Final Fantasy 9 fans have a lot to be excited for 2025, on the occasion of the game’s 25th anniversary. In a year already filled with Final Fantasy flavor due to the success of the Magic: The Gathering Final Fantasy set, the series ninth game is back in the spotlight. From a possible remake in the works to unique insights on the story of important characters bubbling to the surface, Square Enix made sure to do Final Fantasy 9’s big 2-5 the right way.
Released on July 7, 2000 in Japan, Final Fantasy 9 was a product of a time when Square and Enix were two companies and Hironobu Sakaguchi, the creator of the Final Fantasy series, was heavily involved. The game is known for bringing the series back to its origins. There are crystals, there are summons, and there is a group of heroes trying to save the world — as expected.
Earlier this year, knowing full well how beloved the game remains, Square Enix released a special site detailing all the plans dedicated to the game’s 25th anniversary. There are new figures, plushies, bags and many other products to update your collection. In addition, Final Fantasy 9 collaborations with two of the company’s mobile games available in the East — Emberstoria and Sengoku Ixa — were announced, bringing beautifully updated models of beloved characters to these games.
It doesn’t stop there. Square Enix recently shared that the Final Fantasy IX Picture Book, written by Kazuhiko Aoki and illustrated by Toshiyuki Itahana, is coming to the West. Set to May 19, 2026, this book tells the story of Vivi and Grandpa Quan, who took care of him. Because the Japanese version of the Final Fantasy IX Picture Book is already available, we know a little bit of what to expect from this new tale about our little black mage. Fans got really excited to discover the origin of Vivi’s name, which is implied in the book.
To mark the date of Final Fantasy 9 anniversary, Square Enix even cut together a movie showing some memorable scenes from the game. Look at these guys. We’re melting.
However, we all know that, despite all this amazing Final Fantasy 9 stuff we’re getting this year, everyone’s attention is centered around the possible announcement of Final Fantasy 9 remake. The 25th anniversary of the game creates the perfect moment for Square Enix to show a teaser or even a trailer — at least in the minds of fans who are already reeling from all the special treatment. Nothing has been revealed so far though.
Although I’d love to see an official confirmation on whether we’re getting the remake or not, this has been a great year as Final Fantasy 9 fans. Yes, we’re still waiting for that animated series announced four years ago, but as they say: always leave them wanting more.