We are excited to share that FINAL FANTASY XIV will be at Anime Expo 2025 in Los Angeles this summer! In addition to the presence we will have on the show floor, Producer & Director Naoki Yoshida will be attending as a Guest of Honor and will be featured on a panel discussing his career, inspirations, and Japanese pop culture.

Leveling Up: How Anime, Manga, & RPGs Inspired Naoki Yoshida and FINAL FANTASY!

Journey with Naoki Yoshida as he looks back on his life, early career, and experiences working on FFXIV and FFXVI. What are some of his favourite manga or anime? How did they influence his career and FINAL FANTASY? Join us and find out!

Panel Location, Date, and Time

• Los Angeles Convention Center, Petree Hall
• Friday, 4 July 2025 at 19:30 (GMT) / 20:30 (BST)
• Saturday, 5 July 2025 at 5:30 (AEST)

The panel will also be streamed so those unable to attend can enjoy the presentation.

Stay tuned for more details about our Anime Expo plans as the event approaches!