'FFXIII' release date coming Friday?

Square Enix has said that it has an "exciting announcement" for Final Fantasy XIII, speculated to be a Western release date.

A company newsletter sent to European users hinted that new footage and news will be unveiled at the end of this week.

It read: "We've got an exciting announcement coming up on November 13, where we'll be showing off some awesome new footage from the game and... we can't say! You'll have to see for yourself!"

Square Enix brand manager Antonio Marfuggi stated that "something big" is coming to the PlayStation Blog, which will be presented by producer Yoshinori Kitase.

Meanwhile, a timer has also appeared on the game's official website that counts down to Friday afternoon.

The announcement is expected to confirm a Western release date for the 360 and PS3 versions of the title, currently scheduled for spring 2010.

Final Fantasy XIII has been given a December 17 shelf date in Japan.

> Click here to watch the TGS 2009 trailer for Final Fantasy XIII