Square Enix has brought back its mascot created in celebration of Pride Month, along with new t-shirts and hoodies with the colorful character printed on them. All profits from the merchandise sold will go to LGBTQ+ organizations Stonewall and GLAAD. Pre-orders are currently open. The t-shirts will sell for $27.99 each, while the hoodie will be available for $44.99. The products will ship approximately on July 30, 2021.
Final Fantasy XI and Crystal Chronicles character designer Toshiyuki Itahana created the mascot. According to Itahana, the character is based on the Strelitzia, or the bird of paradise flower. On the official announcement page, Itahana says that the character “represents diversity and freedom.” Additionally, the shoes and wings were added to represent the mascot’s freedom to travel anywhere.
Square Enix also stated that it “wanted to do something special” this year, due to the fact that the pandemic cancelled many parades and celebrations. In addition to donating to the above mentioned organizations, the company has urged people to recommend names for the mascot, stating that it “might become part of Square Enix history.”
Currently, there are three products available as part of Pride Month merchandise, including three t-shirts and one hoodie. The t-shirts come in beige and navy, while the hoodie comes in a single black color. Strangely, the pink shirt shown in the promotional Tweet is not seen on the EU Square Enix store but does show up on the North American storefront. There also seems to be slight differences in the fabric and design of the hoodies.
You can get a better look at the new Square Enix Pride Month apparel below.
The Square Enix Pride Month merchandise is currently available for pre-order on the Square Enix e-store. The t-shirts will cost $27.99 each, and the hoodie will cost $44.99, with both shipping around July 30, 2021. If you’re interested in more merchandise by Square Enix, the company also recently released new NEO The World Ends With You pillows, purses, slippers, and more.
