Square Enix is gearing up to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the beloved RPG Final Fantasy IX, and fans are buzzing with speculation about a potential remake. The iconic game, which originally launched on July 7, 2000, has captured the hearts of many, making its anniversary a significant milestone for both the company and its dedicated player base.
To mark this momentous occasion, Square Enix has launched a dedicated Final Fantasy IX 25th Anniversary website, which features details about various projects planned for the celebration. According to Gematsu, the site hints at an array of merchandise and collaborations, including a picture book titled Final Fantasy IX Picture Book: Vivi, Grandpa, and the Day of Departure, set to be released on July 2, 2025, for 1,320 yen. Additionally, fans can look forward to a special lottery, collaboration glasses from Zoff, and a commemorative vinyl record titled Timeless Tale, which is due out on July 9, 2025, for 4,950 yen.
The excitement surrounding the anniversary has reignited long-standing rumors of a Final Fantasy IX remake. Following the success of the Final Fantasy VII Remake and its sequel, Rebirth, fans have been eager for Square Enix to give Final Fantasy IX the same treatment. The new anniversary website has only fueled this speculation, with many believing that an announcement could be imminent.
Various developers within Square Enix, including Final Fantasy XIV director Naoki Yoshida, have previously discussed the possibility of a remake. Yoshida noted the challenges of adapting such a vast game into a single title, suggesting that it may not be feasible to condense the entire experience into one game. “Of course, I do know there are requests for Final Fantasy IX to be made, but when you think about Final Fantasy IX, it’s a game with huge volume,” he explained. “When you think about all of that volume, I wonder if it’s possible to remake that as a single title. It’s a difficult one. It is a tough question.”
With the upcoming Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2, 2025, fans are hopeful that Square Enix might seize the opportunity to announce the long-rumored remake during this event. The digital showcase is expected to reveal details about the new Switch 2 console, and given the historical partnership between Nintendo and Square Enix, many believe that this could be the perfect moment for such a significant announcement.
While the website primarily focuses on merchandise and collaborations, the phrase “various projects” has sparked considerable excitement among fans. Speculation is rife that the anniversary could serve as a backdrop for unveiling the remake, especially considering that Final Fantasy IX is one of the most requested titles for a contemporary revamp.
In the past, leaks have indicated that a Final Fantasy IX remake was in development. In 2021, a massive GeForce Now leak revealed a list of unannounced titles, including the Final Fantasy IX remake, which has yet to be officially confirmed. The anticipation surrounding the potential remake has only intensified with the recent launch of the anniversary website.
Fans are not just excited about the possibility of a remake, but also about the new merchandise being released. Alongside the picture book and vinyl record, Square Enix has announced new action figures and collectibles based on the game’s beloved characters. These items are set to be released this summer, allowing fans to celebrate the anniversary in style.
As the anniversary approaches, the community remains hopeful for an official announcement regarding the remake. Many players fondly remember the original game for its engaging story and memorable characters, including the protagonist Zidane and the thoughtful Vivi, who famously pondered existential questions about life and death. “I hope we do finally see an announcement regarding a remake so new generations have a chance to experience FF9 with a fresh coat of paint,” one fan expressed.
The 25th anniversary is not just a celebration of nostalgia; it also represents an opportunity for Square Enix to introduce the classic to a new audience. With the gaming landscape continually evolving, a remake could provide a modernized experience while staying true to the original’s essence.
In the lead-up to the anniversary, fans have been actively discussing their hopes and expectations for the potential remake. Some speculate that it could follow a similar format to the Final Fantasy VII Remake, which was released in episodic installments, while others hope for a more straightforward adaptation that retains the charm of the original.
As the gaming community eagerly awaits more news, it’s clear that Final Fantasy IX holds a special place in the hearts of many. The combination of nostalgia, excitement for new merchandise, and the possibility of a remake makes this anniversary particularly poignant for fans.
With the anniversary website now live and the Nintendo Direct just around the corner, all eyes are on Square Enix. Will they finally reveal the long-awaited Final Fantasy IX remake? Only time will tell, but for now, fans can look forward to celebrating the game’s legacy through new collectibles and the joy of revisiting a classic.
As the anticipation builds, one thing is certain: Final Fantasy IX has left an indelible mark on the gaming world, and its 25th anniversary is a testament to its enduring legacy. Whether through merchandise, potential remakes, or simply the fond memories it has created, Final Fantasy IX will continue to resonate with players for years to come.
