscent of the Front Mission series. The future of Mecharashi remains uncertain in light of this legal battle.

Beyond this legal dispute, Square Enix has several major projects in development.  Following the success of the Dragon Quest 3 HD-2D Remake, fans eagerly anticipate a release date for Dragon Quest 1 & 2 HD-2D Remake, expected in 2025.  Further details are also awaited on Dragon Quest 12 and Kingdom Hearts 4, both currently in active development.