FF9 Remake Rumors Swirl Amid 25th Anniversary Project Announcements

Final Fantasy 9 is marking its 25th anniversary with a bang, and fans are buzzing with excitement. The iconic game, which first hit the shelves on July 7, 2000 for the PlayStation, has sold over 8.9 million copies worldwide. Over the years, it has seen multiple re-releases, including a remastered version for iOS, Android, PC, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and Windows 10, showcasing its enduring appeal.

25th Anniversary Website Launched

Square Enix has kicked off the celebrations with a dedicated 25th anniversary website, hinting at a slew of exciting projects. The site promises "various projects such as goods and collaborations" to honor the milestone. Fans can already get their hands on a variety of FF9 merchandise, including character figures, plushies, vinyl, CDs, and storybooks. But that's just the beginning—Square Enix teases more announcements as the anniversary approaches, keeping the anticipation high.

Possible Final Fantasy 9 Remake and Seemingly Forgotten Anime

The launch of the anniversary website has fueled speculation about a potential FF9 remake. Given the success of Final Fantasy VII's Remake and Rebirth, it's not far-fetched to imagine FF9 getting a similar treatment. Notably, FF9 ranked fourth in a 2019 poll by Japan's NHK, underscoring its popularity and making it a prime candidate for a remake. While the website doesn't confirm a remake, the buzz around it is palpable.

Another project that's been off the radar is the FF9 anime, "Final Fantasy IX: The Black Mages' Legacy," announced in 2021. Set a decade after the original game, the series was to follow the adventures of Vivi's six children. However, updates have been scarce. Paris-based Cyber Group Studios, which secured distribution and merchandise rights, declared bankruptcy by the end of October 2024 and entered judicial recovery. Despite this setback, potential buyers like United Smile and Newen Studios have shown interest in reviving the project, keeping hope alive for fans eager to see the story unfold.