The Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences (AIAS) announced today that Hironobu Sakaguchi, creator of Square's Final Fantasy series and current president of Square USA, would receive the organization's Hall of Fame award. This award honors those who have made the most enduring, groundbreaking, and seminal contributions to the world of interactive entertainment and information. Other game creators such as Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto have been granted the Hall of Fame award in the past.

　　"I am pleased to accept this award from the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences," said Hironobu Sakaguchi. "With the Final Fantasy series, the goal of each new title was to surpass its predecessor in technological advancement while ensuring the most compelling storytelling and visual experience for our fans. The honor of this Hall of Fame Award by the AIAS makes me happy to know that not only our fans appreciate our work, but our peers do as well. Together, the interactive entertainment industry will continue to evolve in technology and creativity throughout the coming years and far beyond."

　　The AIAS will present the award during the Academy's third annual Interactive Achievement Awards in Los Angeles on May 11, 2000, during the Electronic Entertainment Expo.