The gaming world is abuzz with excitement as Final Fantasy 9 gears up to celebrate its 25th anniversary this year. Fans and enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting the various projects and surprises that Square Enix has promised for this milestone occasion.
25th Anniversary Website Launched
Square Enix has kicked off the festivities by launching a dedicated 25th anniversary website for Final Fantasy 9. The site teases fans with the promise of "various projects such as goods and collaborations" to mark this special anniversary. Among the offerings, you can find an array of enticing FF9 merchandise, including character figures, plushies, vinyl records, CDs, storybooks, and much more. But that's not all—the website hints at additional announcements leading up to the big day, keeping fans on their toes for what's to come.
Originally released on July 7, 2000, for the PlayStation, Final Fantasy 9 has captivated gamers worldwide, selling over 8.9 million copies. Its legacy continued with its inclusion in the Final Fantasy 25th Anniversary Ultimate Box in Japan in December 2012. A remastered version hit the shelves in February 2016 for iOS and Android, followed by a PC release later that year. The game found new life on the PlayStation 4 in September 2017 and expanded further to the Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, and Windows 10 in February 2019.
Possible Final Fantasy 9 Remake and Seemingly Forgotten Anime
The launch of the anniversary website has sparked rampant speculation about a possible FF9 remake. Given the triumphant success of Final Fantasy VII's Remake and Rebirth, the idea of an FF9 remake doesn't seem far-fetched. A 2019 poll by Japan's NHK ranked FF9 as the 4th best FF game, underscoring its enduring popularity and potential for a modern-day revival. While the anniversary website doesn't confirm a remake, the buzz among fans is palpable.
Another project that has lingered in the shadows is the FF9 anime series, "Final Fantasy IX: The Black Mages' Legacy." Announced in 2021, the series was set to explore a story ten years post-game, centered around the children of the beloved black mage Vivi. Despite initial excitement, updates have been scarce. The project faced a setback when Paris-based Cyber Group Studios, tasked with its production and distribution, declared bankruptcy in late October 2024 and entered judicial recovery. However, hope remains as potential buyers, United Smile and Newen Studios, have shown interest in reviving the project.
As Final Fantasy 9 celebrates its 25th anniversary, fans are encouraged to keep an eye on the official website for the latest updates and announcements on these exciting projects.
