- Search numbers and conversations for 'Final Fantasy 9' are increasing as a result of the release of a children's illustrated book from Square Enix
- The misleading headlines hint at a long-rumored remake, rather than new merchandise.
- Interest in the rumored game remains huge and I'm still hoping to hear news this year.
I love Final Fantasy IX. Along with a Spyro the Dragon game, was one of the first video games I got for the original PlayStation as a kid, and the one that taught me that games could tell immersive, heartbreaking stories.
There has been a recent increase in Final Fantasy IX (FF9) search online, as some outlets have reported that a 'new FF9 release' is coming this year. Of course, these headlines are click bait: Instead of a new entry for our best RPG and best PS5 games lists, it's a new piece of merchandise, a children's storybook centered on Vivi, one of the most popular characters in the game. There is no confirmation that we will see a remake this year.
However, I remain optimistic and we will see it eventually. The existence of the FF9 remake was first revealed through a massive Nvidia leak of upcoming Square Enix games, including a Chrono Cross remaster, final fantasy tactics remake, and Kingdom Hearts 4all of which have since been released or announced.
While some leakers have reported that IX has been put on ice, the renewed interest in the property and the success of the 25th anniversary product range (with new concept art, like the piece above) should show Square Enix that a new version is worth persevering with.
It wouldn't even have to be a rebuild of the game from scratch, AAA, with real-time action combat like the Final Fantasy VII Remake trilogy. It would probably be much more similar to the recent Dragon Quest VII reimagined, which uses chibi-style visuals, charming dioramas and scanned puppets alongside traditional turn-based combat. Coincidentally, we gave that game 4.5 stars in our review.
This is the perfect way to adapt FF9 to the modern era. the original Final Fantasy IX It consisted of scenes made up of two elements: gorgeous static 2D backgrounds and characters, monsters, and other moving parts placed on top of those backgrounds. There's no reason why Square Enix can't keep that vibe going with crisp, modern visuals, just like they've done for Dragon Search.
Turn-based combat is making a resurgence thanks to the success of titles like Dark Glade: Expedition 33, and of course, it's much easier to animate. It would represent a significantly cheaper investment on Square's part than a fast-paced, real-time AAA game that requires lots of highly interactive 3D environments.
Come on, Square Enix. Give the people what they want, ride this wave of fan interest, and give us a return to Gaia. If we get a surprise reveal before the year is out, it will surely end up on lists of the best JRPGs for 2026.
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